Zoom In | Zoom Out | Go to page: | Search All Volumes | Volume 2 | Volume 3 | Online Collections Home |
Munday [Monday] the 22 of April 1717 being Easter Monday the congregation of
Christ Church in Philadelphia being met after Divine Service they proceeded According
to custom to Electing Church Wardens and Vestrymen for the Ensuing Year the Reverend
Doctor Evan Evans minister being present the persons Elected are as follows —
Mssrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Church Wardens
{ Charles Read }
The Honorable Colonel Charles Gookin } Vestrymen
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Benamin Vining
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Harrisson [Harrison]
Mr. Charles Sober
Mr. John Read
Mr. William Robinson
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story the 11th day of June 1717 —
Present
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans Minister.
Wardens:
Mssrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Wardens
{ Charles Read }
Colonel Charles Gookin
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Robinson
Mr. John Harrisson [Harrison]
Mr. John Read
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
1st. Resolved that the Wardens for the Last Year and the present Wardens are Desired to Enquire into the State of the Pews and also the seats in the gallary [gallery] & the Accounts of the Church since the Last Settlement and make their Report at the next meeting of the Vestry .—
2d. Resolved that a form of Subscription be prepared by the Church Wardens towards erecting a Steeple for Christ Church in Philadelphia to be Laid before the next Vestry.—
3d. Resolved that the Reverend Doctor Evans and the Church Wardens do wait upon His Honor the Governor to Desire him in the name of the whole Vestry to honor them with being one of their members —.
Bell Tower Pews
At a Vestry held at the House of Mr. Enoch Story, the 29th July 29 1717
Present
the Honorable William Keith Esquire Lieutenant Governour [Governor]
the Reverend Doctor Evan Evans Minister
Mssrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Wardens
{ Charles Read }
Colonel Charles Gookin
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. John Harrisson [Harrison]
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read –
1st. Resolved that a further Enquiry be made into the state of the pews and that those which are yet unpurchased and those which now are or for the future shall be vacant by the decease or nonresidency of the first purchaser be let at an Annual Rent and that the Church Wardens and such persons as they shall choose to accompany them in viewing the pews do make a report to the next the Vestry of the value of them–.
2d. Ordered that the form of subscription for building a Steeple mentioned in the minutes of the preceding Vestry be ready to lay before the next Vestry Likewise that a form of Subscription be prepared for buying a Burying Ground–.
3d. Ordered that Mr. Anthony Palmer & [ED: list continues past first two] Mr. Theodorus Lord, Mr. William Robinson, Mr. Benjamin Vining & Mr. John Harrisson [Harrison] former Church Wardens be earnestly prepared to bring in their Accounts settled to the next Vestry–.
4th. Ordered that an Address to the Right Reverend Lord Bishop of London relateing to a school master and such Other Matters as may be fit to lay before his Lordship be prepared for to be Considered by the next Vestry—. [ED: four pen strokes across page]
bell tower burial ground cemetery
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story, the 3d Day of February - 1717/8 [1718].–
Present.
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans Minister–
The Honorable William Keith Lieutenant Governor–
Mssrs { Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Wardens
{ Mr. Charles Read }
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Charles Sober
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Robinson
1st. Resolved that Whereas by the Church books of Accounts we find no Account has been rendered since March 1713 and none of the persons concerned to render such Accounts being here present by which neglect or Delay the business of the Church is entirely obstructed; the present Church Wardens therefore are hereby directed without loss of time, to wait upon Such of their Predecessors as have not made up or given in their Accounts, to Certify to them that if their accounts are not brought into the next Vestry to be held at this house on the 17th day of this instant, at the hour of three in the afternoon precisely, then, & in Such Case, necessary measures will be taken to oblige them thereto.–
2d. Resolved that Mr. Asheton [Assheton] & Mr. Tresse in conjunction with the Church Wardens do prepare the Address to the Bishop of London as mentioned in the minutes of the last Vestry that it may be ready to lay before the next.
The Vestry considering the poor condition of the church and the great occasion there is for a greater suply and better font of money than now comes in to answer the necessities of that Service have upon examining their affairs Discovered that many Pews in the Church are now actually vacant & that others are possessed by persons who have no Right or Title to the Same. and it being highly reasonable that Such Religious Persons as are of good Estate and Condition; ought, as is common in England to give a proportionable yearly rent for their respective pews for the better maintenance and support of the church; and the present Governour having been Pleased at a Considerable Charge not only to erect a spacious pew right before the altar to be Appropriated in all time to come for the convenience and use of the Governour and his family for the Time being; but also to promise and Voluntarily Agree to pay the yearly rent of five pounds per annum for the same to the use of the church; its therefore hereby Ordered that the present Church Wardens do make an Estimate of the rent of every pew now at this time in the Church which estimate shall be laid before the next Vestry in order to a further and more perfect Regulation herein—.
3d. The Vestry considering that great inconveniences may flow from allowing all persons promiscuously to vote in the yearly Election of Vestrys without their haveing given some proof of their being truly of the communion of the Church do therefore recommended it to the Doctor to keep a faithful list of all such persons as come Yearly to the Communion Table in order to distinguish them from such others as either never have communicated or shall hereafter fall off from the Church Communion.
And that two Sundays immediately before the Election of any Vestry the Doctor will please after the Divine Service to cause the Clerk publicly to read the above minute to the congregation certifying to all persons concerned that it is and shall be hereafter a Standing Order of the Vestry that no person be admitted to vote in the Election of any Succeeding Vestry or of the Church Wardens unless it be made appear that some time within the
[continued on Page 5]
communion
[continued from Page 4]
the Space of twelve months before such Election such person pretending to vote actually
did communicate and receive the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper according to the
Rites of the Church of England.
Resolved that notwithstanding any former minute to the contrary it is by this Vestry
Ordered that the Charge of all future Vestries be at the Expense of the particular members
present at the time–.
Adjourned till the 15th instant —
lord's supper church of england
At a Vestry mett at the house of Mr. Enoch Story according to adjournment of that Vestry held on the 3d of this Instant, February
Present
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans Minister
The Honorable William Keith Lieutenant Governour [Governor]
Mssrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Wardens
{ Mr. Charles Read }
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Charles Sober
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. John Harrisson [Harrison]
1st Mr. Benjamin Vining and Mr. Lord, haveing now exhibited their Accounts as Wardens it is Ordered that Mr. Josiah Rolfe Mr. Thomas Tresse & Mr. Charles Read do inspect and Examine the Said Accounts as also the accounts of Mr. William Robinson and make their report at the next meetting that the Same may be fairly Entered.
2d The Church Wardens pursuant to an Order of the Last Vestry Exhibited an Estimate of the number and value of the Pews which is now approved of, and is as follows –
Numbered as by a plan of the Church may be seen
No An Rent No An Rent
1 L-. 10s. - 22 L3. 10s. -.
2 L2. -. -. 23 L2. -. -.
3 L2. -. -. 24 L2. 10s. -.
4 L2. 10s. - 25 L3. -. -.
5 L2. 1s. - 26 L3. 10s. -.
6 L2. 10s. - 27 L3. 10s. -.
7 L2. -. -. 28 L3. -. -.
8 L2. -. -. 29 L3. -. -.
9 L2. 1s. -. 30 L1. 10s. -.
10 L3. -. -. 31 L1. 15s. -.
11 L3. -. -. 32 L2. -. -.
12 L3. -. -. 33 L2. 10s. -.
13 L2. -. -. 34 L2. 10s. -.
14 L2. 10s. -. 35 L2. 10s. -.
15 L3. 10s. -. 36 L2. 10s. -.
16 L3. 10s. -. 37 L2. 10s. -.
17 L4. -. -. 38 L2. -. -.
18 L1. -. -. 39 L-. 10s. -.
19 L1. -. -. 40 L3. -. -.
20 L1. 5s. -. 41 L3. -. -.
21 L1. 5s. -. 42 L3. 10s. -.
3d Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton], for the Encouragement of the Church haveing now frankly relinquished his right in the Pew he now sitts in being No 29.
4th Ordered that he hold this Pew excepting the two seats on the West Side at the Yearly Rent of thirty shillings to commence 25th of March next and that the aforementioned two seats be held by his son Ralph at the rate of twenty shillings per annum.
5th Mr. Josiah Rolfe haveing a right to one third of the Pew No 16 Relinquishes the Same
It is ordered that he hold the 3d third part at the rate of twenty shillings per annum.
6th Charles Read haveing a Right to one seat in the front of the West gallary [gallery] Relinquishes the Same which is Ordered to be lett at an Annuall Rate; and he moveing that halfe the Pew No 41 may be appointed him at the rate of thirty shillings per annum it is granted.
7th Ordered that the pew No 27 be lett to Mr. William Asheton [Assheton] and Doctor Kearsley at the Rent put upon it if they be willing to accept thereof;
8th Ordered that Doctor Colden have half the Pew No 11 at the moiety of the rent put upon it if he think fitt.
9th Ordered that Mr. Andrew Hamilton have half the Pew No 26 at a moiety of the Rent put upon it if he think fitt.
10th Ordered that William Jones & John Jones his son in law hold half the pew in the North Galarie [gallery] No 37 at a Moiety of the Rent put upon it if they think fitt.–
[continued on Page 7]
[continued from Page 6]
11th Ordered that Mr. John Moore hold the whole Pew No 17 at the Rent put upon it if he thinks fitt.
12th Ordered that Mr. Forbes hold 1/2 the Pew No 21 at a Moiety of the Rent put upon it if he thinks fitt.
13th Ordered that Mr. William Cox hold one seat in the Pew No 25 at 1/6 of the rent if he thinks fitt.
14th Ordered that the Church Wardens let any vacant seat or seats at a proportionable rent and report their doings at the next Vestry.
15th Ordered that where any Person having or pretending to have a Right to any seat or part of a seat in the Church andFrequent any other Society such Person shall be barred of such right or pretence of Right, and his seat shall be lett by the Church Wardens to such as shall desire the same.
16th Ordered that all rents shall be paid Quarterly – Viz; at the Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Feast of St. John the Baptist. The Feast of St. Michael the Arch-Angel. And the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
17th Doctor Evans acquaints the Board that he has lately received a letter from the Governour of Maryland with an offer of a Living there, that he finds himself by reason of age and other infirmities very uncapable of discharging his cure here in such Manner as the Same ought to be discharged; that he is a hearty well wisher to this church and people and requests the Vestry will not only acquiesce with his removal but that they will think of proper Methods for Supplying the church with a Minister or Ministers on till the Lord Bishop of London shall fill the vacancy. -
To which the Vestry made answer that they were heartily glad of the Doctor's good fortune of an offer so much to his advantage and liking and that they would think of proper Methods to have the Church supplied by the neighboring Clergy till the Bishop should supply of Cure by another.
18th The Vestry taking into their consideration that little or nothing has for twelve month past been collected or any ways raised toward the support of our present Minister Doctor Evans who in other respects as well as by the decent application he has been pleased to make now justly deserves some suitable return of gratitude from a Congregation over which he has long presided–
19th It is therefore Ordered that the Church Wardens do, without Loss of time wait on all the members of the Church in the Place who are able and willing to contribute for the Service of the Church in order to receive such a Voluntary Contribution as they shall think fitt to give for the the life and benefit of the Doctor who is hereby heartily recommended to their Generosity and Gratitude.
20th Ordered that the Church Wardens do communicate the Resolutions and orders of this Vestry relating to the Pews that are now upon rent to all persons that are willing
to pay such Rents as well as to others who perhaps hereafter will be charitably disposed to follow such good example & that if any person is thereupon pleased to
signifie their Intentions under their hands to any Succeeding Vestry they may be assured the Vestry is heartily disposed to make them Ease and answer all the reasonable desires of any members of the Church in this Place.
Adjourned till the 11th of March next.—
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story the 11th day of March – 1718
Present
The Honorable William Kieth [Keith] Lieutenant Governour
Church Wardens:
Mssrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Church Wardens
{ Charles Read }
Mr. Joshua Carpenter Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton] Mr. William Robinson
Vestry Men
The Vestry being met according to the adjournment their Minister Doctor Evans being gone to Maryland they proceeded to the Choice of the Chairman and Unanimously chose the Governour their Chairman.
It was observed that the Reverend Doctor Evans is gone to Maryland in order to be inducted by the Governour there into the Living which he had agreed to accept of with the
consent of the Vestry as appears by the Minutes of the last Sederunt.
The Vestry on this emergency resumed Consideration of what might be proper to represent and lay before the Bishop of London with relation thereto and other Matters
mentioned in the Minutes of former Vestrys.
It was therefore moved that the Governour would be pleased for the Service of the Church and in behalf of this Vestry to represent in the most pressing and earnest manner His
Honor shall think fit onto his Lordship–
1st The unhappy Condition of the Church in this place for a long time past for want of an able and Sufficient Schoolmaster to educate our Children who it is to be wished might be a Layman of good life and sober conversation.
2d To set forth to his Lordship the great losses we sustain for want of an ability in law to sue and be sued and to possess whatsoever well-disposed persons are pleased to give and bequeath for sacred Charitable Uses.
3d To acquaint his Lordship that, the Reverend Doctor Evans being gone to Maryland & having accepted of a benefice there we shall be altogether destitute without his Lordship's speedy & favorable care and sending us an able and sufficient man to supply the Cure here.
4th That his Lordship will be pleased earnestly to solicit his most Sacred Majesty for obtaining the Continuance of the Royal Bounty formerly granted to the Minister & Schoolmaster of this place, assuring his Lordship that we will use our Utmost Endeavors to raise such supplies by way of addition thereto as shall give a most decent & fitting Encouragement to the persons with whom his Lordship shall be pleased to fill up the vacancies–
The Governour readily accepted the request of the Vestry & only desired a copie of their Minutes to be transmitted to his Lordship with the abovementioned Representation & the Church Wardens were Ordered to prepare a copie of the Minutes to be given to the Governour accordingly.
In consideration of the Minister's absence and that some other Members concerned are likewise wanting in relation to other Vestry business the chairman therefore does Adjourn this vestry unto the 3d day of April next then to meet at this place—
At a Vestry held at the House of Mr. Enoch Story the third day of April 1718—
Present
The Honorable William Keith Esq. Lieutenant Governour
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans
Messrs { James Tutthill [Tuthill] } Wardens
{ Charles Read }
Mr. Joshua Carpenter Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Trent Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
The Governour presented aRepresentation which he had drawn to the Bishop of London in behalf of the Church and Vestry, with a copy of the Vestry minutes which was read and unanimously approved recommending it to the Governour to transmit the same to the Bishop of London by the first opportunity.
The Governor acquainted the Vestry that the Reverend Mr. Talbott [Talbot] of Burlington Mr. Humphreys of Chester Mr. Ross of Newcastle & Mr. Sandall [Sandal] of Wickacoa had been invited by him and most of them were now in Town in order to wait on the Vestry and receive their proposals for supplying the vacancy of this Church until the Bishop of London's pleasure was known.–
The Vestry thereupon recommended it to the Governour to concert with the abovenamed clergymen how they might supply this vacancy with conveniency to themselves and the least prejudice to their respective cures.–
And that the said Service may not be too great a burden upon the clergy who in their own Districts are yet but meanly provided with respect to their Character, and more especially that their necessary traveling charges and the expence of their attending whole weeks here from Time to Time as in Justice it ought may be defrayed by this Congregation.–
The Vestry unanimously agreed and it is hereby ordered that the Church Wardens for the time being shall pay for every week's attendance for services in this Church during the Vacancy unto the minister or ministers and each of them officiating herein respectively by the sum of fifty shillings for which they shall give themselves credit in their accounts and the ministers receipt thereof shall be to them or either of them a sufficient voucher. —
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story May 2, 1718.
Present:
The Honorable William Keith, Esquire
Church Wardens:
Mr. James Tuttle [Tuthill]
Mr. Charles Read
Vestrymen:
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Caleb Cash
The Church Wardens acquainted the gentlemen present that they met
here together at the request of the Governor, then reported the election of
the Vestry for the ensuing year – on Easter Monday – which is as
follows:
Church Wardens:
Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Mr. Charles Read
Vestrymen:
The Governor
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Samuel Carpenter
Mr. Caleb Cash
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
The Vestry proceeded to the choice of the chairman and chose the Governor.
Ordered that the Church Wardens, at the next meeting of the vestry, return
the minutes of the last year and sign them; and that all Church Wardens
hereafter shall sign the minutes of every Vestry, (after entered fair in
the book) at the next succeeding Vestry.
The Governor acquaints the Vestry that, as it had been recommended to
him, he had concerted with the clergyman mentioned in their last minutes,
eand that thereupon those reverend gentleman had actually agreed to a
method amongst themselves how for some months to supply the va-
cancy in the church; but upon the Governor's communicating to
them the order of the last Vestry to the Church Wardens for paying fifty
shillings per week to defray the necessary charges of their attendance;
they unanimously and earnestly entreated that the Governor would please
to assure the Vestry that, it being first their duty and pious concern for the
preservation of the Church in this place, and then the true respect to and
esteem of all the worthy members of this Vestry which has engaged
them so cheerfully to accept the service proposed to them; they hope
the Vestry will excuse them from receiving any pecuniary reward
which though justly and piously intended, yet may possibly be misconstrued
by many of the sectaries and enemies of our church here; a consequence
Or interpretation which they humbly conceive ought carefully to be
avoided.
The vestry acquiesces with the reverend gentlemen's opinion and refer the manner
of their support during the time they supply the Church to further consideration.
[continued on Page 11]
[Continued from page 10]
The Vestry went upon considering the state of the Church, as it now stands
vacant by Doctor Evans' demission or resignation on his late induction to
two benefices in Maryland.
And the Church Wardens are required to examine into and take a catalogue
or inventory of the library or other things belonging to the Church which
now are in the custody of the said Doctor Evans – and also to give notice to
Mr. George McCall, tenant of the parsonage house, that his rent from this
date is to be paid into their hands for the use of the church during the va-
cancy, and their receipt shall be a sufficient discharge against any other
person claiming the rent.
The Church Wardens are desired likewise to acquaint Doctor Evans with the
directions which they have received from this vestry relating to the premises,
and that notwithstanding the Doctor is not here according to his promise
to the Governor that he would be present at the meeting of this Vestry, yet
the Vestry have thought fit to delay the appointment of any certain day
for the other clergymen (who are engaged to attend the service of the Church)
until their next meeting, at which time they might probably expect
Doctor Evans' company.
In the meantime, the Church Wardens are to use their diligence in getting
what subscriptions they can for Doctor Evans and lay the same before
the next vestry to be held here on Thursday the 15th instant.
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story May 5, 1718:
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans
The Honorable the Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestrymen:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Caleb Cash
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
The minutes of the last Vestry being read, Doctor Evans excused
his absence in such manner as was satisfactory to the Vestry.
The Doctor acquainted the Vestry that he desired their meeting at
this time in order that the Church Wardens might have notice
to acquaint those gentlemen that were mentioned in a former
minute to supply the Church during the vacancy, that he was going
down to his parishes in Maryland and could not stay here above
a fortnight because the time was past in which he proposed
to be there. Whereupon the Vestry desired that the Church Wardens
would hasten the subscription intended for him by the next
sitting of the Vestry and likewise that they would write to the
gentleman the ministers to desire them to consult among
themselves, how the service of the Church is to be supplied com-
mencing on Sunday the 25th instant and then the Vestry ad-
journed to the 15th instant.
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story May 15, 1718.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Evan Evans
The Honorable William Keith Esquire, Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestrymen:
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
The Vestry being met according to the appointment of the last minute,
they proceeded to enquire of the Church Wardens what progress they had made
toward getting the subscriptions for Doctor Evans, who answered they had not
as yet done anything therein. Whereupon a paper being prepared, the Vestry
proceeded to subscribe the same and recommended it to the Church Wardens
to get the same complete with all expedition, and then the Vestry adjourned
to Monday the 26th instant.
The Vestry met according to the adjournment of the last sitting, but not
being of sufficient number to proceed upon the affairs of the Church,
adjourned till Whitsunmonday being June 2, 1718.
At a Vestry held June 2, 1718:
Present:
the Honorable William Keith, Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Joshua Carpenter
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Josiah Rolfe
Benjamin Vining
Caleb Cash
William Asheton [Assheton]
Samuel Carpenter
Hugh Tresse
Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Tresse
The Vestry, being met according to adjournment, proceeded to examine
the subscriptions for the Reverend Doctor Evans and finding they did not
amount to above forty-four pounds or thereabouts and the Church War-
dens reporting that they could not expect above tenpounds more, it was
moved that some addition should be made to the subscription, which
was left to the next meeting of the Vestry, and the Church Wardens are
in the meantime to use their endeavors to get what subscriptions
they can.
