HomeMy WebLinkAbout1855 History of the Grindstone Hill Ev. Lutheran Church1ii-,torn of tltc Ol vinbrtonc lgilt C�h. tntttcran ffltnrctt
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DISCOURSE
PORTRAYING 7'HE H1891OR
OF 'CAF.
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GRINDSTONE_ IIILL EV, LUTHERAN CHURCIL
FRANKLIN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
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PXLIVYRF.D ON CHRISTMAS, MONDAY, DFc. 25TH, 1854,
BY THE RFV, D. H. FOCHT,
(.,(r Put- of 11w C.—Ireptio".
PiTRLISHF.TD RS THE ('ONI RF.GATION.
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GETTYSBURG: �.
PRINTED BY H. C. NEINSTFDT. ;
1855.
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tjiatorn Of tile 00061011e rjilt QFn. fulOvratt CrItltrdl
A
DISCOURSE
PORTRAYING THE HISTORY
OF TIIE
GRINDSTONE HILL EV. LUTHERAN CR,
IN
FRANKLIN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
DELIVERED ON CHRISTMAS, MONDAY, DEC. 25TH, 1854,
BY TBI+ REV. D. H. FOCRT,
Late Paster of the Congregation.
PUBLISHED BY TIIE CONGREGATION.
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GETTYSBURG:
PRINTED BY H. C. NEINSTEDT.
1855.
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• • 1
:DISCOURSE.
"Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy
father, and he will show thee.; thy elders, and they will tell thee."—Deut.
32: 7.
WF purpose to trace the history of thirch from its be-
ginning to the present time. This will brin iew a period
of about one hundred years. To ascertain the state
of things in 11 the days of old," we will 11 ask our ers, and
they will show us; our- elders, and they will tell us." The
fragments of information thus obtained, we will mould into a
permanent form, so that we may 11 remember" them, and also
preserve them for the information and edification 11 of many
generations " to come.
This is the church our ancestors loved. Here they wor-
shipped the God of their fathers in hymns of praise, in prayer
and supplication. Here they yielded up their spirits to God,
and laid their bodies down hard by the temple they had erected
to his praise and honor. One after another, they passed be-
yond the Jordan of death, and live only in the memory of the
aged, and the names of their children's. children. Their
children pressed forward to occupy their places,to carry on the
worship of God, to swell the number of Zion's children, and
then to follow their fathers to the silent grave and a long eter-
iiity. The grand -children, sincerely attached to their church,
are assembled this day, to repeat the story of the past, and re-
count the mercy of God in Christ Jesus the Lord. O sacred
place! O hIllowed day! May the song of praise, and the
humble prayer of God's children, ascend from this temple to
the temple above, for all time to come!
T(iis is the church of our choice and our love. In infancy
our parents dedicated us here, by holy baptism, to the serviccof
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God, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Here ye were taught
to lisp the name of Jesus, and listened to the story of the cross,
as repeated by the servant of God. Helre.our lips were tuned
to sing the songs of 'Lion, and our hearts to worship in humble
prayer. Here we felt the treed of pardon in Jesus' blood, and,
believing, the Holy Spirit made us new. Here a new song
was put into our mouths, even praises unto our God. Here
we were taught the gospel of. Jesus Christ. Here we professed
Christ before the world, and bowed humbly before God, to re-
ceive the blessin of our pastor. ' Here we united with the
people of God ' lebrating the death of Jesus Christ, in the
Holy Supp ere we have frequently seen the wonder-
workin of God displayed, in converting scores of sin-
ners, and in making our hearts rejoice with joy unspeakable
and full of glory. And here we expect to lay our bodies down,
in hope of a glorious resurrection in the judgment morn. This
church we can never forget, and never forsake.
God has, for upwards of a century, watched over this church.
Here it stands. Its history cannot but be grateful to our hearts,
and incite us to faithfulness in our pathway to heaven, and
tend to encourage our children throughout all time, to cherish
a love for this holy place and the church of their fathers. To
express our gratitude to God for his goodness to us, and our
attachment to his church, we will sing the following appropri-
ate hymn:
1 I love thy Zion, Lord!
The house of thine abode;
The church, O blest Redeemer, sav'd
With thine own precious blood.
2 I love thy church, O God !
Her walls before thee stand,
Dear as the apple of thine eye,
And graven on thy hand.
3 If e'er to bless thy sons
My voice or hands deny,
These hands let useful skill forsake,
This voice in silence die.
5
4 If e'er my heartfbrget
Her welfare or her woe,
Let ev'ry joy this heart lbrsake,
And ev'ry grief o'erflow.
5 For her my tears shall fall ;
For her my pray'rs ascend ;
To her my cares and toils be giv'n,
Till toils and cares shall end.
6 Beyond my highest joy
I prize her heav'nly ways,
Her sweet communion, solemn vows,
Her hymns of love and praise.
It is a tradition well supported, that the gr'at
part of the
best lands in the Conococheague valley were, st settle-
ment of the country, what is now called in the w rfstates
prairie. The land was without timber, covered with a tich,
luxuriant grass, with some scattered trees, hazel -bushes, wild
plums, and crab-apples.l It was then generally called"the
barrens." The timber was to be found on or near the water-
courses, and on the slate soil. This accounts for the prefer-
ence given by the early Scotch -Irish settlers to the slate lands,
before the limestone lands were surveyed or located. The slate
had the attractions of wood, water -courses, and water -meadows,
and was free from rock at the surface. Before the introduction
of clover, artificial grasses, and the improved system of agri-
culture, the hilly limestone land, on which the early Germaus
settled, had its soil washed off, was disfigured with great gul-
lies, and was sold as unprofitable, for a trifle, by the proprietors,
who soukht other lands in western Pennsylvania. It is now,
under German cultivation, the most beautiful and fertile sec-
tion of the county.2
' In 1748, the Rev. Michael Schlatter, a German Reformed minister, pass-
ed through this valley, and, in his journal, May 9th, alludes to the prairies
covered with grass. ',There are," he says, ,in this section of country,
(near Greencastle) very fertile fields and meadows. With but little cultiva-
tion, the Indian corn attains the height of ten feet and more. The grass is
uncommonly luxuriant. A great many Indians live still here, who are peace-
able and kind, and unless they are furnished with strong drink, they are
friendly to the christians."
x Pennsylvania Historical Collections.—p. 348.
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Previous to any settlement by the whites in Cumberland
Valley, the Shawanee Indians had occupied it as hunting
ground. As the Indians retired before the whites, the fire was
kept from running over the land, and hence, where there were
.once no trees to be seen, there the finest forests now stand.
In 1730-1, some Scotch -Irish adventurers crossed the Sus-
quehanna at Paxton, near Harrisburg, and commenced settle-
ments in Cumberland Valley, till they extended to the Mary-
land province. These settlements were made with the consent
of the Indians, who were conciliated by the settlers; for the
lands west of a Susquehanna were not purchased by (lie
proprietary ennsylvania from the Indians, before October,
1736, a er existing laws, the Land office was not open
for this a of those lands. The settlements made before this
purchase, were by special license from Samuel Blunsion, or
rather the proprietary agents, and were of limited number.
Though no .official grants could be given, adventurers were
,nevertheless encouraged and incited to settle in Cumberland
Valley, in order to resist the encroachments of the Marylanders
,on what was considered part of the province of Pennsylvania.
,This policy, and the fine country forming that part of Kitta-
tint,y valley, extending from the Susquehanna, at the mouth
,of the Conodoguinet, along the waters of the beautiful Cono-
cocheague, to the Potomac, induced men of enterprise to seek
and locate desirable situatibris for water -works and farms, in
the valley of these two streams, and of the Yellow Breeches
,creek.
After the Land,office was, however, open for the unrestricted
sale of lands on the Conodoguinet and Conococheague, at
the close .of 1736, the applications and grants for districts
greatly multiplied, and the influx of Scotch -Irish, and a fete
Germans, ,for the succeeding two or three years, was great.'
' „In the Conococheague settlement, there were several German settlers
at a very early period, about 1736 to 1745, among whom were the Snivelys,
Snyders, Piesackers, Lobs, Kochs (Cooks), Georges, Henleins, Ledermans,
Harmoneys, Laus, Rolps, Grabiels, Ringers, Steiners, Wo1H's, Senseneys,
&c."—Rupp's Hist. of Cumberland and Franklin Counties, p. 50.
I
It was at this time (1736) that the first Germans, from Lar -
caster, York, and other eastern counties, settled in the southern
part of Franklin county, near Greencastle, on Antietam or
Antietam creek, and what was formerly called "The German
Settlement," in the midst of which the "Grindstone Hill
Church" was afterwards built. The number of Germans for
the first ten or fifteen years after their settlement here, increased
slowly ; 1 but after 1760 their influx was great.
There existed a strong antipathy between the early Scotch -
Irish and 'German settlers in Franklin county. They spoke
different languages, and differed in their social ad religious
customs ; and besides, as they differed in politics, k
gling
of the two nations in Lancaster and York counties,pro-
duced serious riots at elections. Bringing this ill-disposed
;®feeling with them to this county, the Germans formed settle-
ments separate from those of their antagonists, the Scotch -
Irish. One of the earliest of these was "the German settle-
Ment," from six to twelve miles south of Chambersburg, now
known as the "Grindstone Hill settlement." The main road
from Chambersburg to Waynesboro' runs through the midst of
it, and about six miles from the former place, it passes between
the Grindstone Hill church on the left hand, and the grave-
yard on the tight.
The first Lutheran Settlers.
So far as the writer can learn, the first Lutheran family that
settled here was that of Matthias George, in 1742. He is the
father of the numerous families' of that name, still living in
this neighborhood, and belonging to the Lutheran church. He
was soon followed by others. The Smiths and Kellers, in
about 1750; Jacob Heck and Daniel Putman, in about 1757;
Matthias Gift, Daniel Lob, Herzog, Andrew Cover, Andrew
Keyser, and others, in about 1760. These were scattered over
a considerable district of land. The Tritle, Benedict, Ober -
I -In 1748, the number of taxables in this valley �(Cu mberland and Frank-
lin counties) was about eight hundred; of these there were about fifty Ger-
mans, and these were in the Conococheague settlement."—Rupp, p. 54.
S
kersh, Reichard, and Gieseman families settled .here in about
1780-85; the Essick and Stenger families in about 1790, and
the Petterhaffen and Lochbaum families in about 1794-6.
Besides these, others had settled here at an early period, but
their names and the time of their arrival, cannot be ascertained
with certainty. After 1764, the ingress of Germans was so
great, that they soon owned the better part of Guilford town-
ship.
The Grindstone Hill Church -Land.
The Germans loved their church, and made early provision
for the permanent establishment of the ordinances of religion
among S46. As was customary at that time, and long after-
ward Lutherans and Reformed united in their efforts to
secure a suitable place whereon to build a house of worship.
For this purpose, fifty-one acres and one hundred and forty-
four perches of land were reserved. This land was not deed-
ed, till it was "surveyed by virtue of a warrant granted Peter
Beinbreck on the 1st of July, 1772." Mr. Beinbreck held
the land for the congregations, until the 27th of October, 1798,
when for seven pounds (being his expenses) he made a deed
to six trustees, who afterwards held the land in trust for the
congregations. Of this land there was sold on the 1st of May,
1815, thirty-three acres and some perches, so that there are it
this time left, eighteen acres and sxteen perches, the joint pro-
perty of the two congregations.) 'When the first settlers came
here, the church -land, like most- of the land about here, was
almost entirely destitute of timber. Here and there a tree
might be seen, and a cluster of young saplings in the low
ground, between the church and the Grindstone Hill. As the
fire was kept off the lands, the sprouts from old stumps grew
up in great profusion, and at the time the old log church was
erected (in about 1766) they had grown to the height of a man
and more, and the settlers could still run over them with their
sleds. How changed! The church -land is now shaded by a
' As there was once a misunderstanding between the Lutherans and Re-
formed, respecting the land, I did not, designedly, enter into farther details.
