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ISRAEL LA FAYETTE BUTT, D.D.
BY
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1908 by
REV. ISRAEL L. BUTT, D.D.
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.
THIS BOOK
IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED
TO MY
FAITHFUL WIFE
ROSE ZILLAH BUTT.
In writing this book I have had in mind to write a brief history of African Methodism in Virginia, for the A. M. E. Church and her many readers and ardent laborers in the bounds of the State, and sketches and bits of history in the connection generally.
This little volume may not comprehend all the necessary items of the work done by the Church in our State since its organization May, 1867, but it is a beginning; other historians from this, with new data gathered, may write a more comprehensive book, taking in all necessary points of progress.
It seems that I was pressed into this service by Providence. The necessity for such a book came up incidentally in 1905. I said that I would think the matter over and decide what I would do. At the expiration of two weeks I had concluded to attempt the writing of this work.
Seeing many of the old pioneers passing away so rapidly, I felt the need of such a publication and considered that it was the duty of some one who was contemporary with the fathers, and having spent thirty consecutive years of the forty in the Virginia Conference I undertook the task. It has been my aim to take up the main body of the work done and give sketches of the men who did it and not the organization of every individual church except in a few cases. I do not claim perfection for this little work; getting data even from the Conference Journal has been a very difficult task. I have striven hard for accuracy and have endeavored to get a sketch of every minister who has labored in the Conference since its organization, whether he is living or dead. The living whose sketches do not appear failed to send them to me for publication.
It has been my aim to present to my readers the growth and all improvements as far as I was able to get correct and accurate data and also to make mention of the men who have produced and caused the growth of the Church work in the State.
I desire to thank my numerous friends who have so kindly aided me in gathering data and material for this book. Especially am I obligated to Rev. Alfred J. Nottingham and Rev. Samuel S. Morris, A. B. These young men have been of great assistance to me and such was my confidence in them that I asked them, that in case I deceased before the completion of this work, to finish it.
I trust that this little volume will be an incentive to others struggling for the Master's cause and at the same time add to the literature and future history of Virginia and the A. M. E. Church in general. If it can be made to fulfil this mission and at the same time pay tribute to both the dead and living pioneers of my state, and instil in the young ministry and laity of the Church a patriotic spirit and a zeal for African Methodism I shall be perfectly satisfied and amply paid for the labor and sacrifice in presenting this work.
All of which I cheerfully submit
I. L. BUTT.
THE dark races have not been insignificant in history making; but in history stating they have been very slow. While it is true that the history stater is entirely dependent upon the history maker, it is equally true that the race class lacking either is a great sufferer and the class possessing both occupies a place in the plane of higher attainments and advantages.
Had the African class of Americans possessed its own chroniclers, its own expositors, its own historians from the time it first gazed upon the new world and entered upon the bewildering life therein, who cannot see what a different place it would now hold in the body politic. If its every play of genius had made an impression on the formative pages of current history; if its every suggestive invention had been afforded time and encouragement, instead of being snatched by a more wily and leisurely class; if its grand characteristic of imagination had been given the wings of consideration and patronage; if its religious nature could have been regarded with more respect, and its sincerity have been appreciated at its real value, what an elevated place it would occupy, as compared with its actual status. If it were free from cowardly patrons, who do not hesitate to say in private, "O, he is a good fellow--but, you know," who gouge his eyes out through the daily press, to show how loyal they, the writers, are to the false theory in which they themselves do not believe, of the impassible and indestructible distinctions between essential inferiority and superiority of races, while they force their blind captive--Samson like--round and round in the interminable circle of their mills.
If the history of the Jew had depended upon the Egyptian, the Assyrian, the Roman, the English, the Russian, the German--Jew-baiters--for its statement to the world, then should we have the counterpart of the case of the sons of Africa in the United States--in the world, indeed. No other class in the United States receives so large consideration; none at
so great disadvantage. It is not my intention in these lines to either complain or condemn, but to state our disadvantages, in order to congratulate the few of my race-variety who have attempted writing records, chronicles, history. In this, by common human course, churchmen lead, so far forth as number of instances go; while, by equally as common course, as concerns breadth of scope and patient proving, as well as quality of work and reliability of statement the nonsectarian, nonecclesiastical ventures of this class suffer nothing in comparison. In all classes of church denominational chroniclers there is liability to some narrowness and egoism; we rarely escape it. In the work to which the reader is herein directed there is good reason to look for truth, reliability, candor, sincerity, faithfulness and that degree of acquaintance with his topic to warrant the expectation that the author will give us his story in a style and diction at once pleasing and respectable. Doctor Butt has made what there is of his life on the very field and amid the very men and scenes that enter into his story, having to take comparatively little at second hand. The very foundations of the structure he describes were laid while he was but a looker on; the superstructure has depended not only upon his fidelity, his industry, and devotion for its height, its breath and its symmetry--to a large extent--but it has felt his artistic and constructive touch also. Doctor Butt has been the child of the church, he is now considered one of the fathers to the present A. M. E. generation.
The field embraced in this sketch has been interesting from the beginning of America's life here. It has never been noted for its inclination to Methodism however but is the home of many of the best Baptist people, and most active of the black race. Yet in this field African Methodism has wrought well in respect to the evangelization of the class constituting its communion, solidifying it in Christian graces. But it cannot be said that Virginia African Methodism has accomplished in the material of its own forming as much in the line of promoting and advancing the education of its people and its ministry as other church sects among the African descendants
in Virginia, nor so much as the African Methodist church in many other states. It has suffered for want of courage in this kind of work, and, perhaps from being later on the field and less popular than some other ecclesiastical bodies and some other African Methodist states; yet in respect to missionary ventures, church interests and connectional loyalty, the African Methodist Church has no superior state nor superior African Methodism. Virginia African Methodism has not been ungenerous in advancing the interests and methods for education organized by other states, but has been unfortunately constituted--it would seem--in reference to conducting educational institutions itself. A little more industry in the state on this line would have made Virginia African Methodism the pioneer of a given feature of education of our people for which and by which it would have been highly exalted. The author of the History of African Methodism in Virginia with others wrought well, but lost a noble opportunity for Virginia African Methodism to stamp upon the church the impress of an original movement in the line of education.
It may be hoped that this sketch of its history may yet instigate this part of the church to a movement by which the rescuing of our girls and training them to avoid the courses of destruction to which they are urged may be aided. Lightly as this subject is treated it is the great desideratum of the present. Virginians can afford to take it up, and can well carry it to success. God bless this most attractive part of our work, and give to this book great consideration by American readers of all classes.
B. F. LEE,
Wilberforce, Ohio
is a strong, logical and forceful Gospel preacher; he is indeed a model sermonizer. As a pastor, he has few equals and no superiors; when it comes to a point of systematic pastoring, he is exact, which is a strong point in any one's character and business.
As a presiding elder, he indeed knows the law and government of the A. M. E. Church, and how to handle men. He is positive and firm and yet sympathetic with his brethren. He conducts his quarterly and district Conferences in a business-like manner, and with some system. Indeed, he is a No. I Presiding elder, or The Presiding Elder of the Virginia Conference at this time.
As a preacher, he puts the mind to thinking, the heart to burning, and lifts the soul; as a pastor he takes good care of the flock and leads them out into green pastures and protects them and all their interests; as a Presiding Elder he looks after every interest of the church, both local and general, and brings his district up to new heights.
A. J. NOTTINGHAM
REV. I. L. BUTT, at the age of 29 years.
The subject of this sketch was born May 3rd, 1848, near Northwest Bridge, Norfolk County, Va. His parents were Adaline and John Wesley Butt. They were slaves, hence young Israel came into the world as chattel and was in that condition until he reached the age of fourteen years and three months, when the Emancipation Proclamation of Abraham Lincoln made him free.
His father and mother were strict Methodists and their son was reared as such. His grandfather, on his mother's side, Israel Grimes, for whom he was named, was a strong, wonderful and powerful preacher in his day, as well as a consistent member of St. John's A. M. E. Church, Norfolk, Va., for many years. In 1876 Preacher Grimes transferred his membership to St. James A. M. E. Church, Eureka, to help plant a house of worship there. He was born September 25, 1779, and died November 1, 1881, in Norfolk Va. His grandfather, on his father's side, Charles Bonaparte Butt, was a consistent Methodist for many years and a man of considerable literary qualifications; he died 1864 about seventyfive years of age.
One night in August, 1862, Rev. Butt's father planned an escape to the Yankees who were encamped at Norfolk. To obtain freedom they had to make a trip of twenty miles that night to reach the headquarters of the Union soldiers. Late in the night when his owners were slumbering and all nature was wrapped in silence, the father, son and a little girl who lived on the same farm set out for Norfolk. They were sometimes in the woods, then in the cornfields and again on the road, seeking to shun any person whom they might chance to meet. At day-break they were only three miles from Berkley. Then the father was taken very ill and using the woods as his hospital, he halted until 10 A. M., at which time he was sufficiently recovered to travel again. Then they came out of the woods and went to grandfather Grimes' house about two and a half miles away and near the site of the present railroad draw-bridge, where they remained two or three days. Mr. Quarker Armstrong, a great-uncle who lived here, took them
in a row boat and carried them across to Norfolk. At the bridge they were halted by the Yankee guards and questioned. This was the first time the subject of our sketch had ever seen a Yankee, and he fell in love with them, admired their beautiful uniforms, guns, bayonets, swords, and the bright buttons on their clothes, and wished that he was a soldier. The guards passed them through the lines and they were soon in Norfolk, and safe from their pursuers. Their next stop was to report to the government authorities and receive assignment to the quarters used to accommodate persons leaving their owners in search of freedom. Rev. Butt's father was at once put to work in the government service, unloading and loading cargoes of coal, bombshells and various kinds of war implements and ammunition that were being sent to the front for fighting. His pay was $20.00 per month. Young Butt was given a position as water boy, supplying the hands that worked there; this service he performed well until about the middle of 1863, when his father sent him to the U. S. government school which was taught by Yankee teachers in the Bute Street Baptist Church, Norfolk, remaining there three weeks. His father then hired him to a Yankee man of Princess Anne County to haul cord wood out of the woods to the wharf to be shipped to Norfolk. In this position he remained until January 4, 1864, when he enlisted in Company A, 38 Regiment U. S. Colored Volunteer Infantry. After serving three years one month, twenty-three days, he received an honorable discharge. Although a mere boy he was a faithful and brave soldier, never being punished for any crime or marked for disobedience while in the army, and even through several severe and trying marches he was never a straggler from the ranks.
He was converted to God May 3, 1866, at Brazos, Santiago, Texas, while in the army. In February, 1867, he was mustered out of the army and returned home.
December 5, 1867, at the age of 19 he married Miss Rose Zillah Simmons of Norfolk. Returning from the army almost wholly ignorant of books and letters and having married at such an early age made the pathway to intellectual progress seem almost insurmountable. He had almost concluded that his education was at an end, but at the same time there arose in him a craving for an education that would not be satisfied. He naturally inherited a love for books from his parents. His father, mother and both grandfathers all had a fair knowledge of books and read fluently before the Civil War; but because of existing laws in the state, they dared not teach their son
and grandson for fear they might be detected and the child sold away. Besides this, his mother died when he was about seven or eight years of age, and his father having enlisted in the army October, 1863, furnished reasons, together with others equally obvious, why he could not procure an education at an early age. When young Butt went into the army he did not know his alphabet, but his tent-mate, Mr. Edinborough Foreman, while lying in his tent taught him the alphabet and how to read a little. In 1867, though there were no schools, colleges and universities such as we have today, yet so hungry and thirsty was he for knowledge that he determined to have an education. He began to study privately as best he could, getting any one who could and would hear his lessons. At this time he was working on a two-acre lot of his father's near the city of Norfolk and for a few months came into the city at noon and had one of the Yankee teachers who was instructing at St. John's A. M. E. Church to hear his lessons from 12 M. to 1 P. M. After this he took private lessons in Mr. Dempsey Ferebee's night school in Norfolk, from there he attended night school at the Odd Fellow's Hall on Bute Street, Norfolk, under Rev. J. D. S. Hall who was pastor of St. John's Church. He then studied under Thomas Bayne, M. D. of Norfolk. While attending night school he had to plow and do other farm work, walk ten miles each day and get his lessons at night. To accomplish this he often carried his spelling book and reader in his hat and a copy of the New Testament in his pocket. As it was the rule to stop the horse occasionally for rest a few minutes he would take out his spelling or reading book, get a few words or sentences, commit and try to repeat them as he ploughed on. Sometimes he would read a few verses from his Testament and commit them, taking the contents as he understood it or memorizing various passages.
He worked at different times for two white Northern men, on their farms. One Mr. Kent, who was high sheriff of the County, and one Mr. Rusha Denise, who was the Clerk of the County Court. At noon while resting, he often requested them to hear his reading and spelling lessons, which they did gladly, but as they were not Christians he had to take his Scripture lessons to God in prayer. He felt very much discouraged at this juncture and the outlook seemed dark; however, he took courage and went forward resolved to improve himself. Here he began to feel that God had a work for him to accomplish, though not just certain what; he was impressed to study and prepare himself for whatever work or station that God
might assign him to, so he pushed on with the work of preparation.
May 25, 1869, twenty-two days after he reached the age of twenty-one years, he was elected constable of Tanners Creek Township, Norfolk County, Virginia. There he served with distinction three years and was elected Magistrate or Justice of the Peace of the same Township and served six years, until 1878. During these terms of office, he made many important arrests, and tried many important cases, with some of the best and leading lawyers of Norfolk to plead in his courts, yet there was not one appeal case from any of his decisions. His reports to the courts of Norfolk County always stood the test and he had the praise of courts and people with whom he lived and dealt. In August, 1867, he joined St. John's A. M. E. Church, Norfolk, under Rev. George T. Watkins, D. D. He was baptized and received into full membership in the same church by Rev. J. D. S. Hall; licensed to exhort in St. John's Church January 26, 1874, by Rev. W. D. W. Schureman. Licensed as local preacher in the same church March 21, 1876 by Rev. John E Cooke. He joined the Virginia Annual Conference April 12, 1877. He was ordained Deacon at Farmville, Va., April 26, 1878, by Bishop John M. Brown, D.D. and ordained Elder by Bishop Daniel A. Payne, D.D. L.L.D. at Danville, April 18, 1881.
On the 30th day of April, 1876, while a local preacher in St. John's he oraganized St. James Church at Euerka in his own house, and on the same day organized the Sunday school in Bro. Isaac Lewis' house, who was then a member of St. John. The corner-stone was laid by the Masonic order May 15, 1876, the church completed and occupied July, 1876, dedicated in February, 1878, by Bishop John M. Brown.
The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by Wilberforce University of Xenia, Ohio, June 18, 1903.
He took the Corespondence Course in Theology from Payne University, Selma, Alabma, and graduated with honors June 1, 1905.
He joined the Virginia Annual Conference April 12, 1877, at Wytheville, Va., serving the following appointments.
1 Norfolk Mission | 1 year |
2 Chesterfield circuit | 3 years |
3 Henry circuit | 2 years |
4 Hampton Station | 4 years |
5 P. E. Danville district | 1 1/2 years |
6 Staunton station | 8 months |
7 Bridgetown circuit | 2 years |
8 Eastville station | 6 months |
9 Capeville circuit and station | 4 years |
10 Trinity station, Berkley | 4 years |
11 P. E. Portsmouth district | 5 years |
12 P. E. Norfolk district | 5 years |
A formal opening of this church took place Easter Sunday, April 3, 1904, conducted by Bishop B. F. Lee, D. D.,
Rev. I. L. Butt, D. D., P. E., S. M. Johnson, D. D., P. E., J. C. Williams, B. D. P. E. (9) On the Jamesville circuit the Mount Zion and St. Joseph Church purchased a lot and built a parsonage at Belle Haven. The Mt. Zion Church completed in 1905.
Rev. Butt was elected secretary of the Portsmouth District conference and Sunday school Institute Sept. 13, 1886; Norfolk District Conference in 1889, then as general secretary of the Annual Conference April 1903.
He has served as trustee for the following institutions, Dickerson Memorial Seminary, Portsmouth, Va.; Kittrell College, Kittrell, N. C.; Norfolk District School, Norfolk, Va.; Wilberforce University, Xenia, Ohio.; Girls Training School, Roanoke, Va.
He was member of general conference in 1900 at Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago in 1904. He served as member of General Connectional Boards 1902-04; Missionary Board, 1904-08; Allen Christian Endeavor League.
