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Fredonia Church Book
1836-1844
Transcribed by Marsia Painter and Douglas H. Shepard, 2013
Last names and years are in bold type. Transcriber’s notes are in [brackets]. The transcriber has
made an effort to preserve the spelling quirks present in the original, handwritten document. A
question mark in parentheses (?) denotes an uncertainty about the spelling in the original
document.
Page 125
See the names of Church members
The proceedings of the Presbyterian Church in Fredonia in the Town of Pomfret up to Sept. 1
1835 were Examined and approved at the Sitting of the Presbytery at Napoli Sept 1, 1835
H. Bosworth
Fredonia Jany 10 1836
The Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with Pray by Deacon Durkee.
Members of the Session present. H. Durkee, R. I. Manton, T. Kapple, O. Taylor, I. Leach, N.
H. Whitcomb, G. I. Drake, H. Bosworth. The following persons presented themselves as
candidates for admission into the Church Nathan Perkins, Hannah Perkins, Roxanna Wood,
Moses E. Wilson, Robbert Wilson, Rhoda Wilson, Wealthee Burnham, Ira Risly. After the
examination it was unanimously voted they be recd. Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 18th
1836
Session met at the house of the Rev. William Bradley for Prayers & c. Meeting opened with
Prayer. Present Revd Wm Bradley, H. Durkee, T. Kapple, I. G. Drake, N. H. Whitcomb, H.
Bosworth. On Motion voted that H. Durkee be a Delegate to attend the next meeting of the
Presbytery to be held at Silver Creek on Tuesday the 26th
day of Jany Inst. On motion voted that
N. H. Whitcomb be Alternate. Meeting Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
5 line from the bottom read Fayette instead of Silvercreek. H. B.
Fredonia August 28th
1836
Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with prayer. Present, Revr Mr. Lad,
Moderator, H. Durkee, I. Leach, I. G. Drake, T. Kapple, N. H. Whitcomb & H. Bosworth. On
motion voted that Isaac Leach be a Delegate to attend the next meeting of the Presbytery to be
held at Fredonia on Tuesday the 6th
day of September inst. 2 o’clock P. M. On motion voted that
I. G. Drake be alternate. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth, Clerk
Thus far examined & approved in Presbytery at Fredonia Sept. 7th
1836. Jno. G. Lord Mod’r
Decem 29th
1836
Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with prayer by Revr Bradley. Present H.
Durkee, T. Kapple, I. Leach, I. G. Drake, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth as Clerk. Appeared
before the session Catharine Van Curan for examination after which, it was unanimously voted
she be recd into the fellowship of the Church. Meeting Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth, Clerk
P. S. (?) at a meeting of Session Deacon Harvey Durkee requested to be released from being
considered an acting member of the Session by reason of his age & infirm health. The Session
voted that his request be granted. 1836 H. Bosworth Clerk
Jany 27th
1837
Session met at the Presbyterian house called by the Moderator after Services were closed.
Present W. Bradly Moderator, H. Durkee, T. Kapple, I. G. Drake, H. Bosworth Present as
Clerk. On motion voted that I. G. Drake be a Delegate to attend the next meeting of the
Presbytery to be held at Buffall[sic]. On motion voted that H. Bosworth be alternate. Meeting
Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk.
March 1837
Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house opened with Prayer by the Revr W. Bradley.
Present Durkee, Drake, Kaple, Whitcomb, Bosworth. Appeared before the Session for
examination Elisha Foster, Quartis Rust, Amanda Rost, Wm. A. Johnson, James Sage, Linas
Sage, Mrs. Crocker, Sarah Ann Crocker, Parmelia E. Barber, Altayna(?) M. Brown, Augustis
Beckwith, Ezra Lowell, Jesse Starr, Henry Howard, A. Huron Lewis, Sophia Taylor,
Elizabeth Whittaur, Lucretia L. Spenser, Elvira Wheelock, Elvira L. Tuttle, Cynthia Coats,
Ann-Maria Allen, Sylvia B. Lyman, Hamitt Howard, after which it was Unanimously resolved
they be recd. Closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Thus far examined & approved in Presbytery at Dunkirk Sept. 6, 1837
William Bradley Moderator
Wednesday evening Jany 17, 1838
The Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house for prayer &c. Opened by the Revr Mr.
Rudd. Present Durkee, Drake, Kapple, Leach, Seymour & Bosworth. On motion voted that
H. Bosworth be a delegate to attend the next meeting of the Presbeterie[sic] to be held at Lodi
on Tuesday the 31st day of Jany Inst. I. G. Drake appointed alternate. Closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia March 2nd
1838
Miss Flura Norton presented herself before the Session after the preparatory lecture on Friday
previous to the communion season (session?) for examination to unite with the church. The
meeting being considered as opened with prayer. Present Revr Mr. Rudd, Durkee, Kapple,
Drake, Seymour, Lewis & Bosworth after the examination it was voted that she be recd into the
church. Meeting closed with prayer. H. Bosworth Clerk
August 29th
1838
The Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with prayer by Revd Mr. Rudd.
Present Durkee, Drake, Whitcomb, Lewis & Bosworth. Motion voted that Brother Isaac A.
Leach be a Delegate to attend the next meeting of the Presbettres[sic] to be held at Westfield on
2d Tuesday in Sept. 1838. On motion voted that I. G. Drake be alternate. Meeting closed with
Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Thus far examined in Presbytery and approved Westfield Sept. 5, 1838 except a deficiency of
records.
Asher Wright Moderator
Wednesday evening Oct 3d 1838
The Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house for the purpose of prays and other purposes.
Meeting opened by Pray by the Revr Mr.(?) Rudd. Present Durkee, Kapple, Leach,
Whitcomb, Lewis & Bosworth. On motion voted That I. G. Drake be a Delegate to the next
meeting of the Presbitrea[sic] at Buffalo on 18th
day of Oct, 1838. On motion voted That Noah
H. Whitcomb be Alternate. Meeting Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Oct 5th
1838
After a preparatory lecture had been preached by the Rev Mr. Rudd Mrs. Mary Starks and Mrs.
Harriett Norton related their Christian experience to the Session with a view to unite with the
Church after which it was unanimously voted that they be recd into the Church. Members of the
Session present H. Durkee, John Seymour, N. H. Whitcomb, Isaack N. Leach, Thomas Kapple
& H. Bosworth. Meeting closed with prayer. H. Bosworth Clerk
January 9th
1839
Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house – Opened with prayer by the Rev Mr. S. Cowls.
Brethren Present N. H. Whitcomb, Moses Lewis, Harry Durkee, H. Bosworth. On motion
voted that Moses Lewis be a delegate to attend the next meeting of the Presbeteria[sic] to be held
at Springville. On motion voted that Thomas Kapple be alternate. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
(Session rooms
Feby 8th
1839
Zedekiah S. Ames came before the Session and related his Christian experience with a view to
unite with the Church after which it was voted he be recd into the Church. Present Kapple,
Leach, Seymour, Bosworth. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
The Committee appointed to examine the records of the Church in Fredonia report that they
have(?) attended to their duty and recommend that the records be signed as approved with the
exception that on page 12 the signature of the clerk is wanting. James Remmington, Alson
Adams Com’t
Fredonia July 5th
, 1839 Preparatory lecture after which the Session met & the following persons
presented themselves & letters and voted to be recd into the Church. Alanson Hale, Josiah W.