The matter was amicably settled, and there we wish to let it rest.
9
beautiful forest of tall trees, which sigh in the winds fol
dead, as well as make music for the living, who come here to
worship the God of their fathers.
The Indians.
The first German settlers of this county experienced, in
common with the frontier settlers, the difficulties and priva-
tions in new settlements; to these difficulties and privations,
were superadded the horrors of war in its worst form. For eight
ornine years, after the defeat of Braddock, in July 1755, the
whole frontier of this county was exposed to the incursions of
the Indian war parties, who, as is their custom, were maraud-
ing the country, and would often surprise the inhabitants,
many of whom were massacred in the most cruel manner, and
others abducted and inhumanly treated by the savages. "In
1763-4, the Indians once more surprised the inhabitants of
Franklin county. On the 26th of July, 1764, the Indians
murdered a school, comprising ten children and Mr. Brown,
the teacher, about three miles north of Greencastle, on the
farm now owned by Mr. Christian Koser." The Germans
endured much at this time, as well as their Scotch -Irish neigh-
bors; but we cannot enter into particulars on this subject.)
The first Lutheran lllinister.
An occasional sermon was preached, at an early period, to
the scattered Lutherans of this settlement, by ministers passing
through the valley ; but the names of the ministers, as well as
the time when they preached here, cannot be ascertained. We
suppose that during the Indian incursions, these visits were
very unfrequent. It would appear, however, that such visits
stimulated a desire for regular preaching, and efforts were made
to secure a pastor; but as the early Lutherans of this settle-
' -Many of the settlers, in their flight from the Indians, took refuge at
Shippensburg. In July, 1763, there were here thirteen hundred and eighty-
four of these poor, distressed inhabitants. Of these, three hundred and one
were male adults, three hundred and forty-five women, and seven hundred
and thirty-eight children. Many of these were obliged to lie in stables,
barns, cellars, and under old, leaky sheds. The dwelling houses were all
crowded."—Rupp's Hist. of Franklin Count. p. 427.
2
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ment were generally poor, and occupied an isolated and fron-
tier district of country, and as the ministers of their church
were at that time few in number, and resided at a great dis-
tance, they remained destitute until they obtained the
Rev. John GAorge Bager, r
as their first visiting pastor. Rev. Bager resided at Conewago,
near Hanover, York' county, and, from about 1765 to 1770,
visited the Lutherans of this settlement, preaching and admin-
istering the sacraments among them.2 Before a church was
erected, he preached at Mr. Keller's house, where Mrs. Reed,
the widow o the late and lamented John Reed, now lives.
OccasiooAWhe preached in other dwelling houses, in barns,
and, wh the congregation was large and the weather favor-
able, lie preached in the low ground, between where the church
now stands, and the grindstone hill, where there was a clump
of saplings. He visited this settlement, at first, but twice a
year; after, however, the congregation had a house erected, it
is supposed his visits were more frequent. He usually remain-
ed with the congregation a few weeks in spring and fall, visit-
ing the scattered members, catechising and confirming the
youth, and administering the holy sacraments. Whenever he
came among them to preach, all the German settlers—the pa-
rents with their children—for many miles around, flocked to-
gether to hear him proclaim the message of the gospel. Pa-
rents wept with joy, for being permitted to hear again the story
of the cross, and the apparently hard-hearted and indifferent
pioneer, wiped away the falling tear with his rough hand, as
he listened to the minister of Jesus Christ. The hymn of
praise, the solemn prayer, and the earnest, though kind exhor-
tation of the preacher, moved the hearts of all to thank God
for what they heard, and saw, and felt. The good effects of
Rev. Bager's preaching and pastoral visits, must have been
' See Appendix, note A.
2 The late Ludwig Heck, Esq., of Chambersburg, about a year bP.fbre his
decease, told the writer that the Rev. Bager baptized him in the old Grind-
stone Hill church, in 1765. His father, Jacob Heck, was then, and for a
long time after, a deacon of that congregation.
it
great; for in about a year after his first visit, the Lutherans and
Reformed united in erecting a house of worship.
The'Old Log Church.
This church was built in about 1766, and served as the place
of worship till 1833. It stood near the eastern corner of the
grave -yard, where some of the foundation stones can still be
seen. The grave -yard did not, at that time, extend to the
Chambersburg and Waynesboro' road, as it at present does.
Hence the old church stood between the road and the grave-
yard, the one gable -end facing the road, and the door and oth-
er gable -end facing the grave -yard. The school -house stood
on the opposite side of the road, where the new,4rick church
now stands. This is a very desirable place, on an elevation
of ground which gradually slopes away in all directions, hav-
ing, beyond a little depression, a limestone hill on the north,
and beyond a considerable sinking of the ground, the grind-
stone hill on the east: In this hill the early settlers quarried
grindstone, and as the church stands near it, it is called "Grind-
stone Hill church," though it was consecrated by the distinct-
ive title, "Solomon's Evangelical Lutheran and German Re-
formed church." The timber for the old church was brought
about four miles east from what was called "the pines," as
there was none to be had nearer at hand. The logs were very
heavy, and hewed on both sides. On a set day, all who could,
were to assist in hauling the logs, with the understandiog that
he who should deliver the first log on the ground where the
church was to be erected, should be considered the best team-
ster. Early in the morning all were busily hauling logs, driv-
ing their teams with all possible speed. It is said that John
George Cook got the first log on the ground by fair play, al-
though Daniel Lob, by secretly bringing a log part of the way
on the previous evening, got one there before him; this was,
however, considered foul play. The building committee, on
the part of the Lutherans, consisted of Daniel Purman and
Jacob Keller. The church remained for ten or twelve years,
in an unfinished state. During this time the congregations
is
12
worshipped in it without floor, stove, pews or pulpit. Slabs,
laid across the sleepers, served as seats; the minister, when
preaching, stood behind a little table. The logs were sunk
into each other very deep at the corners, so that the chinks of
the wall were small, and little daubing was required, to render
the house tolerably comfortable. A few panes of glass, stack
along the walls at different places, served as windows. The
roof was the only covering above. There was no gallery in
the church, though in erecting it, logs were put in a proper
place, so that they might make one in future. Poles and slabs
were laid across these gallery -logs, and when all the room be-
low was occupied, the men climbed up by the wall or a lad-
der, and sedled themselves above. A fall from seats so preca-
rious was not unfrequent, and was fraught with danger, both
to him who fell, and those who were seated below. As many
had far to church, and as that time wolves and other ravenous
animals infested the country, the men usually took their guns
along. During preaching time, the guns were stored in a cor-
ner of the church, and the shot -pouches hung on pins along
the wall. To build a house like this, was no small undertak-
ing at that time, as timber was not at hand, and the articles
necessary to make it comfortable, scarce. Our fathers rejoiced
for being permitted to worship God in a place even humble as
this. Here they sang the old and sweet hymns of their church
with delight. Here they offered their prayers and praises to
God, who dwells with the lowly. Here they Pstened to the
gospel of Jesus Christ, and were pointed to "the Lamb of God
which taketh away the sin of the world." They sleep now in
"God's acre," hard by the humble house they founded in his
name. We shall soon follow them to our long home, and
mingle our dust with theirs. How thankful should we be for
a house of worship so convenient, so cornfertable and large !
As our advantages are great, so will our responsibility be. O
that we may improve well the blessings we enjoy!
In about 1778, the floor was laid, pews made, the gallery
erected, and stoves bought for the church. Mr. Matthias
George was the carpenter. At this time, and long after, Mr.
13
Adam George conducted the singing for the congregation. Rev.
Bager was succeeded as pastor, by the
Rev. John George Young'
in about 1770-72. Rev. Young resided at Hagerstown, Md.,
and served this congregation till about 1783. He preached
here, at first once every eight weeks, and oftener towards the
last of his time. The young people had frequently to go to
catechising near Hagerstown, where he brought together and
confirmed all the catechumens of his wide -extended charge.
His salary, at the Grindstone Hill church, consisted of a little
money, some wheat, rye, buckwheat, corn, potatoes, &c.,
which were subscribed as every one was able to give. The
members brought these products to one place, where they were
put on a wagon, and one of them hauled them to Hagerstown
for the preacher -2
The Revolutionary War.
These were troublous times, as the Revolutionary war raged
in its full strength. The minds of the people were diverted
from the one thing needful, and their whole attention taken
up with the war. Husbands and fathers, sons and brothers,
marched shoulder to shoulder to the battlefield. The Grind-
stone Hill church furnished her full quota of men. Col. Jaynes
Chambers raised a company of infantry from the neighborhood,
which he commanded as Captain, and in 1775, marched to
join the American army, then' encamped on the high grounds
of Boston, where the royal army was besieged. In 1776, at
the battle on Long Island, the men from this county suffered
severely, some were killed, and some taken prisoners; a num-
ber of the members of this church belonged to the latter.
They were also with the army in the Jerseys, as well as at the
battles of Brandywine and Germantown, in 1778. The effects
of the war were unfavorable to the piety of the church at
large, and to this congregation in particular, as she lost many
' See Appendix, note B.
For these statements, the writer is indebted to the late Ludwig Heck,
Esq.
w►r
14 15
valuable men. War was the theme of conversation, and ab- Jesus by the truth he preached. He resigned in 178S, and
sorbed the feeling and attention, and the soul and the things moved to Bedford.' In 1789 he was succeeded by the
of eternity were forgotten. It was sometime before the con- Rev. Anthony Ulrich Liidgen,s
gregation recovered from this shock, and the attention was di- of Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pa. Rev. Liidgen
rected to the interests of the soul. made Chambersburg his place of residence, and served the
Rev. Young was much loved by his people., and notwith- congregation of that place in connection with the Grindstone
standing the disadvantages under which he labored, his efforts
to do good were greatly blessed. As, however, the distance of ' For the use of the future historian, we transcribe the following from the
German Reformed Messenger. This brief was copied from an old parchment,
the congregation from his residence was great, and as his field in the possession of Mr. William Stahl, of Bedford, and proves the fact that
of labor was too large for him, he resigned in about 1783, and the Germans were among the first pioneers, and mindful of the religion of
was followed, in 1784, by the their fathers.
Rev. John Michael S'teck,1
"By the Honorable
who served this congregation in connection with Jacob's church,
Tohn Penn, Esq., Lieut. Governor and Commander-in-chief of the Prov -
ince of Pennsylvania, and counties of New Castle, Kent and Sussex on Del-
Chathbersburg, and Scherer's church (now Pleasant Hall), till
aware:
178b. These were the only congregations in Franklin county
To all People to whom these Presents shall come greeting
at that time. This was his first charge. Cumberland county
Wher eas, it has been represented to me by the humble petition of Yost
Schonewolf, of the town of Bedford, in the county of Cumberland, in the
was, from 1784 to 1788, the sphere of the Rev. John G. But-
Province of Pennsylvania, yeoman, that the Protestant Reformed congrega-
ler's ministerial labors. Rev. Steck resided one year with Mr.
tion, and the Protestant Lutheran congregation, in and near Bedford, afore -
Jacob Heck, near the Grindstone Hill church, this congrega-
said Town, has taken up a Lot of ground in said Town, inclosed the same,
tion being then the largest and most central .in the charge. In
were desirous thereon to erect a House of Worship or Church for the joint
use of the said two congregations, and that there was no House of worship
1785, Rev. Steck brought all his catechumens together in
or church within seventy miles of said Town of Bedford, and that the said
Chambersburg, where a church had been erected the previous
two congregations were poor, and not able, out of their own means, to carry
year, and at this time confirmed sixty. He preached once
their pious intentions into execution, without the help or assistance of good
every four weeks at the Grindstone Hill church. After his
People, and have the promotion of Religion at heart ; and it appears to me,
that the said Yost Schonewolfj' hath been deputed by thirty-eight of the prin-
marriage, in 17 85, o Miss Esther HaIllner, near Jacob's church,
cipal members of the said two congregations, to collect charitable donations of
Rev. Steck resided for two years where the Messrs. Gifts =v
such of the good People as are willing to contribute their mite towards the
live, about two tulles north of the Grindstone Hill church.
said undertaking : and, the said two congregations having humbly prayed
me to grant them a Brief to collect money for the good purpose aforesaid ;
The last year he resided in Charnbersburg. The church pros-
and, I favoring their request: These, are therefore, to permit and license the
pered during his time. His sermons were practical and in-
said Yost Schonewolfj; within the space of three years, from the date hereof,
structive. He reproved sin and sinners severely. Hence some
next ensuing, to make collection of the good People within my Government,
found fault, and said they did not pay him to condemn them..
who are willing to contribute towards the building of a church or House of
worship for the said two several congregations in and near Bedford, afore -
Like many in our days, they wished the preacher to preach
said, any sum or sums of money, not exceeding in the whole, six hundred
and pray them to heaven. May God have mercy on such de-
Pounds, lawful money of Pennsylvania.
luded souls! His sermons did good, and sinners were led l0
Given under my hand and seal at Arms, at the City of Philadelphia, June
21st, A. D. 1769 ; and in the ninth year of King George III.
