Chapter III Trinity Rev. Lowell B. Johnson
Methodists living on the northerly part of Staten Island--at West Brighton, Port Richmond, and Mariner's Harbor--Journeyed toward the center of the island to worship at Asbury church, established in 1802. It was probably inevitable that those who traveled the distance of several miles would seek some kind of center for worship nearer their homes. An anonymous writer has described the beginnings of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church.1
"In the year 1826, it is related by one of the old charter members
of Trinity M.E. Church, that a little company of Methodists who resided principally at Factoryville and vicinity (now West Brighton) came together and formed a class (or cottage prayer meeting) which was held weekly, often in an old paper factory building, and frequently their meeting place was in the old house at the corner of State and Market Streets.
It appears that about the same time another little company of Methodists who resided in Port Richmond also held cottage meetings on the Old Pond Road in a house adjacent to or near that of Squire Reuben P. Wells, and as far as can be learned, these two little bands of Methodists formed the nucleus of the Methodist Society on the North Shore."
Originally, one new church was envisioned for the area to the northern part of the island to include Methodists from West Brighton to Mariner's Harbor. Graniteville was considered to be the best location. However, a gift of land from Mr. Robert C. Simonson changed that. The lot on Pond Road (now Jewett Avenue) and Post was given with the understanding that a church would be erected upon it. That building was built late in 1839 and Summerfield church in Mariner's Harbor was established at the same time.
The pastoral appointments of the Conference for 1840 indicate a Westfield and a Northfield charge. Asbury church was linked to Mariner's harbor in the Westfield designation, while Port Richmond was linked with Quarantine under the name of Northfield. The Rev. Isaac Cross was appointed to the latter. In 1842 the charge reported 400 members.2
The earliest record of an organization was a Quarterly Conference held in Port Richmond on May 16, 1842. In addition to the pastor, Robert Lutton, and the Rev. W. Burrows, Inman Hall, John B. Hall, G.H. Haughwout, W.M. Thompson, W.D. Simonson, J.A. Thompson, and Isaac Brown were present. A committee reported that the amount of money necessary for the year would be $541.50.
By 1848-49, the Port Richmond church and Quarantine were not linked in one charge. The new circuit relationship for Port Richmond was with Mariner's Harbor until 1853 when Port Richmond became a separate charge.
The first indication of an interest in erecting a new church building occurred in the minutes of the quarterly conference, held January 27, 1851, under the pastorate of the Rec. C.E. Hill:
"Whereas, the male members of this society held a meeting on the 13th of July to consider the expediency of erecting a new house of worship, and did at that meeting adopt resolutions expressive of the wants of the society, and appointed a committee to consider plans, costs, etc., therefore, be it resolved that their action be confirmed."
The committee of J.W. Snedeker, J.G. Cadmus, L. Edwards, John Q. Simonson, Samuel Thompson, and Captain D. Latourette went to work. A lot was purchased at the intersection of Dongan Street and Richmond Terrace from John Bodine, Sr., on June 25, 1851, for $525.00. The land was part of the Governor Dongan estate and located within a hundred yards of the historic mansion (which was destroyed by fire at Christmas, 1878). The assets of the church, following the property purchase, wee listed at $1,368.00.
An interesting problem presented itself as seen by the action of the quarterly conference of December 25, 1852:
"Whereas, it appears that the organization of our church as it now is, is illegal and in a measure void, according to the revised statutes of this state, etc.
Resolved, in the quarterly conference assembled, that the present board of trustees, together with the pastor, be and is directed forthwith, to call a meeting of the male members of the society for the purpose of electing a board of trustees in accordance with the laws of the state."
Notice was duly given the next day. The election took place on January 10, 1853. The board organized itself and elected J.W. Snedeker as president. The name Trinity Methodist Episcopal church was adopted at that time.
A copy of the proceedings of the meeting was sent to the county clerk to be recorded. However, because records made prior to June 28, 1854 were destroyed by fire, there is no account of further action in connection with the building of the church. Hubbell suggests that it is doubtful that the original committee for building the church had taken any action. On February 9, 1852, J.G. Cadmus was appointed to see if sufficient money could be obtained to build a parsonage. Again, there is no record of the report; it must have been favorable as the parsonage was soon built.