From organization May 10, 1867 to April 18, 1906
By regular itineracy | By transfer |
Bishop Alexander W. Wayman, D.D. | |
Rev. Peter Sheppard | Rev. James D. S. Hall |
Rev. John H. Offer | Rev. George T. Watkins |
Rev. Matthew Marshall | Rev. Richard H. Parker |
Rev. Aaron Pindle | Rev. Isaac J. Hill |
Rev. Jacklin Strange | |
Rev. George Williams | |
Rev. Lewis H. Wayne | |
Rev. William F. Williams | |
Rev. William H. Smith | |
Rev. John W. Diggs | |
Rev. Joseph K. Plato | |
Rev. J. H. Hughes | |
1868. | 1868. |
Rev. Cato L. Dailey | |
Rev. John B. Lewis | |
Rev. Robert Armstead | |
1869. | 1869 |
Rev. George W. Pinkard | Rev. William B. Derrick |
Rev. J. E. W. Moore | Rev. Thomas M. Cole |
Rev. Richard R. Gassaway | |
Rev. Richard W. Sylvester | |
1870 | 1870 |
Rev. Lemuel W. Lee | Rev. Phillip M. Only |
Rev. John H. Riddick | Rev. Shadrach Jones |
Rev. Robert Davis | Rev. Richard H. Govans |
Rev. James T. Morris | Rev. J. D. S. Hall |
Rev. J. H. A. Johnson | |
1871 | 1871 |
Rev. Elisha Webb | Rev. Jonathan B. Hamilton |
Rev. George D. Jimmerson | |
1872 | 1872 |
Rev. Felix Brown | Rev. John F. Lane |
Rev. Charles H. Hunter | |
Rev. Robert Trust | |
Rev. J. S. Henderson | |
Rev. Benjamin L. Holloway | |
Rev. Robinson Crusoe | |
Rev. William Claxton |
1873 | 1873 |
Bishop P. J Campbell, D.D., LL.D | |
Rev. Jeremiah Cuffey | |
Rev. Americus Singleton | |
Rev. John W. Ruff | |
Rev. J. H. Cary | |
Rev. James H. Haynes | |
Rev. Greenberry Smith | |
Rev. Isaac J. Pindle | |
Rev. William Claxton | |
Rev. Charles Brown | |
Rev. James Cooke | |
1874 | 1874 |
Rev. William J. Fuller | Rev. Thomas Berns |
Rev. James H. Scott*
* He died Dec. 25, 1906 at Carroll, Md., and was buried there, Dec. 27, 1906. He was pastor at that place. |
Rev. S. B. Clark |
Rev. Warrick Rheu | Rev. John E. Cooke |
Rev. Andy F. Simms | Rev. Charles Steward |
Rev. William H. Wingfield | Rev. W. H. Smith |
1875 | 1875 |
Rev. Abram J. Williams | Rev. Thomas H. Hurley |
Rev. William H. Gray | Rev. Wilson Beard |
Rev. Joseph C. Mackey | |
1876 | 1876 |
Rev. Isaac Ewer | Rev. Benjamin F. Lloyd |
Rev. Isaac C. Clark | |
Rev. J. W. Montgomery | |
1877 | 1877 |
Bishop John M. Brown D. D., D. C. L. | |
Rev. Israel L. Butt | |
Rev. John C. Williams | |
Rev. Robert M. Cheeks | |
Rev. William Williams | |
Rev. J. H. Accoe | |
Rev. Thaddeus Peeden | |
Rev. Charles Acworth | |
1878 | 1878 |
Rev. Elias H. Bolden | Rev. Daniel Draper |
Rev. S. M. G. Copeland | Rev. William H. Brown |
Rev. Job H. Brown | |
Rev. Payton M. Lewis | |
Rev. Junius C. Ayler | |
Rev. A. A. Bailey |
1879 | 1879 |
Rev. William H. Bryant | |
Rev. John H. Thomas | |
Rev. Robert T. Lewis | |
Rev. Edward Scarboro | |
Rev. J. W. Scisco | |
Rev. Moses C. Young | |
Rev. Isaac Uphur | |
Rev. Geo. W. Johnson (readmitted.) | |
Rev. Simon P. Cornick | |
Prof. J. A. M. Johns | |
1880 | 1880 |
Rev. George W. Settles | Rev. George Dardis |
Rev. John R. West | |
Rev. Charles N. Grandison | |
Rev. Garrett C. Vreeland | |
Rev. Daniel J. Beckett | |
Rev. Charles W. Woolford | |
Rev. Felix Wood | |
1881 | 1881 |
Bishop Daniel A. Payne, D. D. LL D. | Rev. George T. Watkins |
Rev. James H. Turner | |
1882 | 1882 |
Rev. Jacklin Strange | |
1883 | 1883 |
Rev. Daniel Mays | |
1884 | 1884 |
Rev. James W. Thockmartin | Rev. Wellington G. Alexander |
Rev. Issac Ewer (readmitted) | Rev. John C. Williams |
Rev. George W. Nicholson | |
Rev. Phillip T. Matthews | |
Rev. Thomas G. Thompson | |
1885 | 1885 |
Bishops W. F. Dickerson, D. D and H. M. Turner, D D. LL. D. | Rev. William H. Hunter |
Rev. A. A. Burleigh | |
Rev. Lemuel Sears | |
Rev. William H. Morris | |
Rev. Berry Wilson | |
Rev. Charles M. Toney |
1886 | 1886 |
Rev. T. C. Coston | Rev. William D. Cooke |
Rev. Jacob Fisher | Rev. A. B. Jennings |
Rev. Joseph B. Tynes | |
Rev. Jessie C. Young | |
Rev. Thomas A. Wood | |
Rev. K. K. Richardson | |
Rev. James H. Garner | |
Rev. William H. Carter | |
Rev. Joseph H. Duckett | |
Rev. Peter E. Steward | |
Rev. James Parson | |
Rev. S. A. Rucker | |
Rev. Z. H. Hughes | |
Rev. James E. Blount | |
Rev. James Carter | |
Rev. E. T. Hickman | |
Rev. Lewis Evans | |
1887 | 1887 |
Rev. Jordan Gordan | Rev. George W. Taylor |
Rev. George T. Mussington | Rev. F. F. Crawford |
Rev. R. H. Hollis | |
Rev. William H. Lee | |
Rev. Irwin W. L. Roundtree | |
Rev. P. R. Reed | |
Rev. Simon P. Cornick (readmitted.) | |
Rev. George W. Blount | |
1888 | 1888 |
Rev. George Lee | Rev. Jesse Asbury |
Rev. James A. Kelley | |
Rev. James E. Parago | |
Rev. R. H. Miles | |
Rev. J. K. Plato (readmitted) | |
Rev. Jordan Lemons | |
1889 | 1889 |
Rev. J. A. Boone | Rev. George T. Watkins |
Rev. Benjamin J. Hargraves | Rev. Daniel J. Beckett |
Rev. William B. Sample | |
1890 | 1890 |
Rev. Simon W. Watkins | Rev. A. J. Nixon |
Rev. Alexander W. Twyman | |
Rev. Paul W. Lee | |
Rev. John T. Schofield | |
Rev. William J. White | |
Rev. John Briggs | |
Rev. Robert T. Timberlake | |
Rev. A. A. Bailey (readmitted) |
1891 | 1891 |
Rev. John Offer Custis | Rev. John G. Mitchell |
Rev. Frank W. Overton | Rev. Simon P. Sheppard |
Rev. Moses Matthews | |
1892 | 1892 |
Rev. John Henry Robins | Rev. J. C. Duffield |
Rev. William D. Naylor | |
Rev. J. T. Reed | |
Rev. J. W. Williams | |
Rev. Morgan S. Simmons | |
Rev. Elijah M. King | |
Rev. J. C. George | |
Rev. A. I. Williams | |
Rev. Pinkey L. McDowell | |
1893 | 1893 |
Rev. Charlas A. Holmes | Rev. Abraham L. Gaines |
Rev. George W. Harris | Rev. William R. Gullins |
Rev. John R. West (readmitted) | Rev. R. L. King |
Rev. Edward F. Hardy | |
Rev. K. K. Richardson (readmitted) | |
Rev. W. E. Walker | |
Rev. Frank M. Redd | |
1894 | 1894 |
Rev. Levan Thomas Watson | Rev. Thomas R. Sinkfield |
1895 | 1895 |
Rev. D. A. Twyman | Rev. R. H. Coleman |
Rev. Ovett E. Bumgardnener | Rev. W. W. Wilson |
Rev. William J. Beckett | |
Rev. Robert H. Davis | |
Rev. L. A. Patrick | |
Rev. Thomas H. Austin | |
Rev. L. W. C. Metts | |
Rev. St. Clair Grimstead | |
1896 | 1896 |
Rev. P. S. Jefferson | |
Rev. J. H. A. McClammy | |
Rev. L. T. Barker | |
Rev. Edward T. Bailey | |
Rev. C. E. Lark | |
Rev. George E. Fountain | |
Rev. Alfred J. Nottingham |
1897 | 1897 |
Rev. J. L. Jones | Rev. Daniel P. Seaton |
Rev. Fountain L. Gibson | Rev. Charles Augustus |
Rev. W. E. J. Hampton | Rev. N. F. Turner |
1898 | 1898 |
Rev. J. R. Davis | |
Rev. James W. Wright | |
Rev. W. J. Miller | |
Rev. Albert R. Montague | |
Rev. J. B. Whidbee | |
Rev. George R. Jones | |
Rev. William R. Howerton | |
Rev. T. J. Duncanson | |
Rev. N. H. Field | |
1899 | 1899 |
Rev. William H. Harris | |
Rev. Spencer J. Drummond | |
Rev. Samuel A. Poulson | |
Rev. Richard H. G. Jackson | |
Rev. Levi Postler | |
1900 | 1900 |
Rev. James H. Fitchett | Rev. N. F. Turner (readmitted) |
Rev. Benjamin F. Newsome | |
Rev. John H. Ross | |
Rev. Kenneth J. Billups | |
Rev. Lewellyn L. Berry | |
Rev. George W. Adams | |
Rev. Samuel S. Morris | |
1901 | 1901 |
Bishop Benjamin F. Lee, D. D. | Rev. John C. Williams |
Rev. Louis H. Reynolds | |
Rev. Thomas A. Green | |
Rev. H. S. Roberts | |
Rev. P. R. A. Smith | |
Rev. A. P. Bender | |
Rev. C W. Cole | |
1902 | 1902 |
Rev. O. T. Day | Rev. Lemuel M. Beckett |
Rev. Samuel B. W. Trent | Rev. W. T. H. Addison |
Rev. Samuel A. Brown | Rev. J. P. Q. Wallace |
Rev. Andrew Robinson | Rev. H. Q. McClain |
Rev. James C. Wyatt |
1903 | 1903 |
Rev. Richard C. Silver | Rev. D. W. Baker |
Rev. Perry Pretlow | Rev. Samuel M. Johnson |
Rev. Wilson J. Robinson | Rev. George C. Taylor |
Rev. William J. Harris | Rev. John T. Schofield |
Rev. John B. Harvey | Rev. John O. Custis |
Rev. John S. Mason | Rev. W. O. O. Saunders |
Rev. Turner L. Leggett | |
Rev. William H. Barnes | |
1904 | 1904 |
Rev. Joseph Gwynn | |
Rev. L. A. Wood | |
Rev. Alex McNeal | |
Rev. C. H. Stepteau | |
Rev. W. H. Davis | |
1905 | 1905 |
Bishop W. J. Gaines, D. D. | Rev. Samuel S. Morris |
Rev. William H. Sawyer | Rev. S. Aikens |
Rev. Charles W. Robinson | Rev. C. R. Saunders |
Rev. Andrew A. Weaver | Rev. C. W. Mossell |
Rev. William C. McDowell | Rev. N. W. Brown |
1906 | 1906 |
Rev. Samuel W. Fauqua | Rev. W. W. Barham |
Rev. David Wilson | Rev. A. A. Senabaugh |
Rev. Stephen B. Baptist |
NORFOLK was the nest, and St. John's Chapel, now St. John's Church, the first egg laid in the Old Dominion which was but an earnest beginning of the results which have followed.
Before the war clouds had passed or the echo of booming cannon ceased, the members of St. John's expressed their dissatisfaction with existing conditions, and the Official Board May 4, 1863, voted unanimously to annual the discipline of the M. E. Church South; and on October 13, the officers of the said Church having obtained possession of their property through Major General Dix, the federal officer, agreed to unite with the Baltimore Annual Conference.
Professor Woodbury, superintendent of the government school in Norfolk, was largely instrumental in this congregation's choice of the A. M. E. Church, and he proffered his services to go to Baltimore and secure Rev. A. W. Wayman, an elder in the Baltimore Conference, to come to Norfolk and confer with the members of St. John.
Professor Woodbury went to Baltimore, Rev. Wayman came to Norfolk, and since that time African Methodism has been a potent factor in the uplift of our people in this the mother of States.
Bishop Wayman in his "My Recollections" tells us that he came to the city by the sea having received the information from the flock that was as sheep without a shepherd, glad of the opportunity to preach the text, "I seek my brethren." Rev. Wayman was met at the boat on that memorable Sunday morning by Bro. Peter Sheppard, known throughout Virginia as "Father Sheppard"*
* Died in Norfolk, Va., May 30, 1907, and buried in Cumberland Street Cemetery
and escorted him to the church on Bute street. At night he preached the desired text. Monday afternoon Rev. Wayman preached again from the text "We are journeying to the place of which the Lord said: I will give it thee; come thou with us and we will do thee good." Num. 10: 29. At night the official members met and unanimously
adopted an instrument of writing prepared by Rev. Wayman affirming their allegiance to the A. M. E. Church. On Wednesday night Rev. Wayman spoke again from the text "We will go with you, for we have heard that God is with you." Zech 8: 23. The congregation endorsed the action of the official board, and 800 members became followers of Allen with the following ministers: Revs. R. H. Parker, James Tynes, Peter Sheppard, Americus Woodhouse and Amos Wilson.
Rev. Wayman having returned to Baltimore soon came again to Norfolk bringing Bishop Daniel A. Payne and Rev. John M. Brown. The Bishop preached, reviewed the situation, and appointed Rev. John M. Brown pastor of St. John's Church, Norfolk.
From this point, 1864 to 1867, all of the ministers who labored in Virginia were members of the Baltimore Annual Conference, and reported their work to that Conference until the organization of the Virginia Conference.
The Conference was organized May 10, 1867, in Richmond by Bishop Alexander Washington Wayman. "I love thy Kingdom Lord" was sung, prayer was offered and 2nd Psalm read as a scripture lesson. Rev. J. R. V. Thomas was appointed secetary and Rev. Wm. H. Hunter assistant secretary.
The following names were enrolled.
Bishop A. W. Wayman, D. D.
Rev. J. D. S. Hall, transfer from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Geo. T. Watkins, transfer from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Richard H. Parker, transfer from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Isaac J. Hill, transfer from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. John H. Offer.
Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Rev. Matthew Marshall.
Rev. Aaron Pindle.
Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Rev. Geo. Williams.
Rev. Lewis F. Wayne.
Rev. William F. Williams.
Rev. Wm. H. Smith.
Rev. Joseph H. Plato.
Rev. John W. Diggs.
Rev. J. H. Hughes.
Revs. John M. Brown, Wm. H. Brown, Richard A. Hall, and Wm. H. Hunter.
The following resolutions were offered by Rev. John M. Brown and adopted by the Conference.
1st. Resolved that there be a committee of three appointed whose duty it shall be to draw up an address to our people in the state of Virginia congratulating them upon their recent success, and in the advanced position they have been placed in the several Acts of Congress, and by the impartiality shown in the selection of the Grand Jury.
2nd. Resolved, that the same committee be authorized to write an address to all colored Methodists in Virginia, defining our position and stating the points of agreement and disagreement, and urging all to unite in one common fold.
Signed, J. M. BROWN and WM. H. HUNTER.
This resolution shows the wisdom and alertness of the early organizers of the Virginia Conference to spread African Methodism in the very incipiency of the Christian work among our people who had so recently been emancipated.
When the fourth disciplinary question was reached, "Who are admitted on trial?" the following brethren were presented: Lewis H. Wayne, William Williams, Wm. H. Smith, John W. Diggs, J. H. Hughes and Joseph K. Plato; Thornton McCoy and Thomas Wright were presented for local membership from St. John's Chapel, Bute Street, Norfolk. They came by a petition from the quarterly Conference of their Church, dated May 8, 1867, and signed by Rev. Geo. T. Watkins, pastor and brother George W. Dawley, Secretary. Bros. Thomas Hewlett and Henry Halyard of 3rd St. Church, Richmond, were presented at the same Conference for local membership.
Carefulness of the early organizers in receiving persons in the ministry is shown by the following:
Rev. Wm. H. Hunter presented Rev. J. H. Hughes for itinerant work, whereupon Rev. J. R. V. Thomas objected on the ground that Bro. Hughes had been rejected by the Baltimore Conference; a spirited debate followed and the motion was laid on the table.
May 11, 1867, Rev. Wm. Hunter offered a motion that Rev. Hughes be admitted into the itinerancy without debate, which motion was lost, but the Conference voted that the Bishop be empowered to give Rev. Hughes work in the Virginia Conference if he saw fit to do so. He was finally admitted.
At this Conference Rev. Peter Sheppard was absent on account of the demise of his wife. He sent an excuse, which was accepted and a vote of condolence was tendered the bereaved brother.
The first persons to be admitted into full membership in the Conference in answer to question 6 were Revs. Richard H. Parker and Isaac J. Hill. Brothers Matthew Marshall and George Williams were continued on trial.
The Grand Jury of the United States Court for the District of Virginia gracing the Conference with their presence, were introduced by Rev. John M. Brown and received by Bishop A. W. Wayman, who made them welcome in well chosen remarks. It is worthy of note that six (6) members of this jury were men in whose veins coursed "Negro Blood," three of them from Alexandria and three from Richmond.
On Saturday morning, May 11, 1867, the following were recommended for ordination, and on Sunday, May 12, 1867, were ordained deacons: Bros. Aaron Pindle, Lewis H. Wayne, J. K. Plato, Wm. Williams, Jacklin Strange, Wm. H. Smith; John W. Diggs and Matthew Marshall. In the afternoon of the same day Bros. Richard H. Parker and I. J. Hill were ordained elders, and on Tuesday afternoon, May 14, Bros. L. H. Wayne, Wm. H. Smith and J. H. Offer were given elders' orders. Rev. D. A. Peterson and Drs. Nelson Head of the M. E. Church South, and Mitchell of the M. E. Church North, were among the visitors at this Conference.
1 | Contingent Money | $82.33 |
2 | Baltimore Association | 12.00 |
3 | Missionary Money--Richmond Church | 7.98 |
Total receipts | $102.31 |
The meagre amount raised in those pioneer days seems now but the widow's mite when contrasted with the hundreds of dollars brought up to the Conference each year by those who have caught the mantle of the fathers.
I | Richmond District, Presiding Elder | J. D. S. Hall. |
1 Richmond Station | Rev. J. D. S. Hall. | |
2 Richmond City Mission | Rev. Wm. Williams. | |
3 Fredericksburg | Rev. J. K. Plato. | |
4 Port Royal | ||
5 Farmville | Rev. Mathew Marshall |
II | Portsmouth District, Presiding Elder | Rev. J. R. V. Thomas |
1 Portsmouth Station | Rev. J. R. V. Thomas. | |
2 Portsmouth Circuit | Aaron Pindle. | |
3 Smithfield Circuit | Revs. I. J. Hill and George Williams. | |
III | Norfolk District, Presiding Elder | Rev. G. T. Watkins. |
1 Norfolk Station | Rev. Geo. T. Watkins. |
The above is all that the record shows relative to that year's appointments. There must have been more appointments, but since the journal is silent on the matter the desired information cannot be given. The keeping of an accurate record by the Conference in its infancy was doubtless similar to the keeping of perfect records by many of our early churches; various conditions were apparent that militated against an accurate and systematic record such as is possible today, but the fathers served well their day and generation and are worthy of our unstinted praise and commendation.
At the adjournment of the Conference the following names appeared on the roster:--Bishop A. W. Wayman, Revs. J. D. S. Hall, George T. Watkins, Richard Parker, I. J. Hill, Peter Sheppard, John H. Offer, J. R. V. Thomas, Matthew Marshall, Aaron Pindle, Jacklin Strange, George Williams, Lewis H. Wayne, Wm. Williams, Wm. H. Smith, John W. Diggs, J. K. Plato, Americus Woodhouse, Wm. F Williams, J. H. Hughes, Thornton McCoy, Thomas Wright, Henry Halyard, Thomas Hewlett and George Thornton.
(See statistics of 1867 for comparison with Conference reports 1906.)
This Conference, like the former one, was held in Richmond, March 26, 1868, with Bishop A. W. Wayman presiding. Devotional exercises were conducted by the Bishop, and Revs. J. R. V. Thomas and Benjamin T. Tanner were elected secretaries.
Brothers Cato L. Dailey, John B. Lewis and Robert Armstead were admitted into the Conference.
Under question fifth: Who remain on trial? Brothers Aaron Pindle, Jacklin Strange, J. W. Diggs, William F. Williams, George Williams and William H. Smith were reported. The names of Brothers J. K. Plato and J. H. Hughes were dropped. Rev. J. H. Offer was admitted into full membership.
At the ordination of deacons Rev. Robert Armstead received orders, and through a request coming from our Church at Richmond, Brothers Thomas Hewlett and Henry Halyard were also ordained.
In consequence of extreme necessity Revs. Aaron Pindle, Jacklin Strange and John W. Diggs were advanced to the eldership and ordained by Bishop A. W. Wayman.
Here the Virginia Conference elected her first delegates to represent her in the General Conference. The ministerial delegates were Revs. George T. Watkins and Richard H. Parker; the lay delegates were Brothers Jesse Lee, Thornton McCoy, James Smith and Thomas Wright. The maiden entrance of our Conference into the highest court of the Church was quite significant, as the General Conference met in the capitol city, Washington, May, 1868. Each delegate was allowed $20.00 for expenses.
During this year St. John's Chapel of Norfolk had procured the deed of the property from the M. E. Church South, and deeded it to the A. M. E. connection through its pastor, Rev. G. T. Watkins. For this act they received a vote of thanks from the Conference.
Among the many distinguished visitors who paid their
respects to the Conference in session were Bishop Doggert, Revs. N. Heard, G. W. Langhorne, E. M. Peterson, J. H. Crown and L. M. Lee of the M. E. Church South. These ministers were introduced to the Conference by the Rev. George T. Watkins, and Bishop Doggert and Rev L. M. Lee, D. D., made interesting remarks to the brethren. The good Bishop referred to the transfer of St. John's property, and promised to use his influence in getting all of the churches South to transfer their property to the A. M. E. Church. A resolution was passed that the pastors of the Norfolk and Portsmouth stations and the Secretary of the Conference constitute a committee to assist the Bishop in making the appointments.
The following resolutions were adopted relative to the visit of Bishop Doggert:
"Whereas, Bishop Doggert, of the M. E. Church South, in company with a number of Elders of the said Church, have honored the Virginia Conference of the A. M. E. Church with a visit;
Therefore be it resolved, That the Virginia Conference of the A. M. E. Church feel to honor the visit of the reverend gentlemen, and to return thanks to them in person for the very many kind offices which the Church they represent have bestowed upon us as a Church;
Be it further resolved, That we invoke them to continue their Christian efforts in assisting our Church to get within its borders all the Anglo-Africans of the Republic to the end that among us at least there may be one fold with the one Shepherd, Jesus Christ."
J. R. V. THOMAS,
B. T. TANNER,
J. A. HANDY.
The Virginia Conference in its infancy put a high estimate upon education. This is seen from the fact that the Conference heard with great pleasure of the purpose of the South Carolina Conference to establish a Theological Seminary for our ministers, and they appointed Rev. George T.