' See Appendix, note C.
JOHN PENN."
= See Appendix, note D.
16
Hill, Shearer's, and the Shippensburg congregations. He
preached here once every four weeks. In his time the youth
attended catechising in Chambersburg, where he also confirm-
ed thein. He made the first entry of baptism in the church -
book as follows: "Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel and Eve
Smith, was born, May Sth, 1791." His health failing, he
resigned the charge of this congregation in 1794. He died in
Chambersburg, on the 7th of February, 1796. In the spring
of 1795, the
Rev. fohn Ruthrauff I
late of York, Pa., took charge of this congregation, and served
it till 1815, in connection with Greencastle, Jacob's church,
Waynesboro' and some other places. He resided in Green-
castle. This was his first charge. He preached here once
every four weeks. He labored long and faithfully among this
people, and many still remain among us to testify to the ex-
alted worth of this herald of the cross. There are some here
who received instruction from his lips, and were confirmed by
him. He excelled as an instructor of the youth, in the cate-
chism of the church. As we have no records, we cannot say
how many were added to the church in his time, though the
number must have been considerable. He had communion
here but once a year.E After having served the congregation
for about tiventy years, he resigned in 1815, and in 1816 the
See Appendix, note E.
z It may be interesting to the congregation to know who, at that time, were
the members of the church. We will therefore give the names of the com-
municants, in 1801, as recorded by Rev. Ruthraufl; as follows
1 Daniel Purman, 13 Magdalene George,
2 George Fetterhaffen, 14 John Essick,
3 John Gieseman and wife, 15 Henry Linck,
4 Sawina, 16 Barnhard Purman,
5 Peter Putman, 17 Peter Purman, Jr.
6 Andrew Keyser and wife, 18 Jacob Purman,
7 Anna Maria, 19 David Beller,
8 George Gift and wife, 20 Barnard Reichard,
9 Catharine, 21 Matthias Gift,
10 Jacob Essick, 22 Baltzer Oberkersh and wife,
11 Adam George and wife, 23 Margaret,
12 Catharine, 24 Barbara Purman, (See next page.
17
Rev..Tohn Frederick 16Toeller,i
of Chambersburg, took the pastoral oversight of this congre-
gation, and served it till the fall of 1829, when he removed to
Somerset, Ohio, where he died in 1833, aged about sixty
years. Rev. Moeller labored here with success, and at his first
communion, on the 28th of April, 1816, he added thirty to
the congregation by confirmation.z He preached here once
25 Elizabeth George,
32 Catharine Lochbaum,
26 Christina Stenger,
33 Elizabeth Gril,
27 Fronica Meily,
34 Peter Smith,
28 Catharine Gift,
35 Christopher George and wife,
29 Barbara Fetterhaflen,
36 Louisa,
30 Isabella Smith,
37 Eve Smith.
31 Eve Smith,
34 Andrew Eyler,
' See Appendix, note F.
35 William Schultz,
2 The names of the communicants
at this time, are as follows :
1 Christopher George and wife,
29 Curtis Meily and wife,
2 Louisa,
30 Catharine,
3 Jacob Keller and wife,
31 John Gift,
4 Margaret,
32 John Tritle,
5 Frederick Hoffman and wife,
33 Jacob George,
6 Catharine,
34 Andrew Eyler,
7 Lithea Hoffman,
35 William Schultz,
8 John Essick,
36 Philip Tritle,
9 Jacob Tritle,
37 Catharine Gift,
10 George Fields,
38 Margaret Meily,
11 Adam George and wife,
39 Eve Smith,
12 Catharine,
40 Elizabeth Herman,
13 Peter Waldborn and wile,
41 Hannah Herman,
14 Catharine,
42 Elizabeth Coser,
15 Anna Maria Waldborn,
43 Elizabeth Gesell,
16 Ludwig Flory and wife,
44 Catharine Kolp,
17 Salome,
45 Elizabeth Donally,
18 George Meily and wife,
46 Susanna Benedict,
19 Elizabeth,
47 Magdalene Fage,
20 John Lowry and wife,
48 Christina Hossler,
21 Elizabeth,
49 Regina Herman,
22 Simon Motz and wife,
50 Elizabeth Porter,
23 Christina,
The Catechumens who were confirmed
24 Andrew Frey,
yesterday, and communed for the first
25 Peter Waldborn,
time to -day.
26 Adam Glass,
51 Peter Benedict,
27 Jeremiah George and wife,
52 Frederick Frey,
28 Magdalene,
53 Samuel Frey, (See next page.
3
Y
18
every two weeks, and held communion onoe a year, in spring.
He had catechising once every two years, and, with the ex-
ception of the first class, he always confirmed the catechumens
in Chambersburg; hence it is impossible to ascertain the num-
ber of additions lie made to this congregation from time to
time. In consequence of a strong demand for preaching in
the English language, as well as on account of old age and
infirmity, after having faithfully served the congregation about
fourteen years, Rev. Moeller resigned in the fall of 1829.
Hitherto the German language was exclusively employed in
preaching the gospel, a policy very injurious to the interests of
the congregation. A change was strongly demanded, though
it met with some opposition at first. After a vacancy of near-
ly two years, the
Rev. Benjamin Kurtz, D. D.,
late of Hagerstown, Md., took charge of this congregation, on
the 1st of August, 1831; and served it in connection with
Chambersburg, where he resided. Dr. Kurtz preached here
once every two weeks, alternately in the German and English
languages. He also introduced night -preaching, and estab-
lished a Sunday -School, which flourished while he was pastor;
but after his resignation it died, and was not revived till 1840,
under Rev. Salim. During the winter of 1832, he instructed
a class of catechumens in the catechism. The Lord blessed
his labors greatly. Sinners were awakened and led to Jesus
54 George Frey,
68 Margaret Gift,
55 Elizabeth Frey,
69 Sophia Gift,
56 Salome McConnally Frey,
-70 Frederick Tritle,
57 Adam George,
71 Maria Straus,
58 Margaret George,
72 George Brandhaffen,
59 Elizabeth George,
73 Elizabeth Lowry,
60 John Motz,
74 Hannah Lowry,
61 Jacob Motz,
75 Elizabeth Waldborry
62 Elizabeth Motz,
76 Maria Herman,
63 Susanna Motz,
77 Hannah Herman,
64 George Waldborn,
78 Jacob Fields,
65 Charles Flory,
79 George Fields,
66 Jacob Keller,
80 Henry Fields,
67 Hannah Waldman,
24 Hannah Funfrock,
. _ C-311% Orle,
19
Christ. His health failing, the neighboring ministerial breth-
ren occasionally filled his pulpit for him. At the communion
on the 2d of June, 1832, thirty-four were added to the church
by the solemn rite of confirmation.I The Rev. Messrs. Sam-
uel K. Hoshour and D. P. Rosenmiller, assisted the pastor at
this time. The Rev. Hoshour preached the communion ser-
mon on Sundny forenoon, from Joshua, 7: 25 ; "The Lord
shall trouble thee this day." The Rev. Reuben Weiser as-
sisted the pastor at the communion on the 25th of December,
1832. The cause of the Redeemer prospered, and the con-
gregation received a new impulse from on high. The word
had free course, run, and was glorified. Many of those who
then united with the church, are now its pillars and ornaments.
The New Church Commenced.
To this time the Lutheran and Reformed congregations wor,
shipped in the old log church.
As the Lutheran congregation
increased in the number of its
members, a new church was
required, the old one being much decayed, and too small:
The two congregations united again
in erecting a house where.
in to worship the God of their
Fathers. The building corn-
mittee, on the part of the Lutherans, consisted of Messrs. John
} We will here give the names of those who were confirmed on this inter-
esting occasion :
1 Christian Stabler,
1S Joseph B. Mantzer,
2 Jacob Funfrock,
19 John Stahl,
3 Samuel Stuard,
20 Elizabeth Wildenson,
4 John Essick,
21 Christina Stever,
5 George Colby,
22 Fredrica Stabler,
6 Jacob Benedict,
23 Lydia Raby,
7 William Reed,
24 Hannah Funfrock,
S Adam Essick,
25 Elizabeth Funfrock,
9 Henry Funfrock,
26 Elizabeth Kennady,
10 Adam Height,
27 Catharine Fox,
11 David Johnston,
28 Sarah Lob,
12 George Barnett,
29 Maria Barnett,
13 John Wildenson,
30 Susanna Reed,
14 Samuel Hepfer,
31 Elizabeth Essick,
15 George Sowers,
32 Jane Craver,
16 Simon Height,
3; Marl Meily,
17 Samuel Johnston,
• 34 Mrs. Mary Heims.
0.
i)0 till
Trifle, Frederick Tritle and Jacob Wertz. The old church
was sold for thirty dollars, to the `United Brethren in Christ,"
who removed it about four miles east, where it is known as
"The Chapel." The school -house, on the left of the road,
was removed, and is now the sexton's dwelling house, and on
the ground it occupied, the new church was erected. Messrs.
Clayton and Cookson were the builders. The corner -stone
was laid in May, 1833. The Lutheran ministers present on
this occasion, were the Rev. Messrs. R. Weiser, F. Ruthraufl',
and B. Kurtz, the pastor. Everything went on prosperously;
but to the great regret of all, the health of their beloved pastor
failed, being compelled, by a severe attack of hemorrhage from
the lungs, to desist from preaching. Dr. Kurtz resigned on
the 1st of August, 1833, and assumed the editorship of the
Lutheran Observer, in Baltimore. On the 1st of September,
of the same year, the
Rev. John N. Hoffman,
late of Taneytown, Md., took charge of this congregation, it,
connection with Chambersburg, where he resided.
T 11e New Church Dedicated.
The new church was dedicated to the service of the Triune
God, on the 24th of November, 1833. On Friday evening,
the 22d, Rev. R. Weiser preached the first sermon in the new
church. We transcribe the following account of the dedication
from the Lutheran Observer, December the 7th, .1833, p. 118.
"The new Lutheran and Reformed house of worship at Grind-
stone Hill, six miles from Chambersburg, Franklin County,
Pa., attached to the pastoral district of the Rev. J. N. Hoff-
man, was solemnly dedicated, on Sunday, the 24th November,
1833. The religious exercises commenced on the preceding
Friday, and were continued until Monday night. The con-
course of people on the Lord's day, was so large, that the
building, ample as are its dimensions (forty by fifty feet), could
not accommodate more than half of those who were in attend-
ance. On Monday morning the Holy Supper was adminis-
tered, in which the ministers untj people of both congregations
-01
N1
(Reformed and Lutheran) joined. How good it is for brethren
to dwell together in arnity and peace.