A representation to the Archbishops and Bishops was presented to
the Vestry by Doctor Evans and the Reverend Mr. John Talbott [Talbot], which was read
and is as followeth, viz.:
To the most Reverend Fathers in God, the Archbishop
and the Right Reverend The Bishops of the Church of England:
The representation and humble petition of many of the Faithful
in the Communion of the Church of England in North America
Most Humbly Sheweth,
That whereas the British Colonies and Settlements
in America have now for many years been blessed with the pure and
primitive doctrine and worship of our Mother the Church of England,
of which you are happily at this day great Ornaments and Prime Rulers,
and whereas for the want of Episcopacy being settled among us and that
there never has been any Bishop sent to visit us, our churches re-
main unconsecrate, our Children grown up and cannot be confirmed
their Sureties under Solemn Engagements and cannot be absolved, and
our Clergy sometimes under doubts and cannot be resolved.
But whereas more especially for the want of that sacred Power which
is inherent to your apostolic order, the vacancies which daily happen in
our Ministry cannot be supplied for a long time from England.
[continued on Page 15]
Whereby many congregations are not only become desolate and the light of the Gospel
therein extinguished, but great encouragement is thereby given to the sectaries of
all sorts which abound and increase among us and some of them pretending to
what they call the Power of Ordination, the country is filled with fanatical teachers
debauching the good Inclination of many poor souls who are left destitute of
any Instruction or Ministry.
May it therefore please your Lordships in your great Piety and regard for the Government
of the Church by Bishops to think of some means whereby these our sorrowful com-
plaints and Grievous Misfortunes may be heard and addressed, and that Almighty God
may of his Infinite Mercy inspire your Thoughts and assist your pious endeavors
to accomplish this evidently necessary and religious work in the most earnest
daily prayer as may it please your Lordships.
Your Lordships
Most Humble Petitioners
Most Obedient Sons and Servants
Ordered that the Church Wardens sign the said address in the name and by order of
the Vestry of Christ Church in Philadelphia.
A petition of Jonathan Asheton [Assheton], Clerk of the Church, was read setting forth
that he has buried several poor people and had no allowance for the sum, that
he has been at considerable cost and expense for ringing the bells on public re-
joicing days. The Vestry took the said petition into consideration and ordered
the sum of five pounds to be added to the fifteen pounds now allowed him for
his services and that hereafter he shall have and receive the sum of 20 pounds
yearly as a salary for Clerk of the Church and in lieu of the said articles and other
incident charges. Then the Vestry adjourned to the 18th instant.
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story the 23rd June 1718
Present:
The Honorable William Keith, Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Anthoney Palmer
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Heugh Tresse
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
The Vestry being met considered the unhappy circumstances of our Church
yard for a burying place, and Mr. Trent and Mr. Asheton [Assheton] are desired to find out a convenient
purchase of ground to add to the church yard and report their proceedings at the
next meeting of the Vestry.
Resolved that if it should happen that the Clergy men who are to serve the
Church during this vacancy be sick or should not come that Mr. Piper the
school master read the prayers in the church and for his service he shall be
rewarded by the Vestry for the time being.
Captain Palmer relinquishes his right to half the pew he now sits in and
comes under the rent of thirty shillings per annum.
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Enoch Story September23, 1718
Present:
The Honorable William Keith, Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Mr. Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Caleb Cash
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Application being made to the Vestry by Philip Sing [Syng] that he may have one seat
appointed him in the Church, it is ordered that the Church Wardens do forth-
with prepare in writing and report to the next Vestry a distinct state of the
pews in the church -- viz. what pews are held on any just pretense of
right, how many are vacant or held without any right to them and consequent-
ly in the disposal of the Vestry, and also of such as have been rented or
promised to be let by the Vestry and wardens, to whom after which the Vestry
will give direction that the said Philip Sing [Syng] be provided with a seat in the
church according to his desire.
A petition of Michael Piper was read praying the Vestry recommend-
ation to England that he might be placed here as school master, and all
the members expressing themselves well satisfied to Mr. Piper's conduct
for almost seven months that he has resided amongst us and taught
school with success and approbation, were very well disposed to favor Mr. Piper,
but in regard the Vestry had so lately wrote to the Bishop of London to
send them such a school master as his Lordship in his wisdom shall think
meet.
The Vestry could not in good manner confine his Lordship's sentiments
by any particular recommendation, before they had received his Lordship's
answer. Nevertheless if Mr. Piper shall think fit to make any appli-
cation by himself or his friends in England to the Bishop on his behalf,
the Vestry would not be displeased therewith.
The Reverend Mr. Hughs acquainted the Vestry that it was by the advice of his
great and worthy friend Colonel Spotswood, Governor of Virginia, that he had made
a journey into this Province and, finding this place at a loss for want
of an incumbent to attend the service of the Church constantly, he
very frankly made an offer of himself to supply the vacancy until
the Vestry could have an answer to their late applications unto the Lord Bishop
of London, and he considered the poor state of the Church of England
in this Province and not valuing his particular interest entirely sub-
mitted to the Vestry's generosity to make what consideration for his
necessary expense during his stay in this Church as they should think fair.
The Vestry thereupon desired the Chairman to return Mr. Heughs [Hughs] thanks
for his generous and kind offer which they cheerfully accepted, answering Mr. Heughs [Hughs]
they would take such care that his good service during his stay here should
not be made a burden to him, but rather an advantage as far as their power
and ability could procure or afford.
It being moved that the Reverend Gentlemen who had supplied the Service of this
Church since Doctor Evans' departure until now deserved the consideration
of this Vestry, the chairman was humbly desired to return those Gentlemen the
hearty [unclear] of this Vestry and proper acknowlegdement should be thought on to be made
unto those Reverend Gentlemen suitable to their character and to the good service they have
lately performed in this Church.
It is ordered that the Church Wardens do without delay get the pavement made
before the Church wall according to regulation, as also the pavement from the gate
to the Church door.
Mr. Carpenter is required to get the windows of the school house mended, they being
very much broken, and the Church Wardens are ordered to pay for the same.
At a Vestry held November 10, 1718.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Hughs
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
The Honorable William Keith Esq., Lieutenant Governor
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Banjamin Vining
Mr. Anthoney Palmer
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Thomas Tresse
The Vestry met in order to consider of the most proper means to give
Mr. William Skinner possession of the school here in pursuance of the
Bishop of London's appointment and recommendation of him in a particular
letter to the Governor. But in regard that severa; members are absent and
that for a more universal satisfaction it will be convenient on this
occasion to have a full Vestry. It is thought proper to adjourn this Vestry
til tomorrow at six in the afternoon and the adjournment is made accordingly.
November the 11th
Present:
The Honorable The Governor
The Reverend Mr. Thomas Hughs
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Hugh Tresse
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
The Vestry being met according to adjournment after several speeches of sundry
members by whom it was observed that they had, as appeared by their former minutes,
earnestly solicited the Bishop of London to send them a lay school master
such as his Lordship should judge to be well qualified for this place, and his Lordship having been pleased to answer
the purport of the letter tho not the letter itself in sending Mr. Skinner, whose qualifications
had not only been carefully examined and enquired into by his Lordship but also by the
Society etc.
The Vestry could not but think themselves under a great obligation to receive
Mr. Skinner in the best manner they could, and therefore it is ordered that the
Church Wardens do give such directions as may be necessary for the introducing
of Mr. Skinner into the public schools with all the privileges which formerly did or
now may appertain to himself as school master of this place.
At a Vestry held January 12, 1718/1719
Present:
The Honorable William Keith Esq., Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tuttle [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Hugh Tresse
Joshua Carpenter
Thomas Tresse
George Plumley
The Vestry, having under their consideration the time the Reverend
Mr. Hughs has officiated here as minister without the least contribu-
tion of the Congregation for his support, do request the Church Wardens
to go about to the several members of our Church and receive their
contributions for Mr. Hughs's service from the 22nd day of August til
this time
and that the Church Wardens would please to take an account of
the names of the contributors with the sums by them paid or subscribed,
together with the names of such members as refuse to pay towards the
support of the minister, and lay the same before the next Vestry.
At a Vestry held April 15, 1719
Present:
The Rev. Mr. John Talbott [Talbot]
The Honorable William Keith, Lieutenant Governor
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Samuel Monckton
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. John Leacock
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
The Church Wardens reported the last election of Church Wardens and Vestry
Men on Easter Monday, the 30th of April, 1719, whichi is as follows:
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. William Trent
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. John Leacock [Laycock]
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Samuel Monckton
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. John Read
The Reverend Mr. John Talbott [Talbot] laid before the Vestry an address to the Right
Honorable and Right Reverend, the Lords, the Archbishops and the Right Reverend the
Bishops of the Church of England setting forth the necessity of a Bishop
to reside amongst us in this contry, which was signed by all the mem-
bers present.
It was recommended to the consideration of the members of this Vestry how the
pews may be regulated for the better support of the Church.
Ordered that the persons who by the former minutes are appointed to examine
the Church accounts for the year 1717 do likewise examine the accounts of the last
year, which are to be laid before them with all expedition.
At a Vestry held May 15, 1719
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Thomas Hughs
Church Wardens:
Janmes Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
The Honorable William Keith Esq., Lieutenant Governor
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Anthoney Palmer
Mr. John Moore
Mr. William Trent
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
Mr. John Leacock [Laycock]
Mr. Samuel Monckton
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Robert Ellis
His Honor produced a letter from the Reverend Mr. George Ross
wherein was inclosed a letter from the Lord Bishop of London
and one from the secretary of the Society by which letters it
was recommended to Mr. Ross's choice either to continue in
his cure at New Castle or remove to Philadelphia, whereupon it
was observed that that Gentleman hath a certainty of a good in-
come from his present cure, which incouragement was want
-ing here.
The Church Wardens therefore are desired to visit the members of this Church
to know what annual subscription to be paid in quarterly payments
can be got for the support of a minister, and as soon as they have so
done to call a Vestry and make report thereof.
The Church Wardens are likewise desired to agree with Mr. William Robin-
son for a plot of ground which they have already viewed for a bury-
ing place and to collect the money with all convenient speed.
At a Vestry held June 17, 1719.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Thomas Hughs
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
A letter from the Reverend Mr. George Ross to the Church Wardens was read
which is as followeth, viz.
Mr. Charles Read
Kind Sir,
I am really to seek what to write to my Lord of London
before I have heard from you; to tell him that I find no incou-
ragement to move upwards, will be enough to satisfy his Lordship,
why I have not accepted of his Lordship's offer; but this account, I
fear, will neither be very agreeable unto him nor make, perhaps
for the interest of the Church at Philadelphia. That that Church,
therefore, may not suffer through me, or by reason of any repre-
senatation of mine, in her honour, or welfare, I beg you would
give me some Light into this matter; and truely resolve me in
this point of encouragement. Shall I write my Lord, that I found
little or no encouragement, to settle at Philadelphia, or if this
may not be said, shall I acquaint his Lordship that there was encou-
ragement indeed offered me, but that I did not think fit accept of it;
this latter account I had rather give, as believing it will please better and be
more for the credit of the Gentlemen of the Church above; but neither
this, nor the former account, can be offered by me, until I am fav-
ored with a relation of what progress you and your Brother Church
Warden have made in pursuance of the Vestry's order:
Pray, satisfy me in this particular, as soon as possible, that I may
get ready my letters, with all convenient speed. I do not utterly decline
moving, according to my Lord's proposals, that is when it does appear to me
to be what his Lordship calls it, a promotion; but till then I shall
endeavour to make myself easy in my present station; and at
all times own my obligations to those who do not only wish but
heartily study my [unclear] and prosperity etc.
G. Ross
New Castle, the 12th June 1719
The Church Wardens reported that pursuant to the minutes of the last Vestry
they had discoursed with several members of the Church who were very much against
entering into any obligatory subscription, but if Mr. Ross would be pleased to
come to the Church on the same foot former ministers have come, viz. upon a
voluntary contribution of the people, they would be as liberal as their circumstan-
ces would afford.
The members of the Vestry now present are of the same opinion and de-
sire the Church Wardens to return answer to Mr. Ross accordingly.
Mssrs. Thomas Tresse and John Read are appointed to collect money for a bury-
ing ground and other exigencies of the Church.
Mr. Peter Evans and the Church Wardens are desired to provide a letter to the Lord Bishop of London
in favour of the Reverend Mr. Andrew Sandal, minister of the Sweeds [Swedes] Church, to be
signed by the Vestry.
At a Vestry held June 25, 1719, at the Governour's House.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. George Ross
The Reverend Mr. Thomas Hughs
Church Wardens:
James Tuthill
Charles Read
The Governor
Vestry Men:
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
The Governor acquainted the Vestry that the Reverend Mr. George Ross having applied
to him to know the final resolutions of this Vestry in answer to the proposal made
to Mr. Ross in his Lordship, Bishop of London, and the Society's late letters, they were
now met together for that end, and Mr. Ross waited to know their pleasure.
All agreed that Mr. Ross's merit deserved all we could possibly do to invite
him to this place, where it was not questioned but that he would give a ge-
neral satisfaction, but it was regretted that it was not in the Vestry's
power to name any more certain provision than had been given to for-
mer ministers, viz. a voluntary yearly subscription.
However, if Mr. Ross would please to accept of the Bishop of the Honorably Soci-
ety's Proposition and remove from New Castle hither, the Vestry were of opi-
nion that the subscriptions would amount to at least 120 pounds per annum, with
which, besides the Common Surplice Fee should be added those of breaking the
Ground and Pall, and moreover the Vestry assured Mr. Ross of their best offi-
ces as true members of the Church to serve and promote his interest upon
all occasions.
This being immediately communicated to Mr. Ross by one of the Wardens and two
other Members sent out to him for that purpose; Mr. Ross was afterwards called
in and returned for answer that he held himself highly obliged to the great regard
the Vestry had been pleased to express towards him, and that it had such an in-
fluence upon him as to make him resolve to delay returning the answer which
he intended to have sent the Bishop by the present opportunity and that if the
Vestry please to grant him some small time further for mature conside-
ration he would speedily wait upon them again with a full answer he
hoped to their satisfaction.
To which which reasonable request of Mr. Ross the Vestry readily agreed.
A recommendatory letter to the Lord Bishop of London in favour of the Reverend Mr.
Andrew Sandal was read, approved and signed, by all the members present and the
Church Wardens are desired to procure the hands of the absent members that
it may be delivered to Mr. Sandal before he goes.
At a Vestry held August 7, 1719.
Present:
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. John Read
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton] reported that pursuant to the minutes of
the June, 1718, he hath spoke with Mr. Robinson about the bury-
ing ground therein mentioned but the title being precarious he
treated with James Steel about a large lot which is ["his" in the original] very commo-
dious and the same is now very well approved of and he is desired to in-
spect the title and if it be good the Church Wardens are desired to com-
plete the bargain with said Steel.
At a Vestry held September 4, 1719.
Present:
The Honorable William Keith [Kieth] Esq.
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. John Read
Mr. Thomas Tresse
The Reverend Mr. John Vicary laid before the Board a License from the Right Reverend Father
in God John Lord, Bishop of London, appointing him Minister of this Church,
and the Vestry being well pleased with his Lordship's care therein heartily concur to
his Lordship's appointment and accordingly receive the Reverend Mr. Vicary as their Minis-
ter with the respect due to is Character always acknowledging his Lordship's unques-
tionable authority over our Church.
At a Vestry held May 30, 1720.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
James Tuthill
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
William Trent Esq.
John Moore Esq.
Robert Asheton Esq.
Mr. Benjamin Vining
William Asheton Esq.
Mr. Samuel Monckton
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. John Harrison
The persons formerly appointed to inspect and examine the accounts
of the Church Wardens are desired to inspect the said accounts and make
report at the next meeting of the Vestry.
The Church Wardens having now reported that they are considerably in arrears
in the late purchase of the Church burying place and have given their
Bonds for the same[,] Mr. Ellis and Mr. Morgan are requested to proceed with
a new subscription in order to pay the said arrears.
The belfry appearing very insufficient and rotten and [there being] great danger of the
Great Bell falling unless speedily repaired[,] the Church Wardens are desired to
order the clerk not to ring or toll said bell till further orders[,] and John
Read and John Harrison are desired to view the said belfry and make report
of the condition thereof [at] the next meeting of the Vestry.
The Church Wardens likewise reported the election of Church Wardens
and Vestry Men on Easter Monday the 18th day of April last past which is as
followeth:
Church Wardens:
James Tuthill
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Mr. John Moore
Mr. William Trent
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mt. Anthoney] Palmer
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. William Asheton[Assheton]
Doctor Samuel Monckton
Doctor John Kearsley
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. Samuel Carpenter
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. John Read
At a Vestry held August 11, 1720.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Charles Read
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton, Esq.[Assheton]
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Samuel Monckton
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
The Board taking into their consideration the many inconveniences the
Church at this time labours under[,] more particularly the want of room
to accommodate diverse new settlers and others [cq] well wishers to the Church[,]
who are forced either to stay at home or frequent dissenting congregat-
ions for want of seats[,] it is their opinion (there being no other way to re-
medy the same) that a voluntary subscription of the Congregation for
the enlargement of the Church, the building of a Tower, and the purcha-
sing of a set of bells be forthwith handed about and that the same
be offered not only to all gentlemen and strangers resorting hither but to gent-
lemen of any foreign place well disposed towards the completion of
so good a work.
On Easter Monday April 10, 1721, the Congregation of Christ Church after Divine Service elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
William Asheton Esq.[Assheton]
Mr. Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Captain Anthoney Palmer
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Robert Asheton Esq.[Assheton]
Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Doctor John Kearsley
Captain Benjamin Vining
Mr. Samuel Carpenter
Mr. John Read
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. William Chancellor
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. George McCall
Mr. Charles Read
At a Vestry April 27, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton], Church warden
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Benjamin Vining
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. John Read
Mr. George McCall
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Ordered that Joshua Carpenter, Robert Asheton[Assheton] and Benjamin Vining do treat with Hugh
Durborow concerning the buying of a twenty-foot lot adjoining to the Church and report the
sum he insists upon to the next Vestry.
Ordered that Thomas Tresse and Ralph Asheton[Assheton] examine the late Church Wardens' accounts
and bring them in to the next Vestry.
Ordered that Robert Asheton[Assheton] and Charles Read draw some rules for the better direction and regulation
of the Vestry.
Ordered that the books prepared for the subscription for a new Church be brought into the
Vestry by Robert Asheton[Assheton] in order to be signed by them at their next meeting and that this
Vestry be adjourned til Thursday next.
At a Vestry held May 4, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
William Asheton[Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. Joseph Claypool [Claypoole]
Mr. John McCoombs
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. John Read
Mr. Thomas Tresse
The persons appointed for puchasing Durborow ground report that they had been
treating with him for the ground but having come to no conclusion with him
[it is] ordered that they treat farther with him before the next Vestry.
Mr. Read[,] the late Church Warden[,] having been absent from home[,] their accounts could not be
examined[, it is] ordered that the persons appointed [by the] last Vestry bring them in at the next[.] Mr. Read[']s absence
as Robert Asheton[Assheton] reports hindered the bringing in rules for the better regulation of the Vestry.
The book for subscription toward a new Church etc. was brought in by Robert Asheton[Assheton] and was
signed by some of the Vestry present.
Ordered that Robert Asheton [Assheton]and John Kearsley carry the subscription to the particular members of the
Congregation and others to be signed by them and bring it in to the next Vestry on Thursday next.
At a Vestry held May 11, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
William Asheton[Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. Joseph Claypool [Claypoole]
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. John Read
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. John McCombs [McCoombs]
Mr. William Chancellor
The persons appointed to treat with Duborow for the ground have further time given them --
til next Vestry.
Mr. Read's further absence being an hindrance to the persons appointed to bringing in the accounts
of the last Church Wardens and to those bringing in rules for a better regulation of the Vestry[,]
[they] have therefore further time given them[,] til next Vestry.
It having been ordered in a former Vestry that the Church Wardens, for the time being, should carry
boxes to every seat in the Church in a forenoon to receive the charity of well disposed
persons toward the present use the Church and whereas divers persons may happen to be absent in a
morning, that they may not be prevented from their weekly contributions it is ordered that the
Church Wardens do wait [uncertain] at the Church door every Sunday in the afternoon to receive the
distributions of those who are absent in the morning.
At a Vestry held July 31, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
William Asheton[Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. George McCall
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
Robert Asheton[Assheton] and the Church Wardens having undertaken to raise 100 [uncertain] pounds towards the first payment
of the purchase money for Durborow's lot --
Ordered that the Church Wardens complete the bargain for the lot with Hugh Durborow
according to the agreement before made with him
And that Robert Asheton[Assheton] and John Kearsley do collect one fourth part of the money already
subscribed towards the building of a new Church and steeple.
