Church: Session Records, 1827-1854, Fairfield Presbyterian Church:
Fairfield Twp, Westmoreland Co, PA
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Alphabetical list of individuals mentioned in the Records of the Session of
Fairfield Congregation.
Ascom, Eliza
Barnett, Mrs. William
Barnett, William
Barnwill, Ellen
Barron, William
Beck, Sarah
Bennet, Abraham
Bennet, Catharine
Bennet, Elizabeth
Bennet, Susan (wife of Abraham)
Bennet, William
Berry, Mary Ann
Blair, David
Blair, George
Blair, John P.
Brown, Mary
Brown, Nancy
Brown, William
Caldwell, Elizabeth
Caldwell, James
Caldwell, John
Caldwell, Mary
Caldwell, William
Campbell, James
Cauffield, John
Clark, A.B.
Clark, Isabella
Clark, Mary
Clark, Paul
Clark, Rachel
Clarke, James
Colledge, Rev. William
Davidson, Jas.
Davis, Stewart
Davison, Catharine
Davison, Isaac
Davison, Isabella
Davison, Margaret
Davison, Mary (wife of Isaac)
Davison, Saml. P.
Davison, Samuel
Davison, Thos.
Davison, William
Donaldson, Ann
Donaldson, Robert
Donaldson, Sarah
Dugless, Samuel
Elder, David
Elder, Margaret
Elder, Mrs. (wife of David)
Finlay, Sarah
Fleck*, James
Fleck, Ann
Fleming, Rev. John
Fulton, James
Fulton, Margaret (Mrs. James)
Gageby, James
Gilmore, Alexander
Gilmore, Elizabeth
Gilmore, Jane
Gilmore, Margory
Gilmore, Mary
Halferty, Margaret
Hanna, Nancy
Hart, William
Hartman, Henry
Hartman, Scroggs
Hartman, Susan
Hayse*, Margaret
Hazlet*, Rosana
Henderson, Charles
Henderson, Isabella
Henderson, Mrs. Samuel
Henderson, Thos.
Hendricks, Abraham
Hendricks, Eliza
Hendricks, Mrs. Abraham
Herbison, Rev. D.
Hill, Deborah
Hill, Elizabeth (daughter of John)
Hill, Elizabeth Nancy
Hill, John
Hill, Rev. George
Houston, Wm.
Hughes, Watson
Huston, Elizabeth
Huston, George
Huston, Mary
Huston, William
Hyse, Samuel
Johnston, Hanah (wife of Thomas)
Johnston, Margaret
Johnston, Mary
Johnston, Samuel
Johnston, Thomas
Kennedy, John
Kennedy, Margaret (Mrs. John)
Kennedy, Margory
Kennedy, Rachel
Kennedy, Rebecca
Kennedy, Samuel
Kennedy, William
Kirker, John
Kirker, Mary
Kirker, Mary (Gilmore)
Kirkpatrick, David
Lewis, David
Louther, Agness
Louther, David J.
Louther, Johnston
Louther, Mrs. Johnston
Louther, Sarah
Love, Isabella (Mrs. John)
Love, John
Love, Margaret
Love, Martha
Love, Mary (Mrs. John)
Love, Robert H.
Love, Wm. M.
Luther, Hanah
Luther, Isabella
Luther, John F.
Mathews, Agnes (Mrs. John)
Mathews, Isaac
Mathews, John
Mathiot, Col.
Matthews, Archibald
Matthews, Jane
McBurney, Cad
McBurney, Robert
McCoy, James
McCoy, T.P.
McCoy, Thomas
McCurdy, Mrs.
McCurdy, Robert
McDonald, Nancy
McDowell, John
McDowell, Mrs. John
McDowell, Robert
McFarland, Robert
McKee, Caroline
McKee, Rebecca
McKelip, Elizabeth Jane
McKelvay, Mary
McKelvey, Jane
McKelvy, Jane
McKelvy, Ruben M.
McKelway, Ephraim
McKelway, Helen*
McKelway, James
McKelway, Nathaniel
McNealor*, William
McNicol, Elizabeth
McNicol, Frederick
McQuaid, Dorcas
McQuaid, Mary Catherine
McQuaid, Sarah
Meanar, Samuel
Menoher, Joseph
Menoher, Sarah (wife of Joseph)
Miller, Agness
Miller, Elizabeth
Miller, Rev. O.H.
Moorhead, Elizabeth
Moorhead, John
Newell, Harriet
Norris, Mary
Norris, Sophia
Ogden, Jane Ann
Ogden, John
Ogden, Joseph
Ogden, Nancy Jane
Peoples, Eliza
Peoples, George
Peoples, Hanah
Peoples, Hugh
Peoples, John
Peoples, Margaret Jane
Peoples, Rebecca
Phipps, John
Piper, Robert
Piper, Samuel
Pollock, John
Pollock, Sarah Jane
Pollock, Thomas
Reed, James
Reed, Thomas
Reeves*, Mary Ann
Rennie, Sarah (Hill)
Robb, Margaret
Robb, Polly
Robb, William
Roberts, Ann
Roberts, James
Scott, James
Scott, Margaret (Mrs. James)
Scroggs, Rev. Joseph
Serena, Ann
Serena, Margaret
Serine, Sarah
Shields*, Jane
Skiles, Ann
Skiles, Hugh M.
Skiles, James
Skiles, Jane
Skiles, Margaret (Mrs. James)
Smith Junr., Thomas
Snyder, Mary
Snyder, Nancy
Snyder, Robert
Snyder, Sarah
Steel, Elizabeth
Steele, James
Stewart, James
Swan, Rev. Samuel
Swan, Thomas
Taylor, Lucinda
Taylor, Martha F.
Torrance, Adam
Tosh, Polly
Tosh, Tiny
Trimble Elizabeth
Trimble, Eliza
Trimble, James
Trimble, Jane
Trimble, Martha
Trimble, Mary (wife of James)
Trimble, Rachel
Vickroy, Isaac
Vickroy, Martha (Mrs. Isaac)
Welshonce, Ambrose
Wiley, Sarah
Wiley, Susan
Wilson, James
Wooden, Jane
Wooden, William
Records of the Session of Fairfield Congregation
Thursday 1st Feby. 1827
The session met pursuant to public notice. Constituted with prayer. Present Revd.
S. Swan Moderator. James Gageby. Robert Piper. James Wilson. Thomas Pollock and
John Ogden Elders.
The following charges are brought against Robert McCurdy a member of the church by
common fame.
1st He is accused of rescinding a contract he had entered into with James Stewart a
year ago or upwards for castings he (Stewart) had at Ross furnace under
circumstances calculated to defraud said Stewart out of the price of one fourth of
a ton. 2 He is accused of claiming & selling 4 sheep in October last not his own
& knowing them not to be his property --
The said McCurdy appeared this day, having received notice to attend by a committee
who were appointed to call on him & converse with him. The charges being read to
him, he declared that he was not guilty. Session therefore determined to proceed
to the establishing of the charges. Session agreed to cite the following witnesses
to prove the 1st charge. James Stewart. John Ogden & John Pollock & to establish
the 2d Revd. Joseph Scroggs, Thomas Smith Junr., & John Moorhead.
Session adjourned to meet on Thursday the 8th of March next. Concluded with prayer.
Thursday 8th March 1827
The Session met according to adjournment. Constituted with prayer. Members present
Revd. S. Swan Mod., James Gageby. James Wilson. Robert Piper & Thomas Pollock. The
Session proceeded to the examination of witnesses.
John Ogden sworn -- saith that sometime in Feby 1826, Robt. McCurdy gave him an
order to the proprietors of Ross furnace for 1 quarter of a ton of castings with
James Stewart' s name to it. He presented the order & got the metal. Sometime this
winter on his return from the iron works he understood there was some difficulty
about the order above mentioned. That Stewart denied its being his hand writing or
having signed it. He went to McCurdy who told him he would fix it with Stewart as
Stewart had no body to look to for his castings but him (McCurdy).
