Unknown County GaArchives Church Records.....Georgia Baptists Rough Estimate Copyright Date 1874
************************************************
Copyright.  All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/gafiles.htm
************************************************

File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Joy Fisher http://www.genrecords.net/emailregistry/vols/00001.html#0000031 January 26, 2005, 10:42 am

ROUGH ESTIMATE OF DOMESTIC MISSIONARY LABOR, ETC., PERFORMED BY THOSE EMPLOYED
BY THE CONVENTION.

  The missionaries have performed about eighteen years' labor in destitute parts
of the State, i. e., their services have amounted to the labors of one man for
that time. This is a very low estimate—probably twenty-three or twenty-four
years would be nearer the truth. They established the first churches in the
bounds of the. Western Association, in Troup and contiguous counties, out of
which that body was formed in November, 1829. The principal missionaries in that
region were James Beeves and John Wood. In Cherokee country, too, the first
churches were gathered by brethren in the employ of the Convention, of whom
Jeremiah Reeves, Phillips and Pearson were prominent. Several of those in
Randolph, Lee, etc., in the Bethel Association, were gathered by the labors of
Travis Everett, another missionary.

  These evangelists have circulated bibles, religious books and tracts in great
numbers. Much gratuitous service on behalf of the, body has also been performed,
in order to remove prejudice and stir up the churches to practical godliness.
Many indigent ministers have been furnished with libraries, and others have
received from the Convention valuable additions to their religious reading.
Upwards of forty young ministers have been aided, more or less, in their
education by the charity of the body. And many thousands of dollars have been
sent far hence to heathen lands, to aid in sustaining a living ministry and
diffusing abroad the Word of Life. Without the means of ascertaining the precise
amount, it is believed that not less than $40,000 hare passed through the
treasury for the foreign mission cause alone.

  24. In regard to the session of this body for 1845, the author is dependent on
his memory, having failed to obtain a copy of the minutes. He remembers that it
was held at Forsyth; that it was largely attended by both delegates and
visitors, and that Sanders was moderator and Mell, clerk. Dr. Burrows, then of
Philadelphia, now of Richmond, was present, also Isaac McCoy, missionary to the
Indians, through whose efforts a deep interest was awakened in favor of that
long neglected and much injured race. It was agreed to continue correspondence
with the American Indian Mission Association, and Rev. V. E. Thornton was
appointed a messenger. This association was organized to remedy, in some
measure, the neglect with which those tribes which held slaves were being
treated by the Northern boards. Isaac McCoy was one of the most devoted and
useful missionaries of modern times. His whole soul seemed to be absorbed in the
welfare of the poor Indians.

  25. The Convention met in Macon in May, 1846. The introductory sermon was
preached by Rev. Josiah S. Law, and was a masterly effort. The same brother
subsequently read an "Essay on the Religious Instruction of the Colored Race
among us," for which a vote of thanks was tendered to him, and the essay ordered
to be published, as was also his sermon. The clerk was instructed "to print in
the minutes the names and post-offices of all the ministers of the Baptist
denomination in the State," occupying seven pages. This record was renewed
eighteen years in succession. The utility of such publication, made annually, is
not entirely apparent to the author. The executive committee reported that the
domestic missions under their supervision were in a prosperous condition: E.
Hedden in Cherokee Georgia, and David Ryals in Tattnall and Irwin counties. Said
committee had recommended to the Marion Board, James Huckins and W. M. Tryon as
missionaries in Texas, under the assurance that liberal contributions for their
support would be forthcoming from Georgia. They were appointed, and were among
the most useful men who ever preached in the "Lone Star State." Tryon soon fell
at his post. Huckins finally left Texas, and became pastor of a church in
Charleston, S. C., where he fell a martyr to the cause of the South, having died
suddenly from over-exertion in attending to our wounded and dying soldiers
during the late war. His opposition to Abolitionism drove him from New England,
of which he was a native, about thirty years ago. "Hearn Manual Labor School" is
noticed in the minutes of this session, but as it is designed to give a separate
history of that institution, the author will not allude to it further in the
history of the Convention.

  26. The session for 1847 was held in the city of Savannah. Introductory by
Rev. A. T. Holmes, and the education sermon by J. L. Reynolds, then residing in
Virginia. Dr. Shaver, of that State, now editor of the "Christian Index," was in
attendance, also E. Holman, of Alabama, and R. Furman, of South Carolina. The
Southern Baptist Publication Society was organized at this meeting. The project
originated with the author of this work. Other brethren joined him in a call for
the meeting in Savannah. Said meeting was attended by delegates from several
Southern States, and the society was constituted under favorable auspices. Its
headquarters were established at Charleston, S. C. Twenty-five or thirty
thousand dollars, first and last, were raised to sustain it, and a number of
valuable works (among which was "Soul Prosperity," by Rev. C. D. Mallary,) were
issued by it; and finally it died—why, or how, the author has never been able to
ascertain. Rev. A. M. Poindexter and Rev. J. P. Tustin were its general agents
for several years, and prosecuted their agency with great energy. They were
succeeded, if the writer's recollection is not at fault, by Mr. J. J. Toon,
recently proprietor of the "Christian Index." The society maintained a sort of
ephemeral existence until the commencement of the late war, when it seems to
have died intestate. What became of its assets, if it had any, is a mystery
which yet remains to be solved.

  The boards of the Southern Baptist Convention held a meeting during this
session, Rev. W. B. Johnson, D. D., of South Carolina, in the chair.

  The death of Rev. Humphrey Posey, James Lunsford and Joseph Ross were noticed
in appropriate terms.

  The body listened to an interesting verbal report from Rev. David Ryals, then
missionary in Appling county and regions adjacent, and adopted measures, at his
request, to secure a co-laborer with him in that destitute field. David Ryals
was a sound and impressive preacher, a devoted and highly successful missionary,
and one of the most godly and pure-minded men the writer has ever known. Sermons
delivered by Revs. A. T. Holmes and J. L. Reynolds were requested for publication.

  27. The Convention assembled in Griffin, May 5th, 1848. The introductory
sermon, by Rev. V. E. Thornton, from Eph. i. 22, "And hath put all things under
his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church," was a
discourse remarkable for its clearness, depth and power. As a gospel preacher—
particularly as a doctrinal preacher—the writer has never heard Thornton's equal.