Watkins to correspond with Rev. Richard Harvey, a son of Virginia, later Bishop Cain, who was chairman of the trustee board, with a view of uniting with them in this great and laudable undertaking. So from its very beginning this Conference has been on the side of education, and has since done much for the advancement of the cause.
The grim reaper death began early to visit the ranks of our brethren. In January, 1868, two passed from labor to reward. One was Rev. Lewis H. Wayne, who entered the ministry from Israel Church, Washington, D. C. He was a faithful minister in the Conference, and died at his post in the full triumph of faith. His first and only appointment in the Conference was P. E. of Wytheville district and pastor of Wytheville Church, both at the some time. The Rev. George Thornton died January 8, 1868, while serving the Middleway Circuit as its pastor. He was one the most eloquent and useful men in the Conference at the time of his death. He entered our Church in Pennsylvania through Rev. William H. Gilliard, and was licensed to exhort on the Chambersburg circuit in 1862 by Rev. John M. Brown. The two brethren were the first to fall on the battle field of Virginia, to be followed by a number who have since laid down their arms and reported at Eternity's headquarters.
At this session Revs. J. D. S. Hall and J. R. V. Thomas were transferred to the Baltimore Conference.
The total contingent moneys received was $77.75. Conference expenses $23.25. $54.00 was divided among the needy preachers, only 50 cents being left in the treasury. Mark the improvement as we proceed during thirty-eight years.
There were twenty-two charges reported at the Conference, with twenty churches.
Number of full members, 3994
Number of probationers, 232
Presiding Elder districts five.
The third session of the Virginia Conference was called to order by Rt. Rev. A. W. Wayman, in St. John's Chapel, Norfolk, Va., April 21, 1869. Rev. William D. W. Schureman was elected secretary and Rev. William B. Derrick, assistant.
Brothers George W. Pinkard, Richard Sylvester, Richard Gassaway and Jacob E. W. Moore were admitted on trial. The following were read into full connection: Brothers Aaron Pindle, William F. Williams, William H. Smith, Jacklin Strange, John W. Diggs, Thomas M. Cole, W. B. Derrick and Matthew Marshall.
For ordination this year the record shows that John B. Lewis, Cato L. Dailey and Richard J. Gassaway were made itinerant deacons, and David I. Owens local deacon for Portsmouth Church, and Elias Hill local deacon for Smithfield. Brothers Peter Sheppard, Americus Woodhouse, George Williams and William F. Williams were given itinerant elders orders.
Rev. James A. Handy, of the Baltimore Conference, and Rev. Joshua Woodlin, of the Philadelphia Conference, were introduced to the brethren and proved to be of much service in shaping the work of this young Conference body.
The annual sermon was preached by Bishop A. W. Wayman from 2 Kings 4: 26. It was well delivered, and accepted by the hearers.
Bishop Wayman called the attention of the Conference to the subject of the Presiding Eldership, and advised the establishment of said office. On motion of Rev. George T. Watkins the office was created and six districts formed. Ten dollars and twenty-five cents were paid over to Rev. Joshua Woodlin for the Book Concern; this amount seems small to-day, but it was like the grain of mustard seed, and has since wonderfully increased.
No statistical table nor list of appointments is recorded for this year, hence we are deprived of useful information at this point. Five hundred copies of the Annual Conference
minutes were ordered, and $10.00 were appropriated as part payment, but we haven't any knowledge of the work being done.
Transferred to Virginia Conference from Baltimore Conserence Rev. W. B. Derrick and Thomas M. Cole.
This session of the Virginia Conference was held in Emanuel A. M. E. Church, with Bishop A. W. Wayman presiding. Rev. W. B. Derrick was elected temporary secretary.
Rev. P. M. Only, Shadrach Jones, Richard H. Govans and J. D. S. Hall, transfers from the Baltimore Conference, and Rev. J. H. A. Johnson transfer from the Philadelphia Conference, were introduced. Following Rev. Johnson's introduction, Rev. W. D. W. Schureman moved that he (Johnson) be permanent secretary, and W. B. Derrick assistant; the motion prevailed. In response to the fifth question: Who are admitted on trial? the following named brethren were presented: Lemuel W. Lee, John H. Riddick, St. John's Chapel, Norfolk; Robert Davis, Bethel Church, Hampton, and James T. Morris for itinerant work, and Edward Williams of the M. E. Church for local membership. Into the relation of full membership Shadrach Jones, John B. Lewis, Cato L. Daly and Robert Armstead.
Ordination--Itinerant Deacons, George W. Pinkard, J. E. W. Moore, Richard H. Govans and Shadrach Jones.
The Bishop asked if these brethren used tobacco. P. E. J. H. Offer answered that Brother Jones did use the weed. Local Deacons, Thaddeus Peeden, Robert Crusoe and Michael Brown. Ordination--Itinerent Elders William B. Derrick, Thomas M. Cole and Robert Armstead.
Rev. J. H. Offer preached the annual sermon; text Ezekiel 10: 14. It was listened to with marked attention.
On motion of Rev. J. Strange the following Committee on Circuits and Stations was appointed: Revs. J. H. A. Johnson, Matthew Marshall and George Williams. Here we note the first committee of the kind since the organization of the Conference.
The fathers put great stress upon the temperance question, and did all in their power to check the great evil of intemperance,
as the following discussion apropos the temperance report will attest. The report had been read, and very reluctantly was the motion for its reception carried. Bishop Wayman said the reason for this was because the report included tobacco, and therefore was hard for the brethren to swallow. Rev. J. Strange moved for its adoption. Rev W. B. Derrick was given the floor, and made an able argument in favor of the report, as also did Rev. J. Strange. The report was not wholly concurred in by Rev. J. D. S. Hall. In course of his remarks he asked if any one was ever disfigured by the use of tobacco. He asked the Rev. Derrick to show a plant that had a poisonous quality. "Why," he said, "the brother himself has enough poison in him to kill ten men; there is poison in every breath he draws." Rev. Hall thought that too much was being said about tobacco, and that it tended to make men hypocrites. Rev. John H. Offer said that he felt that the use of tobacco was an evil, and but a stepping-stone to the whisky shop. Rev. Hall rose to a question of privilege, and asked if Brother Offer regarded his statement as true in all cases. The answer was in the negative. Rev. Offer then spoke earnestly in defense of the report and in denunciation of tobacco. The discussion was continued at some length by Rev. J. Strange and Matthew Marshall. At the conclusion of the debate the report was adopted on a vote of 13 to 4.
The report on Circuits and Stations showed Eastville Circuit to be forty miles long from end to end, comprising seven churches. It was divided into two circuits and called Eastville Circuit, embracing Eastville, Capeville and Bridge town, and Pungoteague Circuit, embracing Pungoteague, Franktown, Belle Haven and Occohonic Neck. This arrangement showed the wisdom of the fathers, and rapid development followed. Rocky Mount Circuit was found to be fifteen miles long, and was treated in a similar manner.
Instead of paying the Bishops out of a general treasury
as we do now, they were paid by the districts which he served, and each Conference was assessed to make up the amount of salary. This money was designated "The Bishops' Money." The Conference at this time was assessed $385.00. The Rev. W. D. W. Schureman, chairman of committee on said assessment, reported $265.75 raised, with a balance of $119.25 due. This was in the days of organization in Virginia, and the small amount then paid our general superintendents gave satisfaction.
At this point Bishop Wayman, having reviewed the mission field, said: "There was a necessity of having several young brethren ordained as deacons for the missionary work." Still he enjoined the strictest caution on the members of the Conference in proceeding with the matter. He designated Lemuel W. Lee, John Riddick, J. T. Morris and Robert Davis. Revs. J. D. S. Hall and J. W. Diggs spoke against the ordination of L. W. Lee; Rev. W. D. W. Schureman took issue with Rev. Hall, and a heated colloquy followed between Schureman and Hall, joined in by Revs. J. H. A. Johnson and George T. Watkins. The Conference refused to admit Brother Lee on grounds of illegality. Yet the Bishop's decision was that it would be legal to ordain these brethren for the missionary field as soon as they were admitted on trial. The Bishop called the attention of the Conference to the petition and requested Rev. George T. Watkins to make a statement concerning the matter. This was done, and the members signed the petition and Brother Lee was passed for ordination. This gives us an idea of the carefulness which these early fathers exercised in advancing preachers, and the observance of the Apostle's advice in laying hands on no man hastily.
The Bishop called the attention of the Conference to the publishing of the minutes, and thought it not necessary to publish the previous year or years' minutes since the time had passed. Rev. W. D. W. Schureman was interrogated as to the failure to publish previous minutes. A warm discussion ensued, participated in by Revs. Schureman, Watkins, Derrick
and J. H. A. Johnson concerning the number to be printed. However, 1000 copies were agreed upon.
The Book Steward reported $37.78 in hand for publication of the last year's minutes. But the work was not done, because many of the papers were scattered, and all proceedings of the Conference were not in the journal.
The treasurer, Rev. Schureman, reported that on June 10, '69, he deposited in the Freedmen's Saving Bank, Norfolk, $16.85 for said society, as ordered by the last Annual Conference.
Here we have the first mention of a preachers' aid society, which has developed step by step into our present Connectional Preachers' Aid with its many advantages.
The ordination of elders did not take place at the seat of Conference, but in Norfolk. Bishop A. W. Wayman preached, the ordination sermon from the text, Acts 20: 32, "And now, brethren, I commend you to God and the word of his grace which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified." Revs. William B. Derrick, Robert Armstead and Thomas M. Cole were ordained.
From the very beginning the Conference imbibed a missionary spirit which has continued with increased energy and interest up to the present, as shown by the following resolutions, presented by Rev. W. B. Derrick:
Whereas, There has been a missionary fund created in the South Carolina Conference for the purpose of raising a certain amount of money whereby a missionary might be sent to Africa to plant the banner of Christ, also that of the African Methodist Episcopal Church;
Be it resolved, That we, the members of the Virginia Annual Conference, do hereby endorse the movement of said Conference;
Resolved further, That we shall use all means that lay in our power to aid on the well-begun work by raising in our respective churches the sum of five dollars ($5.00) to aid the progress of the Word to the land of our forefathers. The resolutions passed after some discussion.
Revs. J. N. Duvant of the Episcopal Church, and J. M. Nickerson of M. E. Church were introduced to the Conference.
An assessment of four hundred and forty-four dollars ($444) was levied on the Conference for the support of the Bishop.
The Finance Committee reported for contingent purposes
$137.50 | |
Number of full members | 4589 |
Number of probationers | 377 |
Value of church property | $48,420 |
The Fifth Annual Session of the Virginia Conference was held in the city of Staunton, April 12, 1871, with Bishop A. W. Wayman presiding.
The Assistant Secretary of previous Conference, W. B Derrick, called the roll and Rev. W. D. W. Schureman was elected secretary and W. B. Derrick assistant secretary.
(1) Rev. Elisha Webb of M. E. Church, South, ordained elder by Bishop Pierce. (2) George D. Jimmerson.
Lemuel W. Lee, John H. Riddick, Robert Davis and J. H. Morris.
Richard J. Gassoway.
Elder--Local, Edward W. Williams, St. John's Chapel.
The annual sermon was delivered by Rev. W. D. W. Schureman. Rev 4:7.
The Rev. C. L. Daly was superannuated by the Conference on motion of Rev. W. D. W. Schureman, and an annuity of $100 was granted him to be paid through the Book Steward. Brother Daly stands as the first minister to be granted this relation in the Virginia Conference.
In response to the question, Who has withdrawn from the connection this year? the name of J. D. S. Hall was given.
One death was reported--Deacon Elias Hill of the Smithfield Circuit.
Rev. Schureman reported $195.95 collected on the Bishop's support and that there was a balance due of $99.55. The report elicited much discussion and resulted in the presentation of resolutions by Rev. Derrick urging the delinquent pastors to settle in full.
The Finance Committee reported (contingent) | $114 40 |
Number of full members | 4793 |
Probationers | 359 |
Churches | 54 |
Value of church property | 714 50 |
Rev. Jonathan B. Hamilton to Virginia Conference from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Isaac J. Hill was transferred to the New York Conference.
Third Street A. M. E. Church, Richmond, was the seat of the Sixth Annual Session of the Virginia Conference. It convened March 27, 1872, with Bishop Wayman presiding officer.
After the devotional exercises Rev. W. B. Derrick was elected secretary and Rev. A. Pindle assistant.
Among the visitors at the opening of this Conference we note the following: Rev. H. J. Young of Kentucky Conference; Rev. Wells, Rev. Garlin of M. E. Church South; Rev. Troy, Second Baptist Church; Rev. A. Binga, First Baptist Church, Manchester; Mr. W. P. Powell, New York; Rev. Warner of M. E. Church and Rev. Mannly of the City High School, who invited the Conference to pay a visit to his school which was accepted for March 28, 12:30 P. M.
I Whereas, The Rev. H. J. Young, Endowment Agent of Wilberforce University is among us and his presence is hailed with pleasure, and Whereas, knowing his mission is one of vital importance,
Be it Resolved, That he shall receive all help that can be rendered by us in aiding so laudable a cause.
W. B. DERRICK.
II Whereas, Rev. B. T. Tanner, editor of The Christian Recorder is among us and his coming is received with profound delight, and
Whereas, knowing that the Book Concern is in a crippled condition by reason of past difficulties, therefore,
Be it Resolved, That we, the members of the Virginia Conference, will contribute the sum of two ($2.00) each, that our church organ may be kept going.
The resolution prevailed and the sum of $29.25 was immediately put upon the table for said purpose. This is but an evidence
of the fact that the Virginia Conference has always stood ready to aid the departments of our church whenever an appeal was made.
At 3 P. M. opening day, the annual sermon was preached by Rev. J. B. Hamilton; Text, Acts 16; 17; "The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the Most High God which show unto us the way of salvation." Theme: Ministers of Christ and their work." So excellent was this sermon, the speaker was requested to furnish the publishing committee with a copy.
Felix Brown, Charles H. Hunter, Robert Trust, J. S. Henderson, Benjamin L. Holloway, Robinson Crusoe. Rev. Wm. Claxton presented his parchment from the M. E. Church. After lengthy discussion he was admitted.
Richard Forrester of Richmond was admitted as a local member.
Robert Davis, Lemuel W. Lee, J. T. Morris, James H. Scott.
George D. Jimmerson, Wm. Williamson.
Rev. Philip M. Only, Jacob E. W. Moore, Shadrach Jones, John B. Lewis, Richard H. Govans.
Rev. W. D. Schureman, Rev. J. B. Hamilton, Rev. J. F. Lane, Rev. W. B. Derrick, Rev. J. H. Offer.
On motion of Rev. J. T. Morris, Rev. J. F. Lane was requested to read the decision of the judges in the case which gave the church in the city of Portsmouth to the members of the African M. E. Church.
The name of John H. Riddick was dropped, since he had joined another church.
There was one death during the year, Rev. Cato L. Daly.
The statistical table, financial items and list of appointments were left out of the journal for this year.
April 9, 1873, the Sixth Annual Session of the Virginia Conference convened at Emanuel A. M. E. Church, Portsmouth. The devotional exercises were conducted by Bishop Wayman, then the roll was called, after which Bishop Wayman introduced Rt. Rev. J. P. Campell, D. D., LL. D., as the presiding Bishop of the Virginia Conference. Bishop Campbell took the chair and addressed the Conference with reference to the history of the church, her administration and great mission in the world; and said his only object is to build the church and lift up fallen humanity.
The annual sermon was preached by J. F. Lane; text, Matt. 6:10--"Thy Kingdom Come." A vote of thanks was tendered the preacher and he was requested to give a copy of his manuscript for publication.
The missionary sermon was delivered by Rev. W. B. Derrick.
Public collection | $15.00 |
From Society | 45.00 |
Total | $60.00 |
This is the first account of a missionary sermon since the organization of the Conference.
Under disciplinary question 6th, Bro. Robert Trust was discontinued.
Charles H. Hunter, Phelix Brown, Benjamin L. Holloway, George D. Jimmerson, J. K. Plato and R. Henderson.
Phelix Brown, C. H. Hunter, Benjamin L. Holloway.
The death of the Rt. Rev. Wm. Paul Quinn was reported and the Conference convened on the third day at 3 P. M. and held funeral services in memory of the deceased prelate, which was participated in by three other Bishops, J. P. Campbell, A. W. Wayman and James A. Shorter. Bishop Campbell
lined hymn 441, Bishop Shorter led in prayer; Bishop Wayman read the scripture lesson; the choir sang. Bishop Campbell preached the funeral sermon; text, II Timothy 4:6--8
Brothers Jeremiah Cuffey, Americus Singleton, John W. Ruff, J. H. Cary, James H. Haynes, Benjamin F. Holloway, Green Berry Smith, Isaac J. Pindle, William Claxton, James Cooke, Charles Brown.
This session was held in Danville Va., April 10, 1874, with Rt. Rev. J. P. Campbell, D. D., LL. D., presiding. The Bishop lined hymn 296, "Let us use the Grace Divine;" The secretaries chosen were Revs. W. B. Derrick and John F Lane.
The following brethren transferred from the North Carolina Conference were introduced: Revs. Thomas Bems, S. B. Clark, J. E. Cooke, Charles Steward and----Smith.
James W. Fuller, James H. Scott, Warwick Rhue, Andy F. Simms and Wm. H. Wingford.
George Rose and Aaron Nowill.
Robinson Crusoe, James H. Haynes, Benjamin L. Holloway and G. B. Smith.
Revs. Americus Singleton, John W. Ruff, Jeremiah Cuffey and J. S. Henderson.
Revs. Robert Davis, George W. Pinkard and James H. Haynes.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. W. D. W. Schureman. He was tendered a vote of thanks and requested to furnish a copy of his sermon for publication.
Bishop Campbell here had occasion to speak of the danger of building churches on ground not properly deeded to the A. M. E. Church as per discipline. He instructed and urged the pastors never to build on such faulty foundations.
The missionary sermon was preached by Rev. John W. Diggs. Text Matt. 10: 6-7. The collection was $111.36.
Bishop T. M. D. Ward was introduced to the Conference. The brethren arose and received the distinguished visitor who made some helpful remarks to the Conference. Rev. Derrick
responded in well chosen words. At this juncture the presiding Bishop addressed the Conference on the office and function of Presiding Elder. A motion to create the office of Presiding Elder per discipline was lost. These fathers felt that they were not yet able to carry this independent burden. Dropped James Cooke and S. B. Clark.
The Rev. G. B. Smith at his own request was granted permission to locate for the purpose of going to school.
Statistics, finance collected and appointments were omitted from the record.
On motion of Rev. Matthew Marshall, Bishop Campbell, D. D., LL. D., appointed a committee consisting of Revs. Matthew Marshall, Geo. D. Jimmerson, J. Strange, J. E. W. Moore and J. H. Cary to present a plan by which a Conference High School might be founded somewhere within the bounds of the Virginia Conference. Thus we see that the fires of education had begun in earnest to burn in the breasts of the fathers, although many of them did not expect to obtain much by it because of their advanced age, but desired that the young men and women of the church might be benefitted.
Richmond was the seat of the Ninth Session of the Annual Conference, held April 1, 1875. Religious exercises were conducted by Bishop Campbell, D. D., LL., D. Revs. W. B. Derrick, A. Pindle and W. D. W. Schureman were elected secretaries.
It was announced that Rev. Thomas Hurley had been transferred from the Ohio Conference and Rev. Wilson Beard from the Illinois Conference.
At 7:30 P. M. the Rev. John E. Cooke preached what is commonly known among Methodist ministerial bodies as the annual sermon. The text, Heb. 12:28.
Bros. A. J. Williams, William H. Gray and Joseph C. Mackey.
These brethren were required to preach a trial sermon before the Conference, prior to their admission. This plan might be well followed today in many cases.
Bros. Jeremiah Cuffey and J. H. Carey.
Chelsa Dimmington and Wilson Beard.
Charles H. Hunter.
One death was reported, Rev. Benjamin L. Holloway.