The above was read to Deponent who agreed to it.
James Stewart sworn -- saith that on the 26 of Decemr. 1825 he sold McCurdy a ton &
one fourth of castings including a half ton due from John Cauffield. & Robt.
McCurdy gave this Depont. His note for the amount. Some time afterwards McCurdy
sent him a few lines he believed the substance was that some of the castings he
could not get & therefore he would not have any of them. Some short time after that
the Depont. Gave McCurdy up his note & asked him for the order. McCurdy replied he
had burnt it -- feels confident that McCurdy at the time the contract was rescinded
did not tell him he had got 1 fourth of a ton of the metal, but believes if he
McCurdy had told him he had got such a part, he might still have given him up his
note & trusts to his word that he would pay him. The above was read to Dept. & he
agreed to it.
Revd. Joseph Scroggs sworn -- saith that in Octor. Last he bought 8 sheep from
McCurdy 4 of which were afterwards claimed & taken away by Thos. Smith. In making
the purchase, he observed a number of sheep with a piece fresh cut off the left
ear. McCurdy said those that were fresh marked he had marked with the intention of
keeping them himself. Two of those claimed by Smith were thus marked. The above
statement Mr. Scroggs agreed to.
John Moorhead sworn -- saith that last fall Robt. McCurdy had invited him to come &
buy some sheep. In looking at the sheep Dept. observed some that were finer wooled
than the rest. He believed that he asked McCurdy the age of 4 or 5 sheep & whither
they were ewes or weathers. McCurdy replied two of them were yearlings & two of
them were lambs. The Deponent saith he did not recollect selling these fined wooled
sheep to McCurdy -- he having sold a lot of sheep to him the spring previous was the
reason of his putting the above question. Believes tho' that he sold sheep with as
fine wool as those above mentioned. He does not know whither the sheep alluded to
above were the ones sold to Mr. Scroggs or not. The above was read to Dept. & he
agreed to it.
Thomas Smith sworn saith that some time last fall between the last of Augt. & Octr.
He lost 4 sheep. The first time which was about the 1st of Novr. He saw the sheep
was at Mr. Scroggs who informed him that he had purchased them from McCurdy. When
he came to McCurdy and told him about the sheep he expressed his surprise & said
that it was impossible that he would sell any other person' s sheep. A day was
appointed to examine the sheep at Mr. Scroggs to ascertain whither they were really
the Deponents sheep or not. When the day arrived the sheep were examined by the
Deponent & McCurdy. The latter did not object to the sheep being taken away, but
gave free liberty to the Depot. To take them as his property. He further saith
that McCurdy requested that neither the Deponent nor any of the boys should cast up
the affair afterwards to him. The above statement Mr. Smith agreed to.
The Session being informed by the accused that his mother Mrs. McCurdy was an
important witness in his favour, but that on account of her very infirm state of
health it was impossible for her to attend at the place appointed. The Session
therefore appointed a committee to wait on her & receive her testimony on oath &
report the same at their next meeting. Session adjourned to meet on Saturday the 17
of the present month at ne oclock. Concluded with prayer.
Saturday March 17. 1827.
Session met according to adjournment. Constituted with prayer. Present Revd.
Samuel Swan Modr. James Gageby. James Wilson & Thos. Pollock. The committee
appointed to take the testimony of Mrs. McCurdy reported that they had performed
that service. The testimony is as follows. Mrs. McCurdy sworn saith that she
often counted the sheep belonging to her son on account of her own being mixed with
them and that she never found when counting them any added to the number. She
further saith that she knew the number of sheep belonging to herself & son, and
therefore feels confident that she would have known if any had been taken away or
added to the flock. The Depont. Further saith that her son had some sheep which had
very fine wool. On being interrogated whither she saw any strange sheep amongst the
number she said that she never saw any except on one evening that she observed a
large ram amongst the flock. She can neither tell how it came nor in what manner
it was separate from the rest but she never saw it afterwards. The above
statement was agreed to by Mrs. McCurdy.
The Session having heard all the testimony adduced in support of the charges & also
in behalf of the accused & having given to the whole case an attention hearing Do
Decide that the first charge is supported by the evidence and likewise by his own
admissions before the Session. A statement of the whole case in which is mentioned
the reasons that have influenced the session in forming their decision is subjoined
and is as follows. Robert McCurdy died in Decr. 1825 contract with James Stewart
for 3 fourths of a ton of castings he Stewart had at Ross furnace, & also for one
half ton due from John Cauffield for which he gave Stewart his note. It appeared
in evidence and was also admitted by the accused that some time in Feby following
the said McCurdy gave John Ogden an order to Col. Mathiot for one fourth of a ton
of the above metal to which he signed James Stewarts name with his knowledge or
consent. It also appeared in evidence & was admitted by the said McCurdy that he
afterwards gave Stewt. Notice in writing of his wish or determination to
relinquish the contract. As soon as convenient after receiving the lines from
McCurdy Stewart called with him & after some conversation on the subject, gave him
up his note & asked him for the order he had given him to get the castings.
McCurdy replied (as Stewt. Says on oath) that he had burnt it. McCurdy admits he
told him he had destroyed it. The order however has been produced on the trial.
Stewart declares on oath that neither at the time he gave him up his note, nor at
any other time previous to his calling on Col. Mathiot for the castings due to him
which was nearly if not altogether a year after the contract was made did McCurdy
give him the slightest hint that he had made use of the above one fourth of a
ton. Thus all the evidences of debt against the accused were cancelled & given up,
while he remained not only in possession of the original order, but had received the
said 1 fourth of a ton & of which he has produced no evidence that he gave notice of
that fact to the other contracting party. In justice to the accused however we
feel bound to state that when informed of the difficulties likely to arise out of
the case he went to Stewt. & paid him for the castings he had received.
>From the most impartial view we can take of the case, we are of the opinion that
the charge is substantially supported by the evidence, as well as by the admissions
of the accused, & that there has been such neglect in giving Stewart notice of the
metal received, when the Contract was rescinded, as well as such want of candour,
not to say want of truth in his statement about destroying the order, as is quite
reprehensible in a member of the church of Christ. Session do therefore adjudge
that the said Robert McCurdy be suspended from the privileges of the church, untill
he give evidence of his repentance for the reproach cast upon the church by his
misconduct. Resolved that their decision be made known to the congregation.
On the 2d charge Session are of opinion that the evidence adduced is not sufficient
to support it, of that he is therefore acquitted.
Concluded with prayer.
October 29th 1830
Session met pursuant to public notice. Members present. Revd. Samuel Swan
Moderator. Messrs. James Wilson. John Caldwell and Henry Hartman. Constituted
with prayer. Sometime in the spring of 1828 common fame charged Abraham Hendricks
a member of this church with having an illicit connection with a certain Susan
Wiley, in consequence of which she became the mother of 2 female children. The
matter being then about to undergo a legal investigation, the Session thought it
prudent to refrain from a judicial inquiry on their part, untill the result of the
one instituted by civil process would be known. The Session did not consider that
the fama Clamosa was of such an extent, or so generally believed in the bounds of
the Congregation as to warrant them according to the Constitution of our church at
that time to commence process against Mr. H, and likewise they supposed that by
deferring the case untill after a legal investigation that more light would be
obtained in the investigation of the case if it were deemed necessary to have
recourse to one. One of the members of Session having spoken to Mr. Hendricks on
the subject he voluntarily declined applying for the privileges of the church
untill the matter would be brought to a final issue. The matter at civil law
having terminated unfavourably to Mr. H., the Session now deem it to be their duty
to commence process agt. Mr. H. & he being present requested the Session to
investigate his case. He denied being guilty of the charge addressed against
him. Session therefore determined to proceed to the establishing of the charge.