The Vestry being informed by the Minister and Church Wardens that the Governor pleases to
promise a charter for incorporating the inhabitants of this Church and that they had prepared a
petition for that purpose[,] it was agreed to and signed by all present and it was ordered that the
Wardens do present the same to the Governor.
At a Vestry held August 9, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
William Asheton[Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. John Read
Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Pursuant to an order of the last Vestry[,] the Church Wardens reported they had presented
the petition for a charter then signed [uncertain] to the Governor[,] and William Asheton[Assheton] by order of the Governor
informed the Vestry that His Excellency returned them thanks for their kind affections expressed for him in the
said petition and that he expected that William Asheton[Assheton][,] to whom he had given orders to prepare the charter[,]
would have finished the same when he returned from New Castle and then he would recommend it to the
Vestry and assured them he would always be ready to do every thing in his power for promoting the interest of
this Church.
Then William Asheton[Assheton] produced articles of agreement between the Wardens and Hugh Durburow [Durborow]
for the purchase of his lot[,] which were read and the writings [uncertain] executed in and by consent of the Vestry.
At a Vestry held Augst 16, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
William Asheton[Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton[Assheton]
Mr. James Tutthill [Tuthill]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. John McCombs [McCoombs] Jr.
Mr. William Chancellor
Mr. John Read
Mr. Ralph Asheton[Assheton]
William Asheton[Assheton] brought into the Vestry a charter for incorporating the Church according
to the Vestry petition to the Governor and reported there were several blanks which the Governor desired
the Vestry to fill up, which were done accordingly and William Asheton[Assheton] was desired to request the Governor
to allow of some emendations[,] which were now agreed upon[,] and also to insert a proviso in the said
charter to empower the Vestry to raise any sum above the sum of 200 pounds[,] appointed to be
paid yearly to the Rector[,] when they found they could conveniently do the same.
At a Vestry held October 9, 1721.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Vicary, Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Lawrence
William Asheton [Assheton]
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. John McCoomb [McCoombs] Jr.
A letter from the secretary to the Society for Propagation etc.
[This is the complete entry for this date.]
At a Vestry held December 30, 1721.
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. John McCombs [McCoombs] Jr.
Mr. William Chancellor
William Asheton [Assheton] informed the Vestry that the last time they met at the desire of the persons then
present he promised to read prayers and a sermon on last [uncertain] Sunday and Christmas Day[,] which he had
accordingly done and that the design of the present meeting was to consult how the Church should be supplied
during Mr. Vicary's indisposition[,] Whereupon the Vestry[,] upon enquiry[,] thinking it improbable
to secure a Clergyman to supply the same constantly[,] they desired William Asheton [Assheton] to continue to read
prayers and sermons on Sundays[,] which he said he was willing to perform if he was assured it would
give no offense[,] and the Vestry[,] assuring him that they knew of none who were in the least dissastisfied
at it[,] he at last consented to it and it was ordered that the Church Wardens wait upon Mr. Wayman
and endeavor to prevail with him to supply this Church and administer the Sacraments the first
Sunday in every month and to make a report of Mr. Wayman's [Weyman] answer to the next Vestry.
At a Vestry held January 29, 1721/1722 [Julian]
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. John Read
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. John McCombs [McCoombs]
The Vestry being well informed that Mr. Vicary has misrepresented their conduct in relation to the
present state of the Church, in order to justify themselves and to give him an opportunity to acquit himself
from what he stands charged with, resolved that a memorial or representation of Mr. Vicary's
behavior and the Vestry's conduct in relation to the Church be drawn up and a copy thereof sent
to Mr. Vicary and to be inserted upon the minutes.
The Church Wardens reported they had spoke to Mr. Wayman [Weyman] to officiate here and administer
the Sacrament the first Sunday in the month[;] he did not promise to do it but said he wondered he had
not been spoke to before. Mr. Asheton [Assheton] informed him the Vestry thought it was Mr. Vicary's business
to do that[;] he answered if Mr. Vicary had spoke to him he would have officiated as often as he could
and not have removed into the country or words to that purpose.
Ordered, that Benjamin Morgan and John Read go endeavor to collect one fourth part of
the subscriptions for the new Church toward paying Hugh Durborow for his lot and that they wait
upon those who have not subscribed for that purpose.
At a Vestry held February 1, 1721/1722 [Julian]
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John McCoombs Jr.
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. John Read
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Chancellor
Mr. Joseph Claypoole
The following letter was read[,] approved and signed by the Vestry and was carried to Mr.
Vicary by Charles Read[,] Benjamin Morgan and William Chancellor with this message from the Vestry[:]
that they gave their service to him[,] desired his answer and that they were ready to wait upon him
whever he was pleased to appoint.
Sir,
etc.
Before Mr. Asheton [Assheton] read prayers twice at your request in the [perhaps "your"] presence
and you preached twice the same day[;] at last Mr. Asheton [Assheton] was pitched upon who to [uncertain] he was
unwilling to consent to it, because if you had incurred blame by his officiating before[,]
it must necessarily give offense to somebody, and he desired to be excused[;] you answered, if
that was all the objection, it was but of little weight for that you[,] though a minister[,] could
not please everybody[,] and with much importunity Mr. Asheton [Assheton] consented to read the prayers
the following Sunday and on Christmas Day[;] then you gave directions what part of the service
you would have omitted[,] which was afterwards punctually observed[,] and added that you would
have sent him Doctor and Nurses Homilies [uncertain] but that Mr. Ross had them at New Castle, that you
would send him a volume of Doctor Tillotson's sermons belonging to the library; Mr. Asheton [Assheton] told
you he had Doctor Calamy's [uncertain] sermons[,] which were plain[,] practical discourses[;] you answered
they were the best you ever read in your life[;] and this is the substance of what passed at
that time, and the day following you sent Mr. Asheton a volume of Tillotson's sermons[,] as he
informs us.
Afterwards[,] at a Vestry held December 30, Mr. Asheton [Assheton] told us that at
the desire of the persons present at the last Vestry and by the approbation[,] he promised to read prayers
on Sunday last and Christmas Day, which he had accordingly done and that the design of the present meeting
was to consult how the Church was to be supplied during the Minister's indisposition[;] thinking
it impossible to procure a clergyman to officiate every Sunday, we desired Mr. Asheton
to continue to read prayers and sermons on Sundays, which he said he was willing to per-
form if he could be certain it would give no offense and[,] we assuring him that we know of
no one who were the least dissastisfied at it[,] he consented and it was ordered that the Wardens
wait upon Mr. Wayman [Weyman] and endeavor to prevail with him to officiate and administer the
Sacrement at this Church the first Sunday in every month and to make a report of Mr.
Weyman's answer at the next Vestry[;] after this minute was unanimously approved[,] we were
unwilling to rise til we had your concurrence on the objections to it[;] accordingly the clerk was
ordered to carry it to you and your answer was, you gave your service to all the gentlemen
and was [cq] very well satisfied[,] and how inconsistent is this with your letter to Mr. Asheton [Assheton][,]
in which you say it was the opinion at first that the Church doors ought to be shut up til
we could procure a minister or you recovered the [possibly "your"] health (as you told the Vestry when they met
at your house) and you promised to take care of all occasional duties, with which you
thought the people might be contented for a time[,] and that you are still of the same
opinion, for it is the settled judgment (and you think that therein you have the Spirit of God)
that no necessity whatsoever could justify his present proceedings.
We have here laid before you nothing but matter of fact[;] we forbear to aggravate
things[;] we could put you in mind of many other facts to demonstrate that ready concurrence
with us in this matter[,] but we are persuaded it is so clear that whosoever offers to make the
least question of so evident a truth is too obscure to be seriously argued with.
And now, Sir, since Mr. Asheton [Assheton] at our instance and by the approbation[,] without
any propsect of advantage but purely to preserve the Congregation entire and to do you
service, has read the prayers so emphatically and fervently, and has delivered to us in a
plain and intelligible manner sermons containing useful truth, composed by the
most admired preachers, since everything has been done decently and in order without
using any part of the service but what is recommended by our Divines as the best family
devotion, we must in justice to him tell you he has been very ill rewarded for it.
We are[,] Sir[,] your hearty friends and well wishers.
Philadelphia, February 1, 1721/1722 [Julian]
William Chancellor
John McComb [McCoombs] Jr.
Benjamin Morgan
Joseph Claypool [Claypoole]
John Read
Thomas Tresse
William Frasier [Fraser]
James Tuthill
John Kearsley
Ralph Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Joshua Carpenter
Samuel Carpenter
Charles Read
The persons who were sent upon the messuage returned that Mr. Vicary would be glad to see them
at his house[;] accordingly the Vestry waited upon him[;] he made no objection to any part of the letter[,]
only he did insist that he told the Vestry when they met at his chamber that he was of opinion
the Church doors ought to be shut up etc. and said before he would meet them as a Vestry that they
should expunge the sentence out of the letter and then transcribe it[,] sign it and send it to him[;] also
that we should confess that we are no Vestry without the presence of a minister and that we
should strike the word Vestry out of our late minutes[,] and the question being put[,] first[,] whether that
paragraph should be expunged out of the letter abd the word Vestry out of our late minutes[;] second[,]
whether we are a Vestry without the presence of a minister.
[continued on the next page]
And seven of the Vestry[,] then all present at his chamber[,] declaring they did not hear Mr. Vicary
give his opinion that the Church doors should be shut up etc. the first part in the negative,
and the second part in the affirmative because not only the Bishop of London and the Society have
written to the Church Wardens and Vestry as a Vestry, but also because Mr. Vicary several times
has acknowledged as much by his later letter.
At a Vestry held May 22, 1722.
Present:
Church Warden:
William Asheton [Assheton]
Vestry Men:
Mr. John McCombs [McCoombs] Jr.
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. John Read
Mr. Thomas Chase
Mr. Merrick Davis
One of the Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry that H. Durburow [Durborow] was uneasy for
want of the consideration money for his ground and it was ordered that Thomas Tresse, Robert Ellis
and Merrick Davis do endeavor to collect one quarter part of the subscription already made
and to wait upon others who have not subscribed for that purpose.
At a Vestry held March 30, 1722.
Church Wardens:
William Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Lawrence
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Joshua Carpenter
Mr. Merrick Davis
Mr. John Read
Mr. Samuell Hasell
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Mr. Thomas Chase
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Vicary having this morning laid before us a paper subscribed by some
of the neighboring clergy as
[no further entry on this page]
On Easter Monday, April 14, 1723, the congregation of
Christ Church, after Divine Service, elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
Thomas Tresse
William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. George Plumley, Sides Man
Mr. Benjamin Morgan, Sides Man
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. Thomas Chase
Mr. Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence]
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. John Kersley [Kearsley]
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. John Read
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. William Asheton [Assheton]
________________________________________
At a Vestry held May 11, 1723.
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Fraser
Thomas Tresse
Vestry Men:
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence]
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Ordered, that Mr. Vicary be (out of this present collection) paid thirty pounds
in full of all demands, and the remainder with the perquisites be paid unto the Reverend
Mr. John Urmston.
Mssrs. William Asheton [Assheton] and Peter Evans were requested to inspect
the deeds relating to the title of the lot and meeting house now called the Baptist
Lot and Meeting House and to make their report to the next Vestry.
At a Vestry held August 13, 1723.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Thomas Tresse
William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. John Kersley [Kearsley]
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Read
Ordered, that the Churh Wardens wait upon the Reverend Mr. John Urmston
and acquaint him in the name of the Vestry, that their intention to address his
Lordship the Bishop of London, for his sending over a minister for this Church.
And as the said Mr. John Urmsley was only admitted here, by the Congregation
to supply the present vacancy: They are willing he may continue therein under
the precarious subscriptions of the Congregation and surplice fees, until the Church
be otherwise supplied, behaving himelf as becomes his cloth, which he cannot
but be conscious to himself, he has too much sullied. The Vestry would not
have him slip any opportunity that may be offered [uncertain] to his advantage elsewhere.
Mssrs. Charles Read and Samuel Hasell are requested to settle the late Wardens'
accounts and make their report to the Vestry.
The Church Wardens with some members of the Vestry[,] are desired to
draw up an address or remonstrabnce to the Bishop of Ldondon in relation
to teh state of the Church.
At a Vestry held October 29, 1723.
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. Anthony Palmer
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. John Read
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. Fraser laid before the Vestry a minute of the convention of the clergy
of this province held at Chichester on October 23, 1723, which was
read and is as followeth:
A member of the convention having laid before the brethren the reflections
cast upon those missionaries who recommended Mr. Urmston to supply the
Cure of Philadelphia; and the said member having signified, what reasons such
reflections were grounded upon[,] agreed that the Reverends X X X X
Mr. Talbot and Mr. Weyman do acquaint the Vestry and Wardens of the
Church of Philadelphia, that the clergy of this province are willing and ready to
concur to the removal of the said Mr. Urmston from Philadelphia, provided
that they do signify their uneasiness to the convention, and make their
application to them, or any three of their number[,] under their hands to that
purpose.
John Talbot
George Ross
Jonathan Humphreys
Robert Weyman
William Becket
Resolved:
That the thanks of this Vestry be given to the gentlemen of the convention
for their expressing themselves so willing and ready to concur in the removal of Mr. Urmston
from Philadelphia, who to his shame and our sorrow, we must say, has by his ill life and
conversation during his abode here, not only been a scandal, disgrace and reproach
to the Christian religion, but a blot to our Church, and a blemish to his function,
for when men of his calling are found in the practice of any wicked and notorious
crime, they at the same time not only libel their holy function, reproach their
Saviour, trample upon the altar; but to put Christianity to the blush.
It is therefore ordered that the Church Wardens wait upon as many of the
above clergy as they conveniently can, and deliver them a copy of this minute, as
being the true sense and meeting of the Vestry in relation to the conduct of Mr.
Urmston and pray them vigorously to pursue their good resolution, and let them
know that if they please to supply this Church til we can be otherwise provided,
we shall gratefully acknowledge the favor.
William Fraser, Church Warden
Anthony Palmer
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Peter Evans
Mr. James Tuthill
Robert Ellis
George Plumley
John Read
Samuel Hasell
Thomas Polegreen
Merick Davis
At a Vestry held November 27, 1723.
Present:
Vestry Men:
Church Wardens:
William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. John Kersly [Kearsley]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence]
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. John Read
The Vestry being informed that several petitions are laid before the Assembly
for the qualifying of Quakers in all cases whatsoever, without the Sacred Name
in such their qualifications. It is therefore ordered that the Church Wardens
with Mssrs. Robert Asheton [Assheton], Charles Read and Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence[ draw up a petition
relating thereto (which was according done and laid before the Assembly, signed by
the Church Wardens in the name of the Vestry and is as follows:
To the Honorable the Representatives of the Province of Pennsylvania,
now met in Assembly,
The humble petition of the Church Wardens and Vestry
of Christ Church, Philadelphia,
Showeth
That your petitioners are informed there are several petitions now lying before you
for an act to be passed enabling the people called Quakers, instead of the affirmations
or oaths now enjoined, to be permitted in all cases upon an affirmation excluding
the Sacred Name, which we humbly conceive, should such an act pass, it will
be attended with many ill consequences.
As first,
It may occasion very great uneasinesses and dissatisfactions in the minds
of most of the inhabitants, of what persuation soever in matters of religion,
nay, and of a far greater number of the Quakers themselves who very well approve
of the present affirmation.
All acts of this kind, as there has [cq] already been several, have been as
often disapproved and repealed by the Crown as they have been enacted, and may
be again upon a regular application[;] besides the frequent re-enacting thereof
may justly incur the King's displeasure.
That for as much as by the present act Quakers are admitted in all
cases whatsoever upon their solemn affirmation instead of their taking an
oath in the usual form[;] and the business of the country in judicial proceedings
having been smoothly and easily carried on ever since that act was approved by
the King. It is to be feared the making of another after the manner proposed
will sit so uneasy [cq] on the minds of many (who may perhaps think themselves
as conscientious as others)
[continued on next page]
[continued from preceeding page]
as to insist on the same privilege (if it may be called one) whereby we may run
into the utmost confusion, not to say anything of the lives and properties of the
subjects, their being determined upon so slender and precarious a security.
For which reasons[,] not to mention the many others that might be advanced[,]
we as well wishers to the peace and tranquility of this Province humbly re-
quest you'll be pleased to take this matter into your serious consideration,
and in your great wisdom, do therein, as may conduce to the public good, and
be most acceptable and beneficial to the generality of the people and your
petitioners etc.
Thomas Tresse
William Fraser
Church Wardens,
by order of Vestry
Ordered that the pews be all numbered in oil colors, according to the plan
of the Church pews, and that a further enquiry be made into the rights of pews, in
order to the settling the rents thereof.
______________________________
At a Vestry held March 10, 1723/1724 [Julian]
Present:
The Reverend Mr. John Talbot
Church Wardens:
Mr. Thomas Tresse
Mr. William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. John Kearsly [Kearsley]
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Thomas Chace [Chase]
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. Peter Evans[,] pursuant to an order of Vestry of the 19th of December last[,] having drawn the deeds of lease
and release from Thomas Peart to Thomas Tresse and William Fraser and their heirs[,] and producing the same
duly executed, and also a declaration of trust to Robert Asheton and the present Vestry Men[,] which deeds
are as followeth:
See 51 [entry continued on Page 51 of these minutes]
At a Vestry held December 19, 1723.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Thomas Tresse
William Fraser
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. John Read
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. John Kersley [Kearsley]
Mr. John Harrison
Peter Evans reports that pursuant to an order or request of a Vestry held May 11, 1723,
he has received into his hands the deeds relating to the house and lot
called the Baptist Lot and Meeting House and that he has perused the same deed
and finds Thomas Peart of Philadelphia[,] blacksmith[,] to have a good title to the same
lot in [unclear]. And that the said Thomas [Peart] is willing to grant and convey the said
lot to such person or persons as this Vestry shall appoint, to hold to them and their
heirs forever, for the use of Christ Church in Philadelphia.
Ordered that the said Peter Evans do draw a proper conveyance of the same
lot and its appurtenances from the said Thomas Peart to Thomas Tresse of Philadelphia[,]
merchant[,] and William Fraser of Philadelphia[,] merchant[,] now Church Wardens of Christ
Church in Philadelphia[,] to hold to them and their heirs to the use aforesaid, and that he
use his endeavors to get the same executed and make report of his doings
therein to the next Vestry.
An address to the Bishop of London pursuant to an order of a Vestry of
August 13, 1723, was this day sent home with Captain John Richmond, directed
to the care of Mr. William Thomas[,] cabinetmaker in Fleet Street[,] London[,] which
address is in the words following, viz.:
To the Right Reverend Father in God
Edmund Lord[,] Bishop of London
The Humble Address and Representation of the Church
Wardens and Vestry of Christ Church[,] Philadelphia
May it Please Your Lordship[,]
We Beg leave to Congratulate Your Lordship
upon Your Transition from the See of Lincoln of London, not doubting but
that Your Lordship will have the same Regard to the Church of Philadelphia
as the Late Bishops[,] Your Predecessors[,] have had.
It is now about Twenty Eight Years since the Foundation of an
English Church, by a very few of her Communion[,] was first laid in this
City, since which, by the Blessing of God[,] the Congregation has so increased
that two additions have been made thereto. And[,] we are sorry to say, that
had it not been for some very great Indiscretions and Mistakes of our Minister[,]
which we rather choose to bury in Oblivion, than to bring upon the Stage,
our Church and Religion would have stood much fairer in the Opinion of Her
Adversaries.
[continued on the following page]
[continued from preceding page]
We were in Hopes Your Lordship's Predecessor[,] upon the Death of our late Minister[,] Mr.
Vicary[,] would have filled this Vacany with an Able, Honest, Good Man without
which We humbly presume the Gospel can hardly propagate or the Church flourish
in a Place surrounded with such Swarms of Dissenters.
The Minister of this Church (saving the 50 pounds per annum the Crown's Bounty,
superseded some years ago) has always been mainteained by a Voluntary Subscription
of the Congregation amounting for several years past to at least 150 pounds per annum
which together with the Surplice fees, and a convenient House Rent Free, we modestly
compute at 200 pounds. Besides we do not despair of Regaining the Bounty Money,
would Your Lordship become an Advocate to the King for the same.
Our Church for above Twelve Months last past [cq] (rather than the Doors should
be shut and the Congregation scatter) has been supplied by one Mr. Urmston[,] here-
tofore Missionary to the Honorable Society to North Carolina, but now by them (for
good reasons[,] doubtless[,] Dismissed) as he is by us and gone for Maryland.
And now having given Your Lordship accounts of the State of our Church[,]
We humbly submit it to Your Lordship's Consideration, Beseeching You to send us such
a Gentleman as may be a Credit to our Communion, an Ornament to his
Profession, and a true Propagator of the Gospel. We are[,] with the Greatest Respects[,]
May it Please Your Lordship
Your Lordship's Most Obedient
Sons and Servants
That the interest money due to Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton] for 50 pounds by him advanced for
the use of the Church, be paid out of the stock first happening in the Church
Wardens' hands.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 25, 1729.