For the first time in the history of the Conference a report on the state of the church was read. Rev. Robinson Crusoe was located; Bro. Felix Brown expelled; and Revs. A. Singleton and C. Steward were dropped. "Rev. S. B. Clark deserted his work," said the Bishop, and by a prevailing vote was left without an appointment.
The seat of the Electoral College was fixed at Farmville, second Wednesday, September, 1875.
No. of members | 6167 |
No. of Probationers | 417 |
No. of Churches | 58 |
No. of Value of churches | $115,505 |
No. of S. S. scholars | 3963 |
Rev. G. D. Jimmerson was transferred to the North Carolina Conference.
This session met in Emanuel A. M. E. Church, Portsmouth, Va., at 10 A. M. March 29, 1976, Bishop Jabez P. Campbell, D. D., LL., D., presiding, who conducted the opening exercises.
Revs. W. B. Derrick and A. Pindle were elected secretaries.
Rev. Benjamin F. Lloyd was transferred from the Baltimore Conference.
The annual sermon was delivered by Rev. Richard Parker: Text Acts 16:19. A vote of thanks was tendered him for it.
The following questions were proposed by Rev. W. B. Derrick: 1st. Are persons who absent themselves from communion for six months and are living at a distance to be considered members? 2nd. What class of people are to be withdrawn without certificate? Bishop Campbell replied.
Ans. I. There are but three ways by which members can be considered no longer members of any individual church. (1) by death; (2) by expulsion; (3) removal by certificate."
Ans. II. "Persons that remove all their goods and effects with the intention of not returning.
A member of the Conference asked, "What money is to be considered Church Extension Money?" The Bishop replied, "All money raised for purchasing land and the erection of new churches."
Rev. G. B. Smith, having returned from school, asked permission to enter the itinerant work again. On motion it was granted.
Revs. W. D. W. Schureman, W. B. Derrick and John Offer were appointed to attend the unveiling of a monument to the memory of Richard Allen.
W. B. Derrick, W. D. W. Schureman, Jacklin Strange, Aaron Pindle and John H. Offer.
Richard G. Forrester and Jeffrey T. Wilson.
Isaac Ewer, C. Clark and J. W. Montgomery.
Bros. A. J. Williams and Joseph C. Mackey. Elders, James H. Henderson, Thomas H. Hurley, Greenberry Smith and Benj. F Lloyd. Bro. Thaddeus Peeden was ordained local elder for Hampton Church.
1st. That any member has the right to an appeal to the ensuing quarterly Conference. 2nd. The appeal must be presented when the question is asked, Are there any appeals? If not presented at this time it is with the pastor whether it be admitted. 3rd. Only unfinished business can be brought before an adjourned quarterly Conference.
The journal of this Conference closes without financial report, statistical table or list of appointments.
Almost a century ago--September 15, 1816--at Norfolk Va. the subject of this sketch was born. He was converted April 27, 1837, 5:30 A. M. Entered the ministry in 1864, and was ordained by Bishop D. A. Payne. He joined the Virginia Conference at its organization in 1867.
The following charges have been under his pastoral care: Farmville, Modestown, Princess Anne Circuit, Norfolk Circuit, Smithfield, Mt. Moriah, Savageville, Drummondtown, Capeville, Union Bethel, Deep Creek, Bridgetown.
Father Sheppard built the first church at Hampton, Farmville, Prospect, St. James, Berkley, and Southampton. Churches were rebuilt and completed by him at Sewall's Point, Oak Grove, New Mill's Creek, Union Bethel and Bridgetown.
Seven hundred and twenty-five (725) have been led from darkness into spiritual light and life through his efforts. He has had three hundred and seventy-five (375) persons to unite with the church.
His educational advantages were obtained from the federal public schools and private institutions.
This gospel veteran joined the Cumberland Street M. E. Church 7:30 P. M. on the day of his conversion. In 1844 a division of the Methodists left him in the M. E. Church South, where he remained until 1863, going then with the colored membership in the A. M. E. Church. He helped to lay the foundation of the first African Methodist Church in the Old Dominion, known as St. John's Chapel, literally laying the first brick. He raised the largest amount of the $7700.75 required to erect the church.
He passed away May 30, 1907, in Norfolk, Va., and was buried in the Cumberland Street Cemetery.
The subject of this sketch was born in Frederick County, Virginia, May 29, 1836. He was converted in 1851. He entered the ministry in the Baltimore Conference in 1867. He was ordained by Bishop A. W. Wayman; he was transferred to the Virginia Conference in 1867 at its organization.
He has served the following charges with marked success: Staunton three years and built a church; Third Street, Richmond two years; Wytheville two years and completed a church; Danville three years and built a parsonage and completed a church; Presiding Elder over the then Lynchburg District four years. He then transferred to the Baltimore Conference and stayed one year, then came back to Virginia to Winchester; laid the foundation for a new church, Staunton, and built a parsonage; Presiding Elder of the Portsmouth District four years; Norfolk District four years; Danville District four years; Wytheville one year; Roanoke two years; Drummondtown one year; Richmond two years; Smithfield three years-He has had many conversions and accessions to the church.
* This sketch was written by his daughter, Mrs. Ann E. Martin.
In Anne Arundel County, Md., February, 1825, the above named saw the light of day.
At the age of sixteen he was converted and joined the church at West River, Md. He was married in the city of Baltimore, March 22, 1853, to Miss Martha Parker. Licensed to exhort in Bethel Church 1856; to preach in 1859: joined the itineracy in 1866 and connected with the Virginia Conference 1867, at its organization. His first appointment was to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. He was ordained deacon and afterwards elder by Bishops A. W. Wayman, D. D., and D. A. Payne, D. D., LL. D., respectively.
The following charges have been served by Rev. Offer: Wytheville, Portsmouth, Franktown, Smithfield Circuit,
Chuckatuck Circuit, Bridgetown, Eastville, Onancock, Drummond. He served Wytheville District as Presiding Elder. He was superannuated in 1899, and passed into his rest in 1902.
During his long and useful ministry eight (8) churches and one (1) parsonage built and (3) three churches were remodeled under his supervision. Hundreds of conversions and accessions to the church crowned the results of his labors.
Rev. Offer organized churches at Onancock, Savageville, Bridgetown, Wytheville, Eastville, Franktown, Capeville, Drummond, Pungoteague, and Jamesville.
was born in Frederick County, Md. Aug. 11, 1832. He joined the Virginia Conference May 10, 1867 at Richmond, and served in it fifteen years. He organized the following churches: Salem, Va., Max Meadow, Cave Spring, Rocky Mount, Danville, Lynchburg, Marian, Taylorsville, Trinity, Berkley, and served at Wytheville, Suffolk, Onancock. Built Diggs Chapel. He underwent many hardships: he transfered to the Baltimore Conference in 1882 and is now a superannuate in that Conference.
* This sketch was written by his daughter, Miss Mary E. Williams.
was born during the days of slavery at Boydton, Va., April 12, 1835. He was born of strictly Methodist parents, who used to carry him when a child to the class-meetings where he received his first religious impressions. He was converted in 1852, and entered the ministry in 1874. He was ordained Deacon and Elder by Bishop A. W. Wayman.
Uniting with the Virginia Conference in 1867, he was
one of its pioneers. He served the following charges with great acceptability: Winchester, Salem, Wytheville, Berryville, Staunton, Danville, Smithfield, Roanoke, Greenville, Pleasant. Grove, Farmville, Prospect, Campbells, Deep Creek, Suffolk, St. James, Berkley, Carrollton, and Accomac Station, from which place he was called from labor to reward.
* This sketch was written by his son Mr. Armstead.
was born in Winchester, Va. July 6th, 1832. He was converted in 1850, and entered the ministry in 1869, and ordained by Bishop Wayman. He served the following charges with success: Winchester three years, Summit Point four years, Suffolk three years, Princess Anne three years, Prospect two years, Greenville five years, Boon's Mill two years, Cave Spring four years, Rocky Mount four years, Harmony one year, Summit Point three years, Bedford nine months. He died January 14, 1904.
* This sketch was written by his wife, Mrs. Mary Moore.
The subject of this sketch was born in Baltimore, January 26, 1847. He was converted at the age of fifteen years. He entered the schools of Baltimore City when quite young, and obtained a liberal education. He then studied theology under Rev. Dr. Geo. T. Watkins. He joined the Virginia Conference in 1869, and was ordained elder by Bishop Wayman in 1869.
He taught public school in many of his charges in Va. He also took a course of study in the Pennsylvania Sunday School Institute of Norristown, Pa. from which he graduated
He served the following charges in Virginia: Cave Spring three years, Winchester one year, Greenville three years, Farmville three years, Portsmouth four years, and remodeled the church, Eastville two years, and built parsonage, Presiding Elder Norfolk District four years, Portsmouth District three years, back to Portsmouth as pastor one year. He then transferred to the Philadelphia Conference, where he served faithfully to the end. He died in Philadelphia October 3, 1905.
The subject of this sketch was born in Smithfield, Va. in 1845. He was converted when quite a boy. He entered the ministry and joined the Virginia Conference in 1869. He was ordained deacon in 1870 by Bishop Wayman and elder in 1874 by Bishop J. P. Campbell.
He has served the following charges: Richmond Mission four months, Mint Springs, Augusta County, eight months; bought a lot for a church and paid for it: Onancock Circuit, three years, bought a lot for a church at Drummondtown and lumber to build the church: paid off the debt at Savageville, Franktown circuit two years, P. E. of Staunton District and pastor of Staunton two years paid off a long standing debt; Duffield Circuit one year, improved the charge and taught public school, Eastville Station four years, built a church at Eastville, increased the membership and also built up Capeville, which was attached; Hampton Station one year and paid debts; Onancock Station three years, and paid off all debts; Salem Station two years, Winchester Station two years and four months, finished church which had been in course of erection for eighteen or nineteen years, P. E. of Danville District three years nearly; work built up all over the district, during which time he was caught in a railroad wreck on the N. and W. R. R.; Bridgetown Circuit four months, Eastville Station one and a half years, Drummondtown Station two
years and built up the work: P. E. of the Portsmouth District three years, Farmville two years, St. James, Berkley, one year, curtailed debts; Princess Anne circuit four years, built up the charge spiritually, renovated and repaired the churches, parsonage, and premises; Suffolk, his present charge, two years, where he has greatly curtailed the indebtedness.
He has had many conversions during his ministry and added many to the church. Indeed he is one of Virginia's "Pioneer Heroes," who knows no failure.
The subject of this sketch was born near Salem, Roanoke County, Va., October 4, 1849, of a slave mother. He belonged to the estate of a Mr. Frantz. At the close of the Civil War his mother was without home and money, but his ex-master gave them the privilege of staying on his place and working the crop, agreeing to give them a part of it at harvest time. They did so; he also advised young Jimmerson to get an education, for he would need it in life; and that he would give him a chance to work mornings and afternoons for his board. This he (Jimmerson) accepted. He attended public school in the fall of 1865, taught by Mr. Crenshaw, (white), who was succeeded by Rev. Jno. W. Diggs, who was sent to Salem as pastor by the Baltimore Conference. He then went to the Richmond Colored Institute and remained until March, 1871.
He was converted in March, 1869, and licensed to preach in September, 1869, under Rev. J. W. Diggs. He joined the Virginia Conference April 12, 1871, under Bishop A. W. Wayman, and was assigned to Prospect, Va., during which pastorate a great many people were added to the church. He married on July 4, 1871. He afterwards served the following charges with marked success: Franklin County, 13 miles from any railroad or Post Office; they worshipped in a log cabin; a great many souls were converted and added to the church; he also taught school here. He was ordained
elder in 1873, by Bishop J. P. Campbell at Portsmouth and then sent to Berryville; here he completed the church and taught school, served two years. In 1875, he was transferred to the North Carolina Conference by Bishop Campbell and stationed at Mt. Zion Church, Wilmington, two years: Presiding Elder of the Raleigh District two years; he was then transferred to the California Conference and stationed at San Francisco and served until August, 1880, which time at his own request he was transferred back to North Carolina and stationed at New Berne one year; here he suffered with a severe spell of sickness; next St. Paul's Church, Raleigh, two years; Presiding Elder of the Morgantown District two years. He was then transferred back to the Virginia Conference in 1885, and placed at Danville, Va., at the request of that church, by Bishop H. M. Turner. He found this people heavily burdened with debt; he succeeded in curtailing the debt; 150 souls converted and over one hundred added to the church; among these was the Rev. Geo. W. Adams, A. B. of Kittrell College; he remained here three years, Richmond three years; he reduced a long standing debt of about two thousand dollars to less than four hundred dollars in three years; there was a great revival in the city and many souls were converted, from which 150 persons joined the church; among this number was the Rev. W. W. Browne, founder of the True Reformers, who proved to be a great help in managing the debt of the church. He was next sent to Hampton, but because of the bitterness and unpleasantness between the members, he asked the Bishop to remove him, which he did after three months; he was then made Presiding Elder of the Portsmouth District where he served three years and nine months with great acceptability; to Smithfield station three years; here he found a small but a very loyal membership; he remodeled the church, and entertained the Annual Conference. He was next sent to Eastville, Va., where he remained five years. Here he found the people wanting and needing a new church; he set to work collecting money for it; and at the end of the fourth year he
had collected and banked three thousand dollars; and at the end of the fifth year he had completed the building at a cost of ten thousand dollars, one of the best and finest country churches in the connection. He is now stationed at Portsmouth, Va., serving his fourth year and having fair success. He has served four sessions in the General Conference: Indianapolis in 1888; Philadelphia, 1892; Wilmington, N. C. 1896; Chicago, 1904; he has been a member of the Missionary Board fifteen years. He is a born leader of men; he is indeed the leader of the Virginia Annual Conference.
Rev. C. H. Hunter was born in Montgomery County, Va., June 4, 1843, of slave parents. He was converted in 1859, and joined the M. E. Church. In 1864, he joined the A. M. E. Church under Rev William Waine. He was licensed to exhort by Rev. W. B. Derrick, (now Bishop) August 11, 1868. He joined the Virginia Conference in Richmond in 1872, under Bishop A. W. Wayman, D. D.; was ordained deacon in Portsmouth, Va., 1873, and elder in Richmond, Va. 1875, both by Bishop Campbell.
He has brought a large number of persons into the church. He has pastored the following charges; Brown Hill, Maxmeadow; Cave Spring; Harmony; Deep Creek; Hickory; Newsome; Manchester; Prospect; Lynchburg; Newport News; Rocky Mount; Oceana; Mt. Moriah; Tanners Creek; Roanoke City; Oak Grove; and Holly Groove; he built the first church at Maxmeadow; remodeled church at Harmony; built church at Allen's Chapel, N. C.; organized the church at Roanoke City, and built up the work at Newport News; remodeled Hickory Grove and Mt. Moriah churches. He has married 222 couples.
Rev. Hunter is one of the old men of the Virginia Conference, and yet just as supple and jolly as most of the younger
men; and he thinks when the Bishop makes an appointment the preacher should go to it. He has served in the Virginia Conference thirty-four years up to this writing. He is now serving at Indika Circuit.
Rev. Cuffey was born in Norfolk County, Va., January 31st., 1845. He was converted April 12, 1863, and entered the ministry April 9, 1873. He was ordained deacon by Bishop J. P. Campbell in 1874, and elder by Bishop Jno. M. Brown in 1878. He has been a member of the Virginia Conference thirty-three years and served the following charges: Summit Point two years; Blacksburg two years; Martinsville two years; Newsomes four years; Capeville Mission two years; Princess Anne Circuit three years; Chatham one year; Salem and Roanoke three years; Presiding Elder of Richmond District two years; Eastville Station two years; Wytheville one year; Suffolk one year; Onancock one year; Union Bethel Circuit two years; Deep Creek one year; Franktown. He has built one church at Matamorse, one at Martinsville, St. Matthews; Mt. Zion and St. Marks in Princess Anne County; one brick church at Roanoke, one brick church at Trinity, Berkley; repaired old Union Church at Blacksburg, Mt. Gilead on Newsomes, Capeville, St. John's, Princess Anne County, and Bethel at Salem; parsonages built: one at Capeville; repaired one at Chatham, one at Eastville; at Union Bethel; at Deep Creek, bought a lot at Blacksburg, Martinsville, Zion Hill, Roanoke City and Bedford City. He has had 968 conversions and 1018 accessions.
The subject of this sketch was born in Raleigh, N. C. July 16, 1836. He was converted in 1858 and licensed to preach by Rev. G. W. Broadie, D. D. He was admitted into
the Conference at Wilmington, N. C. in 1866, and ordained deacon 1867 by Bishop A. W. Wayman, and elder in 1868 by the same Bishop. This was at the first session of the North Carolina Conference. He was sent to Yancyville, Casville County, N. C. at which time he organized the church at Danville, Va. Afterwards the General Conference fixed the boundary of the Conference, thereby ceding Danville to the Virginia Conference. He was transferred to the Virginia Conference with Danville; here he bought a lot on Loyal Street and built a church at a cost of five thousand dollars, of which amount he paid all but $114.00 with a membership of 180 persons. He was next appointed to Hampton; here he added to the church 20 souls and left the church without debt: St. John's Church, Norfolk three years; he curtailed the debt from $12,000.00 to $4,000.00; added to the church 200 souls. Lynchburg two years, paid an indebtedness of $180.00; Staunton three years, reduced the indebtedness and added 26 to the church. Trinity, Berkley, four years; added 35 to the church and left $150.00 in the treasury for a new church. Salem one year, added to the church 17, Lynchburg again two years, paid the indebtedness and redeemed the property to the connection. Eastville, three years, conversions 205, added to church 150. Presiding Elder of Richmond District, which he served at different times eight years, during which time he secured the deed to the Farmville Church, which gave to the connection property worth $4,000. Smithfield, remodeled the church and added 15 souls. Savageville three years, remodeled church and added 40 souls; he is at present at Daugherty, and having remarkable success. He has served as delegate to the following General Conferences: Nashville, Tenn., 1872; St. Louis, 1880; Columbus, 1900.
was born in Suffolk, Va., December 4, 1831. He was converted December 4, 1864, and entered the ministry in 1867,
in the Virginia Conference. He was ordained deacon by Bishop Brown in 1879, and elder in 1882, by Bishop Turner. He has served the following charges: Chatham four years; Rocky Mount four years. He was appointed three times to Chatham and two times to Rocky Mount. He has built three parsonages and remodeled four. He is now a superannuate in the Virginia Conference and lives in Suffolk, Va. Number conversions during his ministry 850; accessions to the church, 893.
The subject of this sketch was born in Princess Anne County, Va., April 12, 1849. He was converted in 1866, and entered the ministry in 1872. He was ordained deacon by Bishop J. P. Campbell, and elder by Bishop Jno. M. Brown. He joined the Virginia Conference in 1875, and served the following charges: Mt. Moriah three years; Hampton one year; Martinsville two years; Manchester three years; Deep Creek two years; Suffolk two years; Farmville one year; Smithville one year; Chatham one year; Trinity, Berkley one year; Smithfield two years; Berkley Circuit, St. James one year; Wytheville one year; Salem Station two years; Martinsville one year; Drummondtown one year; Savageville two years; Mt. Moriah three and one half years; and Princess Anne Circuit one and one half years, his present charge. Work done at the various charges as follows: at Mt. Moriah purchased two acres of land and built church; built church at Manchester; remodeled New Mill Creek Church; built church at Diggs Chapel; renovated church at Suffolk, paid off indebtedness and entertained the Annual Conference; organized Taylor's Mission at Farmville; organized Drakes Branch Mission at Smithville Circuit; moved Bethel Church on St. James Circuit, Berkley; curtailed indebtedness at Wytheville; bought a parsonage site at Salem; repaired church at Mountain Top at Martinsville; renovated parsonage at Savageville;
renovated and beautified the church at Hampton and organized a Mission at Butler's Farm, and made repairs around the parsonage at Princess Anne Circuit, his present charge. Conversions during ministry over one thousand, and added to the church over six hundred. His school advantages were limited; he attended public school awhile and had private teachers.