Bristol, Lydia Mitchell, Sarah H. Pettit(?), Elmira Putnam, Lucy Moory, Philop Wells, Sophia
Wells, Louisa Bristol, Martina Birtholf presented herself for examination after which the
Session voted that she be recd on her giving her assent to the articles of faith. Closed with prayer
H. Bosworth Clerk
Novm 3d 1839
Session met for Prayer and Christian conversation. Miss Rose Ann Charlton and Mrs. Selmina
Simons letters were presented after which they voted to be recd into the Church. Meeting closed
with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Jany 4th
1840
Session met for Prayer and Religious conversation when Mrs. Sarah M. Munton, Seth Stark, A.
I. Cowls, Sally Cowls, Harry Baker and Sarah P. Bakers letters were presented unread after
which it was voted she be recd into the Church. Meeting closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 10th
1840
Session met for prayer and religious conversation. Present Rev. S. Cowles, H. Durkee, T.
Kapple, J. Seymour, N. H. Whitcomb, M. Lewis & H. Bosworth. Meeting opened with prayer.
On motion voted that Thomas Kapple &[sic] be a delegate to attend the meeting of Presbiteries
Erie County. On motion voted that H. Bosworth be alternate. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia April 17th
1840
Preparatory lecture by the Revr S. Cowles after which the Session were called together and Mr.
Joseph Starr and Porsa Starr his Wife presented letters of recommendation from the Church in
Erie P. A. to become member of this church. On motion it was voted that they be recd into the
Church. At the same meeting Miss Mabell Smith, Miss Harriett Brown, Miss Susan Barber and
Mr. James J. Pettit presented themselves before the Session and related their Christian
experience with a view to unite with the church after which it was unanimously voted they be
recd into the Church by their giving assent to the articles of faith. Meeting Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
June 5, 1840
Session met in the Session room Deacon Harry Durkee chosen Moderator of the meeting.
Brethren present T. Kapple, I. H. Leach, N. H. Whitcomb, M. Lewis, John Seymour, H.
Bosworth. Meeting opened with Prayer by the moderator the object of the meeting being stated
by some of member present. On motion Voted and resolved unanimously that there be a Church
appointed the next Friday. On motion Voted that John Seymour and I. A. Leach draught
something to be presented to the Church meeting for consideration. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia July 11, 1840
Preparatory lecture by the Revr Mr. Orton after which Mr. Wm Hopkins and Polly Hopkins his
wife and Miss Mary Bradley presented letters of recommendation from other Churches to this
Church with a view of uniting with this church. On motion Voted that they be recd into the
Church. Meeting closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Children Babtised 1839
Wm Beardsley Rudd
1840 Mary Bosworth, Stern D. Wilson, Emila Tuttle, Gerory(?) Marshall, Hubbard W. Gilbert
Fredonia August 14th
1840
The Session met for Prayer and consultation meeting opened with prayer. On motion voted that
Thomas Kapple be a delegate to attend the next meeting of the Presbeterie to be held at Fredonia
Sept. 1, 1840. On motion Voted John Seymour be alternate. The Session of this Church viewing
the Evils arising from cases where Brethren go to law with one another that it is morally wrong
& contrary to the doctrines of Christ & his apostles therefore resolved
That it’s morally wrong for Brethren of the Same Church to go to law with another & should be
treated as an offense against the Church. Meeting Closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Novm 4th
, 1840
Session met for prayer. On motion voted John Ait moderator of the meeting. Opened with
prayer. Brethren present H. Durkee, Thomas Kapple, Moses Lewis, I. A. Leach, Clerk protem.
On motion voted that communication be read from Brother S. E. Stoddard in relation to matters
between Brother A. Hinkly & himself, after which Brother George Drew(?) case was called in
which it appeared that the said Brother being thought deficient in Christian character for some
considerable time, about one year ago a committee was appointed to visit said Brother & report
to the Session. Deacon John Seymour & Deacon Moses Lewis were said committee who after
visiting sd [said] Brother reported that according to confession of Brother Drew(?) he was
deficient in the following particulars Viz 1st he did not pray in secret 2d he did not pray in his
family or in a public manner 3d he did not read the Bible privately or in the family publickly[sic]
4th
verry rarely at the stated or occasional meetings of the Church on the Sabbath or during the
week and no known reasonable cause of absence 5th
had not attended the Sacrament of the Lords
Supper for months a year past and that he had no evidence of being a Christian and wished to be
excluded from the Church. Report accepted & committee discharged.
2d a committee appointed consisting of I. A. Leach and John Seymour to prosecute the labour
with Said Brother which was prevented by the removal of G. Drew(?) to Ohio when a letter was
directed from the Session to offending Brother stating the particulars of his offence requiring
some evidence of amendment and informing him of the necessity of excommunicating if he
neglected to hear us but no answer being had, the Committee was required to prepare and send
out another letter announcing the determination of the Session stating explicitly the points of
offense which was not done, as the committee providentially had a personal interview with the
Said Brother when he plead guilty to all the Charges above stated and no purpose or wish to have
them otherways, which being reported to the Session On motion Voted that George Drew(?) for
impiety of life and covenant breaking be excommunicated from the privileges of the Church till
he repents. Closed with prayer.
I. A. Leach Clerk P. T.
Whereas Mr. George Drew(?) hath by his own confession been convicted of the sins of
restraining prayer in private in publick and the family and for covenant breaking by absenting
himself from the stated and occasional meeting of the Church on the Sabbath and during the
week without a sufficient excuse for more than two years and for absenting himself from the
table of the Lords communion for the same time, and after much admonition and prayer
obstinately refused to hear the Church and hath manifested no evidence of repentance. Therefore
in the name and by the authority of Lord Jesus Christ we pronounce him to be excluded from the
Communion of the Church and neglecting to read the word of God either privately or publickly
by order of the Session. The above was read from the Pulpit by the Revr Mr. Beardsly Novm 5,
1840
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 1841
Session at the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with prayer by the moderator Deacon H.
Durkee. Members present John Seymour, Thomas Kapple, I. A. Leach, Moses Lewis, H.
Bosworth. On motion voted N. H. Whitcomb a delegate to attend the next meeting of the
Presbitrie of Buffalo. On motion voted that H. Bosworth be alternate. Meeting closed with
prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia May 20, 1841
The Session met for prayer and deliberation. Present H. Durkee, T. Kapple, John Seymour,
Isaac A. Leach, Moses Lewis, H. Bosworth. Meeting opened with prayer. After which Brother
Thomas Kapple asked to be released from being an acting member of the Session and gave for
reason for so doing that he had become unacceptable in his official character to a portion of the
Congregation to which he belongs. After which it was voted that he be released from being an
active member of the Session. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Sept. 1, 1841
Session met at Presbyterian meeting house for Prayer and consultation. Present Isaac A. Leach,
N. H. Whitcomb, Moses Lewis, J. Seymour and H. Bosworth. Meeting opened with prayer. On
motion voted that Brother N. H. Whitcomb be a delegate to attend the next meeting of the
Presbytrea to be held at Westfield the 1st Tuesday of Sept. next. On motion voted that Isaac A.