The attending and officiating ministers were: Rev. Messrs.
R. Weiser, J. Ruthrauff, Sen., J. N. Hoffman, and J. Reck—
Lutheran. Rev. Messrs. Rahauser, Sen., Glessner, Rabaugh,
Reily, Ungerer, Meyer, Aurandt, Scholl, and Rahauser, Jr.
German Reformed.
The occasion was one of deep interest, and occasionally of
great solemnity. The preaching generally, was instructive,
impressive, and affectionate. It is believed that deep and
abiding impressions were made on many.
The erection of this church was commenced last spring; it
is built of brick, in the form of a parallelogram, with the pul-
pit at one end, and the doors at the other, and a spacious gal-
lery around, which is entered from two flights of stairs, both
separated from the main area of the building by a brick parti-
tion. The whole plan and situation are judicious, and retlect
much credit on the building committee, as well as on the me-
chanics, and the congregation generally. How amiable ate
thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! A day in thy courts is bet-
ter than a thousand.' The church cost about three thousand
dollars.
On Saturday, the 17th May, 1834, the Rev. Hoffman added
a large class of catechumens to the church by confirmation.'
In November, 1835, Rev. Hoffman resigned the charge of this
congregation, and was succeeded immediately after by the
Rev. Jeremiah Happel,
who served it in connection with Greencastle, the place of his
residence. In the latter part of 1835, the corner -stone of the
I The names of some of them are the following:
1 Adam Cook,
9 Anna Fox,
2 Henry Tritle,
to Zacharia Schultz,
3 Robert Clugston,
it Nancy FUnfrock,
4 Jacob Wildenson,
12 Catharine Hepfer,
5 David Clugston,
13 Elizabeth Heprer,
6 Jacob Fit bert,
14 Lydia Stever,
7 John Raby,
15 Mary Stare,
5 Alexander Clugslou,
16 Leah Snyder.
•
`,
22
church was robbed. Of this the Chanibersburg Telegrapji
speaks as follows: "Church Robbery: On Wednesday dight
*last, some villian prized out the corner -stone of the new Grind-
stone Hill church, in Franklin Co., Pa., and pilfered it of its
contents, which, we are informed, did not exceed two dollars.
This act equals in meanness, anything of which we have ever
heard. As yet it is not discovered by whom this atrocious act
was committed."
On the 7th May, 1836, and in the spring of 1837, a num-
ber of persons who had attended instruction, were added to
the church by confirmation.1 Rev. Harpel held his last com-
munion here on the 8th October, 1837, and shortly after re-
signed. Excepting an occasional sermon by neighboring min-
isters, the congregation remained vacant for more than a year.
In January, 1839, the
Rev. Jacob 1Vlartiya,
of Williamsburg, Blair County, Pa., took charge of this con-
gregation, and served it forone year, in connection with Green-
castle, where he resided. Rev. Martin confirmed a number of
persons this year.2 Mr. John Tritle, as delegate from this
charge, attended, in October, the meeting of the West Penn-
sylvania Synod, at York, Pa. In January, 1840, Rev. Martin
resigned, and accepted a call from the Lutheran congregation
at Hollidaysburg, Pa. The congregation remained destitute
till October, 1840, when the i
' The names of some of them are;
1 Michael Reed,
2 John Brandhafen,
3 Harriet Barnett,
4 Francis Small,
5 Levina Wildenson,
6 Rebecca Wildensoa,
7 Susanna Tritle,
2 The names of them are
1 Jeremiah George,
2 Reuben Reed,
3 Rebecca Small,
4 Mary Ann Small,
5 Lydia George,
B Elizabeth Brandhafen,
9 Mary Ann Stern,
10 Saphia Stabler,
11 Elizabeth Smith,
12 John Bonebreak, also baptized,
13 Elizabeth Rosenberg, «
14 Margaret B ushman, .
6 Elizabeth George,
7 Elizabeth Rosenberg,
8 Rebecca George,
9 Johanna Shover,
10 Mary Beaver.
.. T_ ___wmer.+r»
2s
Rev. Peter Salm,
of St. Thomas, this county, took charge of it, and served it in
connection with Greencastle, the place of his residence. At
his first communion, on the 18th October, 1840, eighty-two
communed. He instructed a class of catechumens in the cat-
echism, and on Saturday, the 20th of January, 1841, six of
them were added to the church by confirmation ;1 the com-
munion was field on Sunday, the 21st.
At this communion season, God graciously and copiously
poured out his Spirit upon the congregation, and made his
word quick and powerful. The gospel was preached day and
night for some weeks, and people of all denominations, from
all directions, and in all kinds of weather, crowded the house
of God to overflowing, to hear the message of salvation.
s Christians were revived, and their hearts mile to rejoice in
God their Savior. Sinners were awakened in great numbers,
and, under the power of the truth, and a sense of their lost
condition, cried out, "men and brethren, what shall we do?"
Sometimes ten, twenty, thirty, forty, and as high as fifty anx-
ious, seeking souls, designated themselves, at the same time,
as subjects of the prayers and instructions of the pastor and
pious people of God. Old, dead members of the church were
aroused from their slumbers, fled to Jesus as their only hope,
and found peace by believing. The crowd assembled was
immense; the number of the awakened large. Parents and
friends were solicitous for their unconverted children and
friends, and greatly rejoiced when any of them yielded to the
strivings of the Spirit, and found forgiveness of sin through
Jesus Christ. Those who were warm in their first love, to-
gether with those who had just obtained pardon and peace,
praised God and gave Him glory in the highest. This con-
tinued for weeks. It attracted christians, as well as curious
spectators. The whole neighborhood, for many miles around,
The following are their names :
1 Ellenor Overkersh, 4 Adam Bonebreak,
2 Rebecca Overkersh, 5 Catharine Schenk, also baptized,
3 Rebecca Eyler, 6 Henry Height,
d
24
was aroused by the wondrous doings of God, and many who
merely heard of it, were awakened at home, and commenced
to sue for mercy and forgiveness. Prayer -meetings were held
in the church, in dwelling houses, and wherever a few chris-
tians met. The family altar was everywhere erected, and in-
cense of thanksgiving and praise ascended to God, morning
and evening. Christians exhorted, prayed and entreated sin-
ners to flee the wrath to come, and seek salvation now. New
victories were daily won, and additions made of such as shall
be saved. This meeting continued, with scarcely any inter-
ruption, frorn the middle of January to the beginning of March.
The scene of this work of grace cannot be described. Eternity
alone must reveal its effects. This is known as the first great
revival here. That some were disorderly, is undeniable ; but
when we consitl-r the circumstances of a newly awakened
people, and the great and divers crowds that assembled, we
cannot but thank God, that there were no greater disorders, and
that so many were led to Jesus, whose consistent and christian
lives, prove the work to have been of God, and that they were
truly converted. As might be expected, the devil raised oppo-
sition, and, as usual, employed every means to suppress the
work of God; but the power of the truth and divine grace,
overruled all such opposition for the good of the truly pious,
and the advancement of the kingdom of Jesus Christ. The
number of those who professed to have experienced a change
of heart during this meeting, must have been upwards of one
hundred and fifty. Many of these were already members of
the Lutheran church, and many belonged to other churches.
The pastor collected the youth, and others, into a class, for
still further instruction in the doctrines of the Bible, and on
Saturday, the 12th of June, 1841, twenty-three were added to
the church by confirmation.' The congregation received a
I Their names are as follows:
17 Abraham Keyler,
1 Mary Hepfer, also baptized,
5 Jacob Bonebreak,
2 Catharine Bushman, - «
6 Samuel Bonebreak,
3 Sarah Ann Overkersh,
7 Hannah Johnston, «
4 Joseph Pfoutz, "
S Mary Fiinfrock, (See next page.
rz�
fresh impulse, and breathed a new life. Two weekly prayer -
meetings were established, and the Sunday School was revived,
The Sunday School.
As this is perhaps the most suitable place, we will trace, as
briefly as possible, the history of the Sunday School. By the
exertion of the pastor, Dr. Kurtz, this school was opened on
the 5th orf, May, 1833, with six male and four female teachers,
and forty-six scholars, Mr. Jeremiah Herman being the super-
intendent. It prospered this summer, having twelve male and
four female teachers, and sixty-six scholars at the close of the
summer session; but for some reason not known to the writer,
it was pertnitted to die, and was not revived till 1842, when it
opened again, on the 21st of August, with seventeen teachers
and seventy-seven scholars, Mr. Daniel Hepfer being the su-
,,perintendent. In the spring of 1844, Mr. Jacob C. Snyder
was elected superintendent, and the school flourished exceed-
ingly.
The church has been used for the meetings of the school.
A sermon is annually preached on the subject of Sunday
Schools, by the pastor. For the last five years the school has
averaged between seventy-five and one hundred scholars, and
between fifteen and twenty teachers. The library contains at '
present, about three hundred volumes. During the winter
months the school is suspended, as the children have a dis-
tance to come, and the roads are usually bad. We will, as
correctly as we can, subjoin the names of the superintendents,
and the time of their service in this capacity:
Mr. Jeremiah Herman, - - - 1833.
rr Daniel Hepfer, Aug. 181.2 to Oct. 1843.
9 Elizabeth Reed,
17 Abraham Keyler,
10 Ann Elizabeth Eyerly,
18 Jeremiah Harmony,
11 Elizabeth Harmony,
19 George Tritle,
12 Martha Tritle,
20 george Overkersh,
13 Amanda Mary Eve Snyder,
21 Elizabeth McCormic,
14 Catharine Eyler,
22 Robert Clugston,
15 William Essick,
23 Mrs. Caroline Clugston.
16 George Cook,
4
T
`?6
Mr. Jacob C. Snyder, May 1844 to Oct. 1845.
Adam Cook, Oct. 1845 to Aug. 1846.
William Essick, Aug. 1846 to Aug. 1848.
Jacob C. Snyder, Aug. 1848 to Aug. 1850.
John Reed, Aug. 1850 to Aug. 1851.
Jacob C. Snyder, Aug. 1852 to Aug. 1854.
May the good Lord bless this nursery of the church! May
the superintendents, and all the officers and teachers, be en-
dowed with wisdom from abo6e, and so teach the children the
way of the Lord, that when they become old they may not
depart from it! May the parents and children enjoy the
sweet influences of the -Spirit of God, and walk in the, ways
of the Lord. -
Besides aiding other benevolent causes, this congregation
contributed nobly towards the endowment of our Seminary at
Getlysburg,furnished the church with some.ministers, has al-
ways students from her midst at Pennsylvania College, and for
some time supported one who is now laboring successfully in
our L(ttheran Zion. Would that all her sons would study
awhile at Gettysburg! Our church is in want of more minis-
ters; may we not hope that this congregation and Sunday
School will do their part towards supplying this want? Re-
member this in your. prayers, O ye parents, who have pious
sons!
In the winter of 1842, during a meeting of three or four
weeks' continuance, the good Lord remembered Zion, and
poured out his Spirit upon the people. Many precious souls
were converted at this time, who still walk as becometh the
gospel of Jesus Christ, and are lights in the church. This
was the second great revival here. The subjects of this work
of grace were faithfully instructed in the doctrines of religion,
and on Saturday, the 19th of March, 1842, fourteen were
added to the church, on a profession of faith, by the solemn
rite of confirmation.' Again, on Saturday the 10th of No -
The following are their names:
1 George Gift, 3 Adam Eyler,
2 Levi Wildenson, 4 Jacob C. Snyder, (See neat page.
ir
27
vember, 1842,four were received into the church by confirma-
tion.' The Lord prospered his cause greatly here. During
the winter of 1845, the congregation was again visited with a
refreshing shower from on high, and a large number were
awakened, and sought an,interest in the blood of Jesus. These
were afterwards more fully instructed, and on Saturday, the
12tH of April, twelve were added to the church by confirma-
tion.z This was the third great revival. Aftershaving la-
bored successfully for five years in this congregation, Rev.