Witnesses for the Prosecution Susan Wiley & Sarah Wiley. Witnesses for the
Defendant Stewart Davis, William Hart, Samuel Meanar & Thomas Pollock, all the
witnesses above mentioned with the exception of the last living at considerable
distance from the bounds of this congregation, Session resolved that a committee be
appointed to take their testimony & report the same to them at their next
meeting. The Revd. S. Swan together with Messrs. Wilson & Pollock were appointed,
that Committee who were to go to the houses of the witnesses on Monday the 14th day
of November next, to receive their testimony. Mr. Hendricks was notified of the
above appointment. Session adjourned to meet on Saturday the 20th of Nov. 1830.
Concluded with prayer.
November 20th 1830
Session met pursuant to adjournment. Members present Revd. S. Swan Modr. Elders
Messrs. Piper, Pollock, Wilson, Ogden, Caldwell, & Hartman. Constituted with
prayer. The committee reported that they had examined the following witnesses.
Stewart Davis, William Hart and Samuel Meanar. But that they had not taken the
testimony of Sarah & Susan Wiley on account of not finding Susan Wiley the principal
witness at home. The testimony of the Witnesses examined is as follows. Stewart
Davis on oath says Susan Wiley appeared before him as a Justice of the Peace on the
7th of April 1828 and made oath in due form that she had been delivered of two
female bastard children & that Abraham Hendricks was the father of them. He asked
her if H. was a married man, if she was living with him at the time, whither Mrs.
Hendricks was at home, & where the transaction took place. She replied that Mr. H.
was a married man, she was living there at that time. That Mrs. Hendricks was at
home. That the connection took place in the woods, when she went to hunt the cows,
and that he had no connection with her but the one time.
William Hart on oath says he as a grand juror examined Susan Wiley. That she said
that A. Hendricks was the father of the children she then had, that they were
begotten at Hendricks own house some time in March toward the last of it between
dark and bed time, that Mrs. Hendricks and her eldest son were from home on a visit
to Mr. Pollock' s -- that they never had any carnal connection, either before or after
that time. Deponent also examined Sarah Wiley who said she never knew her daughter
was pregnant untill she took sick, and that she did not ask her who the Father was,
untill after the 1st child was born. She then asked her & she refused to tell. She
told her daughter then she would do nothing more for her untill she told who the
Father was. She became very bad & insisted on her to relieve her, but the mother
refused until the daughter confessed, that let her live or die A. Hendricks was the
Father of the children.
Samuel Meanar on oath says that he went with Mr. Hendricks to the house of the
Wileys a few weeks after the children were born, that Susan Wiley & her mother
repeatedly refused to tell Mr. Hendricks who the Father of the children was, that
no satisfaction could be obtained form them on the subject. The Deponent also said
on oath that Sarah Wiley & her daughter Susan Wiley were reputed bad throughout the
whole country.
Session appointed the Revd. S. Swan & Mr. John Caldwell a committee to take the
testimony of Sarah & Susan Wiley at the most convenient time, and to give Mr. H.
notice of the time and place. Session adjourned to meet on January the 14th
1831. Concluded with prayer.
January 14th 1831
Session met pursuant to adjournment. Members present Revd. S. Swan Modr., Messrs.
Piper, Pollock, Wilson, Caldwell, Ogden & Hartman elders. The Committee reported
that they had examined the witnesses Sarah & Susan Wiley, & that their testimony
was as follows. Susan Wiley says on oath that she was delivered of 2 female
children on January 30th 1828, that Abraham Hendricks is the Father of them, that
they were begotten in the last week of April 1827, when Mrs. Hendricks was from
home on a visit to her sister Pollocks, & that afterwards they had criminal
intercourse 3 or 4 times. She says that it was after night that the children were
begotten, that Mr. H. came to her bed, after the men who were working there had gone
to bed.
Sarah Wiley being sworn says she knew her daughter was pregnant 4 months at last
before the birth of the children. Susan her daughter always refused to tell who
the Father was untill after the birth of the 1st child when her life being in great
danger, & being pressed to tell the Father, she said whither she lived or died A.
H. was the father.
Session proceeded to examine Thomas Pollock the remaining witness, who being sworn
says he heard Susan Wiley examined in court on the trial, that she swore positively
the children were begotten the 30th of April 1827, that the visit of Mrs. Hendricks
to Pollock's alluded to in her testimony he believes was some time from the middle
to the 18th or 20th of April, that her (Mrs. H's) oldest son was not with her.
The Session having deliberately examined the whole testimony in support of the
charge and also in behalf of the accused, and having heard the Defendant in his own
behalf do unanimously decide that the charge is not supported. The reasons for the
above decision are as follows. 1st that the testimony of the Witnesses in favour
of the Prosecution is not entitled to any weight because according to the testimony
before Session it appears that Susan Wiley the Mother of the children has been
examined 4 times on oath, & that each examination has varied from the others, not
in trivial circumstances but in those that are of importance. If the facts had
ever happened, they must have been fresh in her memory. It is therefore impossible
to give credit to a witness who has contradicted herself in so many important
points. There is also such contradiction in the statement made by the other
Witness, who has been examined several times on oath, as destroys the force of her
testimony. 2, that it is also proven that the general character of both witnesses
is bad.
The Session agreed to adjourn. Concluded with prayer.
In Presbytery April 6th 1831 Approved thus for S. Mc.Farren Mod.
Fairfield Meeting house May 1. 1837
Session met pursuant to public notice. Members present Revd. S. Swan Moderator with
the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman & Phipps. Opened with
Prayer. The Session proceeded to examine persons for the communion. The following
were received on examination viz. Eliza Ascom. James Campbell. Deborah Hill.
Elizabeth Moorhead. Ephraim McKelway. Sarah Serine*. Joseph Ogden & his wife Jane
Ann. Ann Roberts. Eliza Trimble & Martha Trimble.
Eliza Peoples was received on Certificate from the church of Coneautville. On
application the following persons were dismissed from this church. James McCoy to
connect himself with the church at Brooksville to which he has recently gone.
James Fleck* that he may attach himself to the Secession Church. And Mrs. Eliza
Hendricks that she may connect herself to the church of Madison, Indiana State to
which she is about removing.
Session having ascertained that Robert Snyder & Charles Henderson with their wives
members of this church have absented themselves from the public* ordinances of the
gospel. Appointed Revd. S. Swan & Henry Hartman a committee to wait upon them &
converse with them on the subject, pre**** to the citing of them. The committee to
report as soon as pr*******. Concluded with prayer.
Fairfield Meeting house 1 Sept. 1837
Session met pursuant to public notice. Members present Revd. S. Swan, Modr., with
the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman & Phipps. Opened with
prayer. Session proceeded to the examination of persons for the communion -- Polly
& Tiny Tosh were received on examination into the communion of the church. The
Committee appointed to converse with Robert Snyder & Charles Henderson with their
wives, reported and their report was as follows. That they saw & conversed with
them, that the reason they assign for not attending the public ordinances was that
owing to the repairs that have been recently making on the meeting house,
especially on the seats, that they considered their seats were taken from them, &
that on that account they did not with to attend. The committee endeavored to show
their mistake, that there was no design to encroach on any sitters right & that
there was only a temporary inconvenience which would soon be rectified -- they
appeared to be satisfied, and promised to attend regularly. The committee was
discharged & their conduct was approved.
The Session have to record the death of the following persons members of this church
Samuel Hyse. Mrs. Henderson wife of Samuel Henderson. Wm. Barron & Thomas Swan. The
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
May 5th 1838
Session met according to public notice. Members present Revd. S. Swan, Modr with
the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman & Phipps. Session
proceeded to examine persons for communion. The following persons were received.
Mary McKelvay. Rachel Trimble. Elizabeth Trimble, and Jane Gilmore. Mrs.
Margaret Elder was received on Certificate from the congregation of Unity & Robert
McDo**le & his wife from the congregation of Lebanon. Session Adjourned.