  Hon. Thomas Stocks, who had been elected moderator the previous year in
Savannah, was re-elected to preside over the body, and was continued in the
chair until the session in Augusta, 1847, when he declined a re-election. Rev.
P. H. Mell was elected clerk, and C. M. Irvin assistant clerk. Correspondents
were present as follows: From Virginia, J. B. Taylor; from Alabama, R. Holman;
from South Carolina, M. T. Mendenhall and R. Furman, and A. D. Cohen, agent for
the American Society for Ameliorating the Condition of the Jews. Rev. Mr.
Parsons and Rev. Mr. Safford, Presbyterians, also took seats on the floor of the
Convention. It was the custom in those days to invite ministers of other
evangelical denominations to seats with the body.

  The Southern Baptist Publication Society again held a meeting during the
recess of the Convention.

  Rev. C. D. Mallary read a most interesting and powerful document on
Sunday-schools, which was afterwards published by the Southern Baptist
Publication Society.

  The Marietta church applied for aid in completing their meeting-house, which
was granted, “so soon as the state of the general purpose fund will warrant such
appropriation." The executive committee soon paid them one hundred dollars.

  .Rev. A. D. Cohen, a converted Jew, was invited to address the body in favor
of the American Society for Ameliorating the Condition of the Jews. Much
interest was manifested in regard to the "Christian Index," a report was made on
the subject, and the following resolution was adopted: "That the improvement and
increased circulation of the 'Christian Index' demand the immediate and
prayerful consideration of this convention." Under the direction of the
executive committee, domestic missions were being vigorously and successfully
prosecuted in different parts of the State. Rev. D. G. Daniell was at work in
Atlanta, preaching, and having a meeting-house built for the use of an infant
church of twenty members, recently constituted. Ryals was still sowing the good
seed of the kingdom in Telfair, Appling and adjacent counties, assisted by
Sauls. Duggan was doing likewise in Montgomery county and other portions of the
pine regions. Bibles and religious books were furnished to those missionaries,
which they scattered in their fields of labor. These were some of the means
employed by the Convention in those days for the promotion of the good cause in
Georgia. The blessing of God attended them, and glorious were the triumphs of
truth.

  28. The session for 1849 was held at Athens, commencing May 18th. Introductory
by Rev. C. D. Mallary. Stocks continued as moderator, and Mell as clerk.
Visiting ministers, who took seats with the Convention, J. S. Baker, B. Manly,
Jr., of Alabama, Drs. Hoyt and Church, of the Presbyterian church, Magill, of
the Congregational, and Boring and Key, of the Methodist. Correspondents were
present as follows: A. M. Poindexter, (then corresponding secretary of the
Southern Baptist Publication Society, from South Carolina Baptist Convention;
Mendenhall, Boyce, Cuthbert, Ball and others. Ball was announced as general
agent of the Richmond Board for Georgia.

  The trustees of Mercer University were instructed "to fix terms of
scholarship, single, perpetual and family." It was stated, on good authority,
"that out of the whole number of students graduated at Mercer, there is not one
who is not either engaged in some useful and honorable employment, or diligently
preparing to be thus engaged."

  Regret was expressed that the patronage of the Female Seminary at Penfield was
so limited.

  Rev. J. S. Baker had resigned the editorship of the "Christian Index," and B.
M. Sanders was conducting it temporarily. A select committee suggested its
removal "to Macon, Atlanta or elsewhere."

  Mr. J. E. Willett had been elected Professor of Natural Philosophy and
Chemistry in Mercer University. The trustees never made a better appointment.

  Peter Northen, one of the best of men, and a competent and faithful officer,
was re-elected treasurer of the convention. He has since gone to his reward in
heaven.

  29. Marietta was the place of meeting in 1850. The opening sermon was
delivered by Rev. Robert Fleming, and the education sermon on Sabbath, by W. H.
Stokes. The old officers continued.

  The Middle Cherokee Association and the Middle Association were received as
constituents.

  An application for membership from a missionary society formed in Griffin
Baptist church was at first rejected, but the rejection was reconsidered and the
subject referred to a special committee, (of which the wise and venerable
ex-Governor Wilson Lumpkin was chairman,) who recommended its reception, and
such a change in the constitution "as hereafter to exclude all auxiliary
societies from direct representation in this convention." The author doubts
seriously whether a money basis, upon which auxiliary societies obtain
representation, is entirely consistent with Baptist principles.

  "General Duff Green, by permission, made some remarks on the subject of
education, and closed with an offer to this body of twenty thousand dollars to
endow two institutions, a male and a female, at Dalton, provided others will
contribute twenty thousand dollars more." This proposal was referred to a
committee, of which Rev. J. S. Baker was chairman, who subsequently reported:
"The objects of this society, however, (the one represented by General Green,)
are so multifarious, and their accomplishment depends on so many contingencies,
that this Convention, at its present session, cannot act understandingly upon
them;" which report was adopted. The speech of General Green was characteristic,
and will not likely ever be forgotten by those who heard it.

  A legacy of eight hundred dollars, "for the support and promulgation of the
gospel," from the estate of John Turner, of Upson county, was secured to this
body, and paid over by Rev. A. T. Holmes, Jacob King and others.

  The committee on publications, of which T. U. Wilkes was chairman, after
recommending several publications, say: "Last of all, and above all, we
recommend the Book—the Bible—the composition of the Holy Ghost, the word of the
living and only true God, which is able to make us wise unto salvation, through
faith, which is in Christ Jesus."

  The trustees reported that they were still adding improvements to the
buildings and campus of Mercer University. Nothing further, out of the ordinary
routine of business, transpired at this session, if we may except a proposition
emanating from Griffin and advocated by Rev. T. A. Gaskill, to remove Mercer
University to that city, which elicited much warm discussion, and which was
rejected.

  30. According to appointment, the Convention assembled at Perry, Houston
county, May 23d, 1851. The introductory sermon by N. M. Crawford, and that on
ministerial education by J. E. Dawson.