The new church sanctuary was dedicated on January 29, 1853, by Bishop Edmund S. Janes; the Rev. Randolph S. Foster (elected bishop in 1872) also attended. The dedication included a procession from one church building to the other. The record reads: "On the morning of dedication, the officers, teachers and scholars of the school assembled in the old church and (having been previously equipped with huge banners and imposing badges) after having their badges adjusted, and singing a parting hymn of praise on leaving their 'old home', at the appointed hour, passed, two by two, to the new house of worship, preceded by the banner. The females were mostly dressed in white and the whole scene was witnessed with delight by many who beheld it."3 According to the treasurer's report on January 8, 1855, the churchhad paid $9,192.42 and indebtedness was $5,205.13. The Pond Road property was sold to the German Lutheran Evangelical Society for $1,500.00.
At the time of the move to the new building, the membership of the church stood at 112 while the Sunday School enrolled 125 scholars with 21 officers and teachers. The following year the Sunday School enrollment had increased to 190 with 25 persons as leaders. Income doubled during that same year. Hubbell notes that "this shows that a remarkable impulse had been given to the cause of God by the completion of the new enterprise."
There is an interesting note on the spirit of ecumenicity during the pastorate of the Rev. T. Pearson (1854-56). The following minutes were recorded for the date of October 8, 1855: "On motion it was voted to invite the congregation of the Rev. Mr. Brownley, the Rev. Mr. Sage, and the Rev. Mr.. White to unite with us in our religious services on Thanksgiving day, and that the Rev. Mr. Brownley be invited to preach on that occasion." This was probably th first union Thanksgiving service held by the churches of Port Richmond and West Brighton.
Evangelism was an important part of the church life. During the second year of the ministry of the Rev. N. VanSant (1856-58), the largest revival ever enjoyed by the church was reported to have occurred. Hubbell makes this comment about the ministry of a remarkable man. "Mr. Arndt was succeeded by the Rev. J. E. (sic) Hurst (1865-66), who was removed in his second year and appointed to missionary work in Germany. He had a good revival."
That man was John Fletcher Hurst (1834-1903). While in Staten Island he completed the writing of a book, The History of Rationalism,4 and brought it to the printers. The book gained for him a reputation for having a keen mind. He was invited to teach at the Methodist Institute in Bremen, Germany. He was asked to return to America in 1871 to teach at Drew Theological Seminary, where he remained until 1880. Several volumes of bibliography and history were published resulting from his lectures there.5 The trustees of Drew appointed him to the presidency in 1873 when the school faced almost certain financial collapse. His effective presentation of the Drew plight to the conferences of the Methodist Episcopal Church was credited with saving the young institution. His outstanding ability was recognized by the church and he was elected bishop in 1880. He is also given credit for the establishment of American University in Washington, D.C., in 1893.6
A young man named Henry Spellmeyer (1847-1910) sat under the ministry of John F. Hurst and was deeply influenced by him. Spellmeyer's parents had been members of Trinity church for some time. He entered the Methodist ministry and joined the Newark Conference in 1869. He received a Master of Arts degree from New York University that same year and the Doctor of Divinity degree from Syracuse University in 1891. His first pastorate was Kingsley on Staten Island; he was elected bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church at the conference in Los Angeles in 1904.7
Grace Methodist Episcopal Church was established as an outgrowth of Trinity Church. Hubbell records it:
"The Rev. N. Owen was appointed to fill out Dr. Hurst's second year. It was during his short pastorate that difficulties which had been growing for a year or two past culminated in a secession and in the formation of a new organization at Port Richmond. We are unable to give the number of those who went out from the old church as the record does not show. They either removed by certificate or withdrew. In 1866, just before the trouble, the minutes give a membership of 249 and 79 probationers. Of these probationers, only 33 were received. This would give a total of 282 members, but the minutes of 1877 gave a membership of 205, the difference being 76. The History of Staten Island states that on January 23rd, 1867, forty eight person, most of them seceders from Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, Port Richmond, were then constituted into a new church by the presiding elder to be called the 'North Shore Free Methodist Episcopal Church'."8
We are given no other indication of the issues which brought about the separation. Other records indicate that the relationship with the newly established church was amicable enough. Life at Trinity continued and new people were elected to office. Hubbell continues with his history:
"The next pastor was the Rev. T.H. Smith (1867-70), who is the only preacher that remained three years. These were three years of great prosperity. In 1867, a resolution was made to pay off the church debtThe effort was successful, for we find that in July $1,875 was pledged. The pastor headed the list with $50 and a layman subscribed $800. By September the amount had reached $2,488.00.9
Occasional glimpses of church life come to us from the minutes of the business meetings. Members were assigned to a "Class" after they joined the church. These classes became the spiritual, social and nurturing aspects of church life. We find this notation in the minutes of the Third Quarterly Conference for November 27, 1875. "Class meetings are good, but not overflowing."