Concluded with prayer.
September 20th 1838
Session met pursuant to public notice. Members present Revd. S. Swan, Modr, with
the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman & Phipps. Opened with
prayer. Session proceeded to examine persons for the communion the following
persons were received. Catharine Bennet. Johnston Louther & his wife. The
following persons on application were dismissed from this church. Mrs. Elizabeth
Hile* in order to be connected with the church of Glade-run and Ephraim McKelway to
join the church at Indiana.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the congregation to observe the monthly concert*
[?] on the 1st Sabbath of the month, instead of the first Monday, according to the
recommendation of the last General Assembly. And that it be further recommended to
the congregation, that a collection be taken up at such meetings for the General
Assembly board of Foreign Missions.
Messrs. Pollock & Piper were appointed a committee to obtain information in relation
the origin & history of this church & to draw up a narrative of the same according
to the injunction of synod and report as soon as practicable. Session adjourned.
Concluded with prayer.
Feby 19th 1839
Session met pursuant to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present Revd.
S. Swan Modr, with the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman &
Phipps.
On application the following persons (who have recently removed out of the bounds of
this church) were dismissed. Mrs. Sarah Rennie (formerly Hile) that she may join
the church of New Alexandria. Mrs. Mary Kirker (formerly Gilmore) that she may
join the church of Murraysville, and Mr. James Fulton & his wife Margaret who have
moved to Ohio -- the name of the congregation not known.
The Session have to record the death of the following members of this church. James
Trimble. James Steele. & Mrs. McDowell wife of Mr. John McDowell.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
In Pr**. at Bethel April 3rd 1839 Examined & approved thus far.
Watson Hughes Moderator
April 19th 1839
Session met according to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present Revd.
S. Swan Modr, with the elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman.
Gilmore & Phipps. Session proceeded to examine persons for the communion.
The following were received viz. Sarah Jane Pollock. Thomas McCoy. Helen* McKelway
& Mrs. Sarah McQuaid.
Session having heard that Mr. James McKelvay a member of this church, had acted in
an unchristian manner in a quarrel which he had in Ligonier Town, appointed a
committee consisting of Messrs. Pollock & Piper to converse with him, and report as
soon as practicable.
Session resolved that the collection taken up at the approaching communion be
applied to the board of education of the General Assembly. Session adjourned to
meet tomorrow morning at 11 o' clock. Concluded with prayer.
Saturday Morning 11 o' clock.
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Members present as
above. Session resumed the examination of persons. The following were received
viz. John Love [&] Isabella his wife. Archibald Matthews. William Caldwell.
Elizabeth Caldwell and John Peoples.
James Scott and his wife Margaret were received on Certificate from the church of
Salem.
The committee on James McKelways case reported. Their report is: that from what he
said, & from information obtained from other sources, that they are of opinion that
there is no necessity of instituting any process against him, they recommend that
nothing more be done in the case. Their report was accepted and adopted.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
15th Sepr. 1839
Session met pursuant to public notice. Opened with prayer. The Revd. S. McTevey*
Modr, (who being present assisting at a communion was invited to officiate in the
room of Revd. S Swan at the time on account of indisposition and unable to be
present). With the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman.
Gilmore & Phipps. Session proceeded to examine persons for the communion. The
following were received. Nancy Jane Ogden. Mrs. Rebecca McKee* and Elizabeth
Ha*** the 2 latter to be Baptized (not having been previously baptized) -- Resolved
that a collection be taken up on the present occasion for the assembly' s board of
domestic missions, and a subscription for the Assembly' s board of Foreign Missions
to be paid during the ensuing winter.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
In Presbytery at Congretity*, 8th Sp. 1840 -- examined & approved.
David Kirkpatrick, Modr.
Wednesday 20th May 1840
Session met pursuant to public notice & was opened with prayer. Members present
Revd. S. Swan Modr Together with the elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Ogden. Hartman.
Gilmore and Phipps. Session proceeded to examine persons for the approaching
communion. The following persons were examined and received. Isaac Vickroy and
his wife Martha.
A communication was received from Mr. John Hill, a member of this church containing
charges against Mrs. Jane Wooden likewise a member of this church. It was stated
by Mr. Hill that he had taken the preliminary steps proscribed by the word of God &
the constitution of our church so as to effect a reconciliation previous to bringing
the case before the Session, but that they had been ineffectual. The charges adduced
were 1st that Mrs. W. had told several persons, that she had heard it said that Hill
had went to the house of Frederick McNicol some time last summer for the purpose of
having a criminal connection with his wife, and that Hill had acted in an
unbecoming manner with her. 2 that said Mrs. W. has been guilty of allowing
falsehood and prevaricating in relation to the above report in various instances.
The witnesses to prove the above charges are Nehamiah* McKelway. Elizabeth Nancy
Hill. Joseph Ogden and James Roberts.
Session before proceeding to actual process deemed it expedient to pursue the course
recommended in the book of Discipline Chap 4. Sect. 9, in relation to sending some
members to converse with the accused person so as to have the case settled without
any formal process.
Messrs. Pollock & Piper were appointed a committee to converse with Mrs. W. and to
report as soon as practicable.
Session adjourned to meet on Friday the 29th. Concluded with prayer.
May 29th 1840
Session met according to adjournment. Members present as above. Opened with
prayer. Session proceeded to converse with persons who wished to be received into
full communion. The following were examined and received. Mary Ann Reeves* (to be
Baptized). Mary Johnston. Ann* Skiles. Jane Skiles. Margaret Jane Peoples.
George Peoples. & Mrs. Margaret Skiles wife of James Skiles.
Mrs. Mary Gilmore was received on Certificate from the Presbyterian Church at
Unity. Mr. John McDowell was dismissed in order to join the church where
Providence has recently cast his lot.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
June 24th 1840
Session met pursuant to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present as **
***. The Committee appointed to converse with Mrs. W. reported and their report is
as follows. That they called on and conversed with Mrs. W. on the subject. She
utterly denies the charge as laid before the session. She says Elizabeth McNicol
came to their house one day last summer, and in conversation mentioned that Mr. Hill
had called at McNicols a short time before & that he was so glad to see her. Mr.
M.* put his arm around her, invited her to come to his house, and see them and was
as friendly as if he had been her father. She Mrs. M. had made the same remarks of
several persons in the neighbourhood, and among others of Mr* Wooden, and in
conversation with Mr. McKelway in order to there that she ought not to be believed,
when she spoke of respectable persons, being so fond of her and so glad to see her,
she mentioned this story respecting Mr. Hill. She acknowledges the imprudence of
telling it, and is sorry that she happened to do so, and says she never believed
there was any truth in the story.
Private measures being ineffectual Session agreed to commence process. Resolved
that Mrs. J. W. be cited to appear before the Session on Monday the 6th of July to
answer to the charges proferred* agt. her.
As the case was now taken up, and the Session was about to act as a court of Christ,
the Modr. read the rule which has a reference to Judicatories. When about to sit in
a judicial capacity enjoining on the members to recollect & regard their high
character as Judges of a court of Christ and the solemn duty in which they are
about to act. Adjourned to meet on Monday the 6th of July 1840. Concluded with
prayer.
6 July 1840
Session met according to adjournment, all the members present. Opened with prayer.
Mrs. Wooden appeared before Session agreeably to the citation sent her. The charges
were read to her. She plead not guilty. As the parties were not prepared to
proceed to trial, no witnesses being present, it was on motion resolved that all
the witnesses to be examined in the case be cited to appear before the Session on
Monday the 20th of the present month, and that the citations be signed by the
Moderator. It being understood that the accused has the right according to the 7
Sec. of Chap. 4 of the book of discipline to bring forward any other witnesses that
she may see proper for her exculpation. Adjourned to meet on Monday the 20th
instant. Concluded with prayer.
20th July 1840
Session according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. All the members present.