  A communication from the Georgia Association was received, requesting the
Convention "to recommend a proper catechism for the religious instruction of our
families." Referred to a special committee, who reported a recommendation that a
committee be appointed to suggest some work of the kind which our people may be
willing to adopt. W. H. Stokes was appointed chairman of that committee.

  From the report of the special committee on the report of the trustees of
Mercer University, the following sentence is extracted: "The official term of
the board of trustees expiring with this session, your committee cannot forbear
to express their unfeigned admiration on the review of their faithful discharge
of the obligations, their prudent management of the interests, and their
enlightened and noble designings of the enterprise committed to their care."
This is only one of many similar records made by the Convention concerning not
only the board of trustees, but also the executive committee.

  Reports on missions, Sunday-schools, etc., were all encouraging, and the
following resolution, offered by Rev. Joseph Polhill, on the subject of schools,
was adopted: "That it is cause of rejoicing to us that so many seminaries, for
the education of males and females, have sprung into existence and are sustained
under Baptist influence; that these seminaries are important agencies for the
advancement of the Baptist cause and the progress of truth; that in view of
these facts, our brethren be affectionately but earnestly requested to educate
their children at these institutions."

  Mr. Dawson's sermon on education, preached on Sunday, was requested for
publication.

  J. H. Campbell declined re-election as a trustee of Mercer University, and at
his instance Mr. James Clark, of Lumpkin, was appointed in his place.

  The executive committee reported having appointed Rev. J. F. Dagg as editor of
the "Christian Index," and that a "full, complete and final settlement" had been
effected with Rev. J. S. Baker, "of all matters relating to his former interest
in the paper."

  31. The introductory sermon to the session at Columbus in 1852, was preached
by Rev. S. C.Hillyer, and the education sermon on Sabbath by S. Landrum. A copy
of the latter was requested for publication. The old officers were continued.

  The venerable William C. Buck, of Kentucky, corresponding secretary of the
Bible Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, was in attendance, and addressed
the Convention. A large number of delegates and correspondents, besides many
visitors male and female, were also present.

  The order of business was suspended on Saturday, at noon, "to afford the Rev.
S. Bonhomme, agent of the American Society, for Ameliorating the Condition of
the Jews, an opportunity to address the Convention."

  A committee was appointed at Lagrange, who were expected to "exercise a
general supervision of the Bible interest" in Georgia, of which James Culberson
was chairman.

  A large and spirited meeting was held at night in favor of Mercer University,
addresses made by T. J. Barney, Hillyer, Dawson and Dr. Dagg, and the following
resolutions adopted: "That the ample endowment of Mercer University is a, matter
of gratitude to Almighty God, and encouragement to our denomination," and "That
this Convention set-apart a day of concerted prayer for more young men who may
become qualified for the labors of the ministry."

  The death of the faithful Domestic Missionary of the pine region, David Ryals,
was recorded with lamentations.

  The report on education expresses the gratitude of the Convention for the
educational advantages afforded by Mercer University. But it does not stop
there; it records the gratification of the members that seminaries are springing
up in all parts of the State for the improvement of both males and females, and
that other denominations are vieing with the Baptists in promoting this good
work. They rejoice also, in the means of education afforded by the State to the
deaf and dumb, as well as to the blind.

  The subject of removing the Christian Index from Penfield to some larger town
was again considered, without arriving at any definite conclusion.

  One hundred and forty students had been admitted into Mercer University within
the collegiate year.

  It was decided that henceforth there shall not be a sermon on education
preached annually as heretofore.

  32. At Atlanta, on the 22d of April, 1853, the introductory sermon to the
thirty-second session of the Georgia Baptist Convention, was delivered by Rev.
B. F. Tharp.

  A large number of visiting ministers were present, among whom were T. J.
Bowen, J. S. Dennard and W. H. Clark, missionaries under appointment to Africa.
Bowen had recently returned from that country, having spent several years there;
but was intending to sail again soon, accompanied by Dennard and Clark. A
meeting was held on Sunday night, which was largely attended, when addresses
were delivered by said missionaries. Bowen's address especially excited deep
interest, as he spoke from experience.

  The delegates to the Southern Baptist Convention, soon to assemble, were
requested to bring the subject of establishing a mission or missions in Burmah,
to the attention of that body.

  It was suggested by the executive committee, that the female Academy at
Penfield, with its buildings, apparatus, etc., be transferred to the citizens of
the village, it being a local institution, which suggestion was approved, and it
was accordingly so transferred. It had not been, on the whole, a flourishing
school, and the management of it had given the Convention a good deal of trouble.

  Mercer University was reported to be highly prosperous, the number of students
being greater than at any former period.

  At the instance of the Bible Board at Lagrange, the locality of that Board was
changed to Savannah, and a new Board appointed, of which Rev. J. P. Tustin was
chairman.

  It was agreed to memorialize Congress "in favor of religious toleration of
citizens of the United States all over the world," and a committee appointed for
this purpose, of which Rev. S. Landrum was chairman.

  Donations of books were made to several ministers, among whom was A. T.
Spalding. This had been a practice of the body for many years, and many of our
ministers were greatly improved in this way.

  A Sunday-school convention was held in connection with this session, and the
report of its committee published in the minutes.

  It was ordered that the constitution of this body, as amended in 1848, be
published with the minutes.

  33. The body assembled at Washington, Wilkes county, in. April, 1854. The
introductory discourse was delivered by Rev. J. P. Tustin, and the old officers
re-elected.

  Revs. Samuel Henderson and Joseph Walker of Alabama, J. B. Jeter, R. B. C.
Howell, and J. B. Taylor of Virginia, and J. G. Binney, late missionary to
Burmah, were in attendance.

  On Sabbath, Revs. Howell, Mallary and Binney preached in the Baptist church,
and Jeter, Campbell and Henderson in the Methodist. Dr. Mallary's sermon,
preached by invitation, was commemorative of Rev. B. M. Sanders, recently
deceased, and was subsequently published in book form. Rev. N. M. Crawford
preached to the colored congregation.