Leach be alternate. Meeting closed with prayer.
Examined and approved at a meeting of Presbytrea at Westfield 8th
of Sept 1841 in accordance
with the within note.
Samuel I. Orton Moderator
Session meeting
Fredonia March 2, 1842
Meeting opened with prayer by the Moderator N. H. Whitcomb. Brethren present [crossed out:
John Seymour] Harry Durkee, Isaac H. Leach, Moses Lewis, H. Bosworth. On motion voted
that the Session recommend to the Church that there ought to be in their opinion an addition of
six made to the Session and that there be a Church meeting called for the purpose of bringing the
subject before them for there consideration. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth
March 8th
1842
Church meeting called by the recommend of the Session to fill vacancies in the Session
occasioned by the resignations of Deacon Harry Durkee and Thomas Kapple. On motion voted
meeting adjourned to March 19, 1842.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Session meeting
March 16, 1842
Meeting opened with prayer by the Revr Mr. Boyer. Brethren Present John Seymour, Isaac H.
Leach, Noah H. Whitcomb, Moses Lewis, Henry Bosworth. On motion voted that at the next
Church meeting the Subject shall be presented to the Church whether they will invite the Revr
Mr. Orton to preach to us a number of Sermons. On motion voted Isaac Leach, Noah H.
Whitcomb and Henry Bosworth be a committee to write to or converse with Thomas Higgins
as opportunity may present and report at the next Session meeting. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Church meeting
March 19th
1842 according to adjournment. Revr. Mr. Boyer Moderator. Meeting opened with
Prayer. The object of the meeting being stated by the moderator. On motion voted that there be
two members added to the present Session to fill the places of H. Durkee & Thomas Kapple. On
voted that John Crane and John Gilbert be the ones to fill above vacancies. Meeting closed.
H. Bosworth Clerk
April 1st 1842
After a Preparatory lecture had been delivered by the Revr Mr. Boyer Mr. George Lowry and
Mrs. Elisabeth Lowry his wife and Mrs. Mary Hart gave us their letters of recommendation
from other churches to this church with a view of uniting. On motion voted they be recd.
H. Bosworth Clerk
At the same meeting Mr. Roswell, D. O. Fellows and Miss Sarah F. Durkee told their religious
experience with a view of uniting with the Church after which it was voted they be recd as
members into the Church. Meeting closed.
H. Bosworth Clerk
April 3d 1842
Children Baptised by the Rev. Mr. Boyer Carlton Kapple, Ann E. Lewis, Sarah Carolin Tuttle.
H. Bosworth Clerk
April 10th
1842
John Crane and John Gilbert were ordained as Elders in the first Presbyterian Church of
Pomfret. Services by the Revr Mr. Boyer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia April 18th
1842
Session meeting. John Seymour Chosen Moderator. Brethren Present Isaac H. Leach, Moses
Lewis, N. H. Whitcomb, John Crane, John Gilbert, Henry Bosworth. Meeting opened with
Prayer. The committee on Thomas Higgins case report that they have not seen him or written
him. Said committee Isaac H. Leach, N. H. Whitcomb and Henry Bosworth be continued and
report at the next meeting of the Session. On motion voted that John Crane and Isaac H. Leach
be a Committee to correspond with some ministers with a view to preach to us and report at the
next meeting of the Session the results of their Correspondence. Meeting closed with prayer.
Meeting adjourned to the first Wednesday in May 7 o clock P. M.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia August 27, 1842
Preparatory lecture by the Revr Mr. Vanburen. Seth Starr, Son of Joseph (Infants) Starr & C.
M. Baker son of Mr. Baker(?) was Baptised.
August 28, 1842 Mr. Lowry two infant Children Children[sic] Baptised.
Fredonia Sept. 2d 1842
Session met opened with prayer. On motion that Isaac H. Leach be a delegate to attend the
meeting at Jamestown the 7 of Sept. 1842. On motion voted that John Seymour, Noah
Whitcomb, John Gilbert, Moses Lewis, John Crane, & Henry Bosworth be Alternates.
Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Thus far examined & approved in Presbytery at Jamestown Sept 6 1842. E. J. Gillete Mod.
The member in Communion according to the report of April 1st 1842
To the Presbytery 219
Added Examination 6
Added on Certificate 14
Died 4
Baptisms Adults 4
Infants 7
Contributions
For foreign Missions 76
For Bethel Cause 10.47
H. Bosworth Clerk
[Pages 38-63 are blank, as is page 65]
Oct. 5th
1842
Session met in the Session room of the P M H [Presbyterian Meeting House]. It opened with
Prayer. Present Elder Leach, Gilbert Lewis & Bosworth. The case of Leonard Hutchinson a
member of this church charged with disorderly conduct being called up Elder John Gilbert who
had been appointed to visit & converse with him stated that he had not yet been able to see him
on which it was voted that J. Gilbert be continued a committee to visit the same as before on the
same business. Meeting closed and adjourned with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
December 18 1842
Session met in the Session room according to adjournment & was opened with prayer by the
moderator. Present Elders J. Crane, J. Gilbert, I. A. Leach, N. H. Whitcomb, M. Lewis, J.
Seymour, H. Bosworth. On motion voted that the report of Brother John Gilbert on the case of
Leonard Hutchinson be accepted. On motion voted that Brothers John Gilbert & H. Bosworth
be a committee to visit Brother Leonard Hutchinson & Ezra Lowell and in case the difficulties
existing between them can be adjusted letters of dismission shall be granted to Leonard
Hutchinson & Mrs. Hutchinson his wife according to their request to unite with the Centreville
Church. On motion Voted that Brothers Whitcomb & Lewis be a committee to visit Brother
Silas E. Stoddard & Mrs. Stoddard his wife & learn of them the cause of their breaking
fellowship with the church and report at the next regular meeting. On motion voted that Brother
J. Crane be added to the committee of Leach & Bosworth on the case of Thomas Higgins. On
motion voted that Brother John Seymour & John Crane be a committee to converse with
Brother Wm Lewis and report at the next regular meeting of the Session the cause of his
breaking fellowship with the Church. On motion voted that J. Gilbert and Bosworth be a
committee to visit Miss Noble & learn of her the cause of her breaking fellowship with this
Church and report at the next regular meeting of the session. On motion voted that Brother
Hopkins & Bosworth be a committee to visit or call on R. M. Barbour & wife & report at the
next meeting of the Session. After free conversation on the state of religion in the Church
Session resolved on taking on taking[sic] steps to present a thorough visitation of our members
according to the system adopted in former years. Messrs Crane, Leach & Bosworth were
appointed to nominate visitors & assign them their respective districts. Adjourned to Jany 4th
1843 Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
January 4, 1843
Session met in the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house according to adjournment.
Opened with prayer by the Rev Mr. Hopkins. Brethren present J. Seymour, I. A. Leach, J.