Session proceeded to the trial now before them. At the request of Mrs. Wooden, Mr.
Pollock, a member of this Session was appointed to manage her defense.
As there were no specifications in the 2d charge, in relation to the falsehood and
prevarication complained of, the communication of Mr. Hill accompanying the charges
which was first sent to the Session was read. It contained the specifications. It
was agreed upon by both parties that it contained the charges by which the proof
would be guided.
Session proceeded to take the testimoiny in favour of the Prosecutor.
The following witnesses were examined. Nancy Hill. Nathaniel McKelway. Elizabeth
McNicol. Joseph Ogden & James Roberts (see Testimony).
It being evening there was not time to proceed to take testimony in favour of the
Accused. It was agreed ***** to have it deferred.
Session agreed to meet on the 19th of August next at half past 10 o'clock.
Concluded with prayer.
19 August 1840
Session met according to adjournment, & was opened with prayer. All the members
present. Session proceeded to take testimony in favour of the accused. The
following witnesses were examined. Harriet Newall. Jane Shields*. Jane Skiles
and Sarah Finlay (see Testimony). Nethaniel McKelvay a witness that was formerly
examined was again brought forward by the accused and several questions put to him
which were answered (see Testimony). Mr. William Wooden being deemed by the
accused as an important witness in her favour but not being present in this region
of country at this time, Session agreed to defer any further action in ths case
until the return of the witness which is expected to be sometime this fall.
Resolved that due notice be given when the Session will again meet to attend to the
case now at issue. Concluded with prayer.
Sepr. 11th 1840
Session met according to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present Revd.
S. Swan Modr. together with the Elders Messrs. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman.
Gilmore & Phipps.
Session proceeded to examine persons for the approaching communion. The following
were examined and received. Joseph Ogden (son of James). Eliza Donaldson. Isaac
Davison & his wife Mary.
Resolved that collections be taken up at this communion for the Publication Board of
our church, & the Assembly board of Domestic Missions.
Mrs. Elder wife of David was dismissed from this church in order that she might
connect herself with the church at Unity. Session adjourned. Concluded with
prayer.
Thursday 29th Octob. 1840
Session met according to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present, Revd.
S. Swan Modr. Together with all the Elders with the exception of Mr. Hartman.
Session proceeded to take testimony in the case now pending before them.
William Wooden being now present requested leave to read his testimony, which he had
written previous to his coming, & to which he was willing to be sworn. His request
was granted, with the understanding that he was to be cross examined. His
testimony is as follows. Harriet Newall was again examined, and likewise Mr.
Joseph Ogden.
The Witnesses on both sides being examined, the Session agree to adjourn, there not
being time to deliberate & devise on the case. Resolved that the Session meet on
Wednesday the 4th of Nov. at 10 o'clock. Adjourned, concluded with prayer.
Wednesday 4th Nov. 1840
Session met according to adjt. Opened with prayer. All the members present with
the exception of Messrs. Pollock & Piper.
A communication was received from Mr. Joseph Ogden containing the substance of his
examination taken on the last day of the meeting of Session, there not being an
opportunity of writing down his testimony, owing to the lateness and darkness of
the evening. It was read. It was agreed that it contained the substance of his
examination & was accordingly considered as a part of his testimony.
Session considering as they permitted* the accused to adduce testimony to *** in
what manner the parties acted in the interview to effect a reconciliation, that it
was nothing but fair that Mr. Hill should have the advantage of the testimony of
the person that he took with him to be a witness of what took place.
A communication was received from Mr. Pollock containing his remarks in favour of
the accused. It was read as the defence of Mrs. W. Mr. Hill was heard at full
length.
The testimony having been all examined and the parties heard, the roll was called so
as to afford the members an opportunity of expressing their views on the case.
The members having expressed their views, ** was on motion resolved that a committee
consisting of Messrs. Caldwell & Gilmore be appointed to form a decision expressive
of the views of this Session. As it is their duty in coming to a decision
(according to Chapr. 1. Sec. 5 of the book of discipline) to take into view all
the circumstances which may give a different character to conduct, and human nature
when excited, do decide that she has circulated the report, yet having had no
malicious motive, that she be admonished to be more careful for the future, least
she should be instrumental in injuring a brothers character.
In relation to the 2d charge Session are of the belief from the evidence that Mrs. W
did prevaricate that is she denied on different occasions that she had said any
thing injurious to Hills character. The Session cannot think that this was right,
for it was surely wrong to circulate a report that was unfavourable or might be
construed as unfavourable and then deny that she had done so. Session are aware
that Mrs. W. had no belief in the truth of the story again Hill -- and she might
have thought that she had said nothing that could do him any injury, and they are
willing to admit that from excitement & defect of memory, that there might be a
difference in her statements that she was not fully aware of, yet whilst they
mention these things in extenuation of her conduct, they cannot justify her as she
entirely denied to one witness that she had ever told him any thing at all in
regard to the report for Mrs.* McNicol had never told her anything about Hill, and
to another of the witnesses she expressed her regret that she could not get Hill to
believe that she had not said any thing that was injurious to his character, altho
it was true enough that Mrs. McNicol had told her so. The Session therefore decide
that she be admonished & be advised to be more cautious for the future.
As Mrs. Wooden is not present, resolved that the mod. send her as soon as possible a
copy of the above decision. Resolved that at some convenient time the above
decision be read to the congregation.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
March 24th 1841
Session met according to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present Revd.
S. Swan Modr. Together with the Elders Messrs. Pollock. Piper. Ogden. Hartman.
Gilmore & Phipps.
Session appointed Mr. Robert Piper one of their members to represent them in the
Presbytery which meets at New Alexandria on the 6th of April next.
The following members of this church were on their application dismissed in order
that they might connect themselves with those churches that they have moved to or
are about to remove. Mr. Archibald **Marray* & his wife Polly to connect
themselves with the sister church in Brookville Jefferson County Pa.
Mr. John Matthew* his wife Agnes & Mary Ann Reeves* that they may connect themselves
with the sister church in Portage County Ohio.
Session have to record the death of 2 of their members. Mrs. Ann Fleck & Mrs. Jane
Wooden, who have died during this past year. Adjourned & concluded with prayer.
In Presbytery April 7th 1841 examined & approved thus far with the following
exception. By a minute on pages 40, 41 it appears that the session examined a
witness on the 29th of October whose testimony was not recorded owing to the
"lateness & darkness of the evening." Immediately after the examination of this
witness the session record that the witnesses on both sides being examined the
session agreed to adjourn, there not being time to deliberate & decide on the case.
At a subsequent meeting on the 4th of Novr. a communication was received from the
aforesaid witness, containing as the Session say the substance of his
examination. This communication the Session received as testimony although one of
the parties was absent.
Presbytery regard this action of the Session as irregular, contrary to the usage of
all courts and to the spirit, if not to the letter of our discipline chap. 6th.
The whole testimony of the witness, & not merely the substance of it should have
been taken down from his mouth in the presence of the parties and read to him for
his approval. The Session had no right to trust their own memories & that of the
witness for six days, & then enter or permit him to enter merely the substance of
his testimony.
David Lewis, Modr.
May 7, 1841
Session met pursuant to public notice. Members present Revd. S. Swan Moderator with
the elders Messrs. Piper. Caldwell. Ogden. Hartman & Gilmore. Opened with prayer.
Elizabeth Hill (daughter of John) was examined & received into the full communion
of this church.
Presbytery having enjoined on the various churches under its care to take action on
the subject of appointing deacons to take the management of the temporal concerns
of the churches. The Session agreed to take up the subject.
The members present made some remarks, but as the subject was new, and as there were
several members absent, it was thought best not to come to a decision at the present
time, but to postpone to a future time, so that the Session might act with more
light on the subject. Agreed to adjourn until Friday the 21st instant. Concluded
with prayer.