Sahm resigned in October, 1$45, and accepted a call from the
Lutheran church at Blairsville, Indiana County, Pa. After
the church was vacant about six rtionths, the
Rev. Michael Eyster,a
of Williamsburg, Blair County, Pa., accepted a call from this
charge, and entered upon his ministerial labors here, in con-
nection with Greencastle, where he resided, on the 1st of April
1846. No additions were made in his time. Having labored
one year in preaching the gospel to this congregation, he re-
signed on the 1st of April, 1847, and was immediately suc-
ceeded by the
+ Rev. Levi T. Williams,
'1of Fayetteville, this county. At this time the Grindstone
Hill, the Fayetteville and Greenvillage congregations formed
5 William Barnett, 10 William Miller,
• 6 Leonard Harmony, 11 Jeremiah Nead,
7 Jonas Wildenson, 12 Daniel Bonebreak, also babtized,
8 Samuel Essick, 13 Susanna Barnett, "
9 William Rahn, 14 Catharine Bonebreak,
' Their names are
1 Elizabeth Hartman, 3 Mary Jane Iiinsel,
2 Louisa Ann Shober, 4 Elizabeth Mellinger, also baptized.
2 Their names are as follows:
1 Thomas Bovey, 7 Hannah Rennecker,
2 John F. Keller, $Charlotte S. Hepfer,
3 Franklin Rennecker, 4p, 9 Margaret Gift,
4 John Rennecker, 10 Elizabeth Rennecker,
5 John F. Hepfer, 11 Margaret Rann,
6 Elizabeth Schuckman, 12 Catharine Wildensou,
a See Appendix, note G.
I
`Z8
themselves into a charge. Under the labors of the Rev. Wil-
liams, the Lord poured out his Spirit upon this congregation.
A protracted meeting was held at the close of 1847 and the
beginning of 1848, and the word preached was blessed to the
awakening and conversion of a considerable number of pre-
cious souls. The meeting continued several weeks. This is
the fourth great revival with which the Lord has favored this
congregat`pn during the last few years. After having attended
a series of lectures on the catechism, thirteen' of the subjects
of this work of grace were added to the church, on Saturday,
the 10th of March, 1848. Again, on the 17th of June, six
more were received into the church by confirmation,' and on
the .5th of November, Mr. Jeremiah Cover and his wife, Eliz-
abeth, were received by certificate from the Lutheran church
at Greenvillage.
The Lutheran Church Library.
This library was purchased on the 9th of March, 1S48, for
the use of the members of this congregation. It cost twenty
dollars, and contains seventy-five volumes of choice religious
works. Additions are annually made to it by donations, and
thus, in time, it will become valuable, and the members will
be furnished with works on almost any subject they may
sire to study. Many of the works of our church, published ijit"4,'
this country, are found in this depository of books. Would
Their names are:
1 William H. Clusman,
2 Peter Baker,
3 Simon Forney,
4 Louisa Cauffman,
5 Mary Ann Gelwix,
6 Matilda Hepfer,
7 Amanda Jane Overearsh,
3 Sarah Elizabeth Stups,
2 Their names are as follows:
1 Martha M. Keller,
2 Anna Susan Gelwix,
3 Susan Gift,
4 Mary Catharine Gift,
9 Matilda R. Wildenson,
10 Susan Wildenson,
11 Mary M. Cauffman,
12 Barbara Cauffman, and on the 29th
of March,
13 Mrs. Mary A. Forney, was baptiz-
ed at the same time.
54%ary M. Gift,
6 Thomas B. Maxwell, Al. D., was
baptized at the same time.
ti
0
99
that they were all here, and faithfully read by the members!
It could not but have a happy and blessed effect upon the
congregation. I would humbly suggest that, if possible, this
congregation secure a copy of each of the publications of our
church, and such as may be published from time to time, and
add them to this library. This might be done with but little
expense ; and in time it would become a valuable treasure.
All documents pertaining to the history of this congrggation, a
copy of the annual proceedings of our Synod, &c., &c.,
should be deposited here. I trust the brethren will not forget
this suggestion. We must read more, think and pray more.
We must make ourselves acquainted with the doctrines, gov-
ernment and history of our church ; with her operations and
wants ; her home and foreign mission enterprises and educa-
tion society. We must give our sons to God in the ministry,
and educate them at our institutions. We must aid in dissem-
inating intelligence, and to do this, our children must be edu-
cated—religiously educated
After having served the congregation one year and nine
months, Rev. Williams resigned on the 1st of January, 1849,
and accepted a call from Mifllintown, Juniata County, Pa.,
and was immediately followed by the
Rev. Augustus C. Wedekind,
late of the Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Pa. Rev.
Wedekind resided in Chambersburg. The Marion congrega-
tion united at this time with this charge. In August, 1849,
Mrs. Catharine Reed and Mrs. Essick, were received by cer-
tificate from the German Reformed church. Mr. Henry Tri-
tle, as the delegate of this charge, attended Synod at York,
Pa., in September, and was by Synod, elected as one of its
lay -delegates to the General Synod. After attending a course
of lectures on the doctrines of our holy religion, six persons
were received into the chu%%, on Saturday, the 17th of No-
vember, by the rite of confirmation., Having served the
' Their names are:
1 George Stever, also baptized, 2 Mrs. Mary E. Stever, baptized,
(Sec next page.
30
charge one year, Rev. Wedekind resigned on the 1st of Janu-
ary,1850, and accepted a call from Lebanon, Pa.
The charge remained vacant till October, 1850. On a visit
to his friends, and by request of the congregation, the Ret'.
Salim held communion here on the 21st of April, this year.
An occasional sermon was also preached here by Theological
students from the Seminary at Gettysburg., On the 1st of Oc-
tober,1S50, the
Rev. David H Acht,
late of the Seminary at Gettysburg, accepted a call from this
charge, and preached his introductory sermon here on Sunday,
the 10th of October, at 10 o'clock A. M., from 2 Tim. 4: 1,2;
"I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ,
who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and
his kingdom ; preach the wort] ; be instant in season, out of
season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-sufl'eting and
doctrine." Rev. Pocht resided in Chambersburg. Since Dr.
Kurtz was pastor, the services were conducted alternately in
the German and English languages ; at this time (1850), how-
ever, only every fourthsermon is to be in the German language,
and that in the afternoon. In January, 1851, by a contribu-
tion of sixty dollars, the congregation constituted their pastor
and Messrs. John Reed and Henry Tritle, life members of the
American Tract Society, securing by this means, annually,
forty-five hundred pages of tracts for distribution among the
members. On the 22d of March, Mr. Adam Cook was in-
stalled as an Elder, and Messrs. Jacob C. Snyder and Jeremi-
ah Cover as Deacons. In May, 1851, the congregation sub-
scribed two hundred and fifty-eight dollars and fifty cents to-
wards the endowment of a Professorship of Theology in the
Illinois State University, to be paid "in five annual instal-
ments." This money has nearly all been paid in. In Sep-
tember, J. C. Snyder, Esq., as , legate from this charge, at-
tended Synod at Newville, Cu i erland.County, Pa. Having
3 Thomas B. Maxwell, Jr. baptized, 5 Miss Catharine E. Bowers,
•1 Miss Mary Trimmer, 6 Jeremiah George.
31
attended a series of lectures on the catechism, three young
persons' were confirmed 'on Saturday, the 1st of May, 1852.
On the 7th of September, John Reed, a pious and beloved el-
der, was hastily called home by that dreadful disease—the
cholera. On Wednesday, the Sth, at 2 o'clock, P. M., his re-
mains were deposited in the grave -yard adjoining the church,
when the pastor preached an appropriate sermon, from Psalms
116: 15; "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of
his saints." On Sunday, the 20th of March, 1853, Mr. Wil-
liam Reed was installed as Elder, to fill the vacancy occasioned
by the death of his brother, John Reed. On Saturday, the
30th of April, 1853, after attending a course of lectures on the
doctrines of religion, three young personss were added to the
church by confirmation, and Mr. Adam Hoffman, his wife
Ernesti, and Mr. John Horn, by certificate. During thissum-
mer the grave -yard was enlarged.
The Grave -yard.
There were some buried here before the old log church was
built. At that time a few limbs of trees were thrown over the
graves, to protect them from disturbance. It was also a cus-
tom in early tithes, to erect a sort of canopy, of white linen,
over the graves. The object of this was, to scare away the
wolves, and so prevent them from digging into the graves. At
a later period the grave -yard was inclosed by clapboard paling.
In 1814, the paling was removed, and a stone wall erected
around it. The stones were quarried in the Grindstone Hill.
Messrs. John 'Aitle and John Hossler superintended the erec-
tion of this wall. After the new church was built, and the old
log church removed, the wall was, in 1834, extended to the
Chambersburg and Waynesboro' road, where it now stands.
As the space inclosed gradually filled up, and all room was
I Their names are:
1 Daniel Hepfer, Jr., t3 Miss Nancy Jane Gelwix.
2 Miss Rebecca Hepfer,
2 Their names are :
1 Mrs. Catharine Horn, 3 Mise Susan Malinda Wildenson.
2 Miss Ann Jane Hepfer,
* e.
32
occupied, the congregations united, in the summer of 1853, to
enlarge the grave -yard about one-half its size, extending it to-
wards the northwest. This cost about fifty dollars. Nearly
an acre of ground is now inclosed.
The very oldest graves have no stones, to tell who lies there.
The oldest stones are sandstones from the Grindstone Hill,
whereon are cut, in rude figures, the' names of the deceased.
The later stones are white marble, and present a truly solemn
aspect to the passer-by. We copied some of the oldest in-
scriptions, as follows:
"Here lies George Adam Cook, who was born on the 22d
of July, 1719, and died the 17th of August, 1785."
"Here rests the body of our deceased brother, John George
Stenger, who was born in the year of Christ, 1729, on the
25th of -April, and died -on the 21st of October, in the year of
Christ, 1806, aged 77 years, 5 months, and 20 days."
"Here rests the body of Peter Snyder, who was born, Jan-
uary 1729, and died June the 18th, 1807, aged 78 years and 5
months."
"Here rests the body of our deceased brother, Albrecht
Heckman, who was born on the 22d of May, 1732, and died
on the 30th of May, 1804, aged 72 years."
"Here rests the body of Jacob Tritle, who was born on the
2d of January, 1744, and died on the 16th of June, 1825,
aged 81 years, 5 months, and 14 days."
"Here rests the body of Daniel Purman, who was born in
the year 1744, on the 31st of August, and died on the 18th of
April, 1825, aged 80 years, 7 months, and 18 days."
"In memory of Rachael Miley, wife of George Miley, who
was born, July the 17th, 1750, and died October the 24th,
1828, aged 78 years, 3 months, and 7 days."
"Here rests the body of our deceased brother, Christopher
George, who was born the 15th of August, 1754, and died the
1st of June, 1832, aged 77 years, 9 months, and 17 days."
"In memory of Jacob Keller, who was born on the 30th of
September, A. D. 1759, and departed this life 24th May, A.
D. 1830, aged 70 years, 7 months, and 24 days."
3:3
rrIn memory of Balzer Overcarsh, who was born November
26th, 1761, and died December 14th, 1846, aged 85 years and
18 days."
'rIn memory of John Lowry, who was born February 8th,
A. D. 1769, and died May 18th, 1846, aged 77 years, 3 months
and 10 days."