Special evangelistic meetings were a regular part of the church calendar. The following notation from the same Third Quarterly Conference is significant for two reasons. It tells us that Grace and Trinity churches worked together in evangelism just a few years after Grace separated from Trinity. It also speaks of a visiting woman evangelist of the nineteenth century.
"We contemplate a union revival service on the part of Grace Church and Triniity to be held in this church and commencing on Monday evening (probably November 29, 1875). Mrs. Lowrey, The Lady Evangelist is expected to assist during the meetings.
The feeling on the part of the churches and the community, we have reason to believe, is good and especially the religious interest we think is deepening. As to the financial condition of the church, we are about six hundred dollars in debt for church improvements, and somewhat behind in our salary matters."
The Sunday School shared in the evangelistic concern. The minutes of that same conference continue: "We hope to see a number of our scholars converted this winter and for this the brethren, and especially those connected with the school, are earnestly praying.
The minutes for the next Quarterly Conference (February 28, 1876) give an optimistic report. Our conference has been excellent all winter. Our prayer meetings have never been attended and the spiritual tone has been good. Class meetings are doing the best they can. We have an excellent revival resulting in nearly sixty additions to the church, for which we feel to praise God.
Music was always an important part of Methodist life. Charles, the brother of John Wesley had written some 6,000 hymns and many of them became familiar to later Christians. Most singing in the early churches was done without instruments; the music was led by a "chorister". We do not know when Trinity secured its first organ, but we know that one was purchased in 1868.10 This interesting note is taken from the Trustee's records for April 20, 1868.
"The question of church music was introduced. It was found to be the preference of the majority of the Board that in the public service the prelude usually played by the organist should be short (if any) and that the interludes be dispensed with entirely or confined to the last measure of the tune sung. After considerable discussion of the matter, it was thought proper to leave the matter to the judgement of the chorister and choir."11
Another note from the trustees in that same year gives us an insight into experiences of the day. (August 17, 1868) "J.A. Hillyer was empowered to employ a boy to blow the church organ, and to pay him out of the funds of the church. The compensation was not to exceed one dollar per month."
We are told that a new and large organ was purchased in 1888 without any kind of restrictions as to how long the organist should play. A new organist was appointed in 1889 and given a salary of $16.66 per month. The music committee was asked to meet with the organist and "urge upon him the advisability of more practice by which he might become more effective in his performances."
Indebtedness remained a constant reality for the congregation. It was not only the original cost of the building that remained to be paid, but continuous improvements. Extensive renovations were undertaken in 1868, in addition to the purchase of a new organ. A tower was completed in 1869 at a cost of $2,500. In 1873 the church was again renovated at a cost of $3,000. During the pastorate of the Rev. G.W. Smith (1882-84), another renovation program cost almost $3,000. During the pastorate of the Rev. S.P. Hammond (1885-88) the old parsonage was sold and a new one built at a cost of $6,000. The new pipe organ of 1888 cost $1,300. Electric lighting was installed in 1892. During the ministry of Enoch Meacham (1897-1902) a new brick front, a new tower, a new roof, and a new pipe organ were installed at a cost of $4,206.81.12
Indebtedness is the only reference that Hubbell makes to the ministry of Jesse Lyman Hurlbut. Apparently, in 1870, another attempt was made to deal with the church debts. Hubbell writes: "There was not much progress in paying it off until the Rev. Mr. Hurlbut's (sic) pastorate in 1982."13 His ministry at Trinity covered two years, 1872-74. His interesting ministry began in Newark in 1866 and he retired in 1918. He was very effective in Sunday School work and became the executive for the denominational Sunday School Union. He taught at Centenary Collegiate Institute and Newark Biblical Institute, both in New Jersey. He is best known for his book of Bible stories for children.14
We might also note that the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Townley Crane regularly visited the Staten Island churches as the Presiding Elder of the District. He presided at each of the Quarterly Conferences from 1872 to 1876. He had served as professor of New Testament at Drew Theological School and was married to Mary Helen Peck, the daughter of George Peck, editor of the Advocate, and niece of Bishop Jesse T. Peck. Though the church records do not indicate it, the biographical information in Drew's history tells us that Dr. Crane was pastor at Trinity and Kingsley for the year 1845-46. The fourteenth child of Jonathan and Mary Peck Crane was Stephen Crane, author of The Red Badge of Courage.15
The regular budget of the church was maintained by pew rental. Members of the parish were asked to subscribe and pay for the use of a pew in the church. The 125th anniversary booklet notes that the minutes for 1858 included this item: "The sexton is to receive the sum of $100 per annum and free use of pew number 78." The question of pew rental was not easily resolved. There was obgection to it, probably on the basis of an appearance of unwelcome to strangers and to those who could not afford a pew. A note for January 20, 1873 dealt with the issue. "The question of freeing the seats was introduced, and in reply it was stated that it has not been deemed expedient to free the seats as yet while the yearly payments of interest fell due and there being no other source of revenue except pew rentals."16
By mid-nineteenth century, temperance activity was an integral part of Methodist church life. Questions would be raised by the presiding elder at the quarterly conferences about opposition to the sale and use of liquors. Here is a report from the Second Quarterly Conference of Trinity Church for the year 1876 (held on September 25).