Crane, M. Lewis, N. H. Whitcomb. Brothers Gilbert & Bosworth report in the case of Lowell
& Hutchinson they have seen & conversed with them and according to direction from the
Session have after such conversation gave Leonard Hutchinson and his wife letters of
recommendation to the Centreville Church. (Brother Crane excused from voting on this) The
report of John Seymour and John Crane in the case of Wm Lewis is that he denies the divinity
of Jesus Christ and also that of the old and new testament & says they are not of a divine
revelation upon which it was voted that that [sic] Brother John Gilbert be appointed to table
charges against him for infidelity. On motion Voted John Seymour & John Crane be a
committee to visit Miss Betsy Marsh. On motion Voted Brothers N. H. Whitcomb & and [sic]
Moses Lewis be a committee to visit (?) Barber. On motion voted that John Seymour & John
Crane be a committee to Nelson Marsh. On motion voted that the clerk inform the session of
the Dunkirk Church that a member of that church living within the bounds of this church has
been guilty of improper conduct. Where as common fame charges Brother Huron Lewis a
member of this church with having desecrating the Sabbath by unnecessary traveling Resolved
that Brothers Leach & Whitcomb be a committee to visit & converse with him in regard to the
alledged offense. Closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth
January 11, 1843
Session met at the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house at the call of the Moderator.
Opened with prayer by the Rev. Mr. Hopkins. Present John Seymour, I. A. Leach, N. H.
Whitcomb, John Gilbert, Moses Lewis, H. Bosworth, J. Crane. Elder John Gilbert appointed
at the previous meeting of the Session to table charges or prosecutor against Wm. Lewis here
reported the following. On the witness of Elders John Seymour and John Crane I John Gilbert
came before the Session and make complaint against Wm Lewis a member of this Church
church[sic] that the Said Wm Lewis on the 3d day of Jany 1843 at his own house denied the
Divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ and assorted that to worship him was Idolatry and also denied
the Scriptures to be a exhortation(?) from God, which complaint is respectfully submitted to the
Session. After which the Clerk was directed to serve a citation on Wm Lewis to appear before
the Session on the 11 of Jany 1843 to answer to charges alledged. John Gilbert
Mr. I. A. Leach from the committee appointed to visit Huron Lewis a member of this Church
and converse with him in regard to a breach of the Sabbath with which he is charged reported
that Mr. Lewis freely acknowledged that under peculiar circumstances viz having been detained
from home longer than he anticipated & being destitute of means for procuring loding[sic] over
the Sabbath he did drive from Jamestown to this place on that day. after conversation in the case
in which it appeared that the offender was an ignorant & ill instructed young man it was resolved
that the same committee be appointed to wait on Huron Lewis again and give him such
instruction as seemed necessary in regard to the obligations and manner of satisfying the Lords
day.
The Church of Christ against Wm Lewis
Sir you are hereby cited to appear before the Session of this church on Saturday the 21st Inst. at
11 o clock A. M. at the Session Room of the Presbyterians or Church to answer to the within
charges hereoff fail not by order of the Session.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Jany 11th
1843
William Lewis a member of this church cited to appear at this time to answer to the charge of
denying the divinity of the lord Jesus Christ and the inspiration of the holy scriptures having
failed to appear the clerk was directed to serve a second citation to appear before the Session the
2d Wednesday in February 6 o clock P. M. at the Session Room of the Presbyterian M. H.
The report of Brothers Moses Lewis & N. H. Whitcomb appointed in the case of Brother Silas
E. Stoddard and Wife who say that they cannot walk with the church & and [sic]wish to be
excommunicated from the Church upon which it was voted the Clerk serve a citation on Mr. S.
E. Stoddard and Mrs. Theodora Stoddard his wife to appear before the Session of the
Presbyterian Church in Fredonia in the Session room on Wednesday the 8th
day Feb’y 1843 6 o
clock P. M. Messrs Crane & Seymour who was appointed to wait on Mrs. Link and converse
with her in regard to alledged impropriety in her walk as a professing Christian reported in
substance that Mrs. Link acknowledged that she was destitute of any hope in Christ and
expressed a wish to have communion(?) with the divine(?). On motion voted that a citation be
served on Mrs. Link to appear before the Session on Wednesday the 8th
day of February 6 o
clock P. M. at the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting(?) house to answer to charges of
improper and irreligious conduct. Voted the committee in the case of Nelson Marsh be
continued and give such religious instruction in regard to his religious duties as they think
proper. Session being given to understand that R. H. Mason a member of this church has been
guilty while recently travelling in Pennsylvania of pursuing his journey in two Successive
Sundays it was resolved that Mess. Leach & Bosworth be a committee to wait on Mr. Mason &
converse with him in regard to the reported Scandall. Meeting closed with prayer. H. Bosworth.
Fredonia February 8th
1843
Session convened in the Session room according to adjournment it was opened with Prayer by
Elder J. Seymour. Brethren Present Crane, Lewis, Leach, Bosworth, Gilbert, Whitcomb. Mr.
Hopkins being prevented from attending at the Session room from indisposition it was on
motion resolved that Session adjourn to his house. The minutes of last meeting being read it
approved that the first business in order was Silas E. Stoddard a member of this church cited to
appear at this time on the charge of covenant breaking. Mr. Stoddard being present and
declaring his rediness to proceed to trial Session was solemly warned by the moderator that they
were about to pass in Individual business required to recollect & regard their high character as
judges of a cause of Jesus Christ and act with impartiality in the fear of God the citation & the
charges in the case of Mr. S. E. Stoddard being read. He fully acknowledged before the Session
the facts charged admitting that he had not for 18 months worshiped or communed with the
Church. Being heard in his own defence he alledged in justification that having been wronged as
he believed by a Brother in the church he had come before Session several times more than 2
years ago asking for direction and a hearing but that no attention had been paid to his complaint
that Session had also refused to give him a letter of dismission from the church and that his
views in regard to church government were now so changed that he could not continue or again
become a member of a Presbyterian church Mr. Stoddard having withdrawn Session after
conversation on the subject resolved that a committee consisting of Brother Bosworth & I.
Leach be appointed to wait on Mr. Stoddard and inform him that if he now see fit to bring the
complaint refered to before Session it should be impartially considered and that for this purpose
judgment in his case be suspended. Session then passed to the case of William Lewis a member
of this Church summoned by a second citation to appear before Session at this time on the charge
of denying the inspiration of the Scriptures & the Divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ William
Lewis having failed to appear session proceeded according to the tenor of the second citation,
having appointed Elder N. H. Whitcomb to manage his defence to take testimony in his case as
if he were present. Elder John Seymour being called and placed under affirmation stated that in
a conversation with Wm Lewis on the 3d day of Jany Past at his own house he Wm Lewis said
he did not believe the Bible to be a revelation from God & c. J. C. Elder John Crane being
placed under affirmation said the same. The above evidence being read over to the witness he
acknowledged it to contain a correct record of this testimony. The cross examination & the
questions proposed by member of the Judiatory elicited nothing of importance bearing upon Mr.
Lewis apostasy. The examination of the witnesses being ended and the roll called it unanimously
agreed that the charges were fully sustained on which it was Resolved That the said Wm Lewis
being fully convicted of denying the inspiration & authority of the Scripture and the Divinity of
Christ be & hereby is Excommunicated from this Church.