  The constitution was amended so as to allow each association, four delegates,
without reference to its numbers, and to an "additional delegate for every five
hundred members; provided the number of delegates for any one association shall
never exceed fifteen." This is the numerical basis of representation. The
constitution already provided for the representation .of auxiliary societies
upon a money basis—each society, paying annually fifty dollars, being entitled
to one delegate, and to an additional delegate for every hundred dollars;
provided that such societies shall never have more than three delegates. The
constitution thus amended, remains substantially the same to this day.

  The Bible Board at Savannah, had collected about three thousand dollars, had
nine colporteurs employed, and were vigorusly prosecuting their work.

  Ten beneficiaries were being educated, and nine preachers had received
donations of books.

  34. The place of meeting, April 20th, 1855, was Newnan, Coweta county. H. H.
Tucker preached the opening sermon from Psalms, cxxii. 1: "I was glad when they
said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord," which was a most
appropriate and effective effort. The old custom of having an annual sermon on
ministerial education was revised, and has been kept up since.

  Among the visiting ministers were J. M. Chiles, of South Carolina; G. L.
Sandidge, J. H. Eaton, and J. R. Graves, of Tennessee; A. M. Poindexter, of
Virginia; S. Henderson and J. T. Tichenor, of Alabama; J. P. Tustin, of
Charleston, S. C.; A. C. Dayton, of Nashville; and H. F. Buckner, missionary to
the Indians, and A. D. Phillips, soon to sail for Africa; also, A. E. Stevens,
from Burmah. On Saturday forenoon the regular order was suspended, and H. F.
Buckner delivered one of the most impressive and telling speeches ever made in
the Georgia Baptist Convention, upon which a collection was taken up for Indian
missions, amounting to $1,139 00, and resolutions passed encouraging the
Southern Baptist .Convention to accept the charge of those missions should the
transfer be proposed by the Indian Mission Association. This transfer was
effected and said association was dissolved.

  Quite a number of ministers had died during the year: Joshua S. Callaway,
Isaac R. Eskew, Wyche Jackson, Samuel Cannon, Evans Pearsons, Henry Garland, W.
W. Arnold, and Henry Stevens.

  A package of books was donated by Dr. Adiel Sherwood, for which the thanks of
the body were voted him.

  Mercer University was reported "in a flourishing condition." Dr. Dagg had
resigned the presidency, and Rev. N. M. Crawford had accepted the position.

  35. The associations and societies composing the Convention were represented
in Savannah, April, 1856, by one hundred and fifty-six delegates. Introductory
by Rev. E. B. Teague, from Psalms, li. 12, 13.

  Hon. Thomas Stocks was prevailed upon to act as moderator, and was re-elected.
"The former clerk having declined a re-election, J. F. Dagg was chosen clerk,
and William C. Wilkes assistant clerk."

  " On motion of brother Warren: Resolved, That the sincere thanks of the
Convention are hereby tendered to brethren P. H. Mell and C. M. Irvin for the
very faithful and efficient manner in which they have served this body for
eleven years as its clerks."

  Rev. P. W. Samson, now President of the Columbian College, D. C., was present
as a correspondent from the Maryland Union Association.

  For more than a year preceding this session, the public mind of the
denomination had been unusually disturbed on account of the affairs of Mercer
University. At the instance of the trustees, Dr. Dagg had resigned the
presidency, and Rev. N. M. Crawford had been elected in his place and had
accepted. Professor Mell and other friends of Dr. Dagg had shown great
dissatisfaction on the occasion, and he and Professor Hillyer, (a son-in-law of
Dr. Dagg,) had resigned. The trustees had labored to quiet these dissensions,
and had apparently been successful; but they soon broke out again and became
more serious than ever. Finally, the only course left to the trustees, as they
believed, was to dismiss Professor Mell, which they did by giving him, under an
existing rule, six months' notice; whereupon, with the consent of the board, he
retired at once from the institution, and very soon thereafter published and
circulated a pamphlet styled "An Exposition of Recent Events in Mercer
University," arraigning the Board at the bar of public opinion. To this pamphlet
neither the Board nor any member thereof had made any reply.

  It was under this unhappy state of affairs that the Convention met in Savannah
in April, 1856. The following extracts from the minutes show the action of the
body on the subject:

  "Read the report of the trustees of Mercer University, and, on motion of
brother Gaskill, adopted the following resolution: ‘Resolved, That the report of
the Board of Trustees be referred to a select committee of seven, and that said
committee be requested to examine the proceedings of the Board of Trustees
concerning their dealings with brother Mell, seeking all the information they
can get from both parties.’

  "In accordance with this resolution, the mpderator announced the following
committee: Brethren M. A. Cooper, R. L. McWhorter, V. A. Gaskill, J. S. Baker,
D. W. Lewis, and H. C. Hornaday.

  "Brother Baker having resigned his place on the committee to whom was referred
the report of the Board of Trustees, the moderator appointed brother D. A. Vason
to fill the vacancy.

  "The committee to whom was referred the report of the Board of Trustees,
reported on Monday afternoon. During the reading of the report the convention
adjourned until eight o'clock." At the appointed hour, "Resumed the reading of
the report of the committee to whom was referred the report of the Board of
Trustees, which was adopted," and is as follows:

"REPORT ON THE REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES.

  " The committee to whom was referred the consideration of the report of the
trustees of Mercer University, report that they have endeavored to discharge the
duties assigned, as indicated by the resolution of their appointment, which
requires them 'to examine the proceedings of the Board of Trustees concerning
their dealings with brother Mell, seeking all the light and information they can
get from, both parties.' Your committee deemed it most advisable to invite from
Rev. P. H. Mell and the trustees respectively, a full exposition of the facts
deemed by them pertinent and material to the subject submitted to them, and to
require of each to submit what he had to present in writing, whether it
consisted of testimony or ex parte statements. After careful examination of all
the information afforded by the parties, your committee find the facts to be as
follows, to-wit: beginning in July, 1854, on Monday of Commencement week,
President Dagg, at Mercer University, was found feeble and infirm, unable to
meet with the Board of Trustees. He expressed his willingness to retire from the
presidency, and take a subordinate position. The Board informally decided on
this as desirable, and informed President Dagg of their views. His resignation
was tendered and accepted. The resignation of Dr. Dagg is ordered to be
published with the reasons of its acceptance by the Board, The reasons stated in
the notice to be published, as the grounds of acceptance are the 'failing health
and want of strength' of Dr. Dagg.