"What is being done in the cause of temperance?"
The pastor reported that he had preached a temperance sermon during the quarter and given his time and influence, so far as possible, to the suppression of intemperance, and he had informed himself in regard to the violation of the excise law.
"Do any of our members sign petitions for licenses to sell liquor?" "No."
"Do any of our church members rent buildings for the sale of intoxicating liquors?" "No."
The famous temperance worker, Miss Frances Willard visited the Trinity church building. From the Trustee minutes of April 14, 1884, we have these words: "Dr. Goodwin asked for the use of the church for a lecture to be given by Miss Frances Willard. It was resolved that the use of the church be granted upon payment of $10.00 as an offset to the expense and damage incident to the house upon such an occasion."
Vandalism is not a new phenomenon in our society. The minutes of the trustees for January 12, 1874 tell us, "The trustees resolved themselves into a committee to preserve order during Sunday evening services. Each one present agreeing to take their turn in watching the disorderly and enforcing proper behaviour from those who attend." The minutes for January 16,1876, report for the trustees that "It was resolved to have cards published prohibiting the use of tobacco in the church and have them hung in conspicuous places, and also that an effort be made to prevent the filthy habits (of spitting on the floor of the church and littering it with nut shells) attendant upon the use of tobacco and to secure better behaviour in the church during service."
Chapter IV Grace Mrs. Gladys Kimmerer
On January 10, 1867, a little group of earnest-minded men met at the home of Read Benedict for the purpose of considering the advisability of organizing a new Methodist Episcopal Church on Staten Island.1 Present were Read Benedict, Dr. Frank G. Johnson, Ward McLean, William Greer, N.P.H. Barrett, John Q. Simonson, Japhet Alston, Sedate M. Turner, R.P. Brown, George Heal, William H. Perry, Isaac W. Fullager, Phillip H. Rustin, Horace F. Barrett, Thomas Taylor, Matthew Taylor, William Simonson, Joshua Simonson, Mulford D. Simonson, Jasper G. Cadmus, Elias Baldwin, and John S. Sprague--twenty-two in all. This initial meeting was to result in the formation of Grace M.E. Church. The meeting was opened with singing of hymns, and followed by two prayers offered by Messrs. Greet and McLean. The spirit of genuine worship was in that meeting. Dr. Johnson was elected chairman and Mr. Sprague was chosen as the Secretary. Among other things said by Mr. McLean when he was called upon to state the object of the meeting were: "On account of certain existing conditions in Trinity Church it was impossible to continue to worship in said church with the same degree of success as would obtain if they worshipped as a separate church oranization." He believed that the cause of God would be honored and the salvation of souls the better secured by the formation of a new society, provided there was brought to this new work constant, earnest prayer, for God's blessing to rest upon them, and for his wisdom to guide and direct. It would also result beneficially to Trinity after their withdrawal from them--and the harmony they sought for themselves, would likewise be secured to Trinity. The result would be two flourishing churches.