Here rest the honored remains of our forefathers, who have
long since ceased the struggle incident to human life. Here
slumber our fathers and mothers; our husbands and wives, our
brothers and sisters, our children and friends. O holy place!
here we too shall rest by their side, till the trump of God shall
awake us to judgment. All around us lie the men, who first
broke the silence of this forest, and, among the wilds of a sav-
age and uninhabited region', built the house of God, beneath
whose shades they laid their bodies down. O sweet their rest!
we will soon sleep with them in the silent grave.
This year, 1853, J. C. Snyder, Esq., as delegate from this
charge, attended Synod at Lewistown, Pa. On Saturday the
10th of December, 1853, eleven persons,l who had previously
attended instruction, were added to the church by confirmation,
and Mr. John L. Bogenstos and his wife, by certificate. This
protracted meeting commenced on the 6th of DeceM6er. Ex-
ercises were held twice every day. On the 8th, Rev. J. Evans
of Newville, catne to the assistance of the pastor, and remain-
ed with him till the following Saturday. The meeting, after
about three weeks' continuance, closed A the 22d of Decem-
ber. About thirty professed to have experienced a change of
heart during this meeting. This is the fifth revival this con-
gregation has enjoyed during the'last twelve years. This was
a glorious meeting, and its results are permanent and visible to
this day. On Saturday, the 29th of April, 1854, after careful
' Their names are :
1 Curtis Lowry, 7 Daniel E. Maxwell, was baptized.
2 Simon Overcarsh, 8 Miss Susan Weaver,
3 John Iieller, , 9 Miss Sarah E. Hepfer,
4 Simon Peter Hepfer, 10 Miss Susan Lowry,
5 Daniel Hepfer, 11 Miss Elizabeth Pfeifer.
6 Jacob Eyler,
hr •
3:3
rrIn memory of Balzer Overcarsh, who was born November
26th, 1761, and died December 14th, 1846, aged 85 years and
18 days."
'rIn memory of John Lowry, who was born February 8th,
A. D. 1769, and died May 18th, 1846, aged 77 years, 3 months
and 10 days."
Here rest the honored remains of our forefathers, who have
long since ceased the struggle incident to human life. Here
slumber our fathers and mothers; our husbands and wives, our
brothers and sisters, our children and friends. O holy place!
here we too shall rest by their side, till the trump of God shall
awake us to judgment. All around us lie the men, who first
broke the silence of this forest, and, among the wilds of a sav-
age and uninhabited region', built the house of God, beneath
whose shades they laid their bodies down. O sweet their rest!
we will soon sleep with them in the silent grave.
This year, 1853, J. C. Snyder, Esq., as delegate from this
charge, attended Synod at Lewistown, Pa. On Saturday the
10th of December, 1853, eleven persons,l who had previously
attended instruction, were added to the church by confirmation,
and Mr. John L. Bogenstos and his wife, by certificate. This
protracted meeting commenced on the 6th of DeceM6er. Ex-
ercises were held twice every day. On the 8th, Rev. J. Evans
of Newville, catne to the assistance of the pastor, and remain-
ed with him till the following Saturday. The meeting, after
about three weeks' continuance, closed A the 22d of Decem-
ber. About thirty professed to have experienced a change of
heart during this meeting. This is the fifth revival this con-
gregation has enjoyed during the'last twelve years. This was
a glorious meeting, and its results are permanent and visible to
this day. On Saturday, the 29th of April, 1854, after careful
' Their names are :
1 Curtis Lowry, 7 Daniel E. Maxwell, was baptized.
2 Simon Overcarsh, 8 Miss Susan Weaver,
3 John Iieller, , 9 Miss Sarah E. Hepfer,
4 Simon Peter Hepfer, 10 Miss Susan Lowry,
5 Daniel Hepfer, 11 Miss Elizabeth Pfeifer.
6 Jacob Eyler,
FI.
Ir
34
instruction, five persons' were added to the church by the rite
of confirmation.
This congregation has two prayer -meetings, each of which
rpeets once a week, and it is believed few, if any, of the fam-
ilies belonging to the congregation, are without regular daily
family worship. Most of the families read our church paper,
the Lutheran Observer, so ably edited by one of their former
pastors. Also about one hundred copies of the "American
Messenger," and as many of the "Child's Paper," published
by the American Tract Society, are distributed among the
members every month. Besides all this, each family has fur-
nished itself with a respectable library of choice religious books,
and has access also to the Lutheran Church Library. God will
bless a congregation so enterprising, intelligent and pious. The
use of the German language is almost altogether dispensed
with in public worship.
The benevolence of this congregation, from October, 1853,
to October, 1854, was as follows: Church Extension %00;
Home Missions, $45,22; Foreign Missions, $15,32; ani the
Education cause, $13,48.
The charge being too onerous, and his health delicate, the
Rev. Focht resigned, and preached his farewell sermon on
Sunday forenoon, the 17th of September, 1854, from Mark,
13: 37; "And what I say unto you, I say into all, watch."
Thus, on the 1st of October, 1S54, he closed the first four
years of his labors in the ministry among the people of this
congregation. O that God. may preside over the members of
this congregation, and especially preserve those who were con-
firmed by him who writes these pages! May they never for-
get the instruction he gave them, nor by sin bring a reproach
upon the holy religion they professed before God and the
church. May this congregation prosper and be blessed with
revivals of religion! And may we all be so happy as to meet
♦ L Their names are :
1 James M. McCleary, 4 Miss Mary Jane Seabrooks,
2 Samuel Keller, 5 Mrs. Mary Jane Overcarsh.
3 Miss Mary Rennecker,
35
in heaven around God's throne! This is the sincere prayer of
your former pastor. Pleasant were the years I'spent among
you. God bless you all, for Jesus' sake—Amen.
The present Church Council consists of—
Daniel Hepfer,
Elders. Adam Cook,
William Reed,
John Lowry,
Deacons.{ Jacob C. Snyder,
Jeremiah Cover,
Trustees. John Essick,
John Tritle.
The
pastors of the Evangelical Lutheran Grindstone Hill
Church were, in order of time, as
follows:
1. Rev. John George Bager,
from 1765
to 1770.
2.
John George Young,
11 1772
to 1783.
3.
John Michael Steck,
(C 1784
to 17SS.
4.
Anthony U. Liidgen,
11 1789
to 1794.
5.
John Ruthrauff,
(L 1795
to 1815.
6.
John Fred. Moeller,
July 1816
Nov. 1829.
7.
Benj. Kurtz,D. D.,
Aug. 1831
Aug. 1833.
S.
John N. Hoffman,
Sept. 1833
Nov. 1835.
9.
" Jeremiah Harpel,
Nov. 1S35
Oct. 1S37.
10.
« Jacob ;Martin,
Jan. 1839
Jan. 1S40.
11.
Peter Sahm,
Oct. 1640
Oct. 1845.
12.
" Michael Eyster,
April 1846
April 18,47.
13.
" Levi T. Williams,
April 1847
Jan. 1849.
14.
A. C. Wedekind,
Jan. 1849
Jan. 1850.
15.
David H. Focht,
Oct. 1850
Oct. 1854.
APPENDIX.
e9 Remember them which have rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word
of God; whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation: Je-
sus Christ the same yesterday, and to -day, and forever."—Heb. 13: 7, 8.
(A.) Rev. Bager.
The Rev. John G. Bager was a native of Germany, and came to this coun-
try in about 1757-8. He served the congregation at York, Pa., one year,
and occasionally visited Baltimore. In 1759 he removed to Conowago, near
Hanover, York county, where he preached till 1763, when he returned again
to York, and preached there, and renewed his visits to Baltimore, till 1764.
This year he removed, for the second time, to Conowago, where he labored
in the ministry of Jesus till his death, which occurred in about 1790. It was
after his second removal to Conowago, that he commenced visiting the
Grindstone Hill congregation. Our knowledge of him is limited. He was
the grandfather of the Rev. H. L..Baugher, D. D., President of Pennsylva-
nia College. In 1762, Dr. Muhlenberg wrote the following concerning Rev.
Bager: "Rev. Bager, of Conowago, is a pious and learned man.. He was
examined and regularly ordained in Germany, by a Reverend Ministerium,
according to our Evangelical church discipline."' He endured the toil, and
braved the danger of travelling through a howling wilderness, over moun-
tains, to preach Jesus to the scattered Lutherans of the Grindstone Hill set-
tlement. He has long since ceased his labors of love on earth, and his works
do follow him in eternity. Though we saw him not; yet for his kind ser-
vices rendered our forefathers, and through them to us, we will record, and
ever cherish his memory and name, as dear to our hearts. We hope to meet
him in glory, and there repeat and contemplate the scenes of the past. These
forests heard his voice of love, now silent in the grave. How changed the
scene ! How solemn the retrospect! We stand amazed, and turning, view
,,the rapturous scenes beyond the swelling flood."
(B.) Rev. Young.
In about 1772, the Rev. John G. Young located at Hagerstdwn, Md., where
he preached the gospel of Jesus for sixteen years, and where, in all proba-
bility. he died in about 1787-8. He was a young man when he came here,
and gave his hand in marriage to a Miss Fackler, of Hagerstown. He
preached about eleven years for the Lutherans of the Grindstone Hill settle-
ment, and also occasionally in Chambersburg. He was the first stationed
Lutheran minister in this region of country. Most of the congregations in
' Hallische Nachrichten, p. 944.
37
r
Washington county, Md., and Franklig county, Pa., were collected and or-
ganized by him. In October, 1778, Dr. Mdhlenberg wrote as follows: "The
Rev. Mr. Young, stationed in Maryland, in a district of country called Con-
ococheague, serves three congregations in and abort Hagerstown, &c. He
was, some years ago, examined and ordained by our Ministerium. He met
•` this year with a painful accident. On his way to church, his horse fell with
him; he arose unhurt, but then, the horse kicking him, broke three of his
ribs, which were not properly adjusted, and hence he walks with difficulty,
and will hardly be able to attend to his pastoral duties."' In December,
1782, Dr. Muhlenberg writes again: "Rev. Mr. Young, in Maryland, is a
man who labors faithfully and diligently, and, as psstor of several congrega-
tions, he discharges his duty well."z At that time travelling was slow and
difficult, and sometimes dangerous to life. There were no bridges across
streams, and the roads were bad. Often did the wolves prowl and howl
around the weary traveller, as he followed the serpentine, old Indian paths
through the dense forests. Rev. Young was frequently in danger of his life
from these soerees ; but trusting in God, he visited the distant and scattered
of Christ's flock, and proclaimed to them the riches of grace in Christ Jesus.
He was truly a good man, an excellent preacher, and very popular with the
people, and sincerely loved by them. He preached very frequently in the
open air, and for this his voice was well adapted, being strong, full and clear.
Besides the open air, tie preached in barns, school -houses, dwelling houses,
and log cabins. He labored much and faithfully. Some of the aged remem-
ber having seen him in their early youth, and, with affection for him, they
relate with tears the impression his fervent sermons made on their tender
hearts. He was powerful in prayer, practical in explaining the scriptures,
and direct in his appeals to the heart. Sinners were awakened and converted
under his ministry, and he sowed seed which still springs up and bears fruit
to the glory of God. Eternity alone can reveal the great amount of good he
did in the cause of his Master. He has long since fallen asleep in Jesus,
and is now with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, where "the wicked cease from
troubling, and the weary are at rest." To revive in our own hearts, and to
transmit the memory of this worthy servant of God to posterity, we this day
record the deeds of love, and acts of kindness he showed our ancestors, in
making known to them the Lord Jesus as the Savior of sinners. We hope
to meet him in the fair mansions above.
(C.) Rev. Steck.
The Rev. John M. Steck closed his earthly life on the 14th of July, 1830,
aged seventy-three years, nine months and nine days. He was born at Ger-
mantown, Pa., the 5th October, 1756. "!Moved by a strong inclination to
dedicate himself to the ministry, he pursued the study of divinity for some
time under the late Dr. Helmuth, and wasydmitted, after having completed
a course of studies, as a member of'the Lutheran Synod of Pennsylvania.