  "He objects to the reason as stated, as to the grounds of acceptance. On the
7th of August, Dr. Dagg, by letter, calls on the faculty to testify to the fact
that 'failing health and want of strength' are untruly stated as reasons stated
in the proposed notice of resignation. On the same day, three of the professors,
to-wit: Mell, Sanford and Willet, responded and testified as desired by Dr.
Dagg. Professor Willet dissenting to some particulars.

  "Professor Crawford declines to unite with these professors in this
testimonial, assigning as his reasons, by letter, dated 14th August, addressed
to Professors Mell, Sanford and Willet, in reply to Professor Mell, inclosing
the letter of Dr. Dagg and the reply of the three professors, requesting the
signature of Professor Crawford to the reply.

  "On the 13th December, 1854, the trustees met at Penfield. Dr. Dagg being
present, presented to the Board his letter to the faculty, and the reply of
Professors Willet, Sanford and Mell. A trustee asks if all the faculty had
signed it. Another trustee replies that one member of the faculty had not, but
had declined doing so, giving his reasons in a letter to the other members of
the faculty. As this letter had not been produced with the testimony, he had a
copy of it, which was at the service the trustees. Dr. Dagg asked if that letter
was addressed to the board? The reply was, 'it is not.' A trustee asks, has
anyone authority for presenting it to the Board? A trustee replies that he has
authority whenever he deemed it necessary to explain the course of its author.
He then deemed it necessary. It was then produced and read. It is the reply of
Dr. Crawford, setting forth his reasons for not signing the testimonial sought
by Dr. Dagg of the faculty.

  "The trustees pass resolutions in favor of Dr. Dagg, explanatory and
commendatory. Dr. Dagg expresses himself entirely satisfied.

  "The trustees elect Dr. N. M. Crawford President of the Mercer University;
Professors Mell and Crawford being the only names voted for.

  "Dr. Crawford accepts the office, and at the suggestion of the committee
notifying him of his election, has an interview with Dr. Dagg, which, as far as
conducted, is by Dr. Dagg declared satisfactory.

  "Dr. Dagg agrees to continue as professor of theology until July thereafter.

  "At commencement in July, 1855, it is found that there had been a want of
co-operation between Professor Mell and President Crawford.

  "On the 23d of July, 1855, at Penfield, Dr. Dagg resigned the professorship of
theology.

  "Professor Mell resigned his professorship of languages at this time also,
giving as his reasons his dissatisfaction with Dr. Crawford as the president. It
is accepted. At this time Professor S. G. Hillyer also tendered his resignation,
and it is accepted.

  "On Tuesday following the trustees reconsidered their acceptance of the
resignation of Professors Mell and Hillyer, and appointed a committee to strive
for a reconciliation, of the faculty.

" On this day President Crawford also tendered his resignation as president.
This was not acted on, but left to wait the action of the committee.

  "On Wednesday thereafter, the committee reported that a reconciliation had
been effected, so as to produce co-operation in the faculty.

  "Thereupon President Crawford, Professors Mell and Hillyer were, by the
trustees, requested to withdraw their resignations, and Dr. Dagg requested to
continue as professor of theology.

  "The resignations are withdrawn, and Dr. Dagg agrees to serve as professor of
theology, if such services are needed. The election of Dr. Crawford as president
is reaffirmed by unanimous resolution of the Board of Trustees, concurring in
the choice and tendering him their cordial support.

  "The president and faculty now meet with the board, and evince a purpose to
co-operate in their business.

  "On the 25th of August, 1855, Dr. Crawford having heard of statements as
coming from Professor Mell, derogatory to him officially and personally,
addressed him a note repeating what he had heard, and asking Professor Mell how
far it was true. On the 4th September, 1855, Professor Mell replied at length,
waiving a direct or categorical answer—but reiterating the charges made by him
against Dr. Crawford, numerically three, anterior to the reconciliation before
the trustees in July previous, with an apparent purpose to reaffirm those
charges, and a labored effort then to urge and establish them.

  "On the 14th of September, Dr. Crawford replied to Professor Mell's letter,
giving his views and opinions at length. On the 17th September, 1855, Professor
Mell acknowledges the receipt of Dr. Crawford's letter of the 14th, only to
satisfy the demands of courtesy; declines further discussion, and closes by
saying that if from any cause Dr. Crawford finds himself annoyed by the present
aspect of things, it is entirely out of his power to relieve him.

  "On the 18th of September, 1855, Dr. Crawford tendered his resignation to the
trustees, as president, advising them of a want of harmony in the faculty,
stating the impossibility of co-operation, because of the hostility of the
professor of languages to the president.

  "On this occasion Dr. Crawford submitted to the Board, the correspondence
between Professor Mell and himself, to-wit; the four letters dated 25th August,
4th September, 14th September and 17th September, 1855.

  "On the 23d October, 1855, the trustees met at Penfield, and the resignation
of Dr. Crawford was submitted to them, with the correspondence above specified.
By a committee appointed for that purpose by the trustees, Dr. Crawford and
Professor Mell were invited to add to the statements contained in their
correspondence, anything they might offer, and for this to come before the
trustees. They respectively appeared, and presented what they had to offer.

  "After consideration the trustees resolved to retain Dr. Crawford, and
dispense with the services, as professor, of brother Mell, and so advised them.

  "Brother Mell felt aggrieved, and prepared, published and circulated his
'Exposition of Recent Events,' setting forth a complaint against the trustees of
injuring him, wronging him in this, that they condemned him without a hearing,
and refused to submit their charges against him, or to confront him by his
witnesses.

   "From the foregoing facts, your committee are of opinion that the proceedings
of the Board of Trustees, in their dealings with brother Mell, have been
prompted by a desire faithfully to administer the trust confided to them; that
in the course of administration, they were under the painful necessity of
re-organizing the faculty of the College under circumstances of great trial,
arising from the want of harmony and co-operation in the faculty. The difficulty
and magnitude of these trials arose mainly from the fact that the schism existed
between the most worthy brethren and eminent professors, making it indispensable
in either alternative to set aside one or more professors, who, under other
circumstances, they might and would have gladly retained.