Session then adjourned and was closed with prayer by the Rev. Mr. Hopkins
H. Bosworth Clerk
The church of Christ against William Lewis
Sir you are hereby cited to appear before the Session of this church on Wednesday the 8. day of
February next 6 o clock P. M. to answer to charges which have been made against you if you do
not appear at the time appointed by the Judicatory besides censuring you for contumacy(?) will
after assigning some person to manage your defense proceed to take testimony in the case as if
you were present by order of the Session.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 30, 1843
Coppy[sic] of a 2d citation
Fredonia Feby 21, 1843
Session met at the Session room in the Presbyterian meeting house opened with prayer by the
Revr Mr. Hopkins. Brethren Present Elders J. Seymour, I. A. Leach, N. H. Whitcomb, M.
Lewis, J. Crane, H. Bosworth. I. A. Leach & H. Bosworth appointed at the last Session
meeting to wait on S. E. Stoddard and inform him the result of our deliberations (See under
page 76) (it being done) after which he did inform the committee he wished some time to
consider the case & would then inform the committee what course he intended to persue. On
motion voted that the Revr Mr. Hopkins & I. A. Leach be a committee to wait on R. W. Mason
and present to him a confession to sign as they shall dictate which is also to be read in the
presence of the congregation on the Sabbath. On motion voted that the clerk serve a citation on
Mrs. Betsey Lynk to appear before the Session of the Presbyterian Church at the Session room
in the P. M. H. on the 15 day of March next 1 o clock P. M. to answer to the charge of improper
conduct as a professed Christian. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
March 1st 1843
Session meeting in the Session room of the P. M. H. opened with prayer by N. H. Whitcomb.
Present Revr Mr. Hopkins, J. Gilbert, J. Seymour, I. A. Leach, H. Bosworth. Revr Mr.
Hopkins & H. Bosworth The committee appointed to wait on R. W. Barber & wife formerly
members of this church & to learn of them whether their relation to the Brockport had been
dissolved if so their intention of uniting with this Church. Mr. Hopkins & Leach the committee
appointed to wait on Mr. R. W. Mason and converse with him in regard to his desecrating the
Sabbath by traveling two successive Sabbaths, after such conversation with said R. W. Mason
the committee believe said R. W. Mason shewed marks of repentance & regretted extremely that
he had so wounded the cause of Christ & was willing to sign the confession drawn up by the
Committee & have it read in the Publick congregation on the Sabbath at some future time.
Report accepted & committee discharged. A true coppy of the Confession Signed by R. W.
Mason. The subscriber R. S.(?) Mason feels constrained to make confession before God & this
Church of his sin in desecrating the holy Sabbath as follows During the month of Jany last being
in the state of P. A. with several teams he on two successive Sabbath under circumstances which
he then deemed Justifying pursued his journey the whole or the greater part of the day. He now
feels & acknowledges that those circumstances afforded no justification whatsoever for this
breach of Gods law inasmuch as he views it the duty of Christians to walk by faith and not by
sight he laments that he should have yielded to the temptation & humbles himself before God &
his Brethren for the unchristian deportment he has Exhibited & the encouragement he has held
out to others to violate for convenience or gain the rest of Gods holy day. He acknowledges his
firm conviction of the Justice & mercy of the command which require us to abstain from all
worldly business on the Sabbath and of the duty binding with Special form upon Christians at the
present day to avoid in this respect even the appearance of evil & he hopes that more will be led
by his example of the sinfulness of which he now repents to trifle in any manor with the claims
of the commandments. R. W. Mason
On motion Voted that I. A. Leach & H. Bosworth be a committee to wait on Brother S. E.
Stoddard and Wife & learn of distinctly what they intend to do in regard to cours already
commenced with them and report at the next meeting of the Session. Meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
The Church of Christ against Silas E. Stoddard
Sir you are hereby cited to appear before the session of this church on Wednesday the 8th
day of
February next 6 o clock P. M. at the Session room of this church to answer to the charge of
Breaking covenant with this Church hereoff fail not By order of the Session
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 30, 1843
The Church of Christ Against Theodora Stoddard
You are hereby cited to appear before the Session of this church on Wednesday the 8th
day of
February next 6 o clock P.M. at the Session room of this Church to answer to the charge of
breaking covenant with this church hereoff fail not
By order of the Session H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia Jany 30, 1843
The Church Christ Against Mrs. Betsy Lynk You are hereby cited to appear before the session
of on Wednesday the 8th
day of February next 6 o clock P. M. at the Session room of this Church
to answer to the charge of breaking covenant with this church hereoff Fail not. By order of
Session Fredonia Jany 30th
1843
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia March 15th
1843
Session met at the Session room in the Presbyterian meeting house. Opened with prayer by J.
Seymour Moderator of the meeting Brethren present J. Crane, I. H. Leach, N. H. Whitcomb,
M. Lewis, H. Bosworth. On motion voted that the report of I. H. Leach and H. Bosworth the
committee in the case of S. E. Stoddard & Mrs. Stoddard be accepted and the committee
discharged. On motion voted that the case of S. E. Stoddard & wife be put over to the next
Session meeting that we may avail ourselves of the advise of the Revr Mr. Hopkins who being
absent at this time on the account of ill health. Brothers Whitcomb and Lewis the Committee
appointed at a former meeting to wait on Gardner Barber and learn of him his religious feelings
report that he is in a backslidden state and says he is fearfull that knows not what religion is after
being instructed by the committee he promised to make an effort to Christian faithfulness. The
committee continued. On motion voted that the Clerk serve a second citation on Mrs. Betsey
Lynk to appear before the Session of the Presbyterian Church in the Session room on the 29th
day of March Inst 1 o clock P. M. in case the first citation was dated wrong (Feby 15th
instead of
March 15) the first citation must be served at the same date. (Vis 29 March) Brothers Gilbert
and Bosworth a committee appointed to wait on Miss Noble did not report Voted that H.
Bosworth be discharged from sd(?) committee and J. Crane be added in his place with Brother
J. Gilbert on Sd committee. On motion voted that Messrs Whitcomb and Leach be a committee
to wait on Mrs. Vanuran(?) & converse with her on religion & report at some future meeting.
Brother J. Crane & J. Seymour the committee appointed at a former meeting to examine into
the religious feelings of Nelson H. Marsh the committee report that he acknowledges he has not
been faithfull in regard to Christian duties and promised reformation the report accepted and the
committee continued. On motion voted the meeting adjourn to the 29th
day of March Inst 1 o
clock P. M. 1843 at Session room. meeting closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
In pursuance of the action of Session recorded under page (78 &79) the sentence of
excommunication against Wm Lewis was publicly read before the congregation on Sabbath
morning 18th
Feby by the Revr M. Hopkins being prepared according to the directions of the
book of discipline X.7 with a statement of the nature therein & consequences of
excommunication.
March 29th
1843
Session met at the Presbyterian meeting house in the same room on Wednesday the 29th
day of
March 1843 opened with prayer by Brother Moses Lewis. Present – Brother Isaac A. Leach,
Brother John Seymour, Brother H. Bosworth. The meeting then adjourned to the house of Mr.
Hopkins. On motion voted the case of S. E. Stoddard & wife be put over to the 19th
day of
April one o clock P. M. being the 3d Wednesday of April. The committee on the case of Gardner
Barber not able to report M. Lewis & N. H. Whitcomb continued. Mrs. Betsy Lynk having
failed to appear before the Session as she was cited at this time to answer to the charge of
unchristian and improper conduct also breaking covenant with the Church. after which the
Session directed the Clerk to serve a second citation on Mrs. Betsey Lynk to appear before the
Session at the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house on the 5th
day of April next one o
clock P. M. The committee Brothers Gilbert and Crane appointed on the case of Miss Noble did
not report. (continued) The committee Brothers Whitcomb & Leach in the case of Mrs.