' Hallische Nachrichten. p. 1413.
lbid p 1.125,
M
A ~
r
35
In 1784 he tools charge of the Grindstone Hill congregation, and the con-
gregations connected with it. This was his first charge. During his first
year here, he resided with Mr. Jacob Heck, near the Grindstone Hill church.
In 1785 he was joined in marriage to Esther, daughter of the late John Haff-
ner (now anglicised into Potter), who resided near Jacob's church. Anter
his marriage, Rev. Steck lived two years where the Messrs. Gifts now live,
about two miles north of the Grindstone Hill church. The last year he re-
sided in Chambersburg.
Early in 1,789 he was called to the congregations in Bedford and Somerset
counties, Pa., and after ministering to them three years, he accepted a call
from the congregations io Westmoreland county, Pa., and located at Greens-
burg in 1792, at a time when the western part of Pennsylvania was yet a
wilderness, and when he and the Rev. John Stauch were the only Lutheran
clergymen in that part of the country. He frequently visited the people
scattered over the counties of Washington, Alleghany, Armstrong, Buller,
Mercer and Crawford. In these journeys he was exposed to many hardships
and dangers—often obliged to preach in cabins, small dwelling ^ houses, barns,
and sometimes in the open air—yet lie was not without the consolation of
seeing his endeavors, under God, blessed by the forming and building up of
many congregations, which are now in a flourishing condition, and have their
own pastors. Gradually these congregations increased in number and
strength, and would be supplied with ministers, he confined himself to the
congregations in and about Greensburg, ministering to them in holy things,
until the day of his death.
When in 1817 the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Ohio was constituted,
he became connected with that body, and in 1532 was unanimously chosen
its Senior. Of him it may justly be said that, he was a fit and faithful labor-
er in the vineyard of the Lord, and that in his death the church sustained a
very severe loss. He cheerfully underwent the troubles and vexations at-
tending the discharge of his duties. The service of his Lord and Master
was the thing nearest to his heart. His discourses were warm and sincere.
Being an enemy to vice, Ire reproved without fear. He devoted much of his
time and labor to instruct and prepare the youth in his congregations, and
thousands who received confirmation at his hands, will bear testimony to his
zeal and faithfulness as a teacher.
During the last three years, he found his strength gradually declining, be-
ing frequently indisposed. He was finally attacked with a dysentery, which
in a few days ushered him into the eternal world. His immortal spirit dis-
engaged itself from its earthly tabernacle, and ascended to the mansions on
high. Though he perceived death approaching him slowly and certainly,
yet the king of terrors had no terror for him; his view extended beyond
death and the grave, to that other and better world, where there is a crown
of glory in store for him, which he hoped to receive at the hands of him
whom he had served with sincerity.
He was buried on the 16th July, 1830, in the graveyard at Greensburg;
and the very numerous assembly that fulk wed his mortal remains to the
place of interment, indicated how much Ire was beloved and regretted. Tire
31.)
Rev. Jonas Mechling, of the Lutheran church, pronounced the funeral ser-
vice at the grave. The assembly having retired to the church, the Rev. De-
walt Rothacker commenced the service with an appropriate prayer, after
which the Rev. N. P. Hacke, of the German Reformed church, delivered a
discourse from Heb. 13 : 6, and was followed by the Rev. Mr. Mechling,
with a few remarks upon the same text: "Well done thou good and faithful
servant, &c., enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
(n.) Rev. Didgen.
The Rev. Anthony U. Liidgen, a native of Germany, was born the 24th
August, 1754, and departed this lite in Chambersburg, Pa., the 7th February
1796, aged forty-two years, six months, and seventeen days. He studied at .
Halle, and was designed for the foreign mission field, hence he prepared him-
self by studying the healing art; but as his health was feeble, he abandoned
his intention of going among the heathen, and came to America in about
1751, and located at Greensburg, Pa. He gathered and organized the few
scattered Lutherans of this place into a congregation, and served them in
word and doctrine till 1789. As the congregation was poor and small, and
as physicians were scarce, he practiced medicine, and thus supported him-
self. In 1789, he accepted a call from Chambersburg, Pa., and served this
congregation and those connected with it, till the time of his death. He
made rise of his medical skill in this place, and is said to have been a suc-
cessful physician of soul and body. He was a man of great erudition, kind
and benevolent, and beloved by the people. He could not endure to see any
suffer ; hence if he had money with him, and met a beggar, he gave him all
he had. He was a good man, sincere and humble, without display or pre-
tension, serving his Lord and Master faithfully, till called to his reward in
heaven. As a consumptive, he was frequently gloomy, and the last few
years of his life he preached seldom, the Rev. Ruthrauff occasionally filling
his pulpit for him. He was patient amidst all his suffering, submitting him-
self, his family and congregations to the care of the Lord. Thus inthe prime
of life he fell asleep in Jesus. The new Lutheran church is built over his
grave, and a marble slab in the floor, with an appropriate inscription, marks
the resting place of his mortal remains :
"Far from affliction, toil and care,
The happy soul is fled ;
The breathless clay shall slumber here,
Among the silent dead."
(F.) Rev. Ruthrauff
Only nine days before his exit to the upper sanctuary, the Rev. John
Ruthrauff was found in the sacred desk, preaching Jesus Christ and him cru-
cified. On Saturday and Sunday, the 9th and 10th of December, 1837, al-
though the weather was inclement, he assisted the Rev. Peter Salim at Mar-
ion, Franklin county, Pa., during a protracted meeting of several days' con -
40
tinuance. Up to this period he had enjoyed good health, considering his age.
On returning home to Greencastle, on !Monday the 11th,whilst alighting
from his carriage, lie discovered that he had taken a severe cold, which con-
siderably affected his breast and lungs ; and the same evening he was com-
pelled to take his bed. At times his breathing was attended with pain and
difficulty; but he was enabled to speak to the last, and his mind retained its 10
usual vigor. His sufferings terminated on Monday evening, the ISth De-
cember, 1837, at about six o'clock, having arrived at the age ofseventy-three
years, eleven months, and four days.
He was born on the 14th January, A. D., 1764, in Chester county, Pa. He
was early dedicated to God in baptism, and on Whitsuntide, 1776, he was
admitted to communion, by the rite of confirmation, by the Rev. J. N.
Kurtz, of York, Pa. "In August 1780," he writes in his diary, "it pleased
the Almighty to show me my sins, &r.c." May we not conclude that the re-
ligious instruction which he received the previous year, was instrumental in
his conversion to God ? In the year 1784, he gave his hand in matrimony to
Miss Ann Maria Hamme. He had the high and enviable gratification to see
two of his sons, the Rev. Messrs. Frederick and Jonathan Ruthrauff, with
himself, faithfully engaged in winning souls to Jesus Christ. The latter of
these has since followed his father to. glory.
In the year 1790 he commenced his theological studies under the direction
of the late Rev. Jacob Goering, of York Pa. He delivered his first sermon
on the lith day of July, 1793, of which he says, ,The Lord was present,
and assisted me graciously."
In April 1795, he took charge of a number of congregations in and about
Greencastle, Pa., where he resided. This was his first and only charge. In
some of these congregations he preached upwards of forty yeaus, as a faith-
ful servant of Jesus Christ. It was only about a year before his death, that
he had no charge of congregations, yet he frequently assisted his neighboring
brethren, especially Rev. Harpel, who was pastor of his old charge.
Respecting the future prospects of this venerable herald of the cross, the
Rev. Harpel gives the following statement: "I visited him frequently during
his last illness, and always found him in a prayerful frame of mind. He was
heard to say, 'For the space of fifty-seven years have I tried to serve my
Savior. If I have any enemies, I freely forgive them all.' I asked him on
Monday before he died, whether I should pray with him? upon which he
replied, '0 yes!' A short time before he expired, he exclaimed in quite an
audible voice, 'VICTORY ! VrCTORY ! ! THE LORD IS HERE! ! !' Upon being
asked by me, whether all was well ? he answered, 'yes ! Jesus ! Jesus !
without thee there is no salvation ! !' Then he added, The blood of Christ
and his righteousness are my only comfort !' He was then seized with a
spasm and expired :"
"And now has come to his rest,
His triumph day. Illustrious like a sum,
In that assembly, he, shining from far,
Most excellent in glory, stands assured,
41
Waiting the promised crown, the promised throne.
The welcome and approval of the Lord.
* * * and around him gathered clad
1°n white, the vouchers of his ministry—
The Rocks his care has nourished, fed, and saved."
On Wednesday, the 20th, his remains were conveyed to the grave, and
though the weather was severely cold, a very large concourse of persons was
assembled. After the interment, the assembly entered the church, when the
Rev. Mr. Scholl delivered a short, but appropriate discourse, in the German
language, on Heb. 13: 7. The Rev. J. P. Cline followed with a brief ad-
dress ir the same language. Rev. J. Harpel spoke on 2 Tim. 4: 6-8, in the
English language, and he was followed by the Rev. Rebaugh, of the German
Reformed church, with an address in the same language. The occasion was
one of unusual solemnity.
Father RuthraufP labored long and faithfully in the Lord's vineyard. He
preached at different times in nearly all the Lutheran congregations in Frank-
lin and Fulton counties, Pa., and at Emmitsburg, and some in Washington
county, Md. He inducted many into the church of Christ by confirmation.
Besides preaching the word from the pulpit, he took great pains to instruct
the youth in the catechisun of the church. In this department of his pasto-
ral functions, he is said to have possessed peculiar excellence. And many
now living, trace their first serious religious impressions to the spiritual and
practical manner in which he presented religious truth in the catechetical
class. His sermons were plain, practical and scriptural. His ministerial
brethren esteemed him highly, and at one time promoted him to the presiden-
cy of the West Pennsylvania Synod. He took a deep and active interest in
the vauious enterprises of the church. The General Synod, at that time in
its infancy, was heartily supported by him, and the institutions at Gettysburg
received his aid and every encouragement. The want of more men for the
ministry was to him a source of deep regret; hence he devoted two of his
sons to God in the holy office, and established education societies in all his
congregations. He labored for the good of the church in general, and the
promotion of vital godliness in his charge in particular. He was the friend
of genuine revivals of religion. Whilst, on the one hand, he opposed fanat-
icism, on the other, he rejoiced in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and la-
bored to bring sinners to Jesus Christ. Even in his old age, and near the
close of his ministry and life, he had the delightful satisfaction of seeing the
church at Greencastle revived, where he had labored during nearly the whole
of his ministry, and where he fell asleep in Jesus. In a letter to one of the
editors of the Evangelische Diagazin, at Gettysburg, he gives an account of
this work of grace, and his views of revivals, as follows :
• " GREFNCA9TLE, Jan. 19th, 1832.
Dear Brother in Christ :—It is with much pleasure that I can communi-
cate to you, that during the last summer, and especially this fall, a signal
blessing has descended upon this town and the surrounding country. On the
19th October, 1831, a protracted meeting commenced in the congregation at
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this place. I was assisted, in this meeting, by several of our zealous }•dung
brethren of the Seminary. Much good resulted from this meeting. The seed
sown long ago, has sprung up, and now produces much pregjous fruit, even
in cases where we had little to hope of'. Many houses have, thank God, be-
come houses of prayer, where the name of the Redeemer of the world is
worshipped and praised. Thank God ! the Lord is still in his Evangelical
Zion !
The Presbyterians had a similar meeting, which closes to -day. The Lord
rewarded their labors abundantly with his blessing. Many were awakened,
and cried out, -What shall we do to be saved ?'P
These meetings were conducted in the greatest order and solemnity, with-
out noise or confusion of any kind. No thunder, no earthquake, no tempest,
which moves only the feelings, was here seen or heard; but the Lord reveal-
ed himself in the "still small voice," as heard in the convicting and power-
ful truth of the gospel concerning Christ crucified for sinners.