After due time, William Greer made the motion, which was seconded by Read Benedict, that they withdraw as a body from Trinity Church. This motion was carried unanimously. Read Benedict, Ward McLean and John Q. Simonson were appointed a committee by the chair to draw up and present in writing such suggestions as might be thought proper. This committee retired, and upon their return presented the following paper which was unanimously adopted:
"We the undersigned, hereby pledge ourselves to each other to unite in formation of a society to be called The North Shore Free Methodist Episcopal Church of Staten Island; and to sustain the same, we pledge our constant prayers, our best efforts and influence, and our means in the proportion that God has blessed us. We hereby request the following named persons, N.P.H. Barrett, Read Benedict, John Q. Simonson, John S. Sprague, William Greer, and Ward McLean, be appointed by the chair, to enquire and inform us, at our next meeting, what action it is necessary for us to take in order to conform with the statutes of the State of New York, and also to prepare, or cause to be prepared, such papers as may be included in such statutory requirements; also to ascertain, and report at our next meeting, what suitable place of worship, if any can be had, and on what terms and conditions; and what arrangements can be made for preaching till the next session of the Newark Conference; also to consult with our presiding Elder on the situation generally; also to ascertain and report as above, in so far as they may be able, what other persons, male or female, would like to join us in the formation of this Society; and whether we have any legal title to any portion of the property of Trinity M.E. Church, of Factoryville, S.I.
In as much as most of us are now members of said church, we hereby further request, the said persons above named, to prepare and report at our next meeting, the draft of a letter to our pastor, the Rev. Abraham Owen, asking him for our several letters, and informing him in the best possible spirit, and in the kindest possible terms of our reasons for the course which we do now and here decide upon.
And we do hereby mutually exhort each other to the most earnest prayer and faithful effort that God may bless our enterprise; and as we profess to be followers of Him, "Who when he was reviled, reviled not again," we will pary especially that under whatever provocation, we may have grace to refrain from all unkind and uncharitable remarks to or about our brethren of Trinity Church; and as far as possible from all reference to the subject of our differences; the very object of this movement, being to secure for them as well as for ourselves, fraternal union and harmony, which otherwise seemed unattainable, and without which God's cause could not be honored. With such fraternal union and harmony as we hope and pray may result to all concerned, from this act of separation, we hope for a greater degree of prosperity to each church society, than could otherwise have been realized in one."
Additional names were placed on the committee and all present signed the paper as presented except Mr. Alston and Mr. Cadmus. The meeting was closed with singing and prayer. The new church was organized in a most brotherly spirit, while at the same time maintaining a Christly spirit toward the parent church. In fact, the church was born amidst singing, prayer and good-will.
On the evening of January 14, 1867, practically the same people met again at the home of Read Benedict with additional persons joining the group. Dr. Johnson occupied the chair. The meeting was opened with singing of hymns and prayer. The committee appointed at the last meeting reported that the Presiding Elder had been seen and he had given his consent to the formation of a new society by the withdrawal of certain members from Trinity. He furthermore suggested that the Rev. George Hughes might be secured to serve as a temporary pastor. A letter was read to this group and ordered sent to the pastor of Trinity, the Rev. Abraham Owen, indicating the plan to form a new church.
Mr. Benedict reported that he had secured the use of the North Baptist Church for the purpose of holding services. For the present, there would be a Sunday morning Service and an evening one during the week. Mr. Sprague reported that a goodly number of church school students and a suitable staff of teachers was available.
The first prayer meeting of the new society was held in the North Baptist Church on January 18, 1867 and was attended by 14 persons. On Monday evening, January 22, 1867, a committee of 7 was appointed to acquire land.
Following the prayer meeting on Wednesday evening, January 23, a meeting was held with Presiding Elder, Roy S. Hilliard. Ward McLean, in behalf of the names listed below, made application that the new society be called "The North Free M.E. Church." The request was granted by the Presiding Elder, declaring that the organization was regularly constituted "a church" by the authority that was vested in him. The charter members numbered 48.
It was reported that the Rev. George Hughes would serve the newly organized church until conference.
Mrs. Ella Benedict Burkman, daughter of Read Benedict, recalled some 50 years later, "Although there was a suitable property in the vicinity of the old church upon which the new church could have been erected, and the propery was offered at a very reasonable price, my father said: 'A Methodist church is needed in Port Richmond and will draw a new membership from that district.' " In those days the roads were bad and there were no means of transportation and Castleton Avenue in Port Richmond seemed a long distance away. "I recall my father's conversation with Bishop Hurst at this time. The Bishop placed his hand on Father's shoulder and said, 'That is just like you, Brother Read; generous to a fault.' "
Mrs. Burkman, in commenting on the passing of the oldest members of Grace Church, wrote eloquently of John S. Sprague as "one of the brightest minds that has passed on." Commenting further, she observes another name "that should be written in letters of gold" on the records of Grace Church. The name of one of the most faithful and conscientious workers in the Kingdom of God. One whose noble life was absolutely spotless. One so modest and unassuming, yet so upright in his principles and so firm in his faith. He was always an exponent of the religion of sunshine, I have never forgotten his talks to the Sunday School. They were so simple and sweet. Mulford Simonson's name should never be forgotten. He gave as generously of his time and the wealth of his pure heart as the other men gave of their wealth.