Vanurran(?) failed to report. Said committee continued. On motion voted The clerk inform the
Session of the Dunkirk Church that a member of their church Miss Harriett Barkley is in the
habit and practice of improper conduct during the Sabbath in the time of divine service. The
clerk of Session was directed at a former meeting of Session to inform the Session of the
Dunkirk Church that the above named individual H. B. was in the habit of attending Balls which
was done. (with a request that we might be informed what action they took on the case)
Meeting adjourned to the 5th
day of April one o clock P. M. at the Session room of the
Presbyterian meeting house. Closed with prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Coppy of a 2d citation to Mrs. Betsey Lynk
The Church of Christ Against Mrs. Betsey Lynk
You are hereby cited to appear the second time before the Session of the Presbyterian Church in
the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house in Fredonia on Wednesday the 5th
day of
April next one o clock P.M. to answer to the charge which has been already made against you if
you do not appear the Judiatory besides sensuring you for contumacy will after assigning some
person to manage your defense proceed to take testimony in the case as if you were present. By
order of the Session.
Henry Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia March 30, 1843
March 31, 1843
Session met according to notice after Preparatory lecture and was opened with prayer. Revr S.
M. Hopkins Moderator. Elder John Seymour Present, Elder John Crane Present, Elder Moses
Lewis Present, Elder I. A. Leach Present, Elder J. Gilbert Present, Elder N. H. Whitcomb
Present Mrs. Cogswell a former member of this church who having changed her views of the
mode of baptism had withdraw about four years since & united herself with a Baptist Church in
this place or Vilage applied to this Church for readmission the grounds of her application were
that the Baptist Church had been involved in difficulty & divided and was in such a state she
could not maintain fellowship with it that she preferred as she always did Presbyterian
government & discipline & felt that her home was among us and had accordingly worshiped &
communed with this church the last three years. Session after consultation on the subject
resolved to postpone the further consideration of Mrs. Cogswell’s application until next meeting
and in the mean time invite her to commune with us at the Lords table next Sabbath. Session
adjourned & closed with prayer.
Henry Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia April 3d 1843
By a vote of the Session Mrs. Mary Hart was recd in to the Church (by letter from the Church at
Irving(?)
H. Bosworth
April 1843
Miss Elisabeth King was recd by vote of the Session into the Church (by letter from Hamilton)
H. Bosworth
April 5th
1843
Session meeting at the Presbyterian meeting house in the Session room one o clock P.M. Opened
with prayer by John Seymour. Present John Crane, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth, John
Gilbert. Mrs. Lynk having failed to appear before the Session as she was cited to the second
time The session took up the case after which It was moved & seconded that Mrs. Betsey Lynk
is convicted of contumacy for not appearing before the Session this day & that she be excluded
from the communion of this Church until she repent. The committee Brothers Gilbert & Crane
on the case of Miss Noble failed to report. Committee continued. The committee on the case of
Mrs. Vanurran failed to report Brothers Whitcomb & Leach. Continued. The committee in the
case of Gardner Barber failed to report, Brothers Lewis & Whitcomb. Continued. The
Committee Brothers Crane & Seymour on the case of H. N. Marsh did not report. Continued.
On motion voted the case of Mrs. Cogswell be put over to the 19th
of April one o clock P.M.
meeting closed with prayer.
Henry Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia April 19th
1843
Session met at the Session room in the Presbyterian meeting house one o’clock P.M. according
to adjournment. Opened with prayer by Elder John Crane. Brethren Present John Seymour,
John Gilbert, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth. The committee on the case of Miss Noble Messrs
Gilbert & Crane Report that they have & conversed with her on the subject of Experimental
religion she says she thinks that she does not know what religion is & wishes to have her
connection with the church dissolved. She states that she has been in the habit of attending balls.
The report of the committee accepted & they discharged. After which it was moved & seconded
that the Clerk serve a citation on Miss Noble to appear before the Session of the Presbyterian
Church in Fredonia in the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house on Wednesday the
first Wednesday of May next one o’clock P.M. to answer to the charge of attending balls and
breaking covenant with the Church.
Coppy of a Citation to Miss Noble
The Church of Christ Against Miss Maryette Noble
You are hereby cited to appear before the Session of of [sic] the Presbyterian Church in Fredonia
in the Session room of the Presbyterian meeting house on Wednesday the 4th
day of May next
one o clock P.M. to answer to the charge of attending balls and breaking covenant with the
Church hereoff fail not by order of the Session
Henry Bosworth Clerk
April 24, 1843
The case of Mrs. Cogswell came before the Session – after some discussion it was moved &
second that Mrs. Cogswell produce a certificate of her good standing in the Baptist Church after
which the Session will examine her for readmission into the Church. The Clerk ordered to inform
Mrs. Cogswell of the preceding resolution. The committee on the case of Mrs. Vanurran
Brothers Whitcomb & Leach failed to report. Said committee continued. The Committee on the
case of Gardner Barber Whitcomb & Lewis failed to report. Committee continued. The
committee on the case of H. N. Marsh John Seymour & John Crane failed to report. Said
committee continued.
The case of Mr. S. E. Stoddard and Wife which was put over to the present meeting was then
taken up recd a letter sent by him to the Session in answer to the invitation given him to present
his complaint against Mr. Hinkley before them was read. In his letter Mr. Stoddard declined
appearing as prosecutor but stated that other difficulties between himself & Mr. Hinkley was
notorious he considered the Session bound to take up the matter themselves after free
conversation upon the subject it was resolved that the Clerk be directed to inform Mr. Stoddard
that the Session cannot regard the offence charged by him upon Mr. Hinkley to be so much a
matter of common fame as to Justify them in instituting process upon that ground but that if Mr.
Stoddard should still choos[sic] to prefer charge himself against Mr. Hinkley & the Session will
give him a fair and impartial hearing. Meeting adjourned to the first Wednesday in May 1
o’clock P.M. Closed with Prayer.
H. Bosworth
John Ames Gilbert Infant son of Doct John Gilbert was Baptised by the Rev Mr. J. M. Hopkins
April 30, 1843.
Fredonia Wednesday May 1 1843
Session met at the Session room in the Presbyterian meeting house according to adjournment.
Present Elders John Seymour, John Crane, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth. Opened with prayer
by the Moderator John Crane. The case of Miss Maryette Noble being first on the record of the
last meeting being called up who failed to appear before the Session according to the citation for
improper conduct after some discussion the Clerk was ordered to serve a second citation on Miss
Maryette Noble to appear before the Session of the Presbyterian Church in the S. room of the
Presbyterian meeting house the first Wednesday in June next half past one o clock P. M. The
committee on the case of Mrs. Vanurran failed to report. Committee continued. The Committee
on the case of Gardner Barber failed to report. Committee continued. The committee on the case
of H. N. Marsh failed to report. Continued. The case of Mr. S. E. Stoddard & wife put over to
the 1st Wednesday in June half past one o’clock. Meeting adjourned to the first Wednesday in
June half past one o’clock P. M. it being the regular monthly meeting of the Session. Closed with
Prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
May 1843
The number in communion according to the report of April 1, 1843 to the P of Buffalo.