[see footnote explaining this out-of-sequence entry]
Present:
Peter Baynton
Peter Evans
Church Wardens
Vestry Men:
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Henry Docter
Mr. Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
Mr. Thomas Leech
Mr. Andrew Bradford
Mr. John Hyatt
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Thomas Bourne
Mr. James Bingham
Mr. Thomas Chase
Mr. William Chancellor
Mr. Joshua Maddox
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
The committee appointed last year to settle the accounts of the then late Church
Wardens report that they have several times requested Mr. Baynton to lay the same
before them[,] who said for want of some accounts of tradesmen not being finished he could
not settle the same.
Ordered, that the said committee, viz. Thomas Chase, Thomas Tresse, William Frazier [Frazer] and
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen][,] give Mr. Bolton notice in writing that he lay before them the said accounts on a day
appointed[,] that the said committee settle the accounts of the subscriptions for the purchase of
H. Durborrow's [Durborow] ground and that they settle the accounts of the last Church Wardens in
order to have them ready to lay before the Vestry at their next meeting.
Ordered, that Mr. Cummings and Mr. Evans be appointed to renew our application
to Barbadoes and St. Christophers for some contribution towards carrying on our Church.
Ordered, that Mr. Tresse, Mr. Chancellor, Mr. Hyat [Hyatt] and Mr. Bourne be appointed to solicit
strangers for contributions, and that they take to their assistance any others of the Vestry as
they shall see convenient.
This was entered here by mistake and may be found regularly entered in Page 67.
On Easter Monday, April 6, 1724, the Congregation of Christ Church
after Divine Service elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
Thomas Tresse
William Frasier [Fraser]
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. Thomas Chace [Chase]
Mr. Josiah Rolfe
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. Samuell Hasell
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. Benjamin Godfrey
Mr. George McCall
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Thomas Leech
Mr. Thomas Lawrance [Lawrence]
Sides Men:
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
See Page 41
[entry continued from Page 41 of these minutes]
It is agreed and ordered that the proper deeds be drawn to invest the premises in trustees, and to establish
the same for a free school forever. And that Mssrs. Robert Asheton [Assheton] and Peter Evans prepare a
draft of a deed to be perused by the next Vestry.
Ordered, that notice be given in writing to the members of the Baptist Meeting that the
lot etc. now in their occupation are legally invested in Thomas Tresse and William Fraser[,] Church Wardens
of Christ Church[,] Philadelphia[,] and that the same is to be established for a free school forever. And
that they be requested to quit the premises. That the said Church Wardens[,] together with Mssrs.
Read and Morgan[,] serve some of the principal members of the said Baptist Meeting with this
notice and make report of their answer to the next Vestry.
________________________________________________
At a Vestry held July 27, 1724.
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Fraser
Thomas Tresse
Vestry Men:
Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Mr. Peter Evans
Mr. Charles Read
Mr. James Tuthill
Mr. Thomas Polegreen
Mr. John Kersley [Kearsley]
Mr. Samuel Hasell
Mr. Benjamin Morgan
Mr. John Harrison
Mr. George Plumley
Mr. Thomas Leech
Mr. Robert Ellis
Mr. Merick Davis
Mr. Benjamin Godfrey
Mr. Thomas Chase
The Church Wardens[,] with Mssrs. Charles Read and John Kersley [Kearsley], persuant to an order of the Vestry
of March last[,] did serve Edward Church [uncertain] with the notice in writing on March 14 following[,] signed by
a majority of the Vestry; but received no direct answer. The notice delivered is as followeth:
To the members of the Anabaptist Meeting in Philadelphia in the Province of
Pennsylvania:
Whereas Thomas Peart of this city[,] blacksmith[,] who hath the sole right and property
in the house and lot the Second Street formerly called the Keithian Meeting House and lot now
use of by you, hath legally conveyed the same, in trust, for the benefit of Christ Church in
Philadelphia, which the Church Wardens and Vestry have agreed shall be established for a
free school forever.
This is therefore to give you notice and request that you will
quit the said house and lot with all convenient expedition, that the execution of so
good a design may not meet with any delay.
Signed by all the Vestry except Captain Anthony Palmer
Ordered, that the following letter be delivered by the Church Wardens to the Reverend Doctor Richard Welton[,]
who are to receive his answer and make report thereof to the next Vestry:
Reverend Sir:
We the Church Wardens and Vestry of Christ Church, Philadelphia, taking into our serious consideration
the melancholoy state of our Church, which since the death of the Reverend Mr. Vikery [Vicary] has been
left in a manner destitute and without a pastor.
We have some time since addressed the Right Reverend the Bishop of London for a
supply to fill the vacancy, but have not yet heard from His Lordship.
It is therefore our humble request that you would be pleased to take the Cure
of this Church upon you. With extraordinary favor, we shall always gratefully
acknowledge and beg leave to subscribe ourselves.
Reverently,
Your most obedient and humble servants,
Philadelphia, July 27, 1724
Signed by the Church Wardens and Vestry above-mentioned
On Easter Monday, March 28, 1725, the congregation of Christ
Church[,] after Divine Service, elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
Samuell Hasell
Robert Ellis
Vestry Men:
Robert Ashton [Assheton]
Charles Read
Thomas Chase
James Tuthill
John Kearsley
Thomas Tresse
William Fraser
Peter Evans
George Plumley
Thomas Polegreen
Thomas Lawrence
Thomas Fenton
Benjamin Morgan
William Chancellor
Captain Anthony Palmer
Jonathan Lacock [Laycock]
William Paschall
Sides or Quest Men:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
At a Vestry held June 3, 1725:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Robert Ellis
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
William Fraser
William Chancellor
James Tuthill
Thomas Leech
The Vestry entered upon the consideration of the method to be taken for the paying of
of [cq] Hugh Derborough [Durborow] the remaining part due to him for the lot of sand purchased
from him for the use of the Church, and could not think of any way so proper as a
subscription by the congregation etc. which was concluded on. Whereupon the
new Doctor Welton was pleased not only to propmise us to prepare a discourse against
next Sunday suitable to the occasion but also to join with any gentlemen of the Vestry
in the collaboration thereof.
At a Vestry held June 21, 1725.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
James Tuthill
Thomas Lawrence
Robert Bolton
William Fraser
John Kearsley
George Plumley
Thomas Chase
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
Hugh Derborough [Durborow] being sent for, he had notice given him to remove the buildings
from off the lot lately purchased from him, within three months from this date[,]
pursuant to the articles which he promised to perform, and said he was ready upon payment
of the one hundred pounds (he having received two hundred pounds before) to convey [(]as counsel shall
advise) to such persons as the Vestry shall think fit to pitch upon in trust for the congregation.
Whereupon the Vestry nominated Robert Asheton [Assheton], John Kearsley and Samuel Hasell [as] trustees
for the same, who are desired to get the deeds perfected with all possible expedition.
The new Doctor Welton and Doctor Kearsley[,] who have chiefly concerned
themselves in taking the collections and subscription of the congregation agreeable to a
minute of the last Vestry[,] do now report that those collections and subscriptions amount
to [pound sign and blank space] or thereabouts; whereupon it is ordered that one hundred pounds
thereof be paid to Hugh Derborough [Durborow] upon his executing the deed, and the further sum
of [pound sign and blank space] now due to the loan office.
Robert Bolton and Thomas Leech are requested
to collect the remaining part of the subscriptions not yet paid in.
At a Vestry held July 19, 1725.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Robert Ellis
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Charles Read
George Plumley
Thomas Fenton
Anthony Palmer
Thomas Lawrence
James Tuthill
Hugh Derborough [Durborow] executed the deeds of conveyance to Robert Asheton [Assheton], John Kearsley and
Samuel Hasell[,] trustees for the lot of sand purchased from him, which were put into the
hands of Charles Brockden in order to be recorded.
Ordered that Charles Read, Thomas
Chase and Thomas Leech examine the late Wardens' accounts and make a report thereof to the next Vestry
and that Mr. Robert Asheton [Assheton] be paid the fifty pounds which he lent the Church towards paying Hugh
Derborough [Durborow] for the land purchased from him, and that Samuel Hasell and Robert Bolton collect the [uncertain; perhaps intended to "remaining funds"]
of the subscriptions made for Hugh Derborough's [Durborow] land purchased from him.
At a Vestry held July 26, 1725.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
James Tuthill
William Fraser
Thomas Fenton
Thomas Leech
George Plumley
Mr. Fraser informs the Vestry that the late Wardens' accounts are finished and that they will be
delivered to Charles Read, Thomas Chase and Thomas Leech to be examined according to an order of the
last Vestry.
According to an order of the last Vestry[,] Mr. Robert
Asheton [Assheton] was paid fifty pounds which he lent the Church toward purchasing Hugh
Derborough's [Durborow] [Durborrow] lot, and twenty shillings for the remaining part of the full interest due to
him for the same.
Mr. Robert Asheton [Ashton], John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] and Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
are desired to draw up some rules for the letter [better?] regulating the proceedings in Vestry, and
lay the same before the next Vestry.
Ordered that Robert Ellis and Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
pay the quotas due to the loan office out of the money collected for paying for the land [uncertain]
purchased from Hugh Derborough [Durborow] [Durborrow].
At a Vestry held Aug. 16, 1725:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Robert Bolton
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Anthony Palmer
Thomas Fenton
Charles Read
James Tuthill
Thomas Chase
William Fraser
George Plumley
Benjamin Morgan
Mr. Alexander Annand being recommended to the Vestry as a person well qualified
to discharge the trust of a school master, and there being now [uncertain] a vacancy, he is
approved of and admitted for the present, until the place be legally filled by himself
or some other person from the Bishop.
At Vestry held September 6, 1725.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
Charles Read
William Fraser
Thomas Tresse
George Plumley
Thomas Polegreen
James Tuthill
Benjamin Morgan
Thomas Leech
Ordered that the arrears of pews be forthwith collected and if any refuse to
pay[,] their seats be let to others.
At a Vestry November 11, 1725.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
Thomas Leech
Thomas Polegreen
Robert Bolton
James Tuthill
Ordered that the Church Wardens pay to the Rev. Mr. Weyman five pounds out of the
collections in full satisfaction for services done to the Church at Philadelphia.
It appearing by the account that several are in arrears for their pews, it is
ordered that the clerk give public notice after service next Sunday to such that
they bring in their respective rents to the Church Wardens in a fortnight after this
notice. Otherwise their seats will be let to others.
At a Vestry held January 13, 1725/1726 [Julian].
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
John Kearsley
James Tuthill
Robert Bolton
George Plumley
Robert Bolton
Thomas Chase
Thomas Fenton
Benjamin Morgan
Anthony Palmer
The Rev. Doctor Welton[,] who has officiated as minister in this Church
in its vacancy at our request (being now called home by the Government).
requesting our testimonial or certificate of conduct and behavior amongst
us, and we being sensible of the good services he has done the Church, think our-
[continued on the followinig page]
[continued from preceding page]
selves under an obligation to do him justice in that behalf. It is therefore
ordered that the Church Wardens get the same prepared and lay it before the next
Vestry. The Church Wardens laying before the Vestry a list of
arrears of rent of the pews and another half-year's rent will be due the 25th of
March next, so that as well the arrears as the next payment will require a
very speedy collection to accommodate the Doctor before his departure. It is
therefore ordered that the Church Wardens[,] with the assistance of Mr. Bolton
and Mr. Chase[,] collect the same with all possible dispatch.
At a Vestry held February 7, 1725/1726 [Julian]
Present:
Church Wardens:
Robert Ellis
Samuel Hasell
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Charles Read
Benjamin Morgan
Thomas Fenton
James Tuthill
Robert Bolton
Thomas Tresse
Our Church now being vacant and no minister to perform the dutuies thereof
and we being informed that the Rev. Mr. Wayman [Weyman], Mr. Leadman and Mr. Holebrook
are willing to lend us all the assistance they can until we can be otherwise
supplied. It is ordered that the Church Wardens acquaint them
that we kindly accept of their generous offer and will gratefully acknow-
ledge their trouble.
On Easter Monday, April 11, 1726, the Congregation
of Christ Church after Divine Service elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Robert Bolton
Vestry Men:
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
Thomas Chase
Robert Ellis
Thomas Fenton
Charles Read
James Tuthill
John Kearsley
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Fraser
Thomas Tresse
Peter Evans
Benjamin Morgan
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Andrew Bradford
Alexander Wooddrop
Anthony Palmer
George Plumley
Sides or Quest Men:
Thomas Leech
Peter Bainton [Baynton]
At a Vestry held August 1, 1726.
Present:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Robert Bolton
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Anthony Palmer
Charles Read
Thomas Lawrence
Thomas Leech
James Tuthill
John Kearsley
William Fraser
Benjamin Morgan
William Chancellor
Ordered that the parsonage house be cleaned out and repaired that Mr. Weyman may come
into it.
Ordered that Mr. Francis Jones and his wife be placed in that part
of the pew No. 25 where Captain Parker and his wife used to sit.
Ordered that Mrs.
Young be placed in the pew where Mrs. Paxton sits and that Doctor Thomas Greene and his
wife be placed in the pew No. 23 with Mr. McCall.
At a Vestry held September 9, 1726:
The Rev. Mr. Archibald Cummings laid before the Board a license
from the Right Rev. Edmund[,] Lord Bishop of London[,] appointing
him minister of this Church, and was accordingly received.
At a Vestry held November 2, 1726:
Present:
Church Wardens:
SamuelHasell
Robert Bolton
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Peter Evans
John Kearsley
Thomas Leech
James Tuthill
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
William Fraser
The Church Wardens report that they have collected fifty-four pounds and
six pence[,] rent of the pews for the last half year ending September 25, 1726.
It is ordered that fifty pounds thereof be paid to the Rev. Mr. Weyman
in full satisfaction for this care of the Church durings its vacancy, and the remaining
four pounds and six pence be paid to the Rev. Mr. Ledman for the care he has taken of us.
At a Vestry held December 24, 1726:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Samuel Hasell
Robert Bolton
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Leech
James Tuthill
George Plumley
John Kearsley
Peter Bainton [Baynton]
Thomas Fenton
Peter Evans
The Church Wardens report to the Vestry that they have in their hands
twenty pounds [and] two shillings lately collected by Thomas Leech and Peter Bainton [Baynton].
Ordered the same be paid to the Rev. Mr. Cummins toward defraying the
charge of his passage etc. hither.
On Easter Monday, April 3, 1727, the
Congregation of Christ Church after Divine Service elected the following Church officers:
Church Wardens:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Thomas Tresse
Charles Read
James Tuthill
Benjamin Morgan
Alexander Wooddrop
William Fraser
Samuel Hasell
John Kearsley
Peter Evans
George Plumley
Thomas Lawrence
Andrew Bradford
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
William Chancellor
Robert Ellis
Thomas Fenton
Sides Men:
Peter Baynton
Thomas Chase
April 15, 1727.
On a Vestry held this day:
Present:
The Rev. Mr. Cummings, Minister
Church Wardens:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
Samuel Hasell
William Fraser
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Chace [Chase]
Alexander Woodroop [Wooddrop]
Andrew Bradford
James Tuthil [Tuthill]
John Kearsley
Peter Evans
Thomas Lawrence
Ordered, that Mssrs. Thomas Tresse, Thomas Chace [Chase] [and] William Fraser
be appointed to settle and adjust the accounts of the Church
Wardens for the last year and that they also settle the account
of the subscriptions made to pay for the lot of ground bought
of Hugh Durborough [Durborow] adjoining to the north side of the Church
and collected by Mssrs. Robert Ellis, Doctor Kearsley, Robert Boulton [Bolton]
and Samuel Hasell, and that they report to the next Vestry how
much they have paid toward the said lot, and what remains
in their hands, also how much remains uncollected of the said
subscription roll.
Then it was moved that the present Church was too small
to accommodate the Congregation, and after some consideration had
[word missing] thereupon and the necessity of enlarging the same being urged,
[continued on next page]
[continued from preceding page]
Resolved, that an addition or enlargement of 33 foot be
added to the west end of our Church, and that a foundation be
forthwith laid for the same, together with a foundation for a
steeple or tower adjoining to the west end of the enlargement.
Upon which Doctor Kearsley, out of a hearty desire to
have the said work begun, undertakes to set men a-digging in
order to lay the foundation, and will disburse money for the
same until subscriptions be made and collected for this use.
Ordered that Mssrs. Robert Asheton [Assheton][,] John Kearsley[,] Peter
Evans and Charles Read be appointed a committee to draw
up proper applications for subscriptions from the parishioners
as also from strangers for raising money for the above uses,
and that they prepare another application for that purpose
to be signed by the Church Wardens and Vestry, to be sent to St.
Stephens [uncertain] under the care of Mr. Alexander Woodroop [Wooddrop], who is willing
to transmit and negotiate the same.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia
April 24, 1727:
Present:
The Rev. Mr. Cummings, Minister
Church Wardens:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Peter Evans
Samuel Hasell
James Tuthill
William Chancellor
Charles Read
Thomas Tresse
John Kearsley
Robert Ellis
Thomas Chase
Andrew Bradford
Benjamin Morgan
Sundry applications being drawn up for subscriptions
according to the direction of the last Vestry,
Ordered that Mssrs. John Kearsley[,] James Tuthill and
Thomas Tresse be appointed to apply to the parishioners and other well
disposed persons for their subscriptions toward the addition to the
Church and erecting a steeple.
And that Mssrs. William Chancellor and Peter Baynton make
application to strangers for said purpose.
And that Mssrs. Thomas Chase and Samuel Hasell apply to Barbadian
gentlemen for the same.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia
on May 2, 1727
Present:
The Reverend Mr. [Archibald] Cummins, Minister
Church Wardens:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
James Tuthill
John Kearsley
Thomas Tresse
William Chancellor
Peter Baynton
Samuel Hasell
Robert Ellis
Peter Evans
Thomas Chace [Chase]
Benjamin Morgan
Andrew Bradford
Thomas Lawrence
Alexander Woodrop [Wooddrop]
Doctor Kearsley reported to the Vestry that he had
ordered the digging and laying a foundation for the addition
to the Church and also for the steeple and that the workmen
were now about the same.
Resolved that Mssrs. John Kearsley[,] Thomas Tresse[,]
Robert Ellis and Thomas Leech be appointed overseers or
managers of the work now begun, and that they take care
that the work be well done and the workmen paid, and that
a suitable foundation be laid for a handsome steeple to be
erected when money can be raised suuficient for the purpose.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia
February 15, 1727/1728 [Julian]
Present:
The Mr. [Archibald] Cummins, Minister
Church Wardens:
Robert Bolton
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence
Samuel Hasell
Alexander Woodrop [Wooddrop]
Thomas Tresse
William Chancellor
Charles Read
John Kearsley
Peter Evans
William Frasier [Fraser]
George Plumley
Benjamin Morgan
Peter Baynton
Robert Asheton [Assheton]
The petition of Charles Stow for the clerks place of C. Church of Philadelphia[,]
the petition of David Barry, and also of Edward Sedgwick for the
same, were severally read and considered.
And David Barry was chosen by a majority to serve as clerk.
Resolved, that before he enter on the said office, he find
good security for his honest, sober and faithful discharge of the
trust to be reposed in him, and that it be a constant rule
to be observed that he settle and adjust his accounts to the Minister and Church War-
dens quarterly or as often as he shall be thereunto requested.
[continued on the following page]
[continued from the preceding page]
Ordered that the said Stow[,] in consideration of his sup-
plying the clerk's place in the time of the late vacancy, have
and receive the salary and pequisites due to the place since
the late clerk [unclear] Asheton's decease to this time, and that
he shall have the usual allowance for Sexton thence
forward.
April 22, 1728, being Easter Monday,
the congregation after Divine Service proceeded to choose
Church Wardens and Vestry Men for the ensuing year, according
to custom, and the following persons were chosen, viz.
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton
Sides Men:
Peter Evans
Alexander Woodrop [Wooddrop]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence
Charles Read
John Kearsley
Robert Boulton [Bolton]
Benjamin Morgan
Thomas Chase
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Bourne
Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
Samuel Hasell
William Frasier [Fraser]
George Plumley
Joshua Madox [Maddox]
William Chancellor
Andrew Bradford
James Bingham
Henry Dexter [Docter]
At a Vestry held June 6, 1728.
Present:
The Rev. Mr. [Archibald] Cummins, Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
Peter Evans
Thomas Tresse
Robert Boulton [Bolton]
John Kearsley
William Fraser
William Chancellor
Samuel Hasell
Joshua Maddox
Henry Dexter [Docter]
The petition to the Society for the Propagation of the
Gospel in Foreign Parts requesting some help toward the enlargement
of our Church[,] being drawn up and presented to the Vestry[,] was read and
agreed to and is as follows, viz.