The subject of this sketch was born of slave parents in Gates County, N. C. about 1855. His mother died when he was quite young. He was converted in 1864 at the age of nine years. During his early boyhood days his father moved to Suffolk, Va., thence to Portsmouth, Va., and then to Princess Anne County, Va., where little Isaac was converted and joined St. John's Church in that County. Those days were spent on the well known place the "Wise Farm." He attended public school five years, and the Hampton Institute three years. He entered the ministry, and the Virginia Conference in 1876; and was ordained deacon in 1885, and elder in 1888 by Bishop H. M. Turner. He has pastored the following charges very acceptably: Penn Mission three years; Cave Spring two years; Capeville one year; Red Bluff three years; Rocky Mount one year; Union Bethel three years; Suffolk two years; Winchester three years; Staunton two years; Deep Creek five years; Savageville one year. He has built new churches at the following places: Mint Springs, Augusta County; Red Bluff, Wythe County; Union Bethel, Isle of Wight County; Deep Creek, Norfolk County; and remodeled New Mill Church, in Norfolk County. He is now serving his fourth year at Eastville, at which place he is having abundant success.
THE Virginia Annual Conference convened in its Eleventh Session at Wytheville, April 12, 1877. Bishop John M. Brown, D. D. was in the chair and conducted the religious services. Rev. Derrick presented Bishop Brown to the Conference as the successor of Bishop Campbell. Revs. W. B. Derrick, A. Pindle and W, D. W. Schureman were elected secretaries.
Bros. Israel L. Butt, John C. Williams, R. M. Cheeks, William Williamson, J. H. Accoe, Thaddeus Peeden, and Charles Acworth.
Bro. Daniel Mayo was received as a local member.
Bros. Abram J. Williams and Joseph C. Mackey.
Isaac Ewer, R. M. Cheeks and J. W. Montgomery.
A motion prevailed that Bros. Charles Acworth and J. H. Accoe be ordained deacons during the interval of Conference by the Bishop.
Revs. Warwick Rheu and Lemuel W. Lee were expelled.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. Aaron Pindle. Text, Psalms, 126:6.
The report on Education was adopted after much discussion. Bishop Brown urged the necessity of procuring a piece of land for a school. The Randolph Macon College property owned by white people was offered to the Conference for the sum of five thousand dollars. It was accepted and a committee appointed to effect plans for the purchase. Committee: Revs. J. B. Lewis, Jno. E. Cooke and Shadrach Jones. Ten dollars was raised. Trustees appointed with Mr. P. H. Woodfolk of Richmond as treasurer.
The Conference sent a telegram of greeting to Rev. C. W. Mossell who was about to sail to Hayti as missionary.
On motion of Rev. John B. Lewis the office of Presiding Elder per discipline was created, and the Conference divided into three districts. This is the first attempt of the P. E. system proper in Virginia.
Number of members | 4935 |
Number of probationers | 322 |
Dollar money | $526.60 |
Norfolk District, P. E., W. D. W. Schureman.
Richmond District, P. E., W. B. Derrick.
Lynchburg District, J. Strange, P. E.
Conference convened in Farmville, April 20, 1878, with Bishop J. P. Campbell, D.D., LL. D. of the Third Episcopal District in the chair, the presiding Bishop Rt. Rev. John M. Brown being absent on account of illness. He arrived on the third day.
Revs. W. B. Derrick, A. Pindle and W. D. W Shureman were elected chief, recording, and statistical secretaries respectively.
The following were introduced; Revs. George D. Jimmerson, North Carolina Conference, C. W. Bradwell, traveling agent Publication Department, Daniel Draper and W. H. Brown, transfers from Baltimore to Virginia Conference.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. Robert Davis. Text, Mark 7: 24.
Brethern Elias H. Bolden, Portsmouth, S. M. G. Copeland, Portsmouth, Job H. Brown, A. M. E. Zion Church, Payton M. Lewis, Junius C. Ayler, Suffolk Circuit, A. A. Bailey. John Booker Mitchell as local member, Lynchburg.
Brethren Israel L. Butt, Wm. H. Gray, Robert M. Cheeks, J. H. Accoe, John C. Williams, Charles Acworth.
Israel L. Butt, James H. Scott and Wm. H. Gray.
Bro. Jeremiah Cuffey, Joseph C. Mackey, John Wesley Ruff and Job H. Brown. Bro. J. H. Brown coming as an elder from the A. M. E. Z. connection, it was only necessary to take our ordination vows.
Rev. Lemuel W. Lee, who had withdrawn from the connection and influenced two churches to go with him, made an apology to the Conference which was accepted and he was received again into the church.
The grim reaper had not been idle, and three of the brethren had fallen victims to his scythe; Revs. Matthew Marshall, Abram J. Williams and David L. Owens.
Number of members | 6573 |
Number of probationers | 505 |
Dollar money | $632.03 |
Revs. Daniel Draper and Robt. M. Cheeks transferred to the Baltimore Conference.
Rev. C. E. Steward left without appointment.
The Conference held this session in Bethel A. M. E. Church, Hampton, April 17, 1879. Bishop John M. Brown presided. The Revs. Wm. H. Brown, Aaron Pindle and J. E. W. Moore were chosen as secretaries.
After the organization the following brethren were given subjects to preach upon:
Brethren Wm. H. Bryant, John H. Thomas, Robert T. Lewis, Edward Scarboro, Prof. J. A. McJohns from Moravian Church, Bro. J. W. Sisco from West India Island, Bro. M. C. Young, from the M. E. Church, Bro. Isaac Upshur, Bro. Simon P. Cornish.
Isaac Ewer and John C. Williams. Readmitted, G. W. Johnson from Philadelphia Conference.
Rev. H. M. Turner, D. D. Business Manager, A. M. E. Book Concern; Rev. Schully, M. E. Church South; Revs.--Thornton and Y. Jackson, Baptist Church; Gen. Samuel C. Armstrong, principal Hampton Normal School; Rev. Mr. Dennison, pastor of same school. Gen. Armstrong said he would like the members of the Conference to visit the school of which he was in charge, as there had been some misrepresentations made with reference to the discipline of the school. He said the object of the school was to build up colored young men and women and to teach them to take care of themselves. He also said that last May at the examination
some of the former slaveholders sat with colored men and women to dine.
Rev. Mr. Dennison in the course of his remarks said that the classics were not taught in the school and that there was no necessity for them. The General referred to the abuse in different newspapers directed at him. Dr. Turner said that he had made some remarks about the school in the papers, however he did not blame the General but the teachers; and since he heard the principal's statement this morning he had been led to change his opinion in reference towards his school. Dr. Turner added that he could not endorse the remarks regarding the knowledge of classics since he thought they were expedient.
Bishop Brown closed the talks by referring briefly to the origin and progress of the A. M. E. Church. He said Drs. H. M. Turner and Wm. H. Hunter were chaplains in the army. Our Church is progressing throughout the United States, growing in numbers and advancing educationally.
Ordination vows were administered to Revs. Moses C. Young and J. W. Scisco who came from a sister church.
P. M. Lewis, John H. Thomas, J. C. Ayler, under the missionary rule.
Rev. Isaac Ewer was discontinued. Rev. Aaron Pindle was expelled for immoral conduct. Rev. Charles Steward, an itinerant, and William Williams and Thomas Hewlett, local members, withdrew from the connection.
Rev. Wm. J. Fuller was located because of his unacceptability.
The deaths of Revs. Richard H. Parker and John W. Montgomery were reported.
A motion prevailed that the Bishop be requested to administer the ordination vows of the A. M. E. Church to Prof. J. A. McJohns when he shall have placed in the hands of the Bishop his ordination papers from the Moravian Church, British Indies, from which he came.
The Literary Society met, the Bishop presiding. Rev. E. H. Bolden read an essay on "Roman Catholicism."
Essay from Rev. Wm. J. Fuller on "Home and Foreign Missions."
The subject of the essay by Rev. Wm. H. Brown was "Faith and Hope."
Rev. W. B. Derrick asked the question, "Are all possible perfections in God an object of faith?" During the discussion the Bishop said that these subjects belonged to the school-room and should not be discussed in public.
The Conference met in St. John's Church, Norfolk, March 31, 1880. Bishop A. W. Wayman, D. D. Third Episcopal District, presided in the absence of Chairman Bishop John M. Brown, who was late in reaching the Conference.
Revs. W. H. Brown, Ed. Scarboro and J. E. W. Moore were elected secretaries.
Felix Wood, George W. Settles, Chas. N. Grandison, Garrett G. Vreeland, John R. West, D. J. Beckett, C. W. Wolford.
Wm. H. Bryant, E. H. Bolden, J. C. Ayler, S. M. G. Copeland.
Discontinued--Israel Upshure.
Withdrawn--Isaac Pindle and J. W. Sisco.
Deaths--William J. Fuller and Geo. W. Johnston.
E. H. Bolden, J. C. Ayler, S. M. G. Copeland, and Wm. H. Bryant, under missionary rule.
Rev. G. W. Dardis transferred from South Carolina Conference.
James H. Accoe and James H. Scott.
Revs. W. D. W. Schureman, J. E. W. Moore, W. H. Brown, J. E. Cooke. W. M. Forrister and W. H. Brown, laymen
No. of members. | 5919 |
No. of probationers | 446 |
Dollar money | $628 |
The Conference convened April 14, 1881, at Danville.
In the absence of Bishop Daniel A. Payne, D. D., LL., D. the chairman, Bishop A. W. Wayman of the Seventh Episcopal District presided at the opening of the Conference. Revs. E. H. Bolden, Ed. Scarboro and J. E. W. Moore were elected secretaries.
Rev. S. P. Cornick was admitted into full membership. Bro. Isaac Ewer was readmitted into traveling relation.
Shadrach Jones announced withdrawn. Rev. Geo. T. Watkins transferred from Baltimore Conference. Rev. James H. Turner transferred from New Jersey Conference.
Revs. J. A. M. Johns, E. H. Bolden, M. C. Young, S. M. G. Copeland, J. H. Thomas, I. L. Butt, J. C. Ayler, P. M. Lewis, James H. Turner, and Wm. H. Bryant.
Bishop Payne's instruction on the Lord's Supper. He urged the brethren of the Conference never to cut the sacramental bread for it was heathenish and contrary to the Word of God.
Rev. J. E. W. Moore offered a resolution which prevailed, that the Presiding Elder system be abolished in the Virginia Conference. As the law on this point existed at that time the Bishop and a majority of the Conference had the power to establish or abolish said system.
To change time of Annual Conference Rev. J. W. Diggs moved that the Conference convene hereafter in June. A warm and lengthy discussion followed; vote taken, 11 yeas, 25 nays: motion lost.
The necessity for such a school had been lingering in the minds of the brethren since the early days of the Conference. This question came up afresh and Bishop Payne appointed a committee of five to perfect a plan by which a high school might be established. The Bishop suggested as a name, "The Institute of the Virginia Annual Conference."
Bishop Payne in a neat speech explained the condition of the "Organic Union." Rev. B. F. Lloyd moved that the Conference confirm the action of the commissioners on the B. A. M. E. Organic Union with the A. M. E. Church of America. There was a lengthy discussion of the question after which the vote was taken which showed only one favoring union, the remainder opposing it.
Number of members | 6251 |
Number of probationers | 440 |
Dollar money | $713.18 |
Norfolk Station, Rev. G. T. Watkins.
Hampton, Rev. W. D. W. Schureman.
Eastville, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Onancock, Rev. J. C. Ayler.
Drummondtown, Rev. P. M. Lewis.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood.
Capeville Circuit, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. R. Govans.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Smithfield Circuit, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Norfolk Mission Circuit, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Richmond Station, Rev. J. H. Turner.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Danville Station, Rev. J. Haynes.
Suffolk Station, Rev. M. C. Young.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. J. W. Ruff.
Southampton Circuit, Rev. J. Cuffey.
Henry Circuit, Rev. I. L. Butt
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. G. W. Pinkard.
Jacksonville Mission, Rev. W. H. Bryant.
Patrick Circuit, Rev. S. P. Cornick.
Charlotte Circuit, Rev. Job H. Brown.
South Boston, Rev. R. Sawyer.
Lynchburg Station, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Salem Station, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Wytheville Station, Rev. B. F. Lloyd.
Staunton Station, Rev. J. E. Cooke.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. R. Armstead.
Max Meadow Circuit, Rev. G. W. Settles.
Farmville Station, Rev. J. K. Plato.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Rocky Mt. Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Boones Mill Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. R. T. Lewis.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. J. H. Scott.
Berryville Circuit, Rev Ed. Scarboro.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Sycamore Circuit,
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. P. M. Only.
China Branch Circuit, Rev. J. W. Diggs.
This session of the Virginia Annual Conference convened in Salem, April 20, 1882, and was presided over by Bishop D. A. Payne, D. D., LL., D. Bishop Wayman was present and assisted the presiding officer.
Revs. E. H. Bolden, J. E. Moore and Ed. Scarboro were elected secretaries.
Several visitors were introduced to the Conference; among them Dr. Butler of the Lutheran Church. The Bishop said, "I owe my forty-five years of learning and usefulness to the church which Dr. Butler represents." The Dr. was asked to make some remarks, which he did in a brief and earnest manner. He assured the brethren of his deep and earnest interest and sympathy for the depressed races of the earth.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. John W. Diggs: Text, Acts 26: 22. Subject--Divine Aid. 1st. "The work is the Lord's that ministers are sent to do." 2nd. "The work is important and difficult." 3rd. "The unaided power of man is too feeble to its just fulfilment."
One transfer from the Baltimore Conference was noted, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Deacons--Felix Wood and Ed. Scarboro.
Local Deacon--Thomas Davis, Portsmouth.
Rev. Richard H. Govans arose to a privileged question, "Is it proper to divide a circuit without the consent of the people?" The Bishop decided that the people should have a voice.
The presiding officer gave valuable instruction on this subject. He especially advised young preachers how to build churches; that the windows should not only be constructed to raise from the bottom but to be lowered from the top.
Number of members | 5868 |
Number of probationers | 368 |
Dollar money | $967.40 |
Deaths--Rev. Robert T Lewis, an itinerant preacher; Bro. Chelsa Dimmington, a local member of the Conference.
Norfolk Station, Rev. G. T. Watkins.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Eastville Station, Rev. W. D. W. Schureman.
Richmond Station, Rev. W. H. Bryant.
Danville Station, Rev. J. E. Cooke.
Staunton Station, Rev. J. H. Scott.
Wytheville Station, Rev. B. F. Lloyd.
Salem Station, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Hampton Station, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Suffolk Station, Rev. J. A. Haynes.
Lynchburg Station, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Onancock Station, Rev. J. C. Ayler.
Farmville Station, Rev. M. C. Young
Savageville Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood.
Capeville Circuit, Rev. Jer. Cuffey.
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Smithfield Circuit, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Norfolk Mission, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. J. W. Ruff.
Southampton Circuit, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Henry Circuit, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. J. K. Plato.
Jacksonville Mission, Rev. G. W. Pinkard.
Patrick Circuit, Rev. S. P. Cornick.
Charlotte Circuit,
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. G. W. Settles.
Max Meadow Circuit, Rev. J. H. Brown.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. George Williams.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Rocky Mount Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Boone Mill Circuit, Rev. R. Armstead.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. P. M. Only.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Berryville Circuit, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. J. Strange.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. T. Peeden.
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. I. Ewer.
China Branch Circuit,
J. W. Diggs to Baltimore Conference.
P. M. Lewis to Baltimore Conference.
This Session was held in Eastville, April 26, 1883. Bishop Payne called the Conference to order, Bishop Wayman again associating. Revs. E. H. Bolden, Ed. Scarboro and J. E. W. Moore were chosen secretaries.
Discussion--I. Subject, It is reported that the Khedive of Egypt says, "An ignorant people cannot be reformed, and therefore must be prepared by a system of common school education or its equivalent." If his opinion be true, prove it by facts and arguments; if false, prove by facts and arguments. The discussion was entered into with great interest by several brethren and was closed by the Bishop with the required information.
II. Subject, What constitutes the accomplished pastor of a truly Christian church?
Essays on above topic read by Revs. R. M. Cheeks, Jas. H. Turner, Ed. Scarboro, J. C. Ayler, J. B. Lewis and E. H. Bolden. Bishop Payne spoke, commending the papers and said that there had been wonderful progress made in twenty years in the ministerial ranks and encouraged the society in their efforts.
Mr Scott, the editor of "Eastville Herald," gave the society five books for their library.
Rev. Daniel A. Maze was admitted into the itinerancy.
Rev. D. J. Beckett admitted into full membership, and ordained deacon.
Bishop Payne's decision on the proper time to collect Dollar Money.
"As soon as preachers reach their field of labor they should commence to collect Dollar Money.
Decision on withdrawal of members.
Question--If a member withdraws and holds his letter for six months can such a one be admitted in the same church? Answer. Upon the face of the same such a one could be admitted into the same chnrch.
The annual sermon was delivered by Bishop D. A. Payne, D. D., LL. D.
The ordination sermon by Bishop Wayman, D. D.
Long before the hour of service the house was crowded to its utmost capacity, so much so that the floor gave away and the wildest excitement followed which came near resulting in the loss of many lives.
There was a complaint against one of the ministers for mingling in politics; therefore Bishop Payne was compelled to make some remarks concerning it. He stated very positively that he had no confidence in the politicians of this day, for they would tell all kinds of lies, and exhorted the preachers to never neglect their calling to mingle in politics.
Revs. J. E. W. Moore, E. H. Bolden, J. H. Scott. | |
Number of members | 6144 |
Number of probationers | 439 |
Dollar money | $1,115.96 |
Norfolk, Rev. G. T. Watkins, D. D.
Portsmouth, Rev. G. W. Alexander.
Eastville, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Richmond, Rev. W. H. Bryant.
Danville, Rev. J. E. Cooke.
Staunton, Rev. J. Strange.
Wytheville, Rev. R. M. Cheeks.
Salem, Rev. B. F. Lloyd.
Hampton, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Suffolk, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Onancock, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Farmville, Rev. M. C. Young.
Martinsville, Rev. P. M. Matthews.
Lynchburg, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Savageville, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Drummondtown, Rev. L. W. Lee.
Bridgetown, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Princess Anne, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Eureka, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Smithfield, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Mt Moriah, Rev. Felix Wood.
Deep Creek, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Harmony, Rev. J. W. Ruff.
Southampton,
Henry,
Chesterfield, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Boydton, Rev. J. K. Plato.
Patrick, Rev. Dan'l Maze.
Charlotte,
Blacksburg, Rev. G. W. Settles.
Max Meadow, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Prospect, Rev. George Williams.
Greenville, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Rocky Mt. Rev. W. H. Gray.
Boones Mill, Rev. R. Armistead.
Cave Spring, Rev. P. M. Onley.
Berryville,
Winchester,
Chatham, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Red Blues,
Norfolk, Rev. J. A. Haynes.
China Branch, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Duffield, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Capeville, Rev. Jer. Cuffy.
Grayson,
Jacksonville, Rev. George Pinkard.
General state missionary, Rev. J. H. Scott.
Rev. J. H. Turner to Baltimore Conference.
Rev. W. D. W. Schureman to Baltimore Conference.
Rev. J. C. Ayler to New Jersey Conference.
This session was held in Emanuel Church, Portsmouth, April 8th, 1884.
Rt. Rev. Daniel A. Payne, presiding bishop. Revs. R. M. Cheeks, Ed. Scarboro and J. E. W. Moore elected secretaries.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. Edward Scarboro. Text, Isaiah 60: 22. Subject: "The Perpetuation of the Church."
1st The Prophet here asserting the power of God.
2d The knowledge of his purpose.
Bro. Isaac Ewer readmitted and J. W. Throckmortin admitted. Bro. James E. Blount, from the A. U. M. P. Church, took the vows of a deacon in the A. M. E. Church.
Rev. Wellington G. Alexander from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. John C. Williams from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. George W. Nicholson from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Phillip F. Matthews from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Thomas G. Thompson from Texas Conference.
Rev. J. C. Williams and Ed. Scarboro.
Superannuated--Rev. P. M. Only.
Withdrawn--Bro. G. Morris.
Discontinued--Bro. Daniel Mayo.
Death--Rev. G. W. Settles.