Dear brother, it inspires a laborer with fresh courage, when the field be-
comes white for the harvest. God bless all our labors, and fill the teachers
and pupils of our Seminary with his spirit, so that soon many more faithful
laborers may be sent forth into the harvest !
This is the desire and prayer
Of your friend,
JOHN RUTHRAUFF."
We cannot close this sketch more appropriately than by quoting the re-
flections of Dr. Kurtz on the death of Rev. Ruthrauff. "Father Ruthrauff
was a man of unaffected zeal and indefatigable industry in the cause of the
Master. Though far advanced in the vale of life, and arrived at that good
old age when most men, who have led an active and useful life, think they
may, with propriety, retire, yet he still continued to labor—to preach and
pray, and assist his brethren in the ministry, &c., up to within a few days of
his departure; thus death found him at the post, standing like a faithful sen-
tinel on the walls of Zion, doing the work of his Lord, until relieved by a
summons from Him in whose cause he had been so faithfully employed.
While we regret that so zealous a brother has been taken from us, we rejoice
in the reflection that he.now rests from his toils, and is reaping the rich re-
ward promised by the Master. Let us who still linger on this side of the
eternal world, be again reminded, and deeply impressed with a sense of our
mortality, anti the brevity and uncertainty of the few remaining days and
years assigned to us in this transient life. But a small portion of us are, in
all probability, destined to reach the remote age of our beloved brother whose
demise we deplore ; and a still smaller number are likely to be able to con-
tinue actively engaged in the duties of the ministry so long ; let us therefore
be the more anxious to make the most we can of the fleeting moments of
time allotted us. One breach succeeds another in our ministerial ranks ;
most of those who twenty years ago occupied prominent places, have passed
over into another slate of existence, and in twenty years more, death will
have made melancholy havoc among those who now fill our pulpits, and
43
stand forth in behalf of our 'Lion ! O that God would grant us grace to de-
tach our hearts more and more from the world, and to devote ourselves entirely
unreservedly, and most cordially to the work of personal preparation for hea-
ven, as well as the blessed instrumentality of converting and saving the souls
*ass
those around us ! It is verily an unspeakably serious and solemn thing to
from this state of probation to that of everlasting retribution ; it seems
be impossible to realize fully the infinite importance of this rapidly and
certainly approaching transition. Let us, therefore, who remain, make it
our duty to (lie unto sin and the world, and to live unto righteousness and for
God, and for the rescue of blood -bought souls. What our hands find to do,
let us attend to quickly, and with all our might, invoking the direction and
assistance of the Spirit, and looking with fervent aspirations to God for his
blessing, without which no work of our hands can possibly prosper; and
then, like our departed brother, we shall, in the immediate view of our latter
end, be able triumphantly to shout, "VICT6RY !,,VICTORY!! the Lord is
here!!!" and in the language of the Master himself, exclaim : "Father, the
hour is come .... I have glorified thee on earth ; I have finished the work
which thou gavest me to do ! "
(F.) Rev. Moeller.
The Rev. John F. Moeller was born at Grandentz, in the kingdom of '
Prussia, formerly belonging to Poland, on the 5th day of March, A. D. 1773,
of respectable parents, who caused him to be well educated for the ministry
in the Lutheran church, at I{oenigsburg University in Prussia. After he had
acquired his education, feeling an instinctive love of liberty, and desiring to
enjoy its blessings, he emigrated to the United States in 1796, and settled at
Frederick, Md., where he resided four years. He presided over the German
Lutheran church in that place, and gained the affections of his congregation
in an eminent degree. In July, 1802, he was called to take charge of the
Lutheran church at Chambersburg, Pa., over which he presided with singu-
lar ability and usefulness, for about twenty-seven years, highly respected, es-
teemed, and beloved. When of advanced a,e, and consulting his own health,
which was last declining under his arduous duties—having had three congre-
gations besides the one in Chambersburg—and having a numerous family to
provide for, he emigrated to Somerset, Ohio, in the fall of 1829, where he
died, in September, 1833, of a violent attack of dlpoplexy, which terminated
his existence in less than thirty minutes, aged upwards of sixty years. The
amenity of his manners, and the integrity of his conduct, wherever he resid-
ed, gained for him the respect and attachment of the numerous circle of his
extended acquaintances. He left a distressed widow and sixteen children,
who had the consolation, that he met his sudden fate with the heroic firmness
of an humble christian. May he rest in peace !
Many of the aged members, belonging to the Lutheran churches in Frank-
lin county, were baptized, catechised, and confirmed by this servant of God.
Ife labored in season and out of season, doing the work of his Master faith-
fully and cheerfully, looking for his reward in the paradise of God. Humble
44
and reserved, he sought neither the applause of the learned, nor the praise
of the honored, always acting as in the presence of God, conscientious, sin-
cere and faithful in the discharge of duty. His discourses were simple,
practical, lucid and biblical. A sermon now before us, preached at Hagers-
town, Md., the Ist of February, 1815, in memory of the Rev. Solomon
Schaeffer, is the only printed production he left the church. If this is a lair
sample of his pulpit exhibitions, we are not astonished that he was beloved
by the people, and did their souls good. His literary attainmepts were of no
ordinary degree, and this, without an effort at display, was manifest in all his
pulpit discourses. He was a good man, and labored to win souls for Jesus
Christ. He has his reward, and rests from all his toils.
(G.) Rev. Eyster.
The Rev. Michael Eyster was born about six miles west of York, Pa., on
the 16th day of May, 1814, and died at his residence in Greensburg, Pa., or
Thursday evening, the lith of August, IS53, aged thirty-nine years, two
months, and twenty-six days. He commenced his academic education in
Marshall College, at York. When that institution was removed, he continu-
ed his studies in Pennsylvania College, and the Theological Seminary at Get-
tysburg, Pa. He was licensed to preach the gospel by the Nest Pennsylva-
nia Synod of the Lutheran church, at its meeting in New. Berlin, Union
county, Pa., on the 9th October, 1538. The following month he was invited
to take charge of the Lutheran congregation at Williamsburg, Blair county,
Pa.,and immediately entered upon the discharge of his ministerial functions.
In January, 1839, he was united in marriage with Miss Julia E. Eichelber-
ger, of York, Pa. He labored at Williamsburg with great success, until
March, 1846, when he accepted a call from the congregation in Greencastle,
Franklin county, Pa. He preached also at Mercersburg, and one year at the
Grindstone Hill church. His beloved wife was called home to heaven on
Tuesday morning, August 16th, 1848. This bereavement preyed considera-
bly upon his mind. In October, 1849, he removed to Greensburg, West-
moreland county, Pa., where his labors were crowned with abundant success
up to the close of his useful life. He left three orphan daughters to mourn
their early bereavement of both parents.
As a husband, Rev. Eyster was truly devoted ; as a father, he was fondly
endeared to his children, whom he loved more than his own life ; as a friend,
he was tried, proved, and faithful indeed. As a christian, he was devout,
meek and humble, living near the foot of the cross. As a gentleman, he
was modest, unassuming and frank. As a pulpit orator, he ranked among
the highest ; as a practical preacher, he was clear, concise, forcible, and
powerfully impressive. The humble christian was truly edified under his
stated ministrations; and whilst, on the one hand, fanaticism, that noisy
wind, found in his ministry a complete antidote, on the other, cold-hearted-
ness, that nominal christianity, having a name to live, while it is death, real-
ized under his faithful, clear, pungent preaching, a moving, melting leaven
in the truth, demonstrating the divinity of the gospel as the power and wis-
dom of God unto salvation, to them that believe. His discour.es were usu-
4b 45
ally snort and well prepared; he said much in few words. Naturally modest
and retiring, he abhorred all parade of self, or show of learning in the minis-
try. But when God placed him in the pulpit, the Bible, the gospel, the cross,
the privileges, obligations and relations of the christian, filled his whole soul
while speaking, and absorbed the entire attention of the hearer. And when
he had thus hid himself behind the truth and the cross, there was a power in
the message he bore, and an eloquence in the words he uttered, such as Rows
only from lips touched with a coal from the altar of God. The last sermon
he ever preached, was on Sunday, the 12th June, 1853, during the meeting
of the Pittsburg Synod at Freeport, from Luke, 22: 19.—«This do in remem-
brance or me."
Soon after his return from Freeport, his friends advised him to visit the
Bedford Springs, with the hope of recruiting his health; but deriving no
benefit from the use of the water, he paid a brief visit to his early home in
York county, and then returned to Greensburg to his family to die. He was
only confined to his room one week before his death, the immediate cause of
which was a severe attack of acute laryngitis, superadded to a great degree
of physical prostration, previously induced by protracted dyspepsia and com-
plicated chronic disease.
The closing scene of his life was of thrilling interest and glorious chris-
tian triumph. On the day preceding his death, he asked a medical friend,
whether he deemed his condition hopeless ? The physician, feeling the del-
icacy of his positron, and fearing lest the truth might too much excite him,
endeavored to evade the question. But he remarked to him calmly, and even
cheerfully, that he need not fear to tell him candidly his opinion ; for, he
said, he felt that he was dying; but he was not afraid of death ; earth had
few pleasures, but many sorrows ; and he was quite willing to go to that ha-
ven of eternal rest, in which Ire would be forever free from them all.
Throughout the day he was cheerful, and somewhat animated, and spoke
with the greatest compaqure of his approaching dissolution. Death had no
terrors for him. During the night before his departure, he sunk rapidly. On
the next morning he was so weak that the power of speech was almost gone ;
yet his intellect was unimpaired, and remained so till the very last moment
of his life. The disease in his throat rendered speaking extremely difficult
and painful, and during the morning he said but little. About noun he some-
what revived, and desired his family to be brought to him, so that he might
hold one more interview with them before he should die. His children drew
near him, and, after tenderly embracing them, he instructed them minutely
as regarded the manner of their future lives, and earnestly besought them to
follow the example and instructions he had given them. His strength be-
coming exhausted, he sunk back on his pillow, and lay quietly till evening
approached. His sufferings during the interval appeared comparatively
light.
Toward the close of the day, and about half an hour before he expired, he
revived again for a short period, and again called his children and friends to
his bedside. He then turned to them, and pressed the hand of each one in
turn, and addressed a few words of love, affection and instruction to them,
6 I
assuring them that they were the wards of a dying man ; after this he re-
Y
guested them all to kneel around his bed, that he might once more pray with
them; and then, in a clear and stror_g tone, he poured forth his expiring
breath, in a brief but most affecting prayer in behalf of his children, his'
�t d Itie community. After prayer he addressed each one by
urgently `' ,g t`e necessity of personal religion and a union
i the church, if th^y would be saved. After speaking fbr some motpplts,
1iis strength f Aed him, and he fell back again upon his couch. Presentlyhe ov
slightly rrvived, and observin,- a dear and constant friend by the side of his
bed he asked him to look in his face, and mildly whispered, "I expect to
„cert you in 1, n." TLese were the last words he spoke. The stream of
life flowed ply a-. ' noiselessly array towards eternity. Turning towards
the window of hir •:hamber, he gazed for a moment on the last rays of the
i
sun as they ling red on the western horizon, and then closed his eyes forever
on.the lu.
-ISweet is the scene where christians die,
Where :Ioiy souls retire to rest ;
How mildly Learns the closing eye!
i
How gently heaves th' expiring breast!
So fades a summer cloud away;
Y
4u sinks the gale when storms are o'er
So gently shuts the eye of day,
So dies a wave along the shore.
Triumphant smiles the victor's brow,
Tann'd by some guardian angel's vying;
t,
j ave ! %t here is thy vict'ry now?
Lnsi,where, O Veath ! is now thy sting?'
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