[continued on following page]
[continued from the preceding page]
[upper half of the page is blank]
Ordered that the Church Wardens and whole Vestry sign the
same, and that Mr. Peter Evans write to Mr. Muajan Berry [uncertain], merchant
[of] London[,] and enclose the said petition requesting the favor of him to
present the same to the said Society.
A petiton from Jonathan Price[,] Thomas Coalman Jr.
and Hugh Hughes requesting to do the carpenter's work of the new
addition to the Church was read and considered.
But forasmuch as the timber is already agreed for and carpen-
ters so far engaged as cannot fairly be put off[:]
Resolved that their petition is out of time, but that
they or either of them may assist in the said work if they can come
to an agreement among themselves.
A petition of the widow of the late Sexton Jonathan
Smith[,] deceased[,] requesting some allowance for her said husband[']s
attendance and pains in picking up the bones at digging the foundation[,]
was read and referred to further consideration.
Ordered that the Vestry meet the first Monday in July next and then the
first Monday in every other month throughout the year and every member
of Vestry not appearing shall forfeit one shilling and six pence
[continued on next page]
[continued from preceding page]
for every neglect, except [as] sickness or business of absolute neces-
sity prevents, or excuse to be allowed of by the members of
Vestry present. And that the clerk give notice always the
Sunday next before such meeting of the Vestry, and the said fines
to be appropriated as the Vestry shall see fit
At a Vestry held July 4, 1728.
Present:
The Rev. Mr. [Archibald] Cummins, Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
John Kearsley
Peter Evans
Robert Boulton
William Chancellor
William Fraser
James Bingham
Joshua Maddox
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Forasmuch as many strangers frequent this place, from whom
large contributions might be had toward carrying on our present
building[,] go away without being applied to[:]
Resolved that Mr. Controuler be requested to join Mr.
Tresse and the rest of the gentlemen appointed in the subscription role
in the room of Mr. Tuthill[,] deceased[,] and that they make application
to strangers for the use above said, and forasmuch as the doing the
said service may be attended with some charge and expense[:]
Resolved that they be allowed 10 percent for what money
they collect as above said.
The petition of the Sexton[']s widow was taken into consideration[:]
Ordered that there be allowed her for her late husband[']s service
in burying the bones 1/6 [probably one pound, six shillings] per diem for the time the foundation
was digging, and the time to be ascertained by Doctor Kearsley's
book.
Ordered that Mssrs. Thomas Tresse[,] Thomas Chase and William
Fraser be appointed to settle and adjust the accounts of the
Church Wardens for the last year in order to lay before the
Vestry at their next meeting.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia, September 2, 1728.
Present:
The Rev. Mr. [Archibald] Cummins, Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
John Kearsley
Peter Evans
William Fraser
Andrew Bradford
James Bingham
Thomas Bourne
Henry Dexter [Docter]
William Chancellor
Benjamin Morgan
Joshua Maddox
Thomas Tresse
Some of the Congregation having been requested sometime since
to treat with Mr. Ludovic Sprogel about an organ lately arrived
here, report that they had done the same and that he insisted
on 200 pounds for said organ, and that they had procured men of the
best skill this place could afford to erect the said organ in a
convenient house in town to make trial thereof, which being
done, it is said the organ proves good in its kind and large
enough for our Church.
Then after some consideration and debate had thereupon
Resolved that the organ be purchased for the use of Christ
Church in Philadelphia, and that Peter Baynton [Bainton], Peter Evans, William Chan-
cellor, Thomas Tresse and James Bingham be appointed to go about to
get subscriptions, and collect money for that purpose, and that
in case more money should be raised, than the price of the organ
the overplus to be appropriated to the building of the church, and that
the same persons together with Mr. Cummins and such other persons
as they shall call to their assistance appoint a suitable place to
erect it in and that they order the moving it into the Church
forthwith from the place where it now is.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 25, 1729.
[entered by mistake, and in duplicate, on Page 45 of these same minutes]
Present:
Church Wardens
Peter Baynton
Peter Evans
Vestry Men:
Mr. John Kearsley
Mr. Henry Docter [Dexter]
Mr. Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen]
Mr. Thomas Leech
Mr. Andrew Bradford
Mr. John Hyatt
Mr. John Moore
Mr. Thomas Bourne
Mr. James Bingham
Mr. Thomas Chace [Chase]
Mr. Joshua Maddox
Mr. William Chancellor
Mr. William Frasier [Fraser]
The committee appointed last year to settle the accounts of the then
late Church Wardens report that they have several times requested Mr. Baynton to lay
the same before them[,] who said for want of some accounts of tradesmen not being finished
he could not settle the same.
Ordered, that the said committee, viz. Thomas Chase, Thomas Tresse, William Frazier [Frazer]
and Thomas Polgreen [Polegreen][,] give Mr. Bolton notice in writing that he lay before them the
said accounts on a day appointed[,] that the said committee settle the accounts of the subscriptions
for the purchase of H. Durborrow's [Durborow] ground and that they settle the accounts of the last Church Wardens
in order to have them ready to lay before the Vestry at their next meeting.
Ordered, that Mr. Cummings and Mr. Evans be appointed to renew our application to
Barbadoes and St. Christophers for some contribution towards carrying on our Church.
Ordered, that Mr. Tresse, Mr. Chancellor, Mr. Hyatt and Mr. Bourne be appointed
to solicit strangers for contributions and that they take to their assistance any others
of the Vestry as they shall see convenient.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia April 9, 1730.
Present:
The Reverend Mr. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Anthony Palmer
Peter Baynton
James Bingham
Charles Read
John Hyatt
Thomas Tresse
John Kearsley
Andrew Bradford
George Plumley
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Thomas Leech
Joshua Maddox
Certain rules for the better government of this vestry were produced and read and
assented to and ordered to be fairly engrossed and entered in the Vestry book.
Mr. Peter Baynton, late Warden[,] exhibited his accounts.
Mr. Kearsley also produced his account relating to the new addition to the Church
together with the workmen's accounts.
Ordered that Charles Read[,] Anthony Palmer[,] John Hyat [Hyatt][,] James Bingham
and Joshua Maddox or any three of them be a committee to examine said accounts
and make report the next meeting.
Mr. Dexter [Docter] presented to the Vestry eighteen pounds six shillings[,] which
was delivered to Mr.Kearsley[,] being a voluntary donation of the gentlemen of
Ireland met at his house on St. Patrick's day toward carrying on the new
additional building of the Church.
Ordered that Mr. Dexter [Docter] return the gentlemen the thanks of the
Vestry for the same.
Drawn by Robert Asheton [Assheton][,] John Kearsley and Samuel Hasell
Rules of Vestry designed for the better establishment of
order and a ready dispatch of business.
That twenty persons be annually chosen by the congregation on Easter Monday
immediately after Divine Service in the morning to serve as Vestrymen for the ensuing year[,] at
which time also two Churchwardens shall be chosen[,] one by the minister and the other by the
people.
That the names of the persons so elected shall on the Sunday following
be published openly in the Church and every of them elected as aforesaid shall attend
in the Church on the Monday following in the afternoon to receive from the late Church
Wardens their accounts for the time of their wardenship in order to audit and settle the
same[,] and shall take into their consideration such things as may then be found wanting
for further promoting the good of the congregation.
That the old Church Wardens shall lay their accounts in writing before the
Vestry at their first meeting annually[,] or oftener if occasion require[,] to be examined
and settled as aforesaid by the Vestry or a committee appointed by them[,] and shall also
deliver up all books of accounts[,] minutes and papers belonging to the Church which shall
be lodged in a chest kept by the Minister and Churchwardens for that purpose.
That the Minister and Churchwardens or any three of the Vestry may order a
meeting of the Vestry either by giving public notice in the Church or by a summons to be
left by the Clerk at the houses or dwellings of the respective members, informing
them of the time[,] place and the intent of such meeting[,] and if any members having
notice as aforesaid[,] and not detained by sickness or out of town[,] doth not appear
within an hour of the time appointed for meeting of the Vestry[,] he shall forfeit to
the Churchwardens for the time being one shilling to be disposed of by them for
the use of the poor.
That so often as a Vestry meets[,] the matter or thing for which they were
called shall be first moved and debated by the members one by one sitting (or standing)
in their places[,] speaking pertinently to the point without wandering from the matter[,]
and in such cases shall be heard without interruption.
That no member shall speak above twice to one matter without leave of the
Vestry nor shall any new motion be made until that in debate is first decided by
putting the same to votes[,] which votes shall immediately be entered into the Vestry
book.
That [continued on the next page]
[continued from the preceding page]
That after the particular design of the meeting is debated and concluded
by a vote[,] the minutes of the last sitting of the Vestry shall be read over
deliberately[,] one by one[,] and if it appears there is any thing referred to the
present meeting[,] it shall be at that time concluded by a vote or
minuted to be considered the next meeting of the Vestry or as then
shall be thought proper.
That if any dispute or difference arises among the members of the
Congregation about seats in the Church or other right or privilege
supposed to belong to them therein[,] it shall be laid before the
Vestry and after hearing the parties thereon, the opinion of a majority
of the Vestry, a copy of which shall be delivered to the parties in
writing[,] shall be decisive in the case, but if the parties are
refractory and refuse to submit to such determination so that
the peace of the Congregation and members thereof are disquieted thereby[,]
and if after a second or third admonition they yet continue obstinate
and refractory[,] they shall be disabled from electing or being elected as
a Vestryman and shall have no right to any pew in the Church until they are
reconciled and shall conform themselves to the rules and established discipline of
the Congregation[,] and their names shall be entered in the Vestry book as
persons refractory and disturbers of the peace and unity of the Church until
such time as they do recant and acknowledge their fault. Upon which
recantation and acknowledgement they shall again be received and recantation
and reception shall be entered in the Vestry book accordingly.
That the rules of the Vestry shall be hung up in the Body of the
Church for the more convenient reading and publishing thereof.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia September 7, 1730:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Captain Anthony Palmer
Alexander Wooddropp [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddrop]
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Benjamin Morgan
Joshua Maddox
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Andrew Bradford
James Bingham
Robert Ellis
Ordered that the Church Wardens with the acquaintances of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Thomas Tresse,
and the sidemen or any two of these four do vet the rates on the new pews
not yet rated and make return thereof to the next Vestry.
Also ordered that the windows be glazed with all expedition in order
the the pulpit may be removed to the place appointed for the better
accommodating the whole congregation.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia January 18, 1730 [Julian]
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Captain Anthony Palmer
Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Chase [Chace]
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
John Hyatt [Hyat]
George Plumley
Andrew Bradford
Henry Dexter [Docter]
James Bingham
Joshua Maddox
Benjamin Morgan
The Vestry being informed of a bill twice read in the House of Assembly for Security
of Disputes in their concessions of meeting houses whereby it may if not timely prevented impeach
the title which the church has to Keithian meeting house et cetera
It is now agreed and ordered that a petition be prepared and laid before the assembly
praying that a Salvo Jure be inserted in the said bill before it passes.
And that Peter Evans draw the said petition.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia March 17, 1730 [Julian]:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Captain Anthony Palmer
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Robert Bolton [Boulton]
James Bingham
Andrew Bradford
Henry Dexter [Docter]
The Act for Enabling Religious Society et cetera being taken into consideration as
affecting the interest of this church particularly in relation to their right in and to
the Keithian lot et cetera.
Ordered that the Church Wardens procure a copy of said act under seal, if it may
be had, in order to be transmitted home to be repealed et cetera and that a sum not less
than ten Guineas be raised for that purpose.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia March 22, 1730 [Julian]
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Captain Anthony Palmer
Thomas Leech
George Plumley
Joshua Maddox
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Henry Dexter [Docter]
John Hyatt [Hyat]
James Bingham
The Act above being read and a petition to his Majesty was also read and signed by the Ministers and Church Wardens and Vestry in these words.
The petition was signed by the above persons and also by John Moore, Alexander Wooddropp [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddrop], Andrew
Bradford, William Chancellor.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia May 17, 1730 [Uncertain, may be 1731]:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
Captain Anthony Palmer
Thomas Leech
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Robert Bolton [Boulton]
George Plumley
James Bingham
Thomas Chase [Chace]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Joshua Maddox
The committee appointed to examine the acts of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Mr.
Peter Baynton [Bainton], and those of the workmen did make their report as follows. Viz.
That they had carefully perused the account of the said Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and had
the voucher produced for them relating to the money received and disbursed for carrying on the
additional building of Christ's Church from April 10, 1727 to April 19, 1730 and
that they find it a very fair and just account and that he very well deserved the thanks
of the congregation for his great pains and care in the management thereof.
Mr. Peter Baynton [Bainton] account as Church Warden for the last year was examined, and
approved a very true account of receipts and disbursements.
An account of Daniel Harrisons for carpenter's work was also examined, but
not thought reasonable by them whereupon it was agreed that it should be
propounded to him to choose two persons and the managers two capable persons
to measure and judge of the value of the work charged therein. It was also thought by the committee that Thomas Butter and John Butter in
their several accounts had overcharged 3 pence in the pound in several articles of wrought
iron and referred to the managers to get abatement.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia June 11, 1730 [Uncertain, may be 1731]:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne
Vestry Men:
John Moore
Captain Anthony Palmer
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Tresse
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Joshua Maddox
Thomas Chase [Chace]
Benjamin Morgan
William Fraser [Frasier] [Frazier] [Frazer]
Ordered that a plan of the new pews be got drawn by the Church Wardens and the rates be set thereon by
them with the assistance of John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Thomas Tresse and the sidemen or any two of said last for which plans and rates
are to be laid before the next Vestry and that on Sunday next immediately after evening prayers public notice be given
in church to all persons that want seats to bring their names to the Church Wardens by the Friday following, and the
Church Wardens with the assistance of such persons as the Vestry who meet on Sunday evening next shall direct to
appoint seats for those who want and apply for them.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia May 3, 1731
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Thomas Bourne
Joshua Maddox
Vestry Men:
John Moore
Captain Anthony Palmer
Robert Bolton [Boulton]
Thomas Tresse
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Evans
Charles Read
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Thomas Leech
James Bingham
Edward Bradley
William Pywell
Resolved that Mr. Joshua Maddox, Mr. Charles Read, Mr. Thomas Tresse, Mr. James
Bingham, Mr. John Hyatt [Hyat] be appointed as a committee to inspect the account of the late
Church Warden, Mr. Peter Evans as also the accounts of Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and Mr. Thomas
Leech likewise the account of the preceding Church Wardens to this time in order
for their fair transcription into the church books and make report thereof to
the next Vestry.
Upon a motion being made that some proper measures be taken to get
new subscriptions for carrying on the rebuilding of the church it was agreed
that the three subsequent persons to the Church Wardens on the Vestry list
endeavour to procure the same and lay their proceedings before the next
Vestry.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia July 15, 1731
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Thomas Bourne
Joshua Maddox
Vestry Men:
John Moore
Captain Anthony Palmer
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
James Bingham
Peter Evans
Benjamin Morgan
Henry Dexter [Docter]
William Pywell
Thomas Leech
Andrew Bradford
Evan Jones
Thomas Tresse
George Plumley
Mr. Jones the Baptist Minister and Mr. William Branson pray to be heard in
relation to the lot of ground whereon the Baptist Meeting House stands they were
desired to attend the Vestry and the said Jones requesting in order to remove all
disputes concerning the same that a moderate price might be fixed on the said
lot of ground which being taken into consideration it was unanimously agreed
that the right of the church should be legally conveyed to the said Jones and
Branson for the use of the Anabaptist congregation they paying to
the sum of fifty pounds which being thought a law.
Later consideration the value of the said lot nevertheless was agreed to that peace,
love, and charity might subsist among Christian brethren but Mr. Jones and
Mr. Branson not thinking it at that time proper to give a conclusive answer
was desired if they hereafter should have any thing farther to offer to apply
to the Church Wardens for the time being who were appointed to hear their
proposals and finally to settle and determine the manner of paying the
consideration money for the use of the church.
Captain Anthony Palmer and Mr. Thomas Tresse were appointed to procure
and collect additional subscriptions for the carrying on the building of the church and Mr.
Thomas Leech accepted to officiate as Church Warden in the room of Mr. Thomas
Bourne whose affairs called him beyond the sea and who offering his service to
the church if the Vestry should think him capable of doing any in his
travels it was resolved that a petition should be drawn up and signed
by the Vestry and delivered. P. Bourne requesting all well disposed people
contribute towards the rebuilding of the church and that Mr. Peter Evans
prepare the names and then the Vestry returned thanks to the P. Bourne for
his laudable inclination to serve the church.
Resolved that the sum of five pounds be paid by all persons who
erect tomb stones in the church yard or burying ground whether they
may be placed on a pedestal or laid flat over the ground.
At a Vestry held March 16, 1731/1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Joshua Maddox
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
Captain Anthony Palmer
Edward Bradley
William Pywell
James Bingham
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Pursuant to an order of Vestry of July 15th last, a writing being drawn
up for the Vestry to sign to impower Mr. Thomas Lesse and Mr. William Frasier [Fraser] [Frazier] [Frazer] to whom
the lot of ground on which the Baptist Meeting House stands was conveyed
in trust for the uses of Christ Church in Philadelphia to convey the same to such
person or persons as the said congregation should nominate and appoint and to their
use forever; being read and considered was by the unanimous consent of the
Vestry present signed by them with directions to the Church Wardens, to take
their bond for 50 pounds the consideration money agreed upon payable to said
Church Wardens and in trust for the uses of said church pursuant to the
agreement made with them.
By an order of Vestry the same date some persons were appointed to
procure subscriptions towards the building the old part of our church
but it appearing that no progress has been made therein, and that there is an
absolute necessity to pull down that ruinous part of the old building in a
very short time, he's ordered that the Church Wardens draw up a preamble
for the said subscriptions in order to be proceeded upon after Easter.
It was further represented that the 100 pounds given to our church by Dr.
H. Graham towards carrying on the New Edition could not be received without
some persons would give bond to refund the same to the proceeds in case
it should appear hereafter that they had paid it in their own wrong.
Upon which Mr. John Read and Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. with some others to join with
them viz the Church Wardens and proposed to give bond accordingly to the person.
Upon which he's resolved that they shall be repaid the said 100 pounds out of
the subscriptions to be collected for the carrying on the said church or to be
collected for that use only, in cases they should be hereafter obliged to repay
the same to the persons aforesaid.
It being moved that his honor the Governor was desirous to have a
seat appointed to him in the new gallery.
Ordered that the Church Wardens wait upon the governor and now his
pleasure therein and report the same to the next Vestry.
Inasmuch as since the new addition to the church is completed and the
gallery's erected therein the pulpit stands too remote from that part of the
church for the people to hear distinctly so as to receive full benefit.
Resolved that the pulpit be removed farther into the body of the
church with all convenient speed.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia April 28, 1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Joshua Maddox
James Bingham
Vestry Men:
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Edward Bradley
Charles Read
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Henry Dexter [Docter]
William Pywell
John Danby
Thomas Leech and Joshua Maddox not having had convenient opportunity
of waiting on the governor to know his pleasure relating to a seat in the
gallery pursuant to a laterer order of Vestry of March 16, 1731 says the
present Church Wardens are appointed to do it and make report to the
next Vestry.
Whereas Thomas Leech [unclear] were formerly appointed to agree
with the Baptists for the Meeting House and ground then in dispute.
Who accordingly agreed for the sum of fifty pounds to be paid by them
for the use of Christ's Church but some mistake happening as to the
time of payment and Mr. Jones, their minister, appearing and setting forth
that the ones [unclear] there of was to be paid in two years fro the time
of agreement, the remainder in one year next after.
Ordered that bond be taken for said sum pursuant to agreement.
Whereas the accompts of some of the former Church Wardens have not
been so regularly kept and fairly transcribed as they ought to have been
Mr. Samuel [Samuell] Hasell and Mr. Charles Read are desired to enquire into that affair and forward the
fair entrings and transcribing of them in a proper book for the purpose
up to the present Warden's time.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church May 26, 1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Joshua Maddox
James Bingham
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Read
Henry Dexter [Docter]
John Danby
Thomas Leech
Edward Bradley
William Pywell
Benjamin Morgan
Alexander Woodrop [Woodroop] [Wooddrop] [Wooddropp]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Chase [Chace]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Ralph Asheton
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Andrew Bradford
William Chancellor
Joshua Maddox and James Bingham reported that they had
waited on his honour the governor and that he declined having a seat in the
gallery and desired one where the pulpit (now removed) formerly stood. Ordered
that a handsome one be made accordingly and that the Church Wardens when
it's done request the governor to view that if approved the other before
the communion table may be pulled down.