May 21, 1841
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer, all the members
present. Proceeded to examine persons for the approaching communion & the
following were examined & received. Mr. William Barnett & his wife. Thomas
Johnston & his wife Esther. Thomas Brown & his wife Hanah. the 2 last to be
baptized not having been heretofore.
As the Presbytery have appointed a committee to organize a new congregation in the
bounds of this church at Fairfield Town on Wednesday the 2d day of June, it was
resolved that this session meet on the morning of that day so as to dismiss those
who at present are connected with this church, that they may be connected with the
new church about to be formed. It was further resolved that notice be given to the
people of said meeting -- and that the persons who wish to be detached from this
church to form a new connection ******* to apply for their dismission.
Adjourned to meet at Fairfield Town on Wednesday the 2d day of June next at half
past 10 o' clock. Concluded with prayer.
Fairfield Town 2d June 1841
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. All the members
present. The following persons on application were dismissed in order that they
may connect themselves with the new Presbyterian about to be formed in this place
viz. Mary Caldwell. Rahchell Clark Widow. Margaret Hayse* Widow. Elizabeth
Gilmore. William Remidg*. Rahchell Kennedy. William Huston. Mary Huston. Mary
Novis*. Paul Clark. Isabella Clark. William Barron. Isaac Davison. Mary
Davison. Alexander Gilmore. Mary Gilmore. William Caldwell. Elizabeth
Caldwell. Archibald Matthews. Jane Matthews. John Kirker. Margt. Kirker.
Elizabeth Caldwell. John Peoples. Eliza Peoples. Rebecca Peoples. Hanah
Peoples. Thos. Henderson. Isabella Henderson. George Huston. Elizabeth
Huston. William Bennet. Elizabeth Bennet. Samuel Kennedy. Margry Kennedy. Jane
Trimble Widow. Elizabeth Trimble Widow. Elizabeth Steel Widow. Mary Clark.
Ratchel Trimble. Elizabeth Peoples Widow. William Brown. Mary Brown. Together
with the elders John Caldwell & John Gilmore.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
Fairfield Sep 17, 1841
Session met according to public notice. Opened with prayer. Members present Revd.
S. Swan Modr. with the Elders Messrs. Pollock, Piper, Ogden, Hartman & Phipps. The
following persons were received into the communion of the church on
recommendation*. Joseph Menoher & his wife Sarah. John Kennedy & his wife
Margaret. Adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
The Pastoral relation between the Revd. S. Swan & the church of Fairfield was
dissolved by the Presbytery of Blairsville at its fall meeting at Bethel church in
1841. The church at that time was declared vacant.
The Prebt. of Blairsville having at its fall meeting in 1841 at Bethel Church
dissolved the pastoral relation between the Revd. S. Swan & the congr. of Fairfield
& declared the said church vacant. And the said presby. at its spring meeting at
Poke-run church in 1842 appointed Revd. Messrs. Robert Johnston & George Hill to
administer the sacrament of the Lord' s Supper in said congn. on the 1st Sab. of June
--
June 3d 1842 the Sepn. of said congn. met members present Robert Piper. Thos.
Pollock. John Ogden. Henry Hartman & John Phips. The Revd. George Hill being
present presided as modr. constituted by prayer.
Jane McKelvey formerly a member of this church & now residing in Jenner Congn.
applied for a certificate which was granted.
Sarah Beck* appeared before Sepr. acknowledged she had been guilty of anti nuptial
fornication & on her profession of sincere sorrow & repentance for the crime was
restored to her former standing in the church. Ordered that this minute be read to
the congn. Concluded with prayer.
1842 June 4th
Mrs. Nancy McDonald was recd as a member of this church on certificate from the
church of East Con**** June 6th James Skiles & Margaret his wife were dismissed from
this church by certificate to join the church of Greenburgh.
Octr. 1st Elizabeth Jane McKelip formerly a member of this church was dismissed by
certificate to join the church in Blairsville into which she had removed.
1842 Novr. 26th
Session met for the purpose of examining applicants for admission to the sacrament
of the Lords Supper.
Present Messrs. Piper. Pollock. Ogden. Hartman & Phips. The Revd. Saml. Swan being
present presided as modr. Constituted by prayer. Mrs. Ellen Barnwill was examined
& recd, Concluded with prayer.
In making an entry of the case of Mrs. Barnwill the Sipr* having been con**** &
concluded with prayer was omitted to be inserted in the minute -- The fact beng so
it now ****.
certified by Thos. Pollosk } 6th of Sep. ****
1843 Apl. 5th
John Love & Mary his wife were dismissed from this church by certificate to join the
church in Jefferson County.
Approved thus far.
Adam Torrance Modr.
The United congregations of Fairfield & Union laid in a call before the presbytery
of Blairsville for the pastoral labors of the Rev. John Fleming at its spring
meeting in A.D. 1843, which was accepted at an adjourned meeting in June, & the
pastoral relation constituted by instalation July 11th of the same year.
The first meeting of the session of the Fairfield church was held by appointment
June 18th 1843, & when constituted by prayer it received on examination seven
individuals to the communion of the church, & three on certificate. [see
statistical table.] Concluded with prayer.
Oct. 8, 1843
Session of Fairfield church met according to appointment. Constituted with
prayer. Members all present. Received on examination six individuals to the
communion of the church. Closed with prayer. [see sta. table]
Dec. 1st 1843
The session of Union church met according to appointment. Opened with prayer.
Members all present. Received on examination five individuals to the communion of
the church, & two on certificate [see sta. table]. Closed with prayer.
March 14th 1844
Session of Fairfield church met according to appointment. Opened with prayer.
Members all present. Received to the communion of the church on examination twelve
individuals (see table). Closed with prayer.
August 31: 1844
Session of Fairfield church met according to appointment. Opened with prayer.
Received to communion of the church on certificate 2 individuals & on examination
three (see Table). Closed with prayer.
April 12th 1845
Session of Fairfield met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members all
present. Received on examination five individuals (see table).
June 14th 1845
Session of Union met by appointment. Opened with prayer. Received to the communion
of the church on examination four individuals (see table). Closed with prayer.
August 15th 1845
Session of Union met according to appointment. Opened with prayer After devising
means to prevent the sale of their church on an execution by J. Kirker, they passed
the following resolution in relation to members irregularly leaving the communion of
the church.
Resolved; that any member absenting himself or herself from the stated ordinances of
the church for one year, shall not receive a certificate of dismission if removing
beyond our bounds, nor shall they be entitled again to privileges in the church
untill they give satisfaction for their offence.
Concluded with prayer.
Aug. 29: 1845
Fairfield -- Session met according to appointment. Members all present. Received
to the communion of the church on examination six individuals (see table).
After recess session again met, when John F. Luther & wife appeared, and, having
confessed that they were guilty of antinuptial fornication, they were examined as
to the evidence of their repentance, & faith in Christ, and the session being
satisfied on these points they were received into communion & publicly rebuked for
their sin. Concluded with prayer.
In Presbytery April 16th 1846 Approved thus far John Caruthers Moderator The
Presbytery of Blairsville at its spring meeting in Indiana (1846) dissolved the
pastoral relation between the Revd. J. Fleming & the united congrns of Fairfield &
Union. The Revd. Geo Hill in pursuance of an order of said Presby. afterwards
preached a sermon in Fairfield church & declared said congrn vacant.
Octr. 31st 1846 Fairfield. Session met according to appointment. Members all
present. Revd. Mr. Swan being present presided as Moderator. Opened with
prayer. Received to the communion of the church on examination Jas. Davidson.
Margaret & Catharine Davison. Concluded with prayer.
1847 Apl. 30th Fairfield
Session met pursuant to appointment. Members present Robt. Piper. Thos. Pollock.
John Ogden. John Phips & Henry Hartman. Constituted by prayer. Received to the
communion of the church on examination Sophia Norris & Rosana Hazlet*. Concluded
with prayer.