  "As regards the wrong and injury complained of by brother Mell, your committee
are of opinion: 1st. That Professor Mell was not removed on account of charges
preferred—not as the result of a trial and conviction for malfeasance or
non-feasance— acts committed or duties neglected—but simply for and on account
of the fact, that there was not and could not obtain a co-operation between him
and President Crawford, whom the trustees deemed it best to retain; in doing
which they have borne testimonial to the eminent services and the distinguished
ability of Professor Mell, and their confidence in him as a Christian minister.
Your committee think it indispensable to a successful administration of the
trust reposed, that the trustees should exercise the power of removal, with or
without a trial, or charges preferred. The committee find that such has been the
course in brother Mell's ease, and that the result ought not to disparage his
character as a professor and instructor, and may well have been done without
imputation on his high character as a Christian and a minister of the gospel.

                                 MARK A. COOPER, Chairman,"

  When the trustees took action on the dismissal of Professor Mell, "the members
of the Board present, were brethren Thos. Stocks, J. H. Campbell, V. R.
Thornton, S. Landrum, H. Bunn, B. T. Tharp, Juriah Harris, James Thomas, D. E.
Butler, T. J. Burney and 0. L. Battle—-just a quorum. Rev. E. W. Warren came
into town after a decision was arrived at." They were unanimous in that action.
Whether it was wise on the part of the Board in remaining silent as long as they
did, or on that of the Convention in calling them to account, are questions
which others must decide. The author being an interested party, may not be
qualified to decide them impartially. They are questions, however, which
deserve, and will doubtless attract the attention of the student of history.

  Rev. Willard Preston, D. D., pastor of the Independent Presbyterian church in
this city, having died suddenly since the session commenced, it was resolved to
regulate the sittings of the Convention so as to allow the members an
opportunity to attend his funeral; and expressions of sympathy for his afflicted
family were entered on the records.

  It was resolved to remove the "Christian Index" from Penfield to some one of
the principal cities of the State, and to place the management of it for the
future, in the hands of a committee, to be styled "The Index Committee." The
executive committee was instructed to determine the location, and appoint said
committe, which they subsequently did by removing it to Macon.

  The Savannah Baptist Publication Society were authorized to turn over their
business and assets to the Southern Baptist Publication Society.

  36. The session of 1857 was at Augusta, commencing the 24th of April. A large
delegation and many visitors were present.

  Hon. Thos. Stocks declined a re-election, and Rev. P. H. Mell, D. D., was
elected moderator. .Resolutions were adopted expressive of the high esteem in
which Mr. Stocks was held by the body as a presiding officer and as a Christian
gentleman. The clerks of last year were re-elected.

  Rev. P. H. Mell preached the introductory, and Rev. William Williams the
missionary sermon.

  Mercer University was reported "in a prosperous condition," and the following
resolution adopted: "That the thanks of this Convention be tendered the late
Board of Trustees of Mercer University for the efficiency and fidelity with
which they have discharged their official duties." The old Board, especially the
acting members, were all re-elected.

  An earnest and persistent effort was made to remove the University from
Penfield, which failed. Hon. Mark A. Cooper in favor of, and Hon. N. G. Foster
against removal, were conspicuous among the debaters. They both made powerful
speeches, but Foster's side got the most votes. The current on this subject will
no doubt change some day.

  37. The thirty-seventh anniversary was held at Americus, in connection with
the fourth Sabbath in April, 1858. The venerable Adiel Sherwood, D. D., preached
the opening sermon, from Acts v. 41. The education sermon was preached on
Sabbath by Rev. J. H. DeVotie, pastor at Columbus.

  Among the prominent brethren present were S. Henderson, of Alabama, J. E.
Dawson, William Williams, and Joseph E. Brown, then Governor of the State, who
was a delegate from the Central Association.

  The "Christian Index" paper had "paid into the treasury of the Convention the
sum of five hundred dollars for benevolent purposes."

  The income of Mercer University for the year amounted in the aggregate to
$13,444 71, and the amount reported by the finance committee sent up for the
various objects of the Convention, was $14,602 40.

  The trustees of Mercer University held a meeting, and once more elected Rev.
N. M. Crawford, D. D., as its president, which position he accepted.

  The utmost harmony and good will prevailed throughout the session, and much
important business was transacted with dispatch.

  [During this meeting the author came near losing his life by a fall,
occasioned by an attack of vertigo, brought on by over-exertion, mental and
physical, from the effects of which he has not recovered to this day, and
probably never will.]

  38. The ensuing session, 1859, was held at Columbus, in April. The
introductory, a characteristic and memorable discourse, was preached by that man
of God, C. D. Mallary, from 1 John v. 21—"Little children, keep yourselves from
idols." The officers of last year were re-elected.

  "On motion of brother Landrum, adopted the following preamble and resolution:

  "WHEREAS, Individuals are contributing funds to sustain brother J. H. Campbell
as an evangelist in Georgia for one year; and whereas, we are pleased with the
movement, therefore

  "Resolved, That we cheerfully commend brother Campbell to the confidence and
kind regards of the brethren generally."

  Contributions were made for the Tallahassee and Brunswick churches.

  Rev. J. E. Ryerson, pastor at Augusta, preached the educational sermon on Sunday.

  Twelve young ministers were receiving aid from the education fund, and there
was still room for more.

  During the preceding Conventional year, there had been received by the
Domestic Mission Board for domestic and Indian missions, $38,834 37. The
contributions for foreign missions had also been liberal, and the missionaries
were encouraged in their work.

  The body expressed their regret that Rev. Joseph Walker had resigned the
editorship of the "Christian Index." The paper was prosperous, and was paying a
handsome profit.

  The Southern Baptist Publication Society and its publications were noticed in
commendatory terms.

  39. The anniversary for 1860 was held in Macon, in April. The opening sermon
by Rev. N. M. Crawford, D. D. The educational sermon, on Sabbath, was preached
by Rev. H. A. Tupper, pastor at Washington, Wilkes county.