The new part of the gallery being finished and some alteration made
below. The Church Wardens Thomas Leech, John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Charles Read, and Edward
Bradley were appointed to number and date the pews and places such persons
as have been displaced below and also those that have applied for seats above
subject to such alterations as the next Vestry shall find convenient.
As great inconveniences have arisen by means of persons
claiming rights to particular pews or places in the church which it's
conceived none can justly do otherwise than by their having been regularly
placed in them and continuing to pay half yearly such reasonable rates for
support of the minister as has been fixed on them and whereas it
appears some pews are filled with persons who have not been placed in
them or don't pay the accustomed rates. The Church Wardens are desired
to examine into that affair and to place proper persons in such as are
vacant and displaced such as for the spaces of a whole year or longer
refuses or have refused to pay, disregard being had to labor church people
that may happen to be decayed their fortunes.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church May 27, 1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Joshua Maddox
James Bingham
Vestry Men:
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Alexander Woodrop [Woodroop] [Wooddrop] [Wooddropp]
Peter Evans
George Plumley
Thomas Leech
Thomas Chase [Chace]
Henry Dexter [Docter]
Edward Bradley
William Pywell
John Danby
The persons appointed to number and rate the pews having
exhibited an account of their proceedings twas (with some small alterations)
approved.
The governor appearing and approving the pew appointed for him
the other was immediately taken down.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church June 30, 1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Joshua Maddox
James Bingham
Vestry Men:
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Peter Evans
Andrew Bradford
Thomas Leech
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Samuel Bond
Charles Read
Alexander Woodrop [Woodroop] [Wooddrop] [Wooddropp]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Pywell
Edward Bradley
William Chancellor
John Danby
Dr. Hugh Graham late of this city died having bequeathed by his last will
and testament the sum of one hundred pounds toward carrying on the building of the
church. The executors George M. McCall and Robert Walts for some reason not thinking themselves
safe in the payment of said bequest without security given to refund the same if need
be Mr. Charles Read and Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. in conjunction with the present Church Warden are desired to
apply to Mr. George McCall for said legacy and to give their security for the same. The
present Vestry agreeing to give counter security to them upon their delivering the said
money for the church's use
The same persons are desired also to apply to the executors of John Roberts and
Anthony Hartley deed for the several legacies left by them and if need be to
give their security the Vestry agreeing as in the former case to resecure
them in behalf of the whole congregation.
Ordered that the Church Wardens call upon Dr. Evan Jones and
receive what money he will pay them at subscriptions made for use of the
church on Saint Davids Day 1730. Also on Captain Bromage for those made on
Saint Davids day last and forward the getting in any that may be outstanding.
The ruinous estate of the old part of the church being under consideration
and a new subscription roll being prepared was read and approved by the Vestry
present severally subscribed.
Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Mr. Charles Leech complaining that there were arrears due to
sundry workmen and ordered that such persons as collect any money legacy
or subscriptions for use of the church do pay into the hands of Mr.
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Mr. Charles Leech so much of said money as may enable them to pay the said
arrearages.
At a Vestry held at the school house Philadelphia October 6, 1732:
Present:
The Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
Joshua Maddox
James Bingham
Vestry Men:
Peter Evans
John Danby
Edward Bradley
William Pywell
George Plumley
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Chase [Chace]
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Leech
A letter from Dr. Thomas Moore of Great Brittain to Mr. Rev. Archibald Cummings
relating to the sum of 300 pounds sterling left by some unknown person which
gives him hope to believe may be disposed towards augmentation of the
living of the ministers of Christ's Church Philadelphia for the time being now under
consideration.
Agreed that the ministers and Vestry do apply to said Dr. Moore to devise his good
offices in procuring us that money and that they Vestry engage to lay it out according
to the intent of the donor and in the meantime to pay the interest thereof to the
minister for the time being and Mr. Rev. Archibald Cummings and Mr. Peter Evans were desired to draw up a petition for
Mr. Moore accordingly.
On Easter Monday the day of April 1735. The congregation of Christ Church after divine services elected the following church officers:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell
Benjamin Morgan
Sidesmen:
John Robinson
Charles Willing
Vestry Men:
Thomas Bourne
William Chancellor
John Danby
Peter Evans
Thomas Howard
Andrew Bradford
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
Joshua Maddox
George Plumley
Charles Read
Alexander Wooddrop[Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
William Hellier
Robert Ellis
At a Vestry held at Christ Church May 25, 1735:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings, Rector
Church Wardens:
William Pywell
Benjamin Morgan
Vestry:
Charles Read
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Evans
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Thomas Leech
William Hellier
Edward Bradley
Thomas Bourne
Robert Ellis
John Danby
William Chancellor
Thomas Howard
Joshua Maddox
It was agreed that what money may come into the hands of the Church Wardens by the box
shall be applied to the finishing of the outside of the church after the expense of the double
gallery and stair caves is paid in order that the scaffold poles may be taken down.
Mr. Joshua Maddox, Mr. William Hellier, and Mr. William Chancellor appointed the Wardens according
to the last year.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church July 28, 1735:
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell
Benjamin Morgan
Vestry Men:
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Edward Bradley
John Robinson
William Chancellor
Robert Ellis
Charles Read
James Bingham
Peter Evans
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Ordered that any five of the Members present be a committee for
Regulating the sittings of the pews of the church.
Ordered that the committee meet on day every week till the
regulation be completed.
Ordered that the committee also settles the several rates of the pews.
At a meeting of the committee for Regulating the Pews etc.
July 29, 1735
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell
Benjamin Morgan
Vestry Men:
Edward Bradley
George Plumley
John Robinson
The above gentlemen pursuant to an order of the Last Vestry exhibited an
estimate of the numbers and value of the pews which is approved of and is as
follows
Ann Rent Ann Rent Ann Rent Ann Rent
No: 1 3 : - : 0 No: 22 2 : 0 : 0 No: 42 2 : 0 : 0 No:60 2 : 0 : 0
2 3 : - : 0 23 2 : 0 : 0 43 2 : 0 : 0 61 2 : 0 : 0
3 3 : - : 0 24 4 : 0 : 0 44 2 : 0 : 0 62 2 : 0 : 0
4 3 : - : 0 25 4 : 0 : 0 45 3 : 0 : 0 63 3 : 0 : 0
5 3 : - : 0 26 2 : 0 : 0 46 2 : 0 : 0 64 3 : 0 : 0
6 3 : - : 0 27 2 : 0 : 0 47 4 : 0 : 0 65 3 : 0 : 0
7 1 : 10 : 0 28 2 : 0 : 0 48 4 : 0 : 0 66 3 : 0 : 0
8 2 : 0 : 0 29 2 : 0 : 0 49 3 : 0 : 0 67 3 : 0 : 0
9 2 : 0 : 0 30 3 : 0 : 0 50 4 : 0 : 0
10 2 : 0 : 0 31 3 : 0 : 0 51 2 : 0 : 0
_____________ 32 2 : 0 : 0 52 3 : 0 : 0 That the front pews in
12 2 : 0 : 0 33 2 : 0 : 0 53 2 : 0 : 0 the new gallery be 3 pounds
13 1 : 10 : 0 34 2 : 0 : 0 54 2 : 0 : 0 each and the back pews
14 1 : 10 : 0 35 2 : 0 : 0 55 2 : 0 : 0 in the new gallery be 2:8:0 each.
15 2 : 0 : 0 36 2 : 0 : 0 56 2 : 0 : 0
16 2 : 0 : 0 37 2 : 0 : 0 57 2 : 0 : 0
17 2 : 0 : 0 38 2 : 0 : 0 58 1 : 0 : 0
18 4 : 0 : 0 39 2 : 0 : 0 59 1 : 0 : 0
19 4 : 0 : 0 40 2 : 0 : 0
20 4 : 0 : 0 41 2 : 0 : 0
On Easter Monday being the day of April 1736.
The congregation after Divine Service Elected the following Church
officers:
Church Wardens:
Benjamin Morgan
John Robinson
Sides Men:
Ralph Asheton
Charles Willing
Vestry Men:
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Charles Read
William Pywell
Edward Bradley
Peter Evans
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Alexander Wooddrop[Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Thomas Graeme
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
George Plumley
John Danby
William Chancellor
William Till
James Bingham
Thomas Howard
Andrew Bradford
William Hellier
William Connolly
At a Vestry held at Christ Church May 3, 1736:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Benjamin Morgan
John Robinson
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Pywell
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Thomas Leech
William Chancellor
James Bingham
Peter Evans
John Danby
William Hellier
Resolved and ordered that Samuel [Samuell] Hasell, John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and John Hyatt [Hyat] audit
the account of Mr. William Pywell late Church Warden with what other accounts of Christ Church are now lying open and unvetted.
At a Vestry held July 5, 1736 at Christ Church in Philadelphia:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Benjamin Morgan
John Robinson
Vestry Men:
Charles Read
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
William Till
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
John Danby
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
William Chancellor
William Hellier
Ordered that the Church Wardens Thomas Bourne [Bourn], John Danby or any
three of them, one of the Wardens to be one of them, are appointed to seat
the members of this congregation remaining unseated or to be removed.
Ordered that the urns Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. sent for from England be had of
him for the use of the church and it is agreed to allow him nine pounds a piece
for them.
Ordered that John Danby, William Hellier, and William Till or any two
of them peruse and examine the accounts of the fees for the Palls and the breaking
the ground for burials in the church burying ground and they are desired
to make thereof to the Vestry.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church August 12, 1736:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
Benjamin Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Charles Willing
Charles Read
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Danby
James Bingham
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Peter Evans
George Plumley
William Pywell
William Chancellor
Andrew Bradford
William Till
William Hellier
Thomas Leech
Thomas Tresse
Ordered that my Lord Bishop of London by addressed by this Vestry in favour of the received
Mr. Rich Peters praying his Lords to grant him letters of license to exercise his function in order to
be an assistant to the Rev. Archibald Cummings.
Ordered that Charles Read, Peter Evans, William Till, Peter Baynton [Bainton], and Benjamin Morgan draw up an address for that purpose.
Ordered that the Church Wardens with Thomas Leech, James Bingham, William Pywell and William Chancellor
be a committee to treat with the persons concerned about granting them al alley or foot way through the south side
of the church yard.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia March 4, 1736/7 [Julian]
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
Benjamin Morgan
John Robinson
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
William Pywell
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
John Danby
Andrew Bradford
Ordered that the Rev. Archibald Cummings, Peter Evans, the Church Wardens
wait on the Honorable the Proprietor with the deeds of the church yard and
acquaint him with the bounds thereof and thank him for his tended favor.
On Easter Monday being the day of April 1837:
The Congregation after divine service elected the following church officers.
Present:
Church Wardens:
John Robinson
William Chancellor
Sides Men:
William Bulley
Joseph Shippen
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Danby
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Alexander Wooddrop[Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
George Plumley
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
James Bingham
Thomas Tresse
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Andrew Bradford
William Till
Edward Bradley
Benjamin Morgan
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Charles Willing
William Hellier
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia April 28, 1737:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
John Robinson
William Chancellor
Vestry Men:
William Till
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Thomas Tresse
Peter Evans
William Bulley
Joseph Shippen
Thomas Leech
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Charles Willing
William Hellier
John Danby
George Plumley
Edward Bradley
Benjamin Morgan
Resolved that some persons be appointed a committee to settle the accounts of Mr. Benjamin Morgan late
Church Warden as were nominated to settle Mr. William Pyewell [Pywell]?s accounts.
That the clerk be charged by present Church Wardens with all the burial fees that are outstanding and that he
review no part of his salary until he accounts for the same either by showing the fees are forgiven or that the persons
who have not paid are proper objects.
That no persons be interred in the church ground without leave first had from the Church Wardens and if they or one
of them happens to be out of town then with the minister?s leave etc.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia June 9, 1737:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
John Robinson
William Chancellor
And eleven gentlemen of the Vestry.
Resolved that the communion tables be enlarged with all convenient speed.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia October 30, 1737:
Present:
Church Wardens:
John Robinson
William Chancellor
Vestry Men:
Peter Evans
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Till
William Pyewell [Pywell]
William Hellier
Thomas Leech
Edward Bradley
Benjamin Morgan
George Plumley
John Danby
Joseph Shippen
Charles Willing
William Bulley
Some papers were provided by the Church Wardens and read purporting that a
Grecian Prince or Noble etc. had arrived in England and recommended by the King and
Ministers etc. to all his loving subjects etc. That his council try situate near Beruit
adjoining to Mount Lebanon was taken or overrun by the Turks and was then
under persecution on account of religion and others.
Resolved that a paper be drawn setting forth his Schick _ Schide's and be
Delivered to the clerk to be read next Sunday forenoon and that William Till, William
Pyewell [Pywell], Thomas Bourne [Bourn], and William Hellier be appointed to collect and receive the charitable
benevolence of the members of this congregation for the relief of the vetted.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia July 26, 1737 [1738?]:
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Chancellor
William Hellier
Vestry Men:
Joseph Shippen
Benjamin Morgan
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bulley
Alexander Wooddrop[Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
William Till
William Hellier
Charles Willing
Peter Evans
The clerk being asked if he had summoned all the members of the Vestry answered
he had.
Being again asked if he had summoned Mr. John Robinson the Church Warden answered Mr. John
Robinson told him he should not come.
A motion was made that two members wait upon Mr. John Robinson to request his
Attendance and that he would order the church book and minutes be brought or
Deliver the same to the messengers viz Mr. Benjamin Morgan and Mr. William Hellier who
report they went to Mr. John Robinson?s house where they were informed he
was gone out of town.
Mr. Peter Baynton [Bainton] and Mr. Thomas Bourne [Bourn] were requested to wait on the Rev. Archibald
Cummings and to inform him the Vestry are met, who returned and
report he was gone out of town.
A motion was made to address his Lordship the Bishop of London
which was agreed to and ordered, that William Till, Thomas Bourne [Bourn], Joshua Maddox [Madox]
and Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] be a committee to draw up the same and to thank his
Lordship for his general care of this church, and in particular for his
goodness in favouring this Vestry upon the application of the Rev. Archibald
Cummings at our request for the assistance of the Rev. Mr. Peters
and to represent to his lordship that Mr. Peters during the time of his
ministerial function, hath behaved both in and out of the pulpit with
great approbation of his hearers.
And that the committee lay a draught of the address
before the Vestry which is now adjourned to Thursday the 28th: Instant
and ordered that the clerk give notice accordingly.
_____________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church July 28, 1737 [1738?]:
Present:
Church Wardens:
John Robinson
William Chancellor
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Edward Bradley
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Till
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Thomas Leech
Benjamin Morgan
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Charles Willing
Andrew Bradford
William Bulley
Peter Evans
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
William Hellier
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Joseph Shippen
James Bingham
John Danby
Thomas Tresse
George Plumley
The committee appointed to draw up the address to the Bishop of London
laid a draught of the same before the Vestry for their approbation. It was ordered
to be read a first time and again paragraph by paragraph a second time, and after
several debates agreed to and the Vestry requested the Church Wardens together with
the same committee to have it engraved and transmitted to his Lordship the Bishop
of London by the first conveyance.
For the Right Reverend Father in God Enmund
Lord Bishop of London.
The humble address of the Vestry of Christ Church in
Philadelphia.
May it please your Lordship.
We most gratefully acknowledge the many obligations we are under to
your Lordship not only for your general care of the church but in particular for the last instance
of your goodness in favouring the application which was made by the Reverend our Ministers at our
instance for the Reverend Mr. Peter to be our assistant.
And altho this gentleman for reasons which we humbly beg leave to say
appear to us to be just how thought felt to decline continuing to give his assistance. Yet we
shall upon all occasions endeavor to testify the sense we have of the great regard your
Lordship has shown to this church and congregation in that appointment.
And we humbly beg leave to say that though your appointment of Mr. Peters
has not pleased some few among us yet it is true that during the time he has exercised his
ministerial functions in this city he has given great satisfaction in general to our congregation
and has been of real service to the Church of England to which by his conduct both in the
pulpit and out of it he has drawn great numbers of the more understanding dissenters
of all persuasions and as we are all assured that it is a pleasure to your Lordship at
all times to hear of the prosperity of the Church of England and especially of that part
of it more especially under your Lordship?s care at the same time we hope your Lordship
will pardon our taking the liberty in expressing our duty and gratitude to your Lordship
for your care of this church and in doing justice to the Rev. Mr. Peters who we humbly
beg leave to say is truly deserving of the favor conferred upon him by your Lordship in
allowing him to be assistant to the Minister of this church. May the God of
Heaven long preserve your Lordship as an ornament to the Church of England in the
Kingdom where you live and as father to the church abroad within his Majesty?s Dominion
under your jurisdiction. We most humbly ask your Lordship?s blessing and beg
leave to subscribe our selves.
May it please your Lordship
Your Lordship?s most dutiful
Most abled:
and most humble sons and servants.
At a Vestry held at Philadelphia April 29, 1740:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Richard Parker
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Resolved that Mr. Edward Bradley in conjunction on the Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and the Church
Wardens be empowered to collect the subscription money and carry on the finishing
of the church.
That the Church Wardens Mr. Edward Bradley, Mr. Richard Parker, Mr. Benjamin Morgan and Mr. George Plumley be
the persons appointed to regulate the settings of the congregation in the church and
that public notice be given in the church in order to inform such of the
congregation who want seats who they are to apply to.
That any three of the aforesaid gentlemen settle and enter in the church books the
Former Church Wardens accounts.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia July 31, 1740:
Present:
Rev. Archibald Cummings
Church Wardens:
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
Peter Evans
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Benjamin Morgan
William Bell
Richard Parker
George Plumley
Thomas Leech
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
On a motion being made for the removal of the pulpit.
Resolved that the pulpit be removed to the east end of the middle [unclear]
of the church and that the Church Wardens confer with Doctor John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Mr.
Thomas Leech concerning its situation and facing the same.
[NOTE: There is no Page 93 in the Minutes book; the paging sequence skips from Page 92 to Page 94]
Philadelphia
Be it remembered that on Easter Monday being the Nineteenth
Day of April in the year of Our Lod, One Thousand Seven Hundred & Forty Two [April 19, 1742]
the congregation of Christ Church in Philadelphia assembled according to custom
and the following persons were duly chosen Church Wardens, Sides Men, and Vestry Men
of the said church for the ensuing year ...................................... viz
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Sides Men:
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Vestry Men:
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Bell
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Edward Bradley
William Chancellor
Richard Parker
Thomas Leech
John Hyatt [Hyat]
William Clymer
George Plumley
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Peter Evans
William Maugridge
_________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church at Philadelphia May 1, 1745
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestry Men:
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Chancellor
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Edward Bradley
George Plumley
Richard Parker
William Bell
Samuel Holt
Benjamin Morgan
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Ordered that the Church Wardens do pay to the Reverend Mr. Eneas Ross, the pew
money collected or to be collected by them from the congregation for their pews for the past
half year.
It appearing to the Vestry that there is a necessity for finishing the church and also that
an assistant ought to be provided to the Minister to be approved and sponsored by the Lord Bishop
of London, and the better to effect the same. It is ordered that the settled Minister of church for the
time being be hencefoward allowed and paid yearly and every year the sum of one hundred pounds.
Pounds current money of this province to be raised as usual upon the congregation out of the pew
money and also that he have receive and to be all the surplus and other pees; together with the
passage house and lott; and that the remainder of the remainder of the pew money shall be applied for and
towards the finishing the church and supporting an assistant to the Minister the same as
the Church Wardens and Vestry shall here after order and appoint.....
Ordered that an address be forthwith drawn up, signed and sent to the Lord Bishop of
London recommending the Reverend Mr. Eneas Ross to his Lordships favor and protection, and
to pray his Lordship to license the sid Mr. Ross to be the Minister of this church in case his
Lordship has not already appointed and licensed a Minister for the same. And, that Dr.
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Peter Baynton [Bainton], Peter Evans, Samuel [Samuell] Hasell, and Thomas Leech be a committee.
to draw up the said address.
Ordered, that Benjamin Morgan, George Plumley, and Richard Parker be a committee to view the
seats in the next gallery and if possible to settle and fix together the clerks singing scholars so that the
persons to be remembered be accommodated with seats to their satisfaction elsewhere.
The address, drawn, signed, and sent to the Lord Bishop of London, in pursuance of the
before mentioned order, follows in these words..............
To the Right Reverend Father in God, Edmund Lord Bishop of London
The humble address of the Church Wardens and Vestry of Christ Church in Philadelphia.
May it please you Lordship,
Immediately after the death of Rev. Archibald Cummings, our late worthy pastor, an
address dated April 20, 1741 was drawn up and sent to your Lordship from the then Vestry
of this church humbly requesting your Lordship to license and send over a Minister to us, worthy
of your Lordships esteem and fatherly advice. To which address we have not hitherto been so happy
as to receive any answer from you Lordship............................................................