Bishop Payne said that many people are led to believe that Africa is the home of the Negro only. He said that all of Northern Africa is occupied by the white race, who hold it by the purse and the law. In South Africa a white race from Europe is settled, where they have two governments. He
asked the brethren to begin a fund for the purpose of establishing a mission there.
A collection of $20 was contributed for said purpose.
The Bishop being indisposed appointed the Rev. Theodore Gould to preach the sermon. The speaker dwelt mainly on the qualification of ministers, and said that they should be spiritually, morally, intellectually and physically qualified to succeed in the Master's work.
Number of members | 6274 |
Number of probationers | 330 |
Dollar money | $1,418 |
Norfolk, Rev. A. A. Burleigh.
Portsmouth, Rev. W. G. Alexander.
Eastville, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Richmond, Rev. W. H. Bryant.
Danville, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Staunton, Rev. J. Strange.
Wytheville, Rev. R. M. Cheeks.
Salem, Rev B. F. Lloyd.
Hampton, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Onancock, Rev. Robert Davis.
Farmville, Rev. M. C. Young.
Martinsville, Rev. P. F. Matthews.
Winchester, Rev. G. W. Nicholson.
Drummondtown, Rev. L. W. Lee.
Savageville, Rev. Peter Sheppard,
Smithfield, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Mt. Moriah, Rev. Felix Wood.
Bridgetown, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Princess Anne, Rev. J. Cuffey.
Norfolk, Rev. J. A. Haynes.
Deep Creek, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Eureka, Rev. John E. Cooke.
Harmony, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Southampton, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Henry,
Chesterfield, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Boydton,
Patrick, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Charlotte, Rev. D. B. Huston.
Blacksburg, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Prospect, Rev. G. Williams.
Greenville, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Rocky Mt., Rev. W. H. Gray.
Boones Mill
Cave Spring, Rev. R. Armstead.
Duffield, Rev. J. W. Throckmortin.
Berryville, Rev. J. W. Ruff.
Chatham, Rev. J. K. Plato.
Red Bluff,
China Branch, Rev. J. H. Brown.
Jacksonville,
Lynchburg, T. G. Thompson.
Capeville, Thaddeus Peeden.
Max Meadows, C. H. Hunter.
Woodstock,
Norfolk and Portsmouth, J. C. Mackey.
State Missionary, J. H. Scott.
Rev. E. H. Bolden left without an appointment to take charge of the public schools in Portsmouth.
G. T. Watkins, D. D., to Baltimore Conference.
D. J. Beckett to Baltimore Conference.
The Nineteenth Session was held in Wytheville, April 8, 1885.
Bishop H. M. Turner, D. D. LL. D., the presiding officer, was absent at the time for opening, but he had telegraphed to open the Conference. Dr. W. H. Hunter was elected temporary chairman.
Bishop W. F. Dickerson, D. D., the regular appointed Bishop to the Second District died during the year and Bishop Turner was appointed to fill the unexpired term.
Revs. R. M. Cheeks, Edward Scarboro and J. E. W. Moore were elected secretaries.
The Rev. J. E. W. Moore preached the annual sermon, text, 1 Cor. 15: 9. Subject, "The Gospel Minister obligated to preach the Gospel of Christ."
Bishop Turner spoke in condemnation of the manner in which some ministers presented their credentials when they enter their work. He said that when they received their appointment from the Annual Conference, the Church to which they were assigned had promised to receive them. He also said that ministers should always have money enough to enter upon a new work at once. He advised them never to send to the people for money before their arrival.
The Conference at this session established the presiding elder system and divided the state into four districts, viz:--
1st Norfolk, 2nd Smithfield, 3rd Richmond, 4th Wythville Districts.
Rev. William H. Hunter, D. D. from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. A. A. Burleigh, from Indiana Conference.
Lemuel Sears, Berry Wilson, James E. Blunt, Charles M.
Loney, William H. Morris, A. M., a Priest in Episcopal church, was also received.
Bros. Isaac Ewer and J. W. Throckmortin.
Deacons,--Isaac Ewer and J. W. Throckmortin
Elders,--Felix Wood and William H. Gray
Superannuated,--Revs. P. M. Only and J. K. Plato
Expelled,--J. W. Ruff
Death,--Bishop William Fisher Dickerson.
Trustees Wilberforce University,--Revs. W. G. Alexander, M. C. Young and E. H. Bolden; Bros. W. M. Forrester and P. O. Sayers.
The committee appointed by the Conference at its last session, having gone into ways and means, the following are the departments in contemplation:
1st Preparatory; 2nd Normal; 3rd Academic; 4th Theological Class to be taught on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday of each week. The following divines will lecture during the term before the class in Theology on the respective subjects:
Bishop W. F. Dickerson, "Biblical Literature."
Rev. J. C. Ayler, of New Jersey,--"Ecclesiastical History and Government."
Rev. R. M. Cheeks, of Wytheville, "Pastoral Theology and Sacred Rhetoric."
Rev. B. F. Lloyd, of Salem, "Didactic and Polemic Theology."
Hon. E. A. Randolph, of Richmond, "Civil Law."
Rev. Edward Scarboro, of Danville, "Lower and Higher Mathematics."
Rev. Wellington G. Alexander, of Portsmouth, "Sacred Music."
The Virginia Conference Institute began its work September
15th, 1884, at the Masonic Temple, Queen street between Effingham and Chestnut streets, Portsmouth. The doors were opened to students from any Christian denomination; application being made to the President pro tem E. H. Bolden.
Rev. J. H. Scott, Chairman
Rev. I. L. Butt, Hampton
Rev. M. C. Young, Farmville
Rev. J. H. Thomas, Smithfield
Rev. J. E. Cooke, Berkley
Rev. J. C. Williams Blacksburg
Rev. R. H. Govans, Harmony
Rev. Robert Davis, Onancock
Rev. L. W. Lee, Drummondtown
Rev. Jer. Cuffey, Princess Anne
Rev. J. C. Mackey, Norfolk
Rev. Geo. Williams, Prospect
Rev. J. A. Haynes, Berkley
Rev. E. H. Bolden, President
Rev. J. E. W. Moore, Vice President
Rev. W. G. Alexander, Corresponding Secretary
J. H. Offer, Treasurer
Number of members | 6354 |
Number of probationers | 565 |
Dollar money | $1027.14 |
Norfolk District, Presiding Elder Rev. J. E. W. Moore
Norfolk Station, Rev. A. A. Burleigh
Eastville Station, Rev. J. H. Offer
Onancock Station, Rev. R. Davis
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. J. Cuffey
Eureka Circuit, Rev. J. H. Scott
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee
Savageville Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard
Franktown Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. T. Peeden
Harmony Circuit.
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. H. Thomas
Portsmouth Station, Rev. W. G. Alexander.
Hampton Station, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. J. A. Haynes
Suffolk Circuit, Rev. G. P. Smith.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood.
Smithfield Circuit, Rev. B. F. Lloyd.
Blacks and Whites Circuit,
Virginia Conference Institute teacher Thomas G. Thompson.
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. Cooke.
Richmond Station, Rev. W. H. Hunter.
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Staunton Station, Rev. J. Strange.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. George Williams.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. J. W. Throckmortin.
Farmville Station, Rev. M. C. Young.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Fredericksburg Circuit,
Gordonsville
Alexandria
Charlottesville
Harper's Ferry
Presiding Elder, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Wytheville Station, Rev. W. H. Morris, A. M.
Salem Station, Rev. J. C. Williams
Danville Station, Rev. G. D. Jimmerson.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. G. W. Nicholson, B. D.
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. I Ewer.
Max Meadow Circuit,
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. R. Armstead.
Liberty Circuit,
Boone's Mill, Rev. J. E. Blount.
Lynchburg, Rev. J. H. Brown
Martinsville Station, Rev. G. W. Pinkard.
Henry Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Jacksonville Mission, Rev. Charles Toney.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Glade Spring Mission, Rev. B. Wilson.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. R. H. Govans.
China Branch, Rev. L. Sears.
Rocky Mount,
Rev. P. F. Matthews to the New Jersey Conference.
Rev. R. M. Cheeks to the North Alabama Conference.
The Twentieth Session was held in Richmond, April 14, 1886, and was called to order on the above date by the Presiding Officer, Bishop H. M. Turner, D. D. LL. D
Revs. E. H. Bolden and Ed. Scarboro were elected secretaries.
The following introductions were made: Bishop A. W. Wayman, D. D., Bishop John M. Brown, D. D., D. C. L., B. T. Tanner, D. D., B. F. Lee, D. D., Jas. A. Handy, D. D., Dr. C. H. Corey, President of the Baptist Theological Institute, Richmond.
The annual sermon was preached by the Rev. Jas. A. Handy, D. D. Text 1 Peter: 24, 25. Dr. Handy, then P. E. of the Washington District, Baltimore Conference, representing Metropolitan A. M. E. church, Washington, gave a graphic description of the new edifice and urged the Conference to pay for the beautiful window previously subscribed for by them.
Dr. B. T. Tanner said that he had Bishop Allen's Bible and that he would have it rebound and present it to the Metropolitan congregation on the dedication of the church.
A collection was lifted for said church.
Bishop Turner called the attention of the Conference to the sanctity of divine worship and remarked that the brethren ought always to be in time to join in this delightful part of the service. The Bishop told the young men that they should pencil important discussions and incidents and listen to the arguments of experienced elders which would help them wonderfully.
Bishop John M. Brown arrived at 11:30 and was presented to the brethren by the chairman. This was his last visit to the Virginia Conference over which he had presided and which he had helped to organize.
Bro. T. C. Coston
Bro. Jacob Fisher
Bro. Joseph B. Tynes
Bro. Thomas A. Wood
Bro. Jesse C. Young
Bro. K. K. Richardson
Bro. Joseph H. Duckett
Bro. Jas. H. Garner
Bro. Lewis Evans
Bro. Wm. H. Carter
Bro. S. A. Ricks
Bro. James E. Blount
Bro. James Parson
Bro. James Carter
Bro. Z. H. Hughes
Bro. Peter E. Steward
Bro. Daniel Maze
Bro. E. T. Hickman
Thomas A. Wood
Rev. W. D. Cook from N. Carolina Conference
Rev. A. B. Jennings from N. Carolina Conference
Bishop Turner spoke relative to a Conference school, and said that it was best for the Virginia Conference to throw all of its means and influence with North Carolina and make Kittrell School what it ought to be. Upon this suggestion, Rev. J. H. Scott asked why Virginia could not have a High School. A long discussion followed for and against the Bishop's suggestion. The result was the appointment of a commission to consult with Bishop Turner and the Trustees of Kittrell School to arrange some plan of union if possible. The committee was appointed and given plenary power to act for the Conference.
Rev. Wm. H. Hunter.
Rev. M. C. Young.
Rev. A. A. Burleigh.
Bro. W. H. Forrester, Richmond, Va.
Bro. Green Bannester, Danville, Va.
The Rev. J. C. Price, President of Livingstone College, A. M. E. Z. Church, Salisbury, N. C., graced the Conference with his presence and was introduced.
Number of full members | 6765 |
Number of probationers | 369 |
Dollar money | $1028.95 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Norfolk Station, Rev. W. D. Cook.
Eastville Station, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Onancock Station, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. Jas. A. Haynes.
Franktown Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. Jer. Cuffey.
Berkley Circuit, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Williamsburg Mission, Rev. Jas. Parson.
Cape Charles City.
Modeston, Rev. Jas. E. Blount.
Seaside Mission, Rev. J. E. Blount.
Great Neck Mission.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. W. G. Alexander.
Hampton, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Norfolk Circuit.
Oak Grove Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Suffolk Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Smithfield Circuit, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Campbell Chapel Circuit, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Chuckatuck Circuit, Rev. Jos. Duckett.
Blackstone Mission, Rev. J. W. Costin.
Southampton Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood.
Payne Mission, Wm. H. Carter.
Presiding Elder, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Danville Station, Rev. Geo. D. Jimmerson.
Wytheville Station, Rev. W. H. Morris.
Salem Station, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee.
Jacksonville Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. Jas. H. Scott.
Martinsville Circuit, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Henry C. H. Circuit, Rev. K. K. Richardson.
Boone's Mill Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Robt. Armstead.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Nicholson.
Max Meadows Circuit, Rev. Chas. M. Toney.
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
China Branch Circuit, Rev. T. A. Wood.
Rocky Spring Circuit, Rev. Jesse C. Young.
Patrick Mission Circuit, Rev. Peter E. Steward.
Chestnut Grove Mission, Rev. Geo. A. Rose.
Black Lick Mission, Rev. Jas. Brown.
Indian Valley Mission, Rev. T. A. Goodman.
N. W. Danville Mt. Zion Mission, Rev. Lewis Civans.
Mt. Airy Mission, Rev. Berry Wilson.
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. Nathan Berry.
Rocky Mt. Circuit, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Roanoke Mission, Rev. S. A. Ricks
Presiding Elder, Rev. John Cook.
Richmond Station, Rev. Wm. H. Hunter.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. J. W. Throckmortin.
Summit Pt. Circuit, Rev. Jas. H. Garner.
Winchester Circuit.
Staunton Station, Rev. M. C. Young.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. Joab H. Brown.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. B. F. Lloyd.
Farmville Circuit, Rev. A. A. Burleigh.
Charlotte Circuit, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. G. W. Blount.
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. R J. Gassaway.
Manikin Mission, Rev. Daniel Maze.
Caperton Mission, Rev. Z. H. Hughes.
Bridgeport Mission, Rev. E. T. Hickman.
Mint Spring Mission, Rev. John English.
Richmond Mission, Rev. Henry Halyard.
The subject of this sketch was born in Pittsboro, N. C. July 9, 1853. He was converted July 15, 1867, and entered the ministry 1876. He was ordained deacon May 14, 1882, by Bishop D. A. Payne, and elder April 18, 1884, by Bishop Payne. He joined the Virginia Conference in 1877. He attended the public schools of Danville when a boy, and then spent one year in Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C., after which he completed a four years course in theology in Howard University, Washington, D. C.
He served the following charges in Virginia; Mt. Lebanon Circuit two years; Danville Mission one year; Blacksburg two years and taught public school; Salem Station and Roanoke Mission one year; Onancock two years, and taught public school; Suffolk, where he had 200 conversions and saved the church property; Wytheville three years and built the church; Presiding Elder of the Norfolk District three years, and then back to Wytheville one year; Danville Station three years, and saved the church property; Hampton two years; Presiding Elder of the Richmond District five years. He has received many persons into the church.
This sketch was given by Rev. John C. Williams, B. D.
was born December 28, 1859, in Amelia County, Va. and was reared in Wytheville, Va. He was converted at an early age, and entered the ministry in the Virginia Conference in 1877. He served in the following Conferences, Virginia, Baltimore, New England, Alabama, and Georgia. In 1896 he was elected editor of the Southern Christian Recorder and re-elected in 1900, which office he held until his death, which occurred on May 19, 1900, while in attendance at the General Conference in Columbus, Ohio.
The subject of this sketch, (the son of Mrs. Lucinda Allen) was born on the plantation of Mr. Strother Jones, Frederick County, Va. August, 1850. He enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1864 in the 144th N. Y. Regt. and two months later was transferred by his own request to the 43d U. S. Colored Troops, Co. D.
He was converted March 11, 1874. He was licensed as an exhorter by Rev. P. C. Cooper of Ill. March 6, 1876, and as local preacher, March 3, 1877, by Rev. J. W. Malone.
He was appointed to Madison and Washington Mission by Bishop D. A. Payne, August 10, 1878, and served two years, during which time he purchased a lot, built a church, and increased the membership from fifteen to forty. He was ordained deacon at Salem, N. J. April 19, 1880, by Bishop Payne. He was then transferred from Asbury Park, N. J. to the Third Street A. M. E. Church, Richmond, Virginia, August 11, 1880. While there he brought peace out of confusion. He was next sent to Salem, Va. where he finished paying for a lot and completed the parsonage.
He was ordained elder at Danville, Va. by Bishop Payne, April 20, 1881. He served three years in the Virginia Annual Conference, and then was transferred West.
He has pastored the following charges: Quinn Chapel, Frederick City, Md. two years; Bethel Chapel, Macon City, Mo. at which place he bought and paid for a lot, built a parson-age, and paid the church out of debt; Leavenworth, and Ottawa, Kansas, renovating the church at each place; organized St. Paul Mission at Leavenworth with ten members, and one at Quinnamore, Kan., St. Paul, Houston and Bryant, Tex.; St. Paul, Columbia, Tenn., three years.
Served as statistical secretary of the Virginia, Baltimore and North Missouri Conferences seven years; chief secretary of the Kansas Conference one year; and first recording secretary of the East Tennessee Conference; District book steward two years. He served as P. E. over the Wyandotte District, Kan. one year, and five years over the Chattanooga District,
Tenn.
He is also Trustee of Turner Institute, a delegate to the last General Conference, and a member of the Historical and Literary Committee of the General Conference. He has attended the following schools: Howard University, Washington, D. C.; Schofield's Commercial College, Providence R. I.; Drew Theological Seminary, Madison, N. J.; Central Tenn. College, Nashville, Tenn., and National Medical School of Chattanooga, Tenn.
was born in Amelia County, Va. December, 1848. He was converted in 1864, and entered the ministry in 1882. He was ordained deacon by Bishop H. M. Turner in 1887; elder by Bishop A. W. Wayman, 1891. He entered the Virginia Conference in 1883 and served the following charges: China Branch one year; Berryville two years; Greenville two years; back to Berryville three years; Duffield, W. Va. four years; Prospect three years; Summit Point four years; and then to Berryville one year; and Duffield five years. He has built three new churches and remodeled four. He has had 350 conversions.
was born in Currituck County, N. C. July 15, 1856. He was converted in 1869, and entered the ministry in 1880, and was ordained deacon in 1887 by Bishop H. M. Turner, and elder in 1892 by Bishop A. W. Wayman. He joined the Virginia Conference in 1884 and served the following charges: China Branch two years; North Danville one year, built church there; Henry County, built church at Ridgeway and bought a lot at Fall Creek; Harmon, Halifax County, built one church, and remodeled one church and parsonage; Blacksburg, bought lot for parsonage and planned for a new church; Lynchburg, reduced the old debt of church; Bedford City, built a church;
Manchester, Goochland, paid church out of debt; Charlotte C. H. built parsonage, and began a church at Germantown. He has added 525 members to the church.
The subject of this sketch was born near Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, Va. in 1849. He was converted in the year 1867, and entered the ministry in 1885. He was ordained deacon and elder by Bishops H. M. Turner and T. M. D. Ward. Joined the Virginia Conference in 1885 and served the following charges: Charlotte C. H. four years; Winchester three years; Salem three years; Franktown four years; Savageville one year; Roanoke four and one third years. He has built two churches; finished another; bought church organs, pulpit suites, etc., etc.
He has had about 190 conversions and about 240 accessions to the church.
Rev. Tynes is a graduate of the Hampton school and an undergraduate of Payne University by correspondence.
He taught public schools during the first years of his ministry in each County in which he held charge. He was the Conference statistician for nine years.
* This sketch was given by his wife, Mrs. Annie Garner.
The subject of this sketch was born in St. Mary's County, Md. December 18, 1859. He was converted in 1874, and entered the ministry in 1885. Ordained deacon 1887, by Bishop H. M. Turner D. D., elder in 1891 by Bishop A. W. Wayman: He joined the Virginia Conference in 1886 at Richmond. He pastored the following charges with untold success: Chesterfield, and built one church; Smithville, bought lot and built church; built parsonage at Deep Creek; built magnificent church at Newport News; at Suffolk paid part of indebtedness, finished paying for the first parsonage at St. James, Berkley;
began the church at Winchester. He was sent to this place in 1885, by Rev. J. E. Cooke, to assist Rev. Geo. Williams, the pastor who was sick at that time. His last charge was Princess Anne Circuit from which he was called from labor to reward in August, 1905, while in the midst of a glorious revival.