  The body received an invitation to attend an exhibition of the pupils of the
Georgia Asylum for the Blind, which was accepted.

  The question of selling the "Christian Index " paper had excited more or less
interest for years. At this session such a step was strongly recommended by the
following committee: Mallary, Sherwood, Burney, Stocks, William Cooper, Irwin,
and L. W. Stephens. This recommendation produced an animated discussion; but,
"on motion of brother Campbell, the whole subject of the 'Index' was laid on the
table" for the balance of the session.

  The question of continuing correspondence with the General Association of
Middle Tennessee and Northern Alabama, also excited considerable interest and
elicited some warm debate. This subject was also laid on the table, and
correspondents were not appointed, and have not been since. Among the more
prominent disputants on this subject were Rev. Mr. Hillsman, of Tennessee, and
Hon. Lott Warren, of Georgia.

  Mercer University had been visited the preceding fall by a gracious and
remarkable outpouring of God's Spirit, and many of the students had been
converted to Christ. The institution was "in a condition of unusual prosperity.”
This was also true of foreign and domestic missions, Sabbath-schools, etc.

  The trustees of Mercer University and the executive committee are again
mentioned in most commendatory terms by the Convention.

  40. The Convention met with the Baptist Church, at Athens, April 26th, 1861,
and held its fortieth session. Rev. E. W. Warren preached the introductory
discourse, and that on ministerial education, on Sabbath, was delivered by Rev.
S. G. Daniel.

  Mrs. Jane Posey, relict of the late Rev. Humphrey Posey, had bequeathed to
Mercer University, for ministerial education, one hundred shares of the stock of
the Atlanta and West Point Railroad, (understood to be worth ten thousand
dollars,) which was designated as the "Jane Posey Fund," and her likeness was
ordered to ho secured and deposited with others in the University. The fund is
to be permanent, the interest only to be used. This bequest was subsequently
paid in full. The University had "never been so prosperous as during the last
two years."

  On motion of Rev. N. M. Crawford, a committee of five was appointed "to report
resolutions appropriate to the condition, of the country:"   Crawford, Junius
Hillyer, Stocks, Sisk, and Stockton. The report (which was unanimously adopted,)
asserts "that while this Convention disclaims all authority, whether
ecclesiastical or civil," yet that the members, as citizens, "approve, indorse,
and (will) support the Government of the Confederate States of America;" the
union of all the people of the South is urged in defense of the common cause;
devout thankfulness to God is expressed for the signal favor with which he had
blessed our arms and our policy; and the first and second days of June following
were appointed for fasting and prayer, "that God will deliver us from all the
power of our enemies and restore peace to our country." Similar action to this
was taken the following year, and religious bodies generally throughout the
South expressed themselves in sympathy with the Confederate Government. Yet
political differences were not then made, and never have been made, a test of
fellowship among us.

  Under resolutions offered by Mr. T. J. Burney, the "Index " committee was
instructed "to effect a sale of the 'Index' with as little delay as possible,
including all the outstanding dues and every other appendage connected with it;
provided, that a suitable purchaser can be found who will pay a fair price and
continue its publication in Georgia;" and that "the proceeds of the paper be
invested in a permanent fund, to be called the 'Index Fund,' the interest of
which shall be used for missionary purposes, or aid in defraying the incidental
expenses of this body." These resolutions were not adopted unanimously. "A
suitable purchaser" was found in the person of Rev. Samuel Boykin, and the sale
of the paper was effected "with as little delay as possible," though, for some
reason, the "Index" committe never reported their action to the Convention. It
is presumed they did not feel called upon to do so. The paper might have been
sold for more than it brought.

  Rev. A. B. Cabaniss, missionary to China, and Rev. George Bushyhead, a
Cherokee Indian, of North Carolina, were present at this session.

  The death of Rev. Kelly Lowe, colored minister, of Augusta, was noticed in
affectionate terms.

  41. LaGrange, Troup county, was the place of meeting in 1862. Rev. J. H.
DeVotie preached the introductory, and Rev. N. M. Crawford the annual sermon on
education.

  An hour each morning was spent in prayer for the country. The news of the fall
of New Orleans was received during this session.

  At the suggestion of the auditing committee, a note on the late J. E. Dawson
of one hundred and sixty odd dollars, supposed to have been the balance of an
old subscription, was ordered to be turned over to his widow.

  A committee of five was appointed to memorialize the Confederate Government in
favor of a more strict observance of the Sabbath by those in its employ, and the
moderator was requested to prepare a tract on this subject for circulation among
our soldiers.

  On Saturdy night a missionary mass meeting was held. Addresses were delivered
by Revs. Hornady, DeVotie and Sumner, and a collection was taken amounting to
about six hundred dollars.

  Resolutions were adopted approbatory of J. H. Campbell as army evangelist, and
recommending his mission to the countenance and support of the denomination.

  Correspondence has been maintained for years with the Alabama, South Carolina
and Cherokee (Georgia) Baptist Conventions, and occasionally with kindred bodies
of other States. It is deemed unnecessary to repeat a notice of this fact from
year to year.

  The Georgia Bible Board and Colporteur Society held a meeting in connection
with this session.

42. The forty-second session of the Convention assembled at Griffin, April 24th,
1863. Rev. W. T. Brantly, D. D., of Atlanta, preached the opening sermon, from
Psalm cvii. 7, "And he led them, forth by the right way, that they might go to a
city of habitation." The attention of the large congregation was most profound,
and it is not often that the effect produced is more favorable.

  Revs. A. E. Dickinson and William Huff, of Virginia, and Rev. M. T. Sumner, of
Alabama, were in attendance. A missionary mass meeting was held Saturday night
in favor of domestic and foreign missions, which was addressed by Revs.
Dickinson and Cohen, Governor Joseph E. Brown and Colonel Peeples, and a
collection was taken up amounting to $480 00. The collections on Sabbath
amounted to $649 00.

  On motion of J. H. Campbell, a committee was appointed “to consider the
propriety of taking some steps towards the education of the indigent orphans of
our soldiers who have died, or may die during the present war." The committee
were J. H. Campbell, M. J. Wellborn, Thos. Stocks, N. M. Crawford and B. F.
Tharp. They memorialized the State Legislature, and issued an address to the
people of the other Confederate States on the subject. It is believed the effort
has accomplished much good. Five hundred dollars of the funds designated for
army missions was appropriated to J. H. Campbell, evangelist in the Confederate
army.