The reverend missionaries of this province diligently officiated by turns in our church until the
arrival of the Reverend Mr. Eneas Ross, who has since by his prudent conduct and indefatigable
pains constantly supply this cure to the great satisfaction of the congregation where he has
so justly merited a general esteem. That we the Church Wardens and Vestry moved by our own
inclinations, as well as by the frequent importunities of the parishioners do unanimously request
your Lordships license and approbation of him for this church, if before this come to hand
your Lordship has not appointed another.............................................
We are not insensible of the uneasiness and concern
some different representations from this congregation may have given your Lordship, notwithstand-
ing which, we hope the present Vestry and members of this Church in general, will always think
it their indispensable duty jealously to pursue such measures as may be of next likely to promote
true piety and virtue, secure the peace of this church and establish unanimity amongst us
supposed by a strict observance of the wholesome rules and cannons of the Church of Englandas by law
established, always bearing additional regard to the rights and jurisdiction of your Lordship, our
lawful diocesan in which high and dignified station may your Lordship long continue is
the ardent prayer of. May it please your Lordship.
Your Lordship's most dutiful sons and servants.
Signed by:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Edward Bradley
William Clymer
Benjamin Morgan
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Richard Parker
William Maugridge
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
William Bulley
Peter Evans
William Chancellor
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Thomas Leech
George Plumley
William Bell
Philadelphia May 27, 1742
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia the Sixth day of July
Anno Dom. ... 1742 [July 6, 1742] ............
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
John Hyatt [Hyat]
William Clymer
George Plumley
William Bulley
William Bell
Richard Parker
William Maugridge
Samuel Holt
William Chancellor
The Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry aforementioned that they had received a letter from London
directed for them and the Vestry of this Church, on which occasion they were convened, and the said
letter being opened, and read in Vestry, was from the Reverend Mr. Robert Jenney in the
following words, to wit.....
Gentlemen,
I take the opportunity by Captain Wright to acquaint you that soe of your friends
and mine, have desired me to to Philadelphia in order to settle these as ministers of your church, if your
congregation and I can agree upon the matter, for I think no such thing should be done without a full
agreement of both partys; to facilitate the affair I have obtained my Lord of London lincence, and
a letter from him to you, not by way of appointment, but recommendation, or rather his approbation
of it, I am to go over in the Lanceston man of [unclear] (Capt. Warren) along with the Governor of New York
(Capt. Clinton) we are to sail in May, and hope to arrive in July. If we can bring all things to bear, so as
that I shall remain with you, I don't in the least doubt, our living agreeably together, it shall be my
study to do my part, being resolved to approve my self in all things, Your affectionate friend and servant,
Robert Jenney
London April 12, 1742
And whereupon ordered that John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Samuel Hasell, William Bell, John Ross, do
draw a draft of an answer to said letter and lay the same before the Vestry for their approbation, which
is to be sent to New York to meet Mr. Jenny on his arrival there.
Requested by the Vestry, that Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell] and Mr. William Maugridge do view the parsonage
house and examine what repairs are necessary to be made to the same and make report to the Vestry
at their next sitting.
Ordered, that Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., William Pywell [Pyewell], Thomas Leech, and William Maugridge be a
committee to confer and agree with Workmen to carry on and finish this church in the most expedition
manner possible.
Ordered, that Peter Baynton [Bainton], William Clymer, and Samuel [Samuell] Hasell be a committee to settle and adjust
the accounts of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. respecting the building of this church and also to settle the accounts of
William Till, William Chancellor and Thomas Bourne [Bourn] late Church Wardens and of William Pywell [Pyewell] as
Warden for the last year and make report thereupon.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia July 14, 1742:
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestrymen:
Benjamin Morgan
Peter Baynton [Bainton]
Peter Evans
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Chancellor
Edward Bradley
John Hyatt [Hyat]
William Clymer
William Bell
Samuel Holt
Richard Parker
William Bulley
The Wardens acquainted them Vestry that they had received a sealed letter from some member of the
congregation who had requested them to call a Vestry upon the same, ------ Which being opened and read
follows in these words.............
The application and address of divers of the Members of the said church.
Gentlemen,
We have received a current report that a letter from the Reverend Mr. Jenney directed to your
is come to hand; wherein he informs you of his having the Lord Bishop of London's license and recommendation
to this church; and that its expected he will shortly visit us;upon which we are further informed you
are about to send a congratulatory letter to meet him on his arrival at New York, the the
whole contents of that intended letter was not yet fully read,
Upon which we beg leave to
remonstrate to you our disapprobation of your intended letter or writing anything concerning the
matter, until that gentleman's credentials appear, or at least until his arrival at New York; you
having lately as we understand address his Lordship for a license to the gentleman now among us,
and no answer as yet had to the same.
Therefor we humbly think it time enough to write to Mr. Jenney
who never applied for or received any recommendation from this congregation to his Lordship until divers other
necessary matters are settled for all which we pray the intended letter to Mr. Jenney may at this time
stay and you're obligations.
Gentleman,
Your humble servants
Philadelphia July 8, 1742
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joseph Shippen
Peter Bard
Richard Nixon
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Saunders
Robert Barton
Thomas Till
Allwood Shute
Joseph Marks
Peter David
John Poetlethnaity
William Murdock
Thomas Edwards
Caleb Cask
Lambert Emerson
Randal Yetton
William Caddocke
Robert Moore
James Peller
George Claypole
Jacob Kellock
Henry Pratt
George Allen
Philip Halbeat
Thomas Mullan
John Danby
Richard Sewetle
Evan Morgan
Michael Royall
John Willcocks
Thomas Garden
John Pearle
Jacob Duche
Randal Dicas
John Wilkinson
William Crossthwaite
Walter Goodman
George Okill
William Paschall
Stephen Vidal
Francis Garriquez
And after argument thereupon, Ordered, that the letter to Mr. Jenney be forthwith send
to New York
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia October 20, 1742:
Present:
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestry Men:
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
Benjamin Morgan
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Richard Parker
Edward Bradley
William Chancellor
William Clymer
Alexander Wooddrop [Woodroop] [Woodrop] [Wooddropp]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Maugridge
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
George Plumley
The Wardens acquainted the Vestry that they had received a letter from the Reverend Mr. Robert
Jenney with one inclosed from the Lord Bishop of London which were ordered to be read and
follows in these words,
Mr. Jenney's letter,
New York October 12, 1742
Gentlemen,
Having arrived yesterday, I received your kind letter of July 8 signifying your
ready compliance with my Lord of London license to me to be Minister of your congregation and
professing your hope that by our joint endeavor in the discharge of our respective duties and
obligations to each other we may be the blessing of God live together in that peaceable harmony,
which becomes true members of the Church of England. I thank you heartily for the first
and make no doubt of the other, since I am fully resolved by the grace of God. If we come together
to do my part toward it, and make no question of the congregation doing theirs.
But whereas I am credibly informed that there are divisions amongst you, and that some oppose my
settlement here; and considering, that I am easy in my parish of Hempstead and am indulged by
my superiors the liberty of choosing in which place to settle; I must beg the favor to be informed
how that affair stands, and [unclear] whether I may depend upon being instated in the same rights and
privileges which the late Rev. Archibald Cummings enjoyed without which I came to think of removing
from Hempstead. I send enclosed my Lord of London's letter, and am you most humble servant
Robert Jenney
Directed to William Pywell [Pyewell] and John Ross Church Wardens of Philadelphia
The Bishops Letter,
Whitehall, March 29, 1742
Gentlemen,
I have waited a good while in hopes of hearing that the differences among your selves about a
next Minister were adjusted, and that you had unanimously agreed in recommending some worthy person
to be licensed by me, or in desiring me to send such another from hence. It could not be supposed
that I should send any person who had no other concern in the plantations, under an uncertainty
whether he would be received or not. But as the [unclear] Mr. Jenney, is and has long been a Missionary
for the society here, to a cure in the Province of New York, and is a person whom I believe to be
exceedingly well qualified in a all respects to succeed your late worthy Minister Rev. Archibald Cummings; Jenney
willing upon his return from hence to his care in New York to grant him a provisional license
to your church, on supposition, that he would be received there in such a manner as might encourage
him to quitt his present mission, and to move to Philadelphia.
I have nothing in view but the peace and
welfare of your church, and earnestly recommending it to you all to pursue the same good end. I pray
for the divine blessing upon you and your proceedings and remain
Your servant and friend,
Edmund Sondon
Thus directed
For the gentlemen of the Vestry at Philadelphia
It being hereupon moved that the order of Vestry made the first day of May last, for settling the
allowance, and support of the incumbent of this church might be repealed, which being considered, it is
ordered, at this time, that the before mentioned order, and every part there of, be and is hereby repealed.
Ordered that the [unclear] forthwith return an answer to Mr. Jenney's letter, and invite him hither
under the same privileges and advantages allowed the late Rev. Archibald Cummings, and request Mr.
Jenney, to accept and approve of the Reverend Mr. Eneas Ross to be his assistant in this church.
Ordered, that the Wardens pay to the Reverend Mr. Eneas Ross the pew money collected, or to be
collected by them from the congregation for their pews for the last half year.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia November 8, 1742:
Present:
Ministers:
Rev. Mr. Robert Jenney and Aeneas [Eneas] Ross
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestry Men:
Peter Evans
Samuel Holt
Richard Parker
William Clymer
William Bulley
Edward Bradley
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Thomas Leech
George Plumley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Benjamin Morgan
Doctor Robert Jenney produced to the Vestry, a license from the Lord Bishop of London
Appointing him Minister of this church, which was read and follow[ed] in these wardes.
Edmund by Divine permission, Bishop of London, To our beloved in Christ, Robert Jenney, Dr.
of Laws, Clerk Greeting. We do hereby give and license and authority to continue only during our pleasure
to perform the ministerial office in Christ Church in Philadelphia in the colony of Pennsylvania in
reading the Common Prayer and performing the Ecclesiastical duties belonging to the said office according
to the form prescribed in the book of Common Prayer made and published by authority of Parliament
and the canons and constitutions in what behalf carefully established, and promulgated and not otherwise
not in any other manner. (You having before us subscribed the articles and taken the oaths which in
this case are by law required to be subscribed and taken.) In witness whereof we have caused our Episcopal
seal to be here to affixed. Dated at Whitehall March 31, 1742
and in the nineteenth year of out translation
Edmund London
Episcopal Seal
He also produced the said Bishop's certificate, of his conformity to the litany of the Church of England
which was read and follow in these wardes to with.
I do declare, that I will conform to the liturgy of the Church of England, as it is now by law
established.
Robert Jenney
This Declaration was made and subscribed before us by the said Robert Jenney; to be licensed to perform the
Ministerial office in Christ Church in the City of Philadelphia in the colony of Pennsylvania in
America, this March 31, 1742 and in the 19th [year] of our Translation.
Seal
Edmund London
And there upon ordered that the said Mr. Robert Jenney be received and admitted the Minister and incumbent
of this church, under the same privileges enjoyed by the late Rev. Archibald Cummings; Mr. Robert Jenney being
applyed to by the Vestry to accept and approve of the Reverend Mr. Aeneas [Eneas] Ross for his assistant in the church.
Mr. Jenney acquainted the Vestry that he gladly approved of and received the Reverend Mr. Aeneas [Eneas] Ross
for his assistant in this church, and it was thereupon resolved and ordred that the collections made every
Sunday or holy day, by the Church Wardens and Sidesmen, of and from the congregation, commonly called
the box money, be pain to the Reverend Mr. Aeneas [Eneas] Ross as the same shall be collected, only reserving out of the
same every Sunday, such apart as will amount to the sum of twenty pounds yearly which twenty
pounds is to be paid and applied for, and towards paying the clerks salary, repairing the church etc.
and that these orders be publicly read in church next Sunday morning by the clerk.
Ordered that Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Peter Evans, Thomas Leech, and John Ross be a committee to
draw up an address to the Lord Bishop of London, to thank his lordship for his care of his church
in sending the Reverend Mr. Robert Jenney to be out minister, and for his affectionate letter to us and to pray a
continuance of his favor to us et cetera.
Which address was drawn and signed by the Church Wardens and Vestry
and is as follows,
To the Right Reverend Edmund Lord Bishop of London
May it please your Lordship,
We the Church Wardens and Vestry Men of Christ Church in Philadelphia beg leave to return to your Lordship
our grateful acknowledgments for your fatherly care and regard of us, in approving and sending over
the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney to the care of this church, a person exceedingly well qualified for
a great a trust and we have well grounded hopes hopes that his wise conduct and pious labors, we shall
continue to promote that peace and unanimity recommended to us by your Lordship's most affectionate
letter which we heartily thank your Lordship for.
We have the pleasure to assure your Lordship, even in the short time the Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney has
been among us it appears to be the zealous inclination of every member of our numerous congregation
to recommend themselves to your Lordship's favor, by a behavior becoming true members of a
Christian Church, and the more effectually to support and improve this happy peace of unanimity in our
church we have that humble confidency in your Lordship's known goodness that your Lordship
will continue to us in the person of Dr. Robert Jenney, those usual favors of your Lordship's fatherly
advice, and assistance which your Lordship has always shown, to his predecessor here.
May your Lordship long continue
to enjoy the dignified station you are deservedly
placed in, health, ease of happiness in the ardent
prayer of
May it please your Lordship
your Lordship's most dutiful
sons and servants.
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
William Bulley
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Hyatt [Hyat]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Edward Bradley
William Bell [Belle]
Benjamin Morgan
Richard Parker
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Chancellor
William Maugridge
Samuel Holt
Be it remembered that on Easter Monday April 4, 1743.
The congregation of Christ's
Church in Philadelphia assembled according to custom and post precess the following persons were
duly elected and chosen Vestry Men of the said Church for this present year to wit:
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bell [Belle]
Benjamin Morgan
Edward Bradley
William Bulley
Thomas Venables [Venable]
William Clymer
George Plumley
Ralph Asheton
Richard Parker
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
John Ross
William Maugridge
Samuel Holt
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Wilcocks
And thereupon, the Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney made choice of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., for one of the
Wardens and the members present made choice of Mr. Richard Parker, to be the other Warden of this
church for the present year - and Mr. William Maugridge and Mr. Samuel Holt for Sidesmen.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia on Sunday March 20,
1742 [Julian]:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Evans
Benjamin Morgan
Edward Bradley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Clymer
Thomas Leech
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Maugridge
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Thomas Leech, and William Maugridge appointed
July 6 last to agree with workmen for the finishing this church report, that pursuant to the
order of Vestry, they had been at considerable trouble to find out and agree with workmen that
were members of this church according to inclination of this Vestry, save Joseph and John Thornhill
who informed the committee, they would cheerfully serve the church in this particular but that
they were not acquainted with that work to engage alone in it, but that if an other capable work
man could be had they would act in conjunction to the best of their power, and there upon the committee
applied to John Nichols who agreed to undertake the same.
Ordered that forasmuch as the time for electing a new Vestry will be within after day
that the farther consideration thereof, be referred to the next Vestry, which was done accordingly.
Nota bene, the above minutes of March 20, 1742 are misplaced and ought to be before the above
election April 4th.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 16, 1743:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Vestry Men:
Benjamin Morgan
William Clymer
William Bell [Belle]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Bulley
Ordered that for the better accommodating the congregation with seats in the church
the west end gallerie be forthwith run out and built entirely over the west isle, and that the
Church Wardens immediately procure materials, and employ workmen for completing the same.
Resolved, that so soon as the said gallerie is nigh finished a committee shall be appointed
to collect the money, already subscribed for finishing the church and to take in further subscriptions
the more effectually to complete the said work.
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. delivered in a petition to this Vestry greatly complaining that he had served
this congregation ever since the year 1727 as trustee and overseer in carrying on and rebuilding
this church and that in the compass of full five years of that time he had given daily attendance
without any relaxation from that service in which he had greatly neglected his private
affairs, and undergone much fatigue and had always been in advance large sums of money
some part of, which he conceives, has not been discharged to this day for all which he has not
received any consideration, or the least, acknowledgement. But instead thereof has been
frequently loaded with calamity, and ill treated by members of this congregation, and therefore
prays this Vestry, will be pleased to appoint some persons of known abilities to aid and settle
his account that he may for the future be acquitted or condemned of this calamity thrown upon him.
Resolved that the account of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. in his carrying on the rebuilding of
this church be settled and that Mr. Samuel [Samuell] Hasell, Mr. Joshua Maddox [Madox], Mr. Ralph Asheton, Mr. Thomas Leech
or any three of them be a committee for that purpose and that thye also audit and settle the Church
Wardens accounts which are yet outstanding and meet every Thursday at five of the clock, P.M.
till the said accounts are finished and that notice be given to the party respectively concerned.
Accordingly, Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. reported that there were wanting several Books of
Accompts, Minutes, and Papers of Value belonging to this congregation, which ought to have been
delivered in by the respective Church Wardens and lodged in a chest under Trust of the Minister
and Church Wardens for the time being.
Ordered, that the present Church Wardens, do use their utmost endeavors to collect and
take into their charge all books, papers of accounts, minutes of Vestry and all others books, papers and
writings belonging to this congregation, and that they from time to time make report
thereof, to this Vestry, that the said books and papers may be examined by the Vestry
and lodged in the chest now provided for that purpose.
At a Vestry hold at Christ Church, Philadelphia May 25, 1743:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Bell [Belle]
Samuel Holt
William Clymer
William Bulley
Benjamin Morgan
Ralph Asheton
John Ross
Thomas Leech
Edward Bradley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Venables [Venable]
George Plumley
Peter Evans
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Ordered that the minutes of April 16th be read resolving that so some as the west end gallery
was run out a committee should be appointed to collect the money already subscribed for finishing the
church and to take in further subscriptions for that purpose, whereupon it was ordered that the
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney, William Bell [Belle], and Mr. Samuel [Samuell] Hasell do on Monday next proceed to collect and
during that week that Mr. Ralph Asheton and Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell] undertake that service the week following,
and that Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] and Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney wait upon the Governor for his subscription, so soon as
they shall think convenient. That Mr. Benjamin Morgan and Mr. Joshua Maddox [Madox] the third week and the rest of
the Vestry Men in their turns.
Resolved that Mr. Edward Bradley be Treasurer to receive the money collected from the respective
subscribers and out of the same pay such workmen bills, charges for materials and in finishing the church
as may from time to time become due, bring first certified and directed to him by the Trustees appointed
to superintend and carry on that work.
Resolved that Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Mr. Thomas Leech be trustees for carrying
on and finishing the said building in the most decent and least expensive manner possible which
a building designed for a pubic religions use will admit of and that they purchase materials and
agree with workmen for that purpose and to enable them to effect the same may draw orders or direct
payment of workmen bills as other experiences there in on Mr. Edward Bradley Treasurer for receiving the
subscriptions and discharging the said expenses.
Resolved that as the west gallery is nigh finished the Church Wardens with the assistance of
Mr. Edward Bradley and Thomas Leech be a committee to place such numbers of the congregation therein
as are destitute of seats and that no members already provided herewith shall be moved from their present
settings, and that they take a general review of the seats and fill up the vacancies by placing therein
such members of the congregation as may be found wholly unprovided herewith.
At a Vestry held Christ Church in Philadelphia July 14, 1743:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Vestry Men:
Benjamin Morgan
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Edward Bradley
John Ross
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Clymer
George Plumley
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
The Reverend Mr. Aeneas [Eneas] Ross presented a letter to the Vestry, directed to them under his
hand and deserving the same might be read which was done accordingly and is as follows:
To the Church Wardens and Vestry Men of Christ Church Philadelphia.
Gentlemen
Least anything should be misunderstood that I am now about to acquaint you
with, I choose to deliver the same in writing upon my arrival from England in June 1744
to my great concern I found this church vacant by the death of our late working Pastor the
Rev. Archibald Cummings, upon which I was solicited among other missionaries
to officiate here in my turn which though a very unequal task to so young a man under the
protection of almighty God. I consented to and in the fall after by a message from the then
Vestry, I was requested to take the care of this church all together upon me, until me Lord
Bishop of London's pleasure upon the address by this Vestry, to his Lordship, sent should be
known. Under the same influence and protection I undertook that great change and
continued the same till the arrival of our present worthy commissary Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney to whom
I have had the pleasure some months past of being an assistant and should in that station
cheerfully have continued so long as the Doctor and you [unclear] please but as the care of Oxford
and white marsh churches in which I have officiated for some time past, by order of the
society and my health being much impaired, fro under a necessity with the commissary and
your leave to return to Oxford. I heartily give you gentlemen and all the congregation
thanks for their regards and civilities from time to time shown me, I shall not cease to make
my supplications to almighty Gods, for your and their temporal and eternal happiness promised
[unclear] the alone merits of our Redeemer and only Saviour Christ.