The United congns of Fairfield & Union laid in a call before the Presby. of
Blairsville at its Spring meeting 2d Tuesday of Apl. 1847 for the pastoral labors
Rev. Obadiah H. Miller a licentiate under the care of said Presby.
The call was accepted and the Presby. met on the 4th of May 1847 at Fairfield church
& constituted the relation prayer for by ordaining & installing the said licentiate
as pastor of the said churches.
Union Church June 5th 1847
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev.
O.H. Miller Modr. Elders John Gilmore, John Caldwell, James Caldwell, Thos.
Henderson & Saml. Davison.
Three persons were received on Examination. Sarah Snyder, Issabella Davison &
William Davison.
One on examination and baptism Nancy Hannah.
Six on certificate. Samuel Kenedy, Rebecca Kenedy, Margory Kenedy, Mrs. S. Snyder,
Nancy Snyder & Mary Snyder. Adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
Union Church August 4th 1847
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev.
O.H. Miller Modr. Elders John Caldwll. John Gilmore. James Caldwell. Thos.
Henderson. A communication was received from Mr. Cad. McBurney on the 25th of July
1847 containing charges again Mr. Saml. Davison a member of Session and his son
Isaac Davison also a member of this church. The communication is as follows --
Fairfield July 25. 1847
To Rev. Mr. Miller & Session of Union Church--
I hereby acquaint you
1st of the treatment of Mr. Isaac Davison who took one of my sheep and disposed of
it to Mr. William Houston, knowing it to be my sheep and for which he afterwards
refuses to pay me -- all of which I can prove by responsible witnesses.
(signed) Cad McBurney
Witnesses to prove this charge against Isaac Davison. Saml. P. Davison. Thos.
Davison. Mrs. Ann Donaldson. Robert McBurney. Cadr. McBurney & Wm. Houston.
2 I acquaint you of the conduct of Mr. Samuel Davison towards me when I spoke to him
concerning the treatment of his son towards me and the said Samuel damned me for an
old vagabond to be gone or he would draw me off my horse and kick me. Which fact I
can prove.
(signed) Cad McBurney
Witness to prove 2d charge. David J. Louther
Samuel Davison stated that as he expected very soon to remove out of the bounds of
this congregation and as the parties concerned were present with the witness who
was duly notified -- he would request that the charge against him be now taken up
-- no objections being made we complied with the request.
David J. Luther sworn saith (see testimony lodged with John Caldwell)
After hearing the parties and all the evidence in the case -- the Session do
unanimously decide tha the charge is not established.
On motion citations were issued for the witnesses on the charge against Isaac
Davidson.
On motion we now adjourn to meet on the 14th of August. Concluded with prayer.
Union Church Aug. 14. 1847
Session met agreeally to the above adjournment -- opened with prayer -- Members
present Rev. O.H. Miller Modr. Elders John Caldwell, John Gilmore, James
Caldwell. The parties being present with witnesses -- on motion we proceeded to
investigate the charge brought against Isaac Davidson by Mr. Cad McBurney -- Mrs.
Ann Donaldson. Saml. P. Davidson. Robt. McBurney. Wm. Houston. Robt.
Donaldson. Saml. Davidson were severally sworn and testified -- see testimony
occupying 14 pages lodged with John Caldwell -- on motion we do now adj. to meet on
Satturday the 4th of September. Concluded with prayer.
Union Church Sep 4. 1847
Session met according to the above adjournment. Opened with prayer. Members
present Rev. O.H. Miller Modr. Elders John Caldwell, John Gilmore, James Caldwell.
The object of this meeting being to form a decision in the above case, therefore
resolved that it be as follows. The Session of Union church having entered upon an
investigation of the above case -- hearing the testimony at full length and after
deliberating thereupon are unanimously of opinion that in the part of Mr. Isaac
Davidson, in the above case from the evidence, there appears no immorality, and
consequently we are of opinion that the accuser has failed to establish his charge
in every particular. On motion we do now adjourn. Concluded with prayer.
Fairfield Church Oct. 23. 1847
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev.
O.H. Miller Modr. Elders Robt. Piper, Henry Hartman, John Ogden & John Phipps.
Ann Serena was received on examination. Margaret Serena & Polly Robb on
examination and baptism -- adj -- Concluded with prayer.
Union church Nov. 13th 1847
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev.
O.H. Miller Modr. Elders John Caldwell, John Gilmore, James Caldwell, Thos.
Henderson.
The following persons were received into our communion on examination. Mary Trimble
(wife of James Trimble). Susan Bennet (wife of Abraham Bennet). Margory Gilmore.
Nancy Brown. Margaret Halferty. On examination & baptism Abraham Bennet & James
Trimble. On certificate Joseph Kenedy & his wife Eliza Kenedy. Archibald Matthews
& his wife Jane Matthews.
Session adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
In Presbyt. of Blairsville at Annies* Run April 13. 1848 approved thus far. George
Hill, moderator.
Fairfield Ch. May 26th 1848
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev.
O.H. Miller Modr. Elders Robt. Piper. John Ogden. John Phipps. Henry Hartman.
Proceeded to examine candidate for admission to the church Wm. M. Love. Margaret
Love. Robert Donaldson & Sarah Donaldson were recd. on Examination. And Mary Ann
Berry. Mary Catherine McQuaid & Dorcas McQuaid were received on examination and
Baptism. Adj. Concluded with prayer.
Fairfield Feb 23rd 1849
Session met persuient to Publick notice. Members present Robt. Piper & Henery
Hartman -- Rev. Wm. Colledge being present presided as moderator. Recd to the
communion of the church on examination. Mr. Ruben M. McKelvy -- Mrs. Jane McKelvy
& Mr. William McNealor* opened & concluded with prayer.
Approved thus far. John K. ******** Moderator
November 16th 1849
Session met persuiant to publick notice and was opened with prayer. Members present
-- John Ogden -- John Phipps -- Henry Hartman & William Colledge Modr. Recd. to the
communion of the Church on examination Alexander Blare* and Margret Kennedy.
Concluded with prayer.
In presby. & approved thus far April 10. 1850.
A.B. Clark, Mdt.
June 14th 1850
Session met persuient to publick notice and was opened with prayer members present
Robert Piper -- John Ogden -- Henery Hartman -- John Phipps and Rev. William
Colledge moderator. Recd. to the communion of the church James Clarke & Matilda
Clarke on certificate. Elizabeth Miller -- Agness Miller -- Sarah Louther &
Agness Louther on examination. Concluded with prayer.
November 22nd 1850
Session met persuient to public notice and was opened with prayer. Members present
Rev. W. Colledge. Robert Piper. Henery Hartman & J. Phipps. Rec' d to the
communion of the church Mr. Robert H. Love. Mrs Martha Love. Martha F. Taylor and
Samuel Dugless on examination and Mr. Isaac Mathews on certificate. Concluded with
prayer.
In Presby. at Indiana April 9. 1851 approved thus far.
A.B. Quay* Modr.
June 27th 1851
Session met persuient to public notice and was opened with prayer. Members present
Robert Fippen. John Ogden -- Henry Hartman -- John Phipps -- & Rev. William
Colledge Moderator. Recd to the communion of the church on examination Mr. Scroggs
Hartman. Mrs. Susan Hartman -- Mrs. Martha Colledge -- Miss Lucinda Taylor -- Miss
Margret Johnston & Miss Carraline McKee -- on certificate Mrs. Margret Robb.
Adjourned to meet on July 5th 1851. Concluded with prayer.
July 5th 1851
Session met aggre**** to adjournment & was opened with prayer. Members present John
Ogden. John Phipps & Rev. William Colledge moderator. Recd to the communion of the
church on examination Misses Isabella Luther & Hanah Luther, concluded with prayer.