The Rev. George Hughes, who had been appointed to fill the pulpit of the newly organized society was unable to be present the first Sunday, January 27, 1867 and the Rev. Jesse L. Hurlburt of Orange had the honor of preaching the first sermon. He selected as his text I Cor. 11:1. The church was well-filled and the first public offering amounted to $6.02. Mr. Hurlburt attended the young people's prayer meeting that same night and the midweek prayer service held on the following Wednesday night. At the close of this service, Dr. Frank G. Johnson presented the church with a handsome new Bible, whish was the first bit of property the church possessed.
At a meeting of the committee on real estate on February 12, it was reported that a refusal for two weeks had been secured on a parcel of ground measuring 140 feet on Heberton Avenue and lying between Bond Street and Castleton Avenue, 338 feet. The price--$4,000.00 cash.
On the evening of February 18 the first trustees were elected -- Read Benedict, Ward McLean, John Q. Simonson, William Greer, N.P.H. Barrett, John S. Sprague, William Bamber, Dr. F.G. Johnson and George F. Heal. The name of "Grace Methodist Episcopal Church" was adopted. The committee on real estate made a further report concerning the property on Heberton Avenue, indicating it could be purchased for $4,000. The trustees were authorized to make the purchase.
North Baptist Church sheltered the young society when there was no roof over their heads. In this church the first preaching services were held, the first Board of Trustees was organized, and the first communion service was held. After a prayer meeting on Wednesday, February 27, a subscription was taken up which amounted to $3,000.00 The following Sunday, March 3, presumably in this North Baptist Church, the first Communion Service was held.
Ground having been secured, a temporary shelter was soon provided. To meet the need, a tabernacle was built on the church lot. The structure was begun and completed during the week, March 11th to March 16th. It was 25 feet by 36 feet, and was built by Richard P. Smith. It cost $500. The seating capacity was 250. The furnishings consisted of settees, organ and library, costing $590.00, making a total expenditure of $1,100.00. The committee had planned to have the tabernacle dedicated on Sunday, March 17, but a severe snow storm, a very unusual occurrence at that season of the year, prevented the Elder and others from being present. A love-feast had been announced for nine o'clock, and altho' many had braved the storm, it was decided to postpone this also, until the following Sabbath. The Pastor conducted the worship service, and at the close of the service, Robert P. Brown was received into full membership; another man, J. Thompson, came forward to the altar at the evening service. Thus the first services held in this humble structure that sheltered the new organization were blessed of God in converting power. Mr. Brown had been enrolled as a probationer on February 17, and was the first to be regularly received into full membership, according to Methodist custom, in the modest little tabernacle. He served as a prominent member and official in Grace Church for many years; he was also very popular in political circles.
On Sunday, March 24, 1867 the little tabernacle was formally dedicated. The Sunday School met for the first time in the new building with John S. Sprague serving as the first Superintendent. The Rev. Dr. Jonathan T. Crane, who became the father of Stephen Crane, author of The Red Badge of Courage, and Dr. Henry A. Buttz, represented the Newark Conference, which was in session in Tottenville. Dr. Crane preached the sermon of dedication from the text II Chron. 6:41. $1,000.00 was collected and pledged throughout the day for the new enterprise.
It had been predicted at the conference which was held at Tottenville that the new pastor regularly appointed by the Bishop for Grace Church, would either be the Rev. Richard Harcourt or the Rev. Jesse L. Hurlburt. Neither received the appointment. Solomon Parsons was appointed. With this selection, the officials were not pleased. They feared he was not the man to lead the new enterprise on to success, and the sentiment of the brethren having been represented to the proper authorities, Solomon Parsons was transferred to Nyack, and Grace Church requested the appointment of the Rev. A.H. Mead of the New York East Conference. He preached his first sermon on Sunday, April 6, from the text, Zech. 4:6, "Not by might nor by power but by my spirit, saith the Lord." Thus Grace Church began its career as a conference appointment by having sufficient influence with the appointing powers to reject the first pastor duly appointed and call another man from an adjoining Conference. It has taken upon itself certain prerogatives along this line, in certain instances, since that time. Mr. Mead's pastorate began most auspiciously. He was favorably received by everyone. The salary was placed at $1,500.00. The church property, which included a tabernacle and lot, was estimated to be worth $6,000.00.