No. 219
Added on Examination 2
Added on certificate 7
Died 2
Suspend or Excommunicated 2
Total in commun 221
H. Bosworth Clerk
Session met in the Session room in the Presbyterian meeting house according to adjournment it
als[sic] being the regular monthly meeting the 7th
day of June 1843 meeting opened with prayer
by the Revr Mr. Hopkins. Brethren Present John Crane, John Seymour, John Gilbert, Moses
Lewis, Henry Bosworth. The Session then took up the case of Miss Maryette Noble who did not
appear before the Session as she was cited to on the 2d citation. On motion it was unanimously
voted that Miss Maryette Noble be suspended from the Communion of this Church until she
repents. On voted the Clerk serve a citation on Mr. Gardner Barber to appear be the Session of
this Church on the 21 day of June 1843 half past one o’clock P.M. to answer to the charges of
Profane swearing on the ground of common fame (Citation served & Coppy preserved) The case
of Mr. S. E. Stoddard & wife then came up, he not appearing before the Session the Clerk was
directed by the Session to inform Mr. Stoddard & Wife that unless they should or himself
appear before Session on the 21st of June next and shew cause why they did not appear they
would be oblige to give Judgment in the Case. On motion voted the Clerk serve a citation on
Thomas Higgins to appear before the Session on the 21st day of June Inst half past one o’clock
P.M. to answer to the charge of Intemperance Sabbath breaking and heresy. On motion Voted
that Thomas Higgins be suspended from the Communion of the Church until he shall have an
opportunity to clear himself of the charges of Intemperance Sabbath breaking & Heresy which
(?) common fame charges him being guilty of. On motion Voted the Clerk inform the Church at
Lodi Mrs. Perris Chatwick united with this Church in 1810 is not known by any of the members
now in Communion with the Church there fore we are unable to say anything about her Christian
character. The committee on the case of Mrs. Vanuran continued. The Committee on the Case
H. N. Marsh did not report. Continued. On motion voted that a Church meeting be called on the
17th
inst 1 P.M. to consider the propriety of taking measures to secure a Setled [sic] Pastor for
this Church. Meeting adjourned until the 21st day of June Half past one o’clock P.M. Closed with
prayer.
H. Bosworth Clerk
Fredonia June 21, 1843
Session met in Presbyterian meeting house according to adjournment on o’clock P.M. Opened
with prayer by the Revr Hopkins. Brethren Present John Seymour, John Crane, John Gilbert,
N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth. On motion voted that the Clerk serve a citation on Gardner
Barber to appear before the Session of this Church in the Presbyterian meeting house 5th
day of
July inst ½ past one o clock P.M. to answer to the charge of profane swearing and the ground of
common fame. [to the left reads: Citation served & coppy preserved] The Committee on the case
of Mrs. Vanuran Continued. The committee on the case of H. N. Marsh attempted to have an
Interview with him but failed. Whereas Mr. Silas E. Stoddard having failed to appear before the
Session of this Church at this time as he was cited to, the Session after assigning a Brother to
manage his defense after discussion and deliberation it was motioned and second that he be
suspended from the Communion of the Church until he repents. Voted that he be suspended
accordingly. On motion it was voted that the Clerk serve a second citation on Mrs. Theodora
Stoddard to appear before the Session of this Church the second time on the first Wednesday in
July ½ past One o clock P.M. (Citation served & coppy preserved) On motion adjourned to the
first Wednesday in July half past one o clock P.M. Closed with prayer.
Henry Bosworth Clerk
Session meeting July 5th
1843 half past one o clock P. M. according to adjournment. Opened
with prayer by the Revr Mr. Hopkins present. Brethren Present John Seymour, John Gilbert,
John Crane, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth. The records of last meeting were read by the
Clerk. The case of Gardner Barber being the first on record he being cited to appear before the
Session at this meeting he failed to appear. After which it was motioned and second that the
Clerk serve a 2d citation on Gardner Barber to appear before the Session the 2d time the first
Wednesday in August half past one o clock P.M. The Committee on the case of Mrs. Vanuran
did not report. Continued. Brothers Leach & Whitcomb. The Committee Brothers Seymour &
Crane on the case of H. N. Marsh report that H. N. Marsh promised to take up Christian duties.
Committee discharged. The Case of Mrs. Theodora Stoddard being next on record was taken up
she having failed to appear as she was cited to at this time after appointing some one to manage
her defense the case opened for discussion. After which it moved and second that she be
suspended from the Communion of this Church until she repents. Voted that she be suspended
accordingly. Revr Mr. Hopkins gave Session to understand that there were reports that Brother
A. J. Cowles had recd an anonomous[sic] letter of which he charged Brother I. H. Leach to be
the author. Therefore – on motion Voted that Revr Mr. Hopkins, Brothers Whitcomb, Leach &
Seymour be requested to write out their depositions in relation to an anonomous[sic] letter recd
by A. J. Cowles & exhibit the same to the Session at their next meeting. On motion voted that
the Revr Mr. Hopkins, J. Crane and Moses Lewis be a committee to prepare a minute for
adoption in the case of A. J. Cowles. At this meeting of Session H. Bosworth tendered his
resignation as Clerk of the Session, it being granted. Upon which it was moved and second that
Brother John Crane serve as Clerk of the Session it being adopted he was authorized by Session
to purchase a Book to keep the records of the Church and that he be paid for the same. On
motion adjourned to the first Wednesday in August half past one o clock P.M. Closed with
prayer.
Henry Bosworth Clerk
At an extra Sess. meeting held at Presby. Church July 9, 1843 present all the Sessn except
Gilbert. Bro. Hopkins, Lewis & Crane made report in the case of Aaron J. Cowles, whereupon
it was Voted that a letter of censure & admonition & reproof containing the matter of the Report
be addressed to him by Clk of Session.
J. Crane Clk
(Above was done by Clk & enclos’d in letter to Wm Seymour, Southport, Wiscon’n & he
requested to hand letter to Mr. Cowles. Sent by John Dexter.)
Session met July 14, 1843
Prest. Rev. Mr. Hopkins, Brs. Seymour & Crane. Prayer by J. Crane. Joseph H. Coats and
Sarah Turner presented themselves for admiss’n on profession of their faith in Christ. After
examination Voted, that both be recd. Mrs. Esther Nichols presented letter from Cong. Church in
W. Bloomfield to Cong. Church in Fredonia which was read. Voted that she be recd into this
Church on sd letter By her submitting herself to discipline of the Session (which she consented to
do) and entering into Covt with this Church. Voted that a meeting of this Cong. be called on Sat.
22 July inst 2 P.M. to consider the propriety of giving a call to Rev. S. M. Hopkins to become
our settled pastor.
J. Crane Clk
August 2, 1843
Session met Aug. 2 1843 at Presb. Church. Isaac H. Leach Moderator & opened with prayer.
Case of Gardner Barber called up. Clk of session stated that 2d citation returnable here this day
had been served by leaving it at his Dwelling House in season he being gone away to work. G.
Barber neglected to appear, whereupon Br. Whitcomb was appointed to manage his defence,
Case was adj’d to next regular meeting 1st Wednesd. Sept. next. Case of Catharine Van Curen
called up. Com. not ready to report – Committee contin’d. In the case of Gardner Barber, Brs.