The subject of this sketch was born in St. Mary's County, Md. in 1859. He was converted in 1874. He entered the ministry and joined the Virginia Conference in 1885, and was ordained deacon in 1887 by Bishop H. M. Turner, and elder in 1891 by Bishop Wayman. He has served the following charges; Chuckatuck Mission four years, and built a church; Franktown Circuit one year; Onancock Station two years, and bought house and lot for parsonage; Franktown Circuit two years, bought lot and built a parsonage; Savageville Circuit three years, bought lot and built a parsonage, renovated both churches and secured deed for Pungoteague Church; Drummondtown Station two years and curtailed indebtedness; Caperville Circuit four years, reduced the debt and put new pews into the church: Campbell's Chapel Circuit, three years, renovated the church, finished paying for the parsonage and bought one acre of land in Rascoe Neck on which to build a church; Mt. Moriah one year, his present charge; planning to build a new church and raising money for the same. Conversions during ministry 850.
He graduated from the public schools, studied two years in Norfolk Missions College, and studied theology and science under Rev. W. H. Hunter, D. D. for four years.
THIS Session of the Conference convened at Suffolk April 13, 1887, with Bishop H. M. Turner, D. D., LL. D. in the chair. Revs. Edward Scarboro and James H. Scott were elected secretaries.
Dr. William H. Hunter preached the annual sermon, text, John 8 : 29.
Brothers Jordan Gordan, George T. Mussington, R. H. Hollis, William H. Lee, Irwin W. Roundtree, Simon P. Cornick, P. R. Reed and George W. Blount.
Rev. B. T. Tanner, D. D., Editor A. M. E. Review.
Rev. J. C. Embry, D. D., Manager A. M. E. Book Concern.
Brother James Parson.
Rev. G. W. Taylor from Kentucky Conference.
Rev. F. F. Crawford, from Tennessee Conference.
William H. Carter, Peter E. Steward, Thomas A. Wood, Charles M. Toney, Joseph Duckett, James H. Garner, Joseph B. Tynes, Daniel Maze and Lemuel Sears.
Charles M. Toney, William H. Carter, James H. Garner, Joseph B. Tynes, Daniel Maze, Peter E. Steward, Joseph Duckett and Lemuel Sears.
George L. Mussington, I. W. L. Roundtree and William H. Lee.
Rev. Thornton McCoy, local deacon, St. John's, Norfolk
Rev. William H. Davis, local deacon, St. John's, Norfolk
Rev. Michael Brown, local deacon, Deep Creek Church
Rev. Elisha Webb, local deacon, Emanuel, Portsmouth
Brother S. A. Ricks, pastor Roanoke Mission.
Bishop Richard Harvey Cain, D. D.
Revs. I. L. Butt, E. H. Bolden and W. H. Hunter.
Number of full members | 7278 |
Number of probationers | 517 |
Dollar money | $ 1116.11 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Norfolk Station, Rev. W. D. Cook
Eastville Station, Rev. J. H. Offer
Onancock Station, Rev. J. C. Williams
London Bridge Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee
Berkley Circuit, Rev. Edward Scarboro
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. Richard R. Govans
Franktown Circuit, Rev. John B. Lewis
Savageville Circuit, Rev. James H. Haynes
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard
Norfolk City Mission, Rev. W. H. Morris
Mt. Calvary Mission, Rev. J. Z. Gordan
Modestown Mission
Seaside Mission
Presiding Elder, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. W. H. Hunter
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. T. A. Wood
Hickory Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter
Sleepy Hollow Mission, Rev. A. A. Bailey
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray
Suffolk Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey
Newsomes Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood
Hampton Station, Rev. G. B. Smith
Smithfield Station, Rev. George Williams
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. W. H. Carter
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. I. Ewer
Campbell Chapel Station, Rev. J. H. Thomas
Chuckatuck Circuit, Rev. Joseph Duckett
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. Cooke
Richmond Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden
Duffield Circuit, Rev. J. W. Throckmortin
Summit Point Circuit, Rev. James H. Garner
Berryville Circuit, Rev. Daniel Maze
Winchester Circuit, Rev. Robert Davis
Staunton Station, Rev. M. C. Young
Mint Spring Mission, Rev. William H. Lee
Greenville Circuit, Rev. J. H. Brown
Prospect Circuit, Rev. B. F. Lloyd
Farmville Station, Rev. I. W. L. Roundtree
Charlotte Circuit, Rev. J. B. Tynes
Boydton Circuit, Rev. Felix Reed
St. John's Mission, Rev. R. J. Gassaway
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. C. H. Toney
Goochland Mission, Rev. P. W. Lee
McDowell Mission, Rev. R. H. Hollis
Sugar Grove Mission, Rev. S. S. Gwinn
Presiding Elder, Rev. I. L. Butt
Danville Station, Rev. G. D. Jimmerson
Wytheville Station, Rev. G. W. Taylor
Salem Station, Rev. J. H. Scott
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. G. W. Nicholson
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. James E. Blount
Max Meadows Circuit, Rev. George L. Mussington
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. R. Armistead
Boone's Mill Circuit, Rev. P. E. Steward
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. G. G. Vreeland
Amherst Circuit, Rev. George Lee
Martinsville Station, Rev. F. F. Crawford
Jacksonville Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears
Chatham Circuit, Rev. Jeremiah Cuffey
Harmony Circuit, Rev. G. W. Pinkard
China Branch Circuit, Rev. George Rose
Rocky Mount Circuit, Rev. A. B. Jennings
Penn's Store Mission, Rev. J. C. Young
Bland County Mission, Rev. ---- Mitchell
New Haven Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemons
Grayson Circuit, Rev. George W. Blount
Glade Spring
Leatherwood Circuit, Rev. S. P. Cornick
Bishop H. M. Turner, D.D., LL. D., convened the Twenty-Second Session of the Virginia Annual Conference, in Norfolk April 28, 1888. The session was held in a temporary building on Cumberland street, as the Church building was in course of erection. Secretaries chosen were Revs. Edward Scarboro and George W. Nicholson.
The commissioners appointed to arrange plans and effect a union between Kittrell Normal and Industrial School and Dickerson Memorial College of Virginia read their report.
A lengthy discussion followed and many questions were asked and answered; one of which was, whether the deed had been properly drawn securing the property to the Virginia and North Carolina Conferences and whether or not the North Carolina Legislature had granted a change in the charter of said property so as to include the Virginia as well as North Carolina Conference. An affirmative answer was given by the Virginia Commissioners and a motion unanimously prevailed which ratified said union of March 30, 1888.
Rev. Jesse Asbury from Tennessee Conference
Brothers George Lee, James E. Parago, James A. Kelly, R. H. Miles. Re-admitted--Rev. J. K. Plato.
Brothers Irwin W. L. Roundtree, George T. Mussington, Jesse C. Young, George W. Blount and Felix Reed.
Felix Wood and Jesse C. Young.
Revs. Issac Ewer and James E. Blount.
Discontinued--R. H. Hollis.
Permission to attend School of Theology was granted
Brother I. W. L. Roundtree.
Suspended--Brother Job H. Brown.
Located--Brother Simon P. Cornick.
Expelled--Rev. Jesse Asbury.
Rev. J. E. W. Moore
Rev. George D. Jimmerson
Rev. E. H. Bolden
Rev. Jacklin Strange
The following deaths reported--Bishop James A. Shorter and Rev. J. F. A. Sisson on "Grove Circuit," who died March 18, 1888, in Mississippi.
Attack on new version of Holy Scripture by Rev. J. A. H. Johnson, D. D., Baltimore Conference:--"On last Sunday morning the new version of the Holy Scriptures was read from the sacred desk of this Church. I have never heard it read in any of our churches before and think it a matter of such grave importance as to demand an expression from this Conference. The new version has not been accepted by any of the Evangelical Churches. It has been repudiated by the Presbyterians and not adopted by our General Conference. I think some action of condemnation ought to be taken by this Conference."
Rev. W. D. Cook
Rev. G. B. Smith
Rev. J. H. Scott
Brother Jesse Waits, Norfolk, Va.
Brother R. E. Jones, M. D., Richmond, Va.
Rev. J. C. Embry, Manager Book A. M. E. Concern.
Rev. B. T. Tanner, D. D., Editor A. M. E. Review.
Rev. W. D. Johnson, D. D., Secretary Education, A. M. E. Church.
Rev. W. D. W. Schureman, Baltimore Conference.
Rev. J. A. H. Johnson, D. D., Baltimore Conference.
Rev. George T. Watkins, D. D., Baltimore Conference.
Rev. J. G. Fry, North Carolina Conference.
Prof. B. B. Goins, Kittrell Normal and Industrial Institute, N. C.
Hon. J. C. Asbury, Commonwealth Attorney, Norfolk Co.
Rev. B. W. Arnett, D. D., Financial Secretary A. M. E. Church.
Number of full members | 7333 |
Number of probationers | 598 |
Dollar money | $1053.45 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. W. Moore
Norfolk Station, Rev. W. D. Cook
City Mission, Rev. E. W. Williams
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. L. W. Lee
London Bridge Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden
Berkley Circuit, Rev. J. E. Cook
Eastville Station, Rev. Edward Scarboro
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. R. H. Govans
Franktown Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis
Savageville Circuit, Rev. James A. Haynes
Onancock Station, Rev. John H. Offer
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard
Northumberland Mission,
Lancaster
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. Strange
Portsmouth Station, Rev. W. H. Hunter
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. T. A. Wood
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. J. H. Garner
Suffolk Circuit, Rev. J. C. Williams
Newsomes Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter
Hampton Station, Rev. G. B. Smith
Newport News Mission
Smithfield Station, Rev. George Williams
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. W. H. Lee
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. I. Ewer
Campbell Chapel Station, Rev. J. H. Thomas
Chuckatuck Circuit, Rev. Joseph Duckett
Walston Mission, O. J. Brown
Hickory Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood
Surry and Southampton Mission, J. C. George
York and Warwick Mission, W. H. Carter
Presiding Elder, Rev. I. L. Butt
Danville Station, Rev. George W. Taylor
Wytheville Station, Rev. George T. Mussington
Salem Station, Rev. Jeremiah Cuffey
Martinsville Station, Rev. J. K. Plato
Lynchburg Station, Rev. F. F. Crawford
Harmony Circuit, Rev. George Lee
Leatherwood Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears
Taylorsville Circuit, Rev. J. C. Young
Fall Creek Circuit, Rev. Jordan Gordan
Chatham Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray
Rocky Mount Circuit, Rev. Robert Armstead
New Haven Circuit, Rev. R. R. Reid
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemmons
Blacksburg, Rev. E. G Goodman
Max Meadows, Rev. George W. Pinkard
Red Bluff, Rev. James E. Blount
Elk Creek Circuit, Rev. P. E. Steward
Speedwell, Rev. George W. Blount
Harris Creek
Danville Mission, Rev. G. W. Nicholson
Presiding Elder, Rev. M. C. Young
Richmond Station, Rev. G. D. Jimmerson
Duffield Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway
Summit Point Circuit, Rev. C. M. Toney
Winchester Circuit, Rev. Robert Davis
Berryville Circuit, Rev. James H. Scott
Staunton Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden
McDowell
Greenville Station, Rev. David Maze
Pamplins Mission, Rev. Washington Stiff
Prospect Circuit, Rev. James E. Parago
Charlotte Circuit, Rev. J. B. Tynes
Chase City Circuit, Rev. A. J. Kelly
Boydton, Circuit, Rev. R. R. Mouzon
Manchester Circuit, Rev. R. H. Miles
Manikin Mission, Rev. P. W. Lee
Front Royal Circuit, Rev. Thomas Jackson
Sugar Grove Circuit, Rev. N. L. Gwinn
Farmville Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey
Staunton Mission
The Twenty-third Session was held in Staunton, Va., May 1, 1889. Bishop T. M. D. Ward presided at the opening of the session, the presiding Bishop Rt. Rev. J. P. Campbell, D. D., LL., D., being absent on account of sickness. He arrived however during the session. Revs. Geo. W. Nicholson, Ed. Scarboro and Geo. T. Mussington were elected secretaries.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. John H. Offer. Text, Romans 4:4. Subject, "The power of Christ.
At the second day's session Bishop Campbell was in the chair assisted by Bishop Ward. The venerable chairman was very feeble and had to be carried to and from the church and his stopping place on a chair borne by four strong men. This was the last annual Conference on earth over which he presided.
Bishop Campbell's decision on grant of time in the itinerancy. "No person can be granted the advantage of a year of the itinerancy except by the action of the Conference, after such a person had been first properly admitted."
Pending the report of Summit Point, some irregularities were referred to which had occurred in the removal of some pastors from their charges in the interval of the Annual Conference sessions. Bishop Campbell said respecting his policy, law and order that fair play would be accorded every man, regardless of rank or character; and when he appointed a man to a work he expected to find him there whenever called for, and further, no presiding elder had the right to remove a preacher from any appointment for any cause whatever without first conferring with the Presiding Bishop.
The petition coming from the officers and members of Bute Street A. M. E. Church, Norfolk, praying the Conference not to appoint any presiding elder over that charge was referred to the General Conference to convene in Selma, Ala., May, 1892.
Benjamin J. Hargrave, John A. Boon, Wm. B. Sample.
Felix Reed and William H. Lee.
Felix Reed, R. R. Monzon, Geo. W. Blount, Geo. Lee and S. S. Quinn.
Philip M. Only.
Lemuel W. Lee, Princess Anne Circuit.
Rev. B. J. Hargraves took the ordination vows of the A. M. E. Church.
Rev. Daniel J. Beckett from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Geo. T. Watkins, D. D., from Baltimore Conference.
Ministerial: W. D. Cook, G. B. Smith and Geo. W. Nicholson.
Laymen: W. T. Waits, Norfolk and Wm. G. Forrester, Richmond.
Revs. L. J. Coppin, D. D., Editor A. M. E. Church Review.
Rev. James A. Handy, D. D.
Rev. C. C. Felts, M. D., P. E. of Philadelphia Conference.
Rev. John W. Beckett, of Philadelphia.
Prof. John R. Hawkins, Kittrell Normal School.
Number of full members | 7194 |
Number of full probationers | 374 |
Dollar money | $1,125.05 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Norfolk Station, Rev. W. D. Cook.
London Bridge Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Berkley Circuit, Rev. John E. Cooke.
Eastville Station, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Capeville Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Franktown Circuit, Rev. Joseph Duckett.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Onancock Station, Rev. John H. Offer.
Drummondtown Station, Rev. John H. Thomas.
Norfolk City Mission,
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. W. H. Hunter, D. D.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. T. A. Wood.
Hickory Ground Circuit, Rev. Felix Wood.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Newsomes Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Suffolk Station, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Chuckatuck Circuit, Rev. J. W. Throckmorton.
Hampton Station, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Campbell Station, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Mt. Moriah Circuit,
Newport News Circuit, Rev. A. J. Kelly.
Smithfield Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Presiding Elder, James A. Haynes.
Richmond Station, Rev. Geo. D. Jimmerson.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Berryville Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Taylor.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Staunton Station, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
McDowell Circuit, Bro. W. I. Kennedy.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. Daniel Maze.
Prospect Circuit, Bro. Joseph Parago.
Charlotte Circuit, Bro. J. C. Mackey.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. F. F. Crawford.
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. Jas. H. Garner.
Front Royal Mission, Thos. Jackson.
Sugar Grove, Rev. W. J. White.
Farmville Station, Rev. Geo. W. Nicholson.
Charlottesville Mission,
Presiding Elder, Rev. Robert Davis.
Danville Station, Rev. Geo. T. Watkins.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Traylorsville Circuit, Rev. Jesse C. Young.
Martinsville Station, Rev. R. H. Miles
Danville Circuit, Rev. Wm. H. Lee.
Rocky Mt. Circuit, Rev. Robt. Armstead.
Panellow Circuit, Rev. J. C. George.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemmons.
Salem Circuit, Rev. Jer. Cuffey.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Pocahontas Circuit, Rev. J. H. Boone.
Max Meadow Circuit, Rev. Wm. H. Carter.
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. Jas. E. Blount.
Elk Creek Circuit, Rev. W. B. Sample.
Speedwell Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
Wytheville Station, Rev. Geo. T. Mussington.
Lynchburg Station, Rev. Jordan Gordan.
Harris Creek Circuit,
Stewart Mission,
Chatham Circuit, Rev. Benj. J. Hargraves.
Bro. Felix Lee at his own request left without appointment to attend school.
Bro. R. R. Monzan left without appointment because of absence from work and failure to attend the Conference.
Rev. Irwin W. L. Roundtree transferred to New Jersey Conference.
Lynn Street A. M. E. Church, Danville, was the seat of the 24th Session of the Virginia Annual Conference, April 9, 1890. Bishop Thomas M. D. Ward presided in the absence of Bishop Campbell, who was ill. Bishops W. B. Arnett of the Seventh and B. T. Tanner of the Eleventh Episcopal Districts were present. The secretaries chosen were Revs. E. H. Bolden, Edward Scarboro and George T. Mussington.
Rev. I. L. Butt preached the annual sermon, text, John 17: 22: Subject--"God's Glory to His Church through Christ."
Brother A. A. Bailey | Brother John T. Schofield |
Brother Simon W. Watkins | Brother William J. White |
Brother Alexander Twyman | Brother John H. Briggs |
Brother Paul W. Lee | Brother Robert T. Timberlake |
Rev. A. J. Nixon from North Carolina Conference.
Deacon--Brother Simon Peter Cornick for local work.
Obligations--Revs. J. H. Briggs and Alexander Twyman, both coming from the Baptist Church, took our ordination vows as elders.
Revs. Joseph B. Tynes, James W. Throckmorton, George T. Mussington.
Rev. Phillip M. Only
Rev. R. H. Miles
Rev. T. A. Wood. He sent a letter to the Annual Conference stating that he had withdrawn. It was received and spread upon the minutes.
Rev. James A. Haynes, P. E. of Richmond District died at Winchester, September 14, 1889 and buried at Pungoteague.
Bishop W. B. Arnett, D. D. Seventh Episcopal District.
Bishop Benjamin T. Tanner, D. D., Eleventh Episcopal District.
Rev. J. C. Embry, D. D., Manager A. M. E. Book Concern.
Rev. James A. Handy, D. D., A. M. E. Financial Sec'y.
Rev. C. H. King, P. E., North Carolina Conference.
Rev. J. E. C. Barham, P. E. North Carolina Conference
Rev. R. H. W. Leek, Greensboro District, North Carolina Conference.
Rev. N. J. Nickson, North Carolina Conference
Dr. W. E. Bryant, Editor Southern Christian Recorder
Prof. John R. Hawkins, Kittrell Normal School.
Dr. D. A. Robertson
Rev. W. H. Giles, North Carolina Conference.
Number of full members | 7543 |
Number of probationers | 443 |
Dollar money | $1175.47 |
Bishop Ward closed the session of Conference sooner than usual because he had to be in Washington on Monday to perfect arrangements for his marriage during that week.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Norfolk Station, Rev. John G. Mitchell, D. D.
London Bridge Circuit, Rev. John H. Thomas.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. Jas. E. Blount.
Berkley Station, Rev. J. E. Cooke.
Eastville Station, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Franktown Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Onancock Station, Rev. Jos. Duckett.
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. J. B. Hargraves.
Sewell's Point Circuit, Rev. R. T. Timberlake.
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. Wm. H. Hunter, D. D.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. John H. Offer.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Hickory Circuit, Rev. J. A. Boone.
Suffolk Station, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Newsome Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Hampton Station, Rev. Geo. T. Mussington.
Chuckatuck Circuit, Rev. W. B. Sample.
Newport News Mission, Rev. J. W. Throckmortin.
Campbell Station, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Smithfield Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden, B. D.
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. Phelix Wood.
Moonfield Mission.
Presiding Elder, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Richmond Station, Rev. G. D. Jimmerson.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Staunton Station, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
McDowell Circuit, Rev. C. M. Toney.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
Charlotte Circuit, Rev. P. W. Lee.
Port Royal Circuit, Rev. Thomas Jackson.
Farmville Station, Rev. Jas. H. Scott.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. J. C. Young.
Smithville Circuit, Rev. Jno. T. Schofield.
Manchester Circuit, Rev. Jas. H. Garner.
Manikin Circuit, Rev. S. W. Watkins.
Sugar Grove Circuit, Rev. Wm. J. White.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. Jas. A. Parago.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Danville Station, Rev. Geo. T. Watkins.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Martinsville Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Nicholson, B. D.
Rocky Mt. Circuit, Rev. Robt. Armstead.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemons.