The corner stone for the new chapel was laid on Thursday, August 1, 1867. The day proved to be stormy, as was the case when the tabernacle was to have been dedicated. But there was no postponement of the laying of the corner stone. The service was in charge of the pastor the Rev. A.H. Mead, who reported all bills paid, including the building of the temporary tabernacle. On December 29, 1867, the chapel was dedicated with the sermons at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. by Dr. L.R. Dunn and the pastor and the Rev. A.H. Mead at 7 p.m. The cost of the new church was $10,000.00 approximately, and the entire indebtedness was pledged during the dedication week and the following Sabbath.
When Grace Church was dedicated there were 8 Methodist churches on S.I., with a total membership of 1,298. Grace was the baby church with a membership of 58 and a Sunday School of 99.
Following the dedication of Grace Church, a revival service was conducted by the pastor which resulted in the conversion of 24 persons, all uniting with the church.
Many changes occurred during the next few years with the change of pastors. During 1873 the church adopted the weekly envelope system, classes were organized, neighborhood prayer meetings begun and the Grace Methodist Episcopal Sunday School monogram and stamp were introduced. The Sunday School was reorganized. On June 8, 1873, the first adult Bible class was begun with John S. Sprague as teacher. The Ladies and Pastor's Christian Union was also organized. This undoubtedly was the beginning of the famous Ladies Aid Society of Grace Church.
Many wonderful, dedicated Christian men served Grace Church as its pastors through the years.
During the pastorate of R.S. Arndt, who became pastor in 1884, a parsonage was built at a cost of $5,000. Mr. Arndt was removed to another field, before the parsonage was ready for occupancy in 1886, and, therefore, never had the pleasure of residing in the new home. For 20 years Grace Church had had no parsonage of its own. During those 20 years, twelve pastors had come and gone. This period of Grace Church history was characterized by brief pastorates. The church was now to enter upon a new era. It really began with the ministry of R.S. Arndt, for his three years of service mark the beginning of a new era. The Presiding Elder, in his report to the Conference in the Spring of 1887, said, "The next pastor of Grace Church will have a charming home."
The Rev. C.E. Little arrived in the Spring of 1887 and served the church for the full period of five years. The membership for the first time reached 150 and the salary was advanced to $1,600.00. The Sunday School had an enrollment of 222. Mr. Little's pastorate was unusually successful. He was not only a preacher of marked ability, as the character of the church he has served would signify, but he was also a writer and author. The Rev. J.G. Johnston began his ministry at Grace in 1892 and he served for another period of five years. In July 1895, a fire broke out in the church, destroying it. The congregation was permitted to worship in the Public School building a block away, now P.S. 20. The room was supplied rent free, the congregation agreeing to pay for heating and light. Plans were immediately laid for the construction of a new church. The cornerstone was laid with appropriate exercises December 11, 1895, at 5:30 p.m. on the site of the old church. On account of the extreme cold, the exercises were conducted in the school house of the Village of Port Richmond, at New Street and Heberton, as previously mentioned. Since the burning of the church, the congregation of Grace worshipped in the historic village school.
At the laying of the cornerstone, Dr. Charles S. Ryman, Presiding Elder of the Elizabeth District was in charge of the Service. Other noted personages were seated on the platform. Dr. Ryman offered the opening prayer and the responsive lesson was read by the Rev. F.A. Mason of Kingsley, Stapleton. Brief addresses were delivered by several S.I. minister, including one by W.B. Wigg, of the old mother church, Trinity, West New Brighton. The church treasurer, Mulford D. Simonson, then read his report. Subscriptions, undoubtedly conducted by the Ladies Aid Society, always a handy adjunct to the church, especially when the church is wading through deep financial waters, had netted $1,000.00. Thus the church had $7,562 to cover a project whose total cost was $25,000.00.
The audience then adjourned to the site of the new church, the box containing the articles listed below was sealed and placed in the cornerstone and the stone then was securely laid by Read Benedict, Pres., of the Board of Trustees assisted by Dr. Ryman. It was almost dark and the builder, Henry L. Simonson, had kindled a huge bonfire, which lit up the place and made it comfortable for all participating.