November 14th 1851
Session met persuient to public notice & was opened with prayer. Members present,
John Ogden, Henery Hartman & Rev. W. Colledge Modr. Recd to the communion of the
church on examination Mr. John Lerenon* -- Mrs. Lydia Lerenon* & Miss Adelaide
Csay*. Closed with prayer.
Approved thus far at Blairsville April 14th 1852.
W.W. Woodend Mod.
Persuent to publick notice given a congregational meeting was held Sermon by Rev
Herbison congregation p***** to the election of members of Session where upon the
following members were duly elected. Hugh M. Skiles, William Robb, John Love, F.P.
McCoy.
February 3d 1853
Session met persuant to notise opened with prayer, members present Hugh M. Skiles,
John Ogden, Wm. Robb, John Love, F.P. McCoy. The following charges of Mr. Robt
Piper against Mr. John P. Blair Member of this church was presented by the clerk.
Charge.
1st Unchristian conduct in the use of abusive and threatening language towards Mr.
Nathaniel McKelvey. 2nd Profanity
3rd Falsehood in saying that I had misrepresented him to the Session
Witnesses on the first charge. James Reed, Hugh Peoples, David Blair, George Blair,
John Ogden, Thomas Reed, Samuel Piper.
Witnesses on the second charge. James Reed, Ambrose Welshonce, Robt. McFarland,
Samuel Johnston, Thomas Reed & Samuel Piper.
Witnesses on the third char. John McFarland. James Blair. John B. Blair & John
Kenedy
Session agurn to meet
the 18th Inst.
Fairfield Church 18 Feb 1853
Session met persuant to adjournment. Rev. D. Herbison of Ligonier was invited to
attend & act as moderator. He opened the meeting with prayer. Members present
Rev. D. Herbison with Elders Wm. Robb, Hugh Skiles, John Love, Thos. P. McCoy, Mr.
Robert Piper appears to present the charge against John P. Blair which he has laid
before Session at the last meeting. Mr. Blair being present also appeared. The
minutes of last meeting were read & the clerk informed the session that due notice
had been served on the witnesses. Session proceeded to take up the charge
according to the rules provided in the book of discipline chap. 2 and asked Mr.
Piper whether he had used the means of Reconciliation then laid down he replied that
he had not because he considered the offence as publick *****. Session unanimously
decide otherwise as the charges were proferred by Mr. Piper as adivided & the 3rd
charge being not only private but personal after consideration Session decide* to
take up the charge & direct Mr. Piper to adopt the mode presented in second case in
chap. 2nd section 3 for affecting a reconciliation.
May 29th 1853
Session met. Members present Hugh Skiles, Wm. Robb, John Love, Thos. P. McCoy,
opened by prayer. Wm. Piper report that he had sought but failed to obtain an
interview with Mr. Blair whereupon Session appointed a committee to meet with Mr.
Piper & Mr. Blair. Hugh Skiles & Thos. P. McCoy were appointed said committee.
June 18th 1853
Session met. Opened with prayer. Members present Skiles. Robb. Love & McCoy.
Committee report that they failed to get the parties reconciled to each other &
furthermore Mr. Piper said he considers it not his duty to adopt the mode directed
in **** case in chap. 2 & refused so to do. After consideration Session declined
taking further action on the charge & unanimously decide to dismiss it.
Communion held by the Rev. George Hill of Blairsville Sept. 18th 1853.
October 8th A.D. 1853
Session met pursuant to notise given members present H. Hartman. H. Skiles. Wm.
Robb. J. Love. T.P. McCoy, opened with prayer H. Hartman chosen moderator. Wm.
Robb commissioner to the late Presbytery report that Mr. Piper complained to the
Presbytery of the former proceedings of Session in the case of Piper & Blair &
that presbytery referred the case back to Session with injunctions to take up the
case & try it. Session direct the clerk to cite the parties to meet on the 17th
inst. Adjourned to meet on the 17th inst.
October the 17th A.D. 1853
Session met agreeably which the above adgurnment Members present H Hartman H Skiles
Wm Robb J Love & T.P. McCoy constituted by prayer the cause was taken up of the
parties Mr. Piper only was present Session direct the parties to be cited to meet
on the second of November. Session ordered the clerk to give citations to Mr.
Piper for witness & that Mr. Blair be cited to attend & that if he do not the case
will be tried after assigning some one to manage his case. Adjourned to meet on
the 2d Novr. Concluded with prayer.
November 2 A.D. 1853
Persuent to agurnment Session met and constituted with prayer by the Rev. Swan
moderrator members of session present H Hartman Wm Robb J Love H Skiles agreeably
to instructions given by Presbytery the Session proceed to investigate the charges
pending between Mr. Robt. Piper as posecutor and J.P. Blair defendant. The charges
being read Mr. Blair being present denies the charges the parties are willing to
proceed to trial.
Samuel Piper son of the prosecutor sworn says Blair swore but has forgotten the oath
that he would law McKelvy as long as he was worth a dollar & if ever he was able how
old law him a gain.
Cross examination he said Mr. Piper did not speak very friendly of Mr. Blair for he
had no warm love for him read & acknowledged.
A. Welshons sworn says about eight days after the burning of Alexander Blair's house
three years ago last October he was in conversation with defendant who saw he would
be G-d D-d if McKelvy or any of the Sit* should ever put a hand on it that is the
rebuilding of the house that was burnt.
Cross examination are you shure I said G-d d-m yes I am Depo. further sais upon
informing Mr. Piper that Blair had made use of profain language that he (Piper)
said he was bound to talk to Blair as he had previously used a good deal of bad
language at the burning of A.B.' s house against N. McKelvy he never remembers to
hear Mr. Blair make use of bad language before or since. Read & acknowledged.
John McFarland sworn sais in conversation after the burning of the House Blair
inform me that Mr. Piper had returned him to the session for swarring and he had
returned him (Piper) to the session for lying.
Question by Blair did Mr. Piper speak of me in friendly terms never heard him speak
in a hostile manner yet not all together in aproving terms further saith that some
time since Mr. Blair told him that he had with drwing the charge against Mr. Piper
Read & acknowledged.
John Kenedy sworn he never heard Mr. Blair use profane language. Read &
acknowledged.
Adgourned to meet at Fairfield church on Monday 14th inst. 10: o'clock
November 14th A.D. 1853
Persuent to a government session met members present Rev. Mr. Swan Moderator H.
Hartman Wm. Robb J. Love H. Skiles. Constituted with prayer.
Hugh Peoples sworn saith that he heard Mr. Blair say in a conversation with John
McKelvey that N. McKelvy went to gather chestnuts & Charles had gone to gather
apples and it was little difference if his (Charles) coat was burned and that he
was burned in it.
Question by Mr. Piper. Did you hear Mr. Blair say any thing *** the burning of the
House dirgatory to the karactor of N. McKelvy no I did not. Read & acknowledged.
Mr. Blair produced no witnesses.
All the witnesses present being examined and more who being legally cited did not
attend the question being put shall the court consider the testimony as closed
carried in the affirmative on ground the ****** were twice cited and no good reason
assigned why they did not attend session having met sevral times & given all
reasonable in ********* to the parties to be fully heard think that it would be
unreasonable to call them to meet again as there is no probability of any more
witnesses coming forward the parties were cold upon to make there remarks --
Session ****** to decide the case on the above testamony the members give there
**** of the different charges Session unanimously disided that the first & third
ware not proven but the sworn the considered as proven on the ground of Mr.
Welshonses testamony corrorated by that of Samuel Pipers Session deside that Mr.
Blair be rebuked & admonished to be more garded in his language for the future and
that until he submit to said disision that he be suspended from the communion of
the church. Resolved that the above disision be pulished to the congration as soon
as convinient. Closed with prayer.
Mr. Blair submitted to the disision of Session & give such satisfaction as was
deemed necssary am by so doing was restored to his former standing.
Approved in Presbytery thus far
April 12th 1854
[end of book]