Salem Circuit, Rev. Jer. Cuffey.
Panello Circuit, Rev. Alexander Trayman.
Harris Creek.
Traylorsville Circuit, Rev. W. H. Carter.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Pocahontas Circuit, Rev. J. H. Brown.
Max Meadow Circuit, Rev. J. H. Briggs.
Red Bluff Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Taylor.
Elk Creek Circuit, Rev. A. J. Kelly.
Speedwell Circuit, Rev. Phelix Reed.
Danville Circuit, Rev. A. J. Nixon.
Amherst Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
Wytheville Station, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. F. F. Crawford.
Rev. W. D. Cook transferred to Philadelphia Conference Bro. J. Z. Gordon left without appointment.
The Virginia Annual Conference assembled in Bethel A. M. E. Church, Salem, April 8, 1891 for its Twenty-fifth Session. Bishop A. W. Wayman, D. D. presided in the absence of Bishop Campbell, who continued ill.
Revs. E. H. Bolden, Ed. Scarboro and Geo. T. Mussington were chosen secretaries.
The annual sermon was preached by Rev. John Offer, Text, Romans 10:15. Topic "The Christian Ministry."
Bro. John Offer Custiss, Rev. Frank W. Overton from A. M. E. Z. Church; Bro. Moses Matthews, St. Luke Baptist Church.
Rev. John G. Mitchell, D.D., from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. S. P. Sheppard from Indiana Cenference.
Bro. John T. Schofield, Benj. J. Hargraves, Wm. B. Sample, John A. Boone, Lemuel Sears.
George Lee, James E. Parego, Wm. J. White, Paul W. Lee, Simon W. Watkins, John T. Schofield, John A. Brown.
Wm. B. Sample, Jordan Lemons.
Rev. Frank W. Overton from A. M. E. Z. Church took ordination vows as deacon.
Deacon Thomas Nichols from Washington Conference M. E. Church, Bedford City, brought credentials which were received. Forty members came with him to our church.
Rev. Daniel Maze, Jesse C. Young, Joseph Duckett, Jas. H. Garner, Charles M. Toney, Lemuel Sears. Moses Matthews
from Missionary Baptist Church took our elder's vows.
LOCATED--Rev. Wm. H. Carter and Job H. Brown.
SUPERANNUATES--Rev. P. M. Only, Rev. R. J. Gassaway.
WITHDRAWALS--Rev. S. M. G. Copeland.
DISCONTINUED--Rev. A. J. Kelley.
DEATH--Rev. James W. Throckmortin.
Revs. J. E. W. Moore, Elias H. Bolden, Geo. D. Jimmerson, Jacklin Strange.
Bros. Edward Holland,----Almond.
The Conference assembled with Bishop Alexander Washington Wayman, D. D., presiding, for the purpose of celebrating the seventy fifth anniversasy of the organization of the A. M. E. Church at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Several ministers spoke on the occasion, among them Rev. Jas. A. Handy, Financial Secretary, who furnished the Conference with valuable information concerning the organization of the church.
Dr. L. J. Coppin sang by request "The Church is moving on" The occasion was one of spirited and patriotic enjoyment and demonstration. Sunday services in the various churches were excellent.
Bishop Wayman preached a wonderful sermon at the M. E. Church (white). It was a grand effort and impressed the brethren with the fact that the colored brother knows how to preach.
Rev. Jas. A. Handy, A. M. E. Church Financial Secretary; Rev. L. J. Coppin, D. D., Editor, A. M. E. Church Review; Rev. C. S. Smith, D. D., Secretary Sunday School Union, Prof. John R. Hawkins, Principal Kittrell School.
Rev. E. H. Bolden, B. D. having been appointed some
years prior to this Conference, the historian, the following resolution was adopted:
Resolved--That we the members of the Virginia, Conference do pledge ourselves to take half the stock of $600 in publishing the "History of African Methodism in Virginia, its men and memories," with the understanding that we shall receive from the sale of the book one half of the benefits.
Resolved--That whatever proper plans may be arranged by the Rev. E. H. Bolden to raise the above mentioned $600 will have our hearty approval. Signed.
G. D. Jimmerson, Ed. Scarboro, R. H. Govans, Thaddeus Peeden and E. H. Bolden.
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. Strange.
Norfolk Station, Rev. John G. Mitchell, D. D.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. Jas. E. Blount.
East Norfolk Circuit, Revs. J. H. Thomas & J. O. Custis.
Sewell's Point Circuit, Rev. R. T. Timberlake.
Berkley Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Eastville Station, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Bridgetown Circuit, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Franktown Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Belle Haven Circuit, Rev. Wm. J. White.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. John H. Offer.
Onancock Circuit, Rev. Joseph Duckett
St. Luke Circuit, Rev. Jno. A. Boon.
Drummondtown Circuit, Rev. B. J. Hargraves.
Presiding Elder, Rev. G. B. Smith
Portsmouth Station, Rev. J. E. W. Moore,
Portsmouth Circuit, Rev. C. M. Toney.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. Geo. Williams
Centreville Circuit, Rev. A. J. Nixon.
Suffolk Station, Rev. Isaac Ewer
Newsome Circuit, Rev. P. W. Lee.
Hampton Station, Rev. G. D. Jimmerson.
Windsor Circuit, Rev. W. B. Sample.
Campbell Station Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Smithfield
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Mt. Moriah, Rev. Phelix Wood.
Newport News Mission, F. W. Overton.
Moonfield
Presiding Elder, Rev. Wm. H. Hunter.
Richmond Station, Rev. Geo. T. Watkins, D. D.
Berryville Circuit, Rev. Daniel Maze.
Summit Point Circuit, Rev. S. P. Shephard.
Winchester Station, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Staunton Station, Rev. J. H. Garner.
McDowell Circuit, Rev. Jas. E. Parago.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. George Lee.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. S. W. Watkins.
Farmville Station, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Taylor Mission
Manchester Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Manikin Circuit, Rev. A. A. Bailey.
Smithville Circuit.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. J. H. Scott
Presiding Elder, Rev. Edward Scarboro.
Danville Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden, B. D.
Martinsville Station, Rev. Geo. W. Taylor.
Traylorsville Circuit.
Chatham Station, Rev. Geo. T. Mussington.
Rocky Mt. Station, Rev. Robert Armstead.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemons.
Salem Station, Rev. Jno. E. Cooke.
Ronoake Station, Rev. Jer. Cuffey.
Blacksburg Station, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Pocahontas Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
Max Meadows Circuit, Rev. J. H. Briggs.
Wytheville Station, Rev. J. C. Williams. B. D.
Ivanhoe Circuit, Rev. J. C. Young.
Speedwell Circuit, Rev. Moses Matthews.
Danville Circuit, Rev. John T. Schofield.
Panello Circuit, Rev. Alex. Trayman.
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. Wm. H. Lee.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Grayson Circuit
The Twenty-sixth Session in 1892 was held in Winchester, April 14. This session convened with Bishop Abraham Grant D. D., of the Episcopal District, in the chair. Bishop J. P. Campbell, the presiding Bishop, having died during the year, the House of Bishops appointed Bishop Grant to superintend the work until the meeting of the General Conference in 1892.
Revs. E. H. Bolden, J. E. W. Moore and Geo. T. Mussington were elected secretaries.
General Morris Chester was unanimously elected as the stenographer of the Conference. The annual sermon was preached by Rev. E. H. Bolden, B. D. Text, Isa. 2:11, Ps. 72:8, and II Tim. 11:2. The sermon was full of thought and instructive, and all who heard were made to rejoice.
Gen. Morris Chester.
Rev. R. H. W. Leak of North Carolina Conference.
Rev. L. J. Coppin, Editor A. M. E. Review.
Rev. B. F. Watson, Kansas Conference.
Rev. Jas. A. Handy, D. D., Financial Secretary.
Rev. C. S. Smith, D. D., Secretary Sunday School Union.
The Missionary sermon was preached by Rev. John G. Mitchell, D. D. Text, Romans 1:16. It was well handled and delivered as with a tongue of fire.
Bros. John H. Robins, Elijah M. King, Wm. D. Naylor, J. C. George, J. T. Reid, A. I. Williams, J. W. Williams, Pinkney L. McDowell and Morgan Simms.
Rev. J. C. Duffin from Philadelphia Conference.
A. A. Bailey, J. C. George, J. T. Reid, W. D. Naylor obligated.
Rev. Wm. H. Lee
Rev. Morgan S. Simmons from Baptist Church was obligated.
SUPERANNUATE--Rev. Philip M. Only.
SUSPENDED--Rev. John A. Boon.
Bishop J. P. Campbell, D. D., LL. D., Revs. R. J. Gassaway and Rev. Phelix Wood.
DISCONTINUED--Bros. George W. Blount and George Rose.
Vacancies in the Trustee Board of Kittrell School were filled by the election of Revs. Ed. Scarboro, J. C. Williams and Geo. D. Jimmerson.
In the fifth day's morning session such was the religious and spiritual condition of the Conference, that Dr. Geo. T. Watkins arose and remarked that of all the annual Conferences he had attended this was the most spiritual and pleasant of them all. Two souls had been happily converted to God and scores had come forward to the altar to be prayed for. Rev. R. H. W. Leak of N. C. made a similar statement.
Several spoke at this service and paid high tribute to their dead heroes--Revs. Richard J. Gassaway, Felix Wood and Bishop J. P. Campbell, D. D., LL. D., who was the presiding Bishop of the Conference at the time of his death.
The Rt. Rev. Jabez Pitt Campbell, the son of Catharine and Anthony Campbell, was born Feb. 6, 1815, at Slaughter Neck, Sussex County, Del.
Number of members | 7623 |
Number of probationers | 108 |
Dollar money | $1,333.90 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. Strange.
Norfolk Station, Rev. J. G. Mitchell, D. D.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
East Norfolk Circuit, Rev. J. H. Robins.
West Norfolk Circuit, Rev. J. C. George.
Berkley Station, Rev. J. Cuffey.
Capeville, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Eastville, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Bridgetown Station, Rev. G. B. Smith.
Franktown Circuit, Rev. Joseph Duckett.
Belle Haven Circuit, Rev. Wm. J. White.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. John H. Offer.
Onancock Station, Rev. F. W. Overton.
St. Luke Station, Rev. P. W. Lee.
Drummondtown Station, Rev. B. J. Hargraves.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Geo. D. Jimmerson
Portsmouth Station, Rev. Elias H. Bolden, B. D.
Norfolk Circuit, Rev. C. M. Toney.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Centreville Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Suffolk Station, Rev. James H. Scott.
Hampton Station, Rev. J. C. Duffin.
Smithfield Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Newsome Circuit, Rev. J. B. Lewis.
Windsor Circuit, Rev. Wm. B. Sample.
Campbell Station, Rev. Jas. H. Garner.
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Mount Moriah Circuit, Rev. James E. Blount.
Newport News Mission, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Moonfield
Portsmouth Circuit, Rev. John O. Custis.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Wm. H. Hunter, D. D.
Richmond Station, Rev. Geo. T. Watkins.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. Daniel Maze.
Summit Pt. Circuit, Rev. S. P. Shephard.
Winchester Circuit, Rev. Isaac Ewer.
Staunton Station, Rev. A. J. Nixon.
McDowell Circuit, Rev. James E. Parago.
Greenville Circuit, Rev. George Lee.
Prospect Circuit, Rev. S. W. Watkins.
Farmville Station, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Taylors Mission, Rev. Jas. T. Reid.
Manchester Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter.
Manikin Circuit, Rev. A. A. Bailey.
Smithville Circuit, Rev. E. M. King.
Boydton, Rev. W. D. Naylor.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Edward Scarboro.
Danville Station, Rev. W. R. Gullins.
North Danville Circuit, Rev. John T. Schofield.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. Robt. Armstead.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. W. H. Lee.
Martinsville Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Taylor.
Traylorsville Circuit, Rev. R. T. Timberlake.
Rocky Mount Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. J. C. Young.
Roanoke Station and Bedford Mission, Rev. Geo. T. Mussington.
Salem Station, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Pocahontas Circuit, Rev. J. W. Williams.
Ivanhoe Circuit, Rev. Morgan S. Simmons.
China Branch Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
Max Meadows Circuit, Rev. J. H. Briggs.
Wytheville Station, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Panello Circuit, Rev. P. L. McDowell.
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. John E. Cooke.
Bluefield Circuit, Rev. A. I. Williams.
Transfer to Philadelphia Conference--Rev. J. E. W. Moore.
This session convened in the city of Portsmouth April 12, 1893, with Bishop W. J. Gaines, D. D., presiding.
Revs. I. L. Butt, James H. Scott and George T. Mussington were elected secretaries.
The annual sermon was preached by the Rev. Jas. H. Garner. Text, Isa. 52: 1-7. Subject--" The strength of the Christian Church." The sermon was well prepared and well delivered and several persons came forward to be prayed for.
Bishop Moses B. Salter, D. D., 7th. Episcopal District.
Rev. J. C. Embry, D. D., Manager Book concern.
Rev. L. J. Coppin, D. D., Editor A. M. E. Review.
Rev. G. H. Giles, P. E. North Carolina Conference.
Rev. W. D. W. Schureman, Baltimore Conference.
Rev. C. T. Shaffer, D. D. Sec. Church Extension Society.
Rev. J. W. Brockett, North Carolina Conference.
Rev. J. M. Armstrong, D. D., Financial Secretary.
Rev. C. S. Smith, D. D., Secretary S. S. Union.
Rev. Wm. D. Johnson, D. D.
Rev. A. L. Gaines, from North Georgia Conference.
Rev. Wm. R. Gullins from Macon Georgia Conference.
Rev. R. L. King.
Brethren C. A. Holmes, Edward F. Hardy, G. W. Harris, W. E. Walker, John R. West, and K. K. Richardson readmitted.
Robert T. Timberlake and Edward F. Hardy.
Elisha Overton, John Williams, Wilson J. Robinson, Wm. B. Holden.
Bishop John M. Brown, D. D.
Scholarships were granted to Bro. George W. Adams of Danville to Wilberforce University; to Mr. Lewis Morrison of Chatham to Kittrell Normal School.
Number of full members | 7876 |
Number of probationers | 777 |
Dollar money | $1516.35 |
Presiding Elder, Rev. J. C. Williams.
Norfolk Station, Rev. A. L. Gaines, B. D.
Berkley Station, Rev. Jeremiah Cuffey.
Princess Anne Circuit, Rev. J. H. Thomas.
Oceana Circuit, Rev. John Robins.
West Norfolk Circuit, Rev. R. T. Timberlake.
Central Norfolk Circuit, Rev. Wm. J. White.
Capeville Station, Rev. I. L. Butt.
Eastville Station, Rev. J. E. Cook.
Bridgetown Station, Rev. S. P. Shephard, A. M.
Franktown Station, Rev. Joseph Duckett.
Belle Haven Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Harris.
Savageville Circuit, Rev. J. H. Offer.
Onancock Station, Rev. F. W. Overton.
Only Mission, Rev. John R. West.
Daugherty Station, Rev. Paul W. Lee.
Drummondtown Station, Rev. Robt. Davis.
Presiding Elder, Rev. George D. Jimmerson.
Portsmouth Station, Rev. E. H. Bolden.
Berkley Circuit, Rev. C. M. Toney.
Deep Creek Circuit, Rev. Peter Sheppard.
Oak Grove Circuit, Rev. Thaddeus Peeden.
Suffolk Station, Rev. Geo. Williams.
Newsomes Circuit, Rev. John B. Lewis.
Hampton Station, Rev. J. C. Duffin.
Smithfield Station, Rev. J. C. Mackey.
Campbell Circuit, Rev. Jas. H. Garner.
Union Bethel Circuit, Rev. D. J. Beckett.
Mt. Moriah Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Pinkard.
Newport News Mission, Rev. R. H. Govans.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Ed. Scarboro.
Richmond Station, Rev. Wm. H. Hunter.
Summit Point Circuit Rev. Jas. E. Blount.
Winchester Station, Rev Isaac Ewer.
Staunton Station, Rev. A. J. Nixon.
McDowell Station, Rev. J. C. George.
Greenville Circuit, Rev Robt. Armstead.
Duffield Circuit, Rev. Daniel Maze.
Chesterfield Circuit, Rev. C. H. Hunter,
Farmville Circuit, Rev. R. L. King.
Prospect Circuit. Rev. S. W. Watkins.
Lynchburg Circuit, Rev. Jas. E. Parago.
Berryville Circuit, Rev. C. A. Holmes
Manikin Mission, Rev. A. A. Bailey.
Presiding Elder, Rev. Jacklin Strange.
Danville Station, Rev. Wm. R. Gullins.
N. Danville Circuit, Rev. E. F. Hardy.
Harmony Circuit, Rev. W. H. Gray.
Chatham Circuit, Rev. W. H. Lee.
Martinsville Circuit. Rev. B. J. Hargraves.
Traylorsville Circuit, Rev. Jesse C. Young.
Rocky Mt. Circuit, Rev. George Lee.
Panello Circuit, Rev. P. L. McDowell.
Cave Spring Circuit, Rev. Jordan Lemons,
Roanoke Station, Rev. Geo. T. Mussington.
Salem Station, Rev. J. B. Tynes.
Bedford City Mission, Rev. J. T. Schofield.
Blacksburg Circuit, Rev. Lemuel Sears.
Pocahontas Circuit, Rev. Moses Matthews.
Simmons Creek Circuit, Rev. J. W. Williams.
Max Meadows Circuit, Rev. Geo. W. Taylor.
Ivanhoe Circuit, Rev. Morgan Simmons.
China Branch Circuit, Rev. J. H. Briggs.
Smithville Circuit, Rev. E. M. King.
Boydton Circuit, Rev. W. D. Nailor.
Moriam and Rye Valley Mission, Rev. A. I. Williams.
Wytheville Station, Rev. T. R. Sinkfield.
The Twenty-eighth Session in 1894 was held in Roanoke, April 18. Rt Rev. W. J. Gaines, D. D., presided at this session of the Conference. Revs. E. H. Bolden, Ed. Scarboro and J. C. Duffin were elected secretaries.
Rev. C. T. Shaffer. D. D., Secretary Church Extension Society; Rev. L. J. Coppin, D. D., Editor A. M. E. Review; Rev. J. C. Embry, Manager Book Concern; Rev. J. C. Armstrong, Financial Secretary.
Rev. Thomas R. Sinkfield from Baltimore Conference.
Rev. Levan Thomas Watson
John Henry Robins, Frank Milton Redd.
John Henry Robins, Frank Milton Redd, Levan Thomas Watson, under missionary rule.
Benjamin Joseph Hargraves, Frank Warren Overton.
SUPERANNUATED--Phillip M. Only.
EXPELLED--R. L. King.
The Annual Sermon was preached by Rev. Geo. Williams. Text, Luke 18:1. The sermon reflected great credit upon the preacher.
Revs. E. Horace Bolden, B. D., Wm. H. Hunter, D. D. A. L. Gaines, B. D.
Revs. E. H. Bolden, B. D., Geo. D. Jimmerson, Jacklin Strange, Wm. R. Gullins.
Revs. A. L. Gaines, B. D., Geo. D. Jimmerson, J. Strange, Bros. Geo. W. Dawley, R. E. Jones, M. D.
Rev. J. C. Embry, D. D., Manager of the A. M. E. Book Concern brought before the Conference the financial embarrassment of the Concern and asked that the Conference render whatever aid possible that it might tide over its difficulties. The brethren responded with alacrity, led by father Peter Sheppard and gave substantial aid both in cash and by subscription.
Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne, senior bishop of the Church, was born February 24, 1817, Charleston S. C. died December, 1893, and was buried December 5, 1893, Baltimore, Md. His parents were London and Martha Payne, both of excellent character. At the age of nine Daniel was sent to school by the Minor Moralist Society. At twelve years he was put as an apprentice to the carpenter's trade, which was very much to his liking. In 1829 he opened a school to help his race. In 1835 he left the city of Charleston and remained for thirty years; he then returned a Bishop of the A. M. E. Church to which high office he was elected in 1852. Bishop Payne was a stalwart, intellectually, among his brethren and was regarded as the pioneer of education in the A. M. E. Church.