Included in the cornerstone: the Bible, Hymnal and Discipline of the Methodist Church, a Benedict collar button, names of subscribers to the building fund, names of the officers and members of the church, names of the officers and members of the Sunday School, names of the members of the Ladies Aid Society, and the Kings Daughters, names of the members of the building committee, names of the former pastors; and an ode by Mrs. Ella Benedict Burkman. Ths stone also contained a set of coins of the United States of 1895, and a set of old coins presented by Washington Riordan, The Staten Island, and other papers, stones from Mount Calvary and the Mount of Olives.
The week of dedication for the new church was set for February 14 to 21, 1897. Dr. Johnston had prepared an elaborate program. Most interesting services were conducted during the week. On Monday night, the Christian Endeavor Society conducted a rally. The church was crowded. The Rev. Jesse L. Gilbert of Spring Valley and the Rev. C.E. Little, former pastors were the speakers. Tuesday night was given up to the local ministers. There were greetings from the Rev. A.H. Demarest, of Port Richmond Reformed Church; Rev. William Morrison, of the Park Baptist Church; Rev. Theodore Leggett, Calvary Presbyterian Church; Rev. Pascal Harrower, The Church of the Ascension; and Rev. E.R. Grunert, of the Moravian Church, Castleton Corners. Wednesday night was marked by fraternal greetings from Staten Island Methodist pastors. Among those who spoke were W.B. Wigg, of Trinity; J.R. Bryan, Summerfield; F.A. Mason, Kingsley. On Thursday night, an organ recital was given by Mrs. Winfield McCowan, with vocal selections by Miss Marguerite Morrow and Miss Edith Hutchins, and also cornet solos by L. Snedeker, Jr. Friday night was given over to the Sunday School. Among those who spoke were E.C. Dutcher of Boonton; John Coyle, of Sacramento, California; J.J. Reed of Kingston; and A.J. Palmer, Corresponding Secretary of the Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, all former pastors, many having won distinction in Methodism.
The final Sunday of the week of dedication was outstanding. The church had secured as the preacher, Bishop John F. Hurst, D.D., LL.D., of Washington, D.C. William H. Perry, chairman of the Building Committee, then transferred the keys to Read Benedict, President of the Board of Trustee and Mr. Benedict in the name of the Trustees presented the church to Bishop Hurst for dedication. The Rev. Joseph A. Owen of St. James Church, Elizabeth, a former pastor preached at the evening service. After "Jerusalem" by Gounod was sung by Fred E. Muller, the exercise of dedication for the second time in a period of just 30 years ended.
A poem by Mrs. Ella Benedict Burkman, daughter of Read Benedict and Mary E. Benedict, written for the dedication, fittingly described the exit of the old church destroyed by fire and the ushering in of the new Grace Church, dedicated to the worship of Almighty God. Mrs. Burkman's poem follows:
The Old and The New
The little church is gone, you say
From the spot where it stood so long,
And never again on a Sabbath day,
Will its walls ring glad with song,
And never again from its open door
Will the beautiful Methodist call
Sound forth to the wanderer, rich and poor,
"Come in, ye are welcome, all!"
And some will say, "I was happy there
When I feared for my sad soul's loss,
They called me in to find in prayer
Sweet peace at the Savior's Cross."
And some will say, "It was sacred ground
For I carried thence my dead,"
And others as they look around,
" 'Twas there that I was wed!"
Oh happy days where the skies were blue
And the heart was glad and young,
When little Grace, the chapel new,
Had her praises loudly sung!
Do we not all wish in thoughtful mood
If the boon could but be given,
That Earth's best days with most of good
Might remembered be in Heaven?
But the maiden Grace with the changing years
Is mature and fuller grown,
A power now in her mein appears,
And a grandeur all her own,
For the Spirit still abides within
Christ's love--"the Better Part."
The same voice calls from the new church walls,
"Come in, with a grateful heart!"
Ella Benedict Burkman
In those days there was a five year limit on the pastorate and this brought to a close the pastorate of the Rev. J.G. Johnston, D.D. His ministry to this church was signally successful. He had guided the church through the tragic loss by its congregation of the church building by fire. The Sunday School had grown, and the value of the church property had been more than doubled. There was some indebtedness remaining on the new church, but not nearly in proportion to the increase in value that had occurred.
Read Benedict built his very life in Grace Church. He consecrated his money to the service of God. No one will ever know how much he gave, not only to the church, but to alleviate the distress of the poor. He passed on to his eternal reward September 14, 1914, having served the church he helped to organize, as an official, for forty-seven years. A beautiful bronze memorial tablet dedicated to the memory of Read Benedict and his wife, Mary E. Benedict, adorns the walls of Grace Church, a fitting tribute from loyal children to most devoted parents.
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