  "The parting scene was most affecting, and the farewell cordial and
affectionate. The meeting was unusually interesting, and the business transacted
in a most fraternal spirit."

  43. The Convention met in her forty-third anniversary at Atlanta, in April,
1864. The moderator, Rev. P. H. Mell, D. D., preached the opening sermon, from
Acts xxi. 14, "The will of the Lord be done." The meeting was largely attended,
both by delegates and visitors. Among the latter were Rev. William C. Buck, late
of Kentucky, and Hon. J. L. M. Curry, of Alabama. The speeches of the latter
gentleman were among the most eloquent and powerful ever delivered in presence
of this Convention.

  The subject of establishing an asylum for the orphans of Confederate soldiers
(introduced by Rev. W. L. Mansfield,) excited deep interest, and occupied much
of the time of the session. As it was doubted by some whether such an object
came legitimately within the sphere of the operations of this body, an
opportunity was allowed to form an organization for this special purpose, and
the organization was accordingly formed and a large amount pledged for its support.

  On Saturday night a mass meeting was held, which was addressed by Hon. J. L.
M. Curry, in favor of army missions, and $2,105 63 were contributed for that
purpose.

  Seven hundred and five dollars were appropriated to J. H. Campbell, army
evangelist.

  A letter from General John B. Gordon was received and read, urging the
appointment of ministers to preach the gospel to the army in Virginia. Sunday
night was devoted to a meeting of prayer for the country. Thus the orphans of
soldiers, the army, the country—these subjects engrossed the attention, and
absorbed the feelings of all present. The army, under General Joseph E.
Johnston, were lying at and around Dalton. Several ministers, and other brethren
who had been laboring in that army as missionaries and colportuers, were in
attendance at Atlanta. Colonel Edwards, a Georgian, a young man of noble person
and mein, in full uniform, was there pleading for religious papers, tracts,
etc., for his regiment. Several of the ministers went up to the army and
preached on Sunday, some of whom had never enjoyed such a privilege before. A
wonderful revival of religion had been prevailing for months among the soldiers,
and there was scarcely a regiment, or even a company in which there had not been
conversions. It was under these circumstances that the Convention held its
session at Atlanta; and it was not wonderful that the hearts of all were stirred
to their profoundest depths, especially when it was well understood that the
spring campaign would very soon open. It did open within two weeks thereafter,
and resulted in the fall of Atlanta, and finally in the destruction of the
Confederate Government. What hope would there be for us and our posterity, were
it not that "the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth!"

  (The session for 1865 was appointed to be held in Columbus the fourth Sabbath
in April, 1865; but that city fell into the hands of the enemy about a week
previous, so that no meeting was held that year.)

  44. The forty-fourth session of the Georgia Baptist Convention was held in
Macon, commencing April 20th, 1866. Introductory by Rev. B. F. Tharp, from Gal.
i. 8, 9. The war was ostensibly closed, and the country in such a condition that
few had the means of attending. There were very few visitors, and the delegation
about half as large as usual. It was clearly manifested, however, that the few
who assembled still retained, in all its fullness and profundity, their interest
in that cause which was still dearer to them than that of their ruined country.

  The 5th and 6th articles of the constitution were amended, so that the
officers of the body and the members of the executive committee "shall hold
their offices until their successors are elected, in case, from any cause, an
election shall fail to take place at the proper time."

  The treasurer of the Convention and of Mercer University, Mr. Thomas J.
Burney, was highly commended for his efficient management of the funds in his
hands, by which so much were saved "from the general wreck of the late war."

  The death of nine ministers within the past two years was recorded: C. D.
Mallary, W. A. Callaway, Robert Gibson, N. B. Cobb, W. D. Cowdry, E. M. Galt,
Jarvis G. Johnson, A. C. Dayton and James M. Watt.

  Rev. N. M. Crawford had resigned the Presidency of Mercer University, and
taken that of Georgetown College, Kentucky, and Rev. H. H. Tucker, D. D., was
elected in his place, and finally accepted. The interest of the people in the
cause of education had not abated but rather increased—so said Report on Education.

  In closing this brief and imperfect sketch of the "Baptist Convention of the
State of Georgia," the most important and influential Baptist organization in
the State, the churches always excepted —it may be proper for the author to
indulge in a few general observations. There are some who are opposed to all
organizations of the kind, believing them unscriptural, and that their natural
tendency is dangerous to the authority of the churches. The author has been a
member of this Convention for thirty-eight years, having missed but one session
in that time; and if any church has ever complained, or had cause to complain of
its interference with her rights, the fact has never come to his knowledge.
Churches may abuse their own authority, and do sometimes interfere officiously
with the rights of each other.

  The plans and operations of this body are more comprehensive and efficient
than those of any kindred organization known to the writer. It is an educational
society, both literary and theological; a Foreign Missionary Society; a Domestic
Mission Society; a society for the promotion of Sabbath-schools, Bible
distribution, etc. And yet all its operations are carried on harmoniously and
successfully.

  The wise and good men who organized the body, and who managed its affairs in
its earlier history, have nearly all passed away. But they have left their
impress upon those who remain, and it is believed their influence for good will
be felt as long as the Convention shall continue to exist. For 'this, the author
most fervently prays!

  The affairs of Mercer University have mainly occupied the attention of the
Convention for several years past, as may be seen by referring to the history of
that Institution. As the minutes of several recent sessions are not in the hands
of the author, he does not deem it important to give an account of them
separately, but refers the reader to the sketch of Mercer University. Such
account can be given in some future edition.



Additional Comments:
From:

GEORGIA BAPTISTS: HISTORICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL
BY
J. H. CAMPBELL,
PERRY, GEORGIA.


MACON, GA.: J. W. BURKE & COMPANY. 1874.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1874, by
J. H. CAMPBELL,
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.


File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/ga/unknown/churches/gbb197georgiab.txt

This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/gafiles/

File size: 57.5 Kb