Bosworth & Whitcomb stated to sess’n that Barber acknowledged to them he had used profane
language when in a passion. Here Br. Leach gave notice to Sess. that he sh’d retire from the
active duties of an elder & resign. After prayer by Br. Bosworth, sess. adj’d to 1 Wednesday
Sept. next 1 ½ P.M.
J. Crane Clk
Special session meeting August 23d 1843 half past one o clock P.M.
Present Revr S. M. Hopkins, Elder John Seymour, Elder Isaac H. Leach, Elder Moses Lewis,
Elder John Gilbert, Elder Henry Bosworth. Opened with Prayer by the Revr S. M. Hopkins.
The case of Gardner Barber was taken up and after some conversation on the subject it was
voted that he be suspended from the Communion of the Church until he repents. On motion
voted that Deacon John Seymour be a delegate to attend the next meeting of Presbytery to be
held at Silver Creek the first Tuesday in Sept. 1843. On motion voted that Henry Bosworth be
Alternate. On motion voted that a letter of dismission be given Mrs. Mary Robbins a member of
this Church wishing to unite with the Church in Westfield or to some Church of Jesus Christ
where God in his Providence may appoint her future residence. On motion voted that Leach &
Bosworth be a committee to draw up a call for the Revr S. M. Hopkins to be presented to the
next meeting of Presbyterie at Silver Creek the first Tuesday in Sept. On motion voted that Elder
John Gilbert be a committee to visit Ira Risley(?) a member of this Church and converse with
him relating to past delinquencies and report to Session at a subsequent meeting. On motion
adjourned. Closed with prayer.
Henry Bosworth Ck P. T.
Thus far examined and approved in Presbytery at Silver Creek Sept 6th
1843 with the exception
that on page 112 the word censure ought not to be used of censure inflicted in the case recorded
there. W. Waith Mod.
Session meeting Sept. 19th
1843
Present Revr S. M. Hopkins, Elders John Seymour, John Gilbert, Isaac H. Leach, Moses S.
Lewis, N. H. Whitcomb, H. Bosworth Clk P.T. Opened with prayer by J. Gilbert. Report of
John Gilbert on the case of Ira Risley who says that he has not been in the habit of attending the
Presbyterian meeting only occasionly[sic] of late but was in the habit of attending the Christian
Church at Laona. Risley also stated to J. Gilbert that he did not believe that Christ was equal to
God. Report accepted & the committee discharged after which it was thought best that the Revr
S. M. Hopkins and John Gilbert be a Committee to call on I. Risley and instruct him in his duty
as a professed follower of Christ. On motion voted that the Revr S. M. Hopkins & H. Bosworth
be a committee to draw up a letter to send to Aron J. Cowls to correct an error into which Mr.
Cowles has fallen in regard to a letter of admonition recently addressed to him. Closed with
prayer.
Henry Bosworth Clk P.T.
1843 Sept. 28. Fanny Smith & Prudence Smith were received by session into church by letter
from Jamestown Ch on entering into covenant with this Church. J. Crane Clk
Oct. 18, 1843
Session met at S. Room – opened with prayer by Rev. S. M. Hopkins. Present Elders Seymour,
Leach, Whitcomb, Lewis, Crane & Bosworth, absent John Gilbert. Minutes of last meeting
read & case of A. J. Cowles talked over. On motion voted that a committee of 3 to be named by
Modera’r be appointed to consider the propriety of holding neighborhood evening prayer
meetings in the bounds of the Congregation – the particular brethren to attend each & time when
meeting shall commence & report to session. Committee appointed Crane, Bosworth, & Leach.
Adjourned – Prayer by Rev. Mr. Johnson
J. Crane Clk
Nov. 8, 1843
Session met at Rev. Mr. Hopkins’ house. Present Rev. Mr. Hopkins, Elders Gilbert, Bosworth,
Lewis & Crane. Absent Whitcomb, Seymour & Leach. Prayer by Rev. S. M. Hopkins.
Minutes of last 2 last meetings read. [The following crossed out: Mr. Hopkins here states that he
had an interview with Katharine Van Curen which was not very kind nor satisfactory in relation
to her non attendance upon the public worship of God or the Sabbath, and also in relation to the
disturbance of public worship by Ann Van Curen & Sarah Stanton, her friends, which conduct
Mrs. Van Curan in a manner attempted to palliate or justify.] Committee in case of Ira Risley
continued & also that in case of Katherine Van Curen do Voted to adjourn. Prayer by Br. Lewis
J. Crane Clk
Nov. 22 1843
Session met at Rev. Mr. Hopkins house. Prest Mr. Hopkins, Seymour, Whitcomb, Gilbert,
Bosworth & Crane. Absent Lewis & Leach. Prayer by Mr. Hopkins. Committee in case of Ira
Risley report that they have called upon him, and after enquiring into his religious belief said
Risley stated that Jesus Christ is not in his opinion equal with the Father – denies the Supreme
divinity of Jesus Christ. Report accepted & Committee continued. Case Mrs. K. Van Curen
Continued. Voted to adjourn. Prayer by Dea. Seymour.
J. Crane Clk
Dec’r 6 1843
Session met at Session Room. Prest Rev. Mr. Hopkins Mod’r & all the members. Prayer by Mr.
Hopkins. Voted that intermissions, till 1 Feb. next, be one hour. Here Thomas Fellows & Sarah
his wife presented letter from Cong. Church in Stillwater to this church of Good Standing – same
by Mrs. MaryJane Hopkins from Presb. Church at Corning. Voted that they 3 be admitted as
members of this Church on entering into Covenant. Voted that Miss Sarah Seymour be
recommended to Presb. Church Ithaca & when there recd dismiss’d here & letter be given
accordingly. Voted that Rev. S. M. Hopkins be Counsel for Session before Presbytery & appear
& answer for them in case of Complaint of Aaron J. Cowles vs. Session, should any such case he
called up. Application having been made to Session by certain individuals in behalf of Mr. A. J.
Cowles for a copy of their minutes in his case, Voted that the Clerk be directed to furnish such
copy when requested, not on the ground of a rightful claim by him or them, but, actuated by a
disposition on the part of Session to oblige the friends of Mr. Cowles as far as consistent with
our duty to the Church. Voted to adjourn. Prayer by Br. Whitcomb.
J. Crane Clk
Jan’y 3, 1844
Session met. Prayer by Rev. Mr. Hopkins. Present all except Bosworth & Gilbert. Voted that
the Pastor & J. Crane be one committee & Brs. Leach & Whitcomb be another to visit & advise
members of other churches of our denomination resident in our bounds, who have not offered
any letters & Report to session. Voted that Elder John Seymour be delegate from this Church &
Elders Noah H. Whitcomb & Isaac H. Leach be Alternates to attend the next meeting of
Presbytery at Springville. Here Elder Seymour desires Session to excuse him from the active
duties of an Elder, attending Session meetings & c. Closed with prayer by Elder Seymour.
J. Crane Clk
Members in Communion according to report
1st Tuesday Sept. 1843 were
Added on certificate 5
do on Profession (none)
Excommunicated & suspended (none)
Total in Communion . . .