I am Gentlemen
Your affectionate brother
most obliged humble servant
Philadelphia July 14, 1743
Upon reading of which the Vestry acknowledged the great service the Reverend Mr. Aeneas [Eneas]
Ross had done this congregation during the vacancy upon the death of the Rev. Archibald
Cummings by his diligent performance of the Divine offices, attended with a sober and religious
behavior or which they assured him they should at all times themselves under an
obligation to render him all the good services in their power, and heartily pray for his health and
a perfect recovery of his strength and ability to discharge the weighty cures under his mission.
The Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry that great disorder had lately happened at a funeral
occasioned by some persons making use of a private pall belonging to the widow Stapler. Contrary to the
approbation and resolve of Vestry formerly past thereupon, it was thereupon again resolved that,
the use of the said pall is irregular and inconsistant with the peace and interest of this congregation
and that palls kept by private persons, shall not be allowed hereafter at our funerals and that the
widow Staples be applied to. to know if she will dispose of the said pall to be kept by this congregation
for the use of the poor which if she refused it is ordered that the Church Wardens purchase one at the
most easy rate for that purpose.
The resolve of Vestry of April 16, 1743, appointing a committee to audit and
settle the account of John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and also the account of the Church Wardens and which are yet outstanding
being read it was ordered that for as much as the said committee had not yet finished their report,
that they be further continued and make their report at the next meeting.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia June 5, 1743:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Vestry Men:
Samuel Holt
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
Edward Bradley
William Maugridge
William Bulley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Peter Evans
William Clymer
William Bell [Belle]
George Plumley
Benjamin Morgan
The Church Wardens report that they had waited on the widow Staples according to orders of Vestry
at their last meeting, and had acquainted her, with their dissatisfaction at her keeping a pall for
the use of funerals, and that great disorders had been occasioned in the congregation from her
lending it without the approbation of the church whereupon she agreed to deliver up the pall to
the entire management of the church either to be lent gratis to the poor or upon a small fee for use
of this congregation, whereupon the Vestry ordered that the Church Wardens wait upon the widow
Staples forthwith and acquaint her that they were ready to receive the said pall and that it should
be kept for use of the poor only.
Easter Monday, March 26, 1744:
The Congregation of Christ Church in Philadelphia assembled according to custom
and the following persons were duly elected Vestry Men, Church Wardens, and Sides Men
for the ensuring year to with:
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Sides Men:
William Maugridge
Samuel Holt
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bell [Belle]
William Bulley
Benjamin Morgan
John Ross
Charles Willing
Richard Parker
Ralph Asheton
Samuel Holt
William Maugridge
Captain John Searle
George Plumley
William Clymer
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Townsend White
William Pywell [Pyewell]
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia April 3, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Parker
Vestry Men:
Ralph Asheton
William Bell [Belle]
Captain John Searle
William Clymer
William Bulley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
Samuel Holt
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
The minutes of the June 5th 1743 being read directing the Church Wardens to wait on the widow
Staples and acquaint her, that they were willing to receive the pall she had for sometime lent to funerals
and they agreed to keep it for the use of the poor only.
Whereupon the said Church Wardens being
present reported, they had delivered the message accordingly, and that the widow Staples had delivered
up the pall, which was now in their hands, and that she insisted if the church demanded any fee, for
the use thereof she should expect a sum of money as a reward for giving up the rights she conceived she
had to convert the profits arising from thence to her own at such others use she might think fit, it was
thereupon resolved the said pall should be lent to the poor gratis and kept by the Church Wardens for
that use only.
Resolved that a committee be appointed to audit and settle the late Church Wardens accounts according
to the 89th cannon and all former accounts of Church Wardens and all other accounts belonging to the church which
remains yet unsettled, and that Mr. Thomas Leech, Mr. Ralph Asheton, Mr. Charles Willing, Mr. Townsend White
with the Church Wardens, be a committee for that purpose; and that they also settle the late treasurer, Mr.
Edward Bradley accounts of money received and paid by him for rebuilding and finishing the church, and that they
meet on Wednesday the 11th instant at 4 o'clock in the afternoon and continually by adjournment till the said
accounts be wholly settled, and make their report to this Vestry of their proceeding therein.
Resolved that Mr. William Clymer be Treasurer in place of Edward Bradley deceased, for receiving
and paying of money collected for rebuilding and finishing the church according to forer resolves of
the late Vestry.
Ordered that applications be made to such persons who have not yet contributed towards
finishing the church for their assistance herein and that the money outstanding from subscription or
legacy given for that use bo at the same time collected inn, and that the Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney, Mr.
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell, and Captain William Bell [Belle], proceed in that service on Monday next, Mr. Ralph Asheton and
William Clymer, the week following, Benjamin Morgan and William Maugridge, succeed them, Captain John Searle, and
William Pywell [Pyewell] with the other members of the Vestry in their turns.
Mr. Ralph Asheton and William Clymer acquainted the Vestry that it is the zealous inclination of
very many inhabitants of this city to contribute handsome sums of money towards building a town
steeple for holding a ring of bells, upon which Mr. Ralph Asheton was desired to prepare
subscriptions roll to be laid before the Vestry for that purpose.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia July 1, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Vestry Men:
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Clymer
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
William Maugridge
George Plumley
Captain John Searle
John Ross
Mr. Richard Parker, One of the Church Wardens for the current year being dead, the Vestry
met and chose Mr. William Maugridge, one of the Sides Men, to proceed him in that trust, Whereupon
Mr. Townsend White one of the members of this Vestry was chosen Sides Men to supply that vacancy.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia, August 27, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
William Clymer
Benjamin Morgan
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Thomas Leech
Peter Evans
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
George Plumley
William Bell [Belle]
The Church Wardens report that the church is now happily finished and that workmen was agreed
with and materials purchased to proceed on rebuilding and regulating the seats and that they had
proposed for the better accommodating the congregation with seats to make the width thereof two feet
eight inches according to the size of seats of the kinds in some other places, but it being observed that
St. Martin's Church in London was two feet nine inches wide.
Resolved that the width of the long seats in the body of the church be two foot nine inches
and no more
The committee of accounts made their report, according to order it is as follows. Viz.
We the committee appointed to audit and settle the late Church Wardens accounts and all accounts whatsoever belonging
to this congregation, according to an order of the third of April last have audited and settled the accounts of Mr.
Edward Bradley the late treasurer of the moneys collected for finishing the church and finds the balance
of cash in his hands to have been Thirty-eight pounds, 8/5/2 which moneys by order of Vestry has since
been paid into the hands of Mr. William Clymer, who is appointed treasure in the place of the said Mr. Edward
Bradley deceased.
We have also examined the accounts of Mr. Richard Parker the late Church Warden deceased for
the year 1743 and part of this present year 1744 and find there is due to this church upon balance
of his accounts 32.13.9.
We have also examined the accounts of Mr. William Chancellor Church Warden for the year 1738, and find
balance due to the church 15.00.10.
We have likewise examined several former Church Wardens accounts which for some years have been
neglected and find that Mr. William Till the accounting Church Warden for the year 1739. Debts this
congregation in the balance of his accounts 10.16.11 but by a late committee he is charged with the pall
money and breaking the groung which he says he never received which makes account debt to the
church 12.12.6.
W.B.
We have examined Mr. Thomas Bourne [Bourn]'s account, who was the accounting Church Warden for the year 1740
and do find him debtor on balance of his account 9.2.82.
We have examined Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell]'s account the accounting Church Warden for the year 1741 and
for the year 1742, but as there has been some objections to certain entries in the said accounts,
by former committees and Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell] not attending we have left the said account to further consideration
all which is submitted to the approbation of
this Vestry.
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Charles Willing
Townsend White
Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell] a member of this Vestry being present and answering to the
objections made to his accounts by the committee, and producing two receipts for money paid by him
which fully answered the above objections made to his accounts.
It is there resolved the accounts of the said Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell], together with the several
Church Wardens accounts reported by this committee be allowed and entered in the church book for
entering the accounts of the respective Church Wardens belonging to this congregation.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia, October 23, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Benjamin Morgan
Captain John Searle
Samuel Holt
George Plumley
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Bulley
William Clymer
Peter Evans
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
The Church Wardens informing the Vestry that several persons inclined to raise tomb stones
in the burying ground and that it was questioned whether any fee was due to the congregation for
appropriating that groung to the such private uses, the order of Vestry of July 15, 1731: was read
ordering 5 pounds to be paid by all persons who shall erect tomb stones in the church yard or
burying ground whether they may be placed on a pedestal or laid flat over the grave, whereupon
it was resolved that five pounds shall be paid by all persons who have or here after shall erect
a tomb stone in the burying groung or church yard, according to the above recited resolve of July 15, 1731.
and it is also the opinion of this Vestry that persons burying within the church ought
to pay ten pounds, according to a former order of Vestry which of late has been neglected.
Mr. Thomas Leech, Mr. Joshua Maddox [Madox], Mr. Samuel [Samuell] Hasell, a committee of the 10th
April 1743 [April 10, 1743] appointed to audit and settle church accounts of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., made their report
and is follows:
To the Vestry of Christ Church in Philadelphia:
In compliance with an order from the Vestry, we the subscribers appointed to examine, audit,
and settle the accounts of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., principal inspector and Supervisor for building the church
Church do report that we have carefully examined the accounts by him exhibited with their several vouchers
and do find that he has received on several payments the sum of 1222.12.3 1/2, and that he has expended
and paid the sum of 1239.6.9 1/2 and that a balance appears due him the said Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. of
16.14.6. Exclusive of the articles of commissions and trouble by him charged for superintending the
said work.
And we do further report that in the course of examination of the said accounts and vouchers to us
produced, it appears that the said Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. has been at great pains and trouble beside an
almost constant attendance, both in the providing and agreeing with proper workmen for the several sorts
of improvements and the payments to them in almost numberless small articles.
And we are of opinion that the
uniformity and beauty of the structure so far as it appears now finished is greatly owing to the assiduity
care, pains, and labor of him the said Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and that he stands fully entitled to the
thanks and particular acknowledgments of the Vestry and also of the congregation, and that he should
be intreated to continue has farther care and circumspection henceforth for the completion thereof.
This being by us submitted for your approbation.
Thomas Leech
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
The above report of the committee for settling Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.'s church accounts being read, the Vestry
resolved that the said accounts as now settled shall be allowed and that the thanks of this Vestry and also
of the congregation is due to Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. for his care and labor in carrying on the rebuilding
of this church and the Doctor being those present, the Vestry unanimously returned him that hearty
thanks accordingly.
Nota Bene
In building the outside of the church which was done at two several times, the accounts received and paid
by John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. in that work were kept in two separate books, and the balance of the first account
being only carried forward to the last book from whence the report was made the sum of 958.8.6
being the amount of the moneys disbursed in the first part of the building is omitted in the
the part of the committee which when audited as it ought to be makes the total amount of cash received
[unclear] in carrying on the building to be 2181.0.9 1/2 and the sum expended and paid
2197.15.3 1/2 which error is submitted to the Vestry for their correction.
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
At a Vestry held in Christ Church, Philadelphia November 6, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
William Bell [Belle]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Clymer
William Bulley
Samuel Holt
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
George Plumley
The Church Wardens having acquainted the Vestry that Captain John Seamour had brought a
beautiful chandelier of 24 branches from London Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.,
Mr. Captain William Belle were appointed a committee to confer with the Captain about the price and view the
make and workmanship thereof and that they make their report on Sunday next immediately
after Divine Service in the afternoon.
The minutes of the last meeting of the Vestry being read and the report of the committee relating
to the settlement of Dr. John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.'s church account being also read, the Doctor gratefully acknowledged
the justice, done him therein as well as the fence he had of the kind and generous sentiments
the said committee as well as the members of the Vestry expressed towards him in his care
and
And trouble during the time of his attending, and carrying on the rebuilding of this church.
And, that notwithstanding any former charge commissions made by him for receiving and
paying money in carrying on the fame, or for his superintending and surveying the said work, he doth
now wholly remit, and cancels the same, and also forasmuch as five pounds included in the
balance of 16.14.6 allowed him by the said committee appears to have been paid by a discharge in the
subscription rolls, and is not credited in his accounts which he supposes the entry thereof might have
been omitted by him in his cash book, he therefore wholly remits the same, and hereby acknowledges
11.14.6 the full balance, of the said account to have been paid him by the late Church Warden Mr. Richard
Parker, as by a receipt writ with his own hand in the foot of his church accounts doth fully appear.
It was observed by a member of the Vestry that the seats in the body of the church was now under
the workmen's hands to be rebuilt, and that they would be ready to be put up in a few days, the Vestry
was therefore moved to give their opinion, whether several seats which were now double should be
continued as they now re, or made single 2 foot 9 inches wide, agreeable to a former resolve of this Vestry.
Resolved that all the seats in the body of the church be made single except the two seats
betwixt the columns and the stair case and a seat or two on the south side of the middle isle, opposite to
the reading desk, for the conveniency of funerals, the meeting of the clergy et cetera.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia November 11, 1744:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
William Bell [Belle]
William Bulley
Townsend White
William Clymer
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
George Plumley
Samuel Holt
Benjamin Morgan
Captain William Bell [Belle], one of the committee appointed to view the chandelier brought by Captain John Seymour from
London, reported to the Vestry that it appeared to be a complete and beautiful piece of
workmanship.
Whereupon it was resolved that Captain John Seymour should be treated with in order
to purchase the same and that money should be raised for that purpose by subscription, and
this Vestry in their turn wait upon the respective members of the congregation for their contribution
hereto.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia January 11, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Townsend White
William Bulley
William Clymer
Captain John Searle
William Bell [Belle]
Charles Willing
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Samuel Holt
The Church Wardens informed the Vestry that according to a former order of Vestry, Mr.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] and Captain William Bell [Belle] had treated with Captain William Seymour, about the set of branches for
church use, brought by him from London, and that he had fallen in the value there of from his
demand of 58 or 70 pounds to 58 pounds and several members of this congregation who had subscribed toward
the purchase hereof were very much dissatisfied with the delay given herein it was therefore
in the easiest terms they can now make.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia February 2, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Samuel Holt
William Clymer
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Captain John Searle
William Bulley
Townsend White
George Plumley
William Clymer and William Pywell [Pyewell] reported that according to the order of last
Vestry they had treated with Captain Seymour about the chandelier and that they had purchased
the same from 56 pounds which sum had been paid by Mr. William Clymer Treasurer of the moneys collected
for that purpose, and had delivered it into the care of the present Church Wardens, and that the
subscriptions for that purpose was not fully collected, it was therefore ordered that this Vestry in
their turns apply to the rest of the congregation fro their contribution hereto.
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Peter Evans, February 18, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
George Plumley
William Clymer
Samuel Holt
William Bulley
Peter Evans
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
The Vestry being informed that 36 seats in the body of the church were already finished and
that the Church Wardens found great difficulty in finishing the rest because some members of the congrega
tion were dissatisfied with the manner of altering the double seats into single ones, and this Vestry
being also informed that by altering the said double seats into single ones it would leave one seat in
six and that there was a great number of persons wholly destitute of seats in the church.
Ordered therefore, that the residue of the seats which are now doubles be continued and
rebuilt in the place and manner they now are.
At a Vestry held at the house of Peter Evans February 22, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Dr. Robert Jenney
Church Wardens:
John Kearsley [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
George Plumley
Benjamin Morgan
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Captain John Searle
William Bulley
Peter Evans
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Clymer
The Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry that there were great disorders committed in the
congregation, through some persons pretending a right to remove one seat higher the pulpit than before.
The regulation now made they were used to do because the ninth pew counting from the west isle was
hereby gained by which disturbance several persons were already turned out of their seats
And
And that Captain Anthony Palmer's family with other worthy members of the congregation were hereby deprived
of having a seat in this church and that Oswald Peel and William Hether were the principal agressors
in this disorder.
Resolved, therefore by this Vestry, that the proprietors family shall sit in
the seat gained by the late regulation, which is the seat next to that now belonging to Mr. Thomas
Lawrence [Lawrance]; that Mr. John Read and Mr. Andrew Bradford in the seat next to that; Oswald Peel and Captain Bell next to
that; William Hellier and Mr. Edward Bradley next to that and the rest of the sitters in that range of seats
in their usual order. That, the Church Church Wardens for these resolutions duly observed, and that
Oswald Peel and William Hellier be served with these resolutions and signed by the Church Wardens, which was
accordingly done in the following words. Viz.
The Vestry met this afternoon, and considered the sittings in
the new pews, and have ordered that the proprietors family shall sit in the new seat next to Mr.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. John Read, and Mr. Andrew Bradford next to that. Oswald Peel and Captain William Bell [Belle] next to that;
Captain William Hellier and Mr. Edward Bradley next to that, and do expect for me peace of the congregation you will be
concluded hereby, and the Church Wardens are directed to see these resolutions duly observed.
By order of the Vestry
Church Wardens
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
The Church Wardens also acquainted the Vestry that in conformity to resolve of Vestry of the 23 pence of debts
ordering five pounds to be pain by such persons, who have since the year 1731 or shall have after erect a tomb
stone in the church burying ground they have made demand thereof from persons who had lately
erected tomb stones, but they had refused to make payment thereof,
It was thereupon resolved that a final
refusal hereafter made to pay the above fee the Church Wardens fro the time being, shall pull down
and effectually remove such tomb stones whether the same be raised on a pedestal, or laid flat upon the
ground.
And it is the resolve of this Vestry that strangers hereafter erecting a tomb stone in the
burying ground belonging to this congregation shall pay the sum of ten pounds, and upon neglect
thereof, the said tomb stone shall be pulled down and removed out of the burying groung as directed.
In the case of members belonging to this congregation refusing to pay the fee imposed on them as
above said.
See Minutes of Vestry July 15, 1731.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia March 15, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
Benjamin Morgan
Captain John Searle
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Bulley
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Clymer
Samuel Holt
John Ross
George Plumley
Charles Willing
The Vestry having taken in consideration the present disturbance relating
to seats in the church.
Resolved that the order of Vestry of February 22 (ult) appointing the
proprietors family to sit in the new seat next to Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. Charles Read, and Mr. Andrew Bradford
next to that Captain Oswald Peel, and Captain William Bell [Belle] next to that shall be duly observed, and do expect
that Mr. Oswald Peel will acquire herewith, and that Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. Samuel
Hassell, and Mr. Thomas Leech be a committee to acquaint Mr. Oswald Peel and the widow Bell
therewith.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia March 23, 1744/5:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Benjamin Morgan
Captain John Searle
Samuel Holt
William Bulley
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
The committee appointed to acquaint Mr. Oswald Peel and Mrs. Bell with the resolution of this
Vestry made their report and is as follows.
In pursuance of a written order and directed of the Vestry, we the subscribers, waited
on Mr. Oswald Peel, and the widow of Captain Belle, and acquainted them. Herewith the former who not
withstanding many arguments were offered in support of hte right, the Vestry, had to the disposal
to maintain his right to the pew assigned to Mrs. Read and Mrs. Bradford, and that he would take off the
lock agin if he found the door fast.
Mrs. Bell persisted in the same manner, and said, if he had
next to that pew, she never would have another in the church, all which is submitted to the Vestry, by
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
Thomas Leech
Philadelphia March 16, 1744/5
The Vestry taking into consideration, the answer of Captain Oswald Peel to the committee
resolved that the conduct of Oswald Peel is refractory and contrary to the rights and privileges
of the congregation, and that the seat, which he has broke open and pretends to hold in contempt of
the orders of this Vestry, shall be secured with a lock, or other proper fastenings, necessary to put a stop
to his regular proceedings, till further consideration may be had thereon.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church, Philadelphia March 30, 1745:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Maugridge
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Bulley
Thomas Leech
William Clymer
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
George Plumley
Townsend White
Captain John Searle
Benjamin Morgan
The Vestry resuming the consideration of the late disturbance about sittings in the church
principally, propogated and carried on by the refractory temper of Oswald Peel, and it appearing
by the minutes of three preceeding Vestrys that the said Oswald Peel had been frequently admonished
in a regular and Christian manner, of his misconduct therein, both from committee and written messages
of this Vestry. Laying before him the ancient rights of this congregation in regulating the seatings
in this church from time to time, as occasion might require, and offering him the utmost indulgence
in seating him to the best advantiage of situation and conveniency, which he notwithstanding, has
opposed and treated with the highest contempt, by violence breaking locks and forcing open
Pew doors by means whereof the peace of the congregation has been greatly disturbed
wherefore it is resolved, that he shall hereafter hold no seat in this church nor be deemed a member
thereof, but is rejected and struck out of the list of the members of this congregation, until he
become sensible of his error and the seat which he has so irregularly contended for shall be
immediately let to such person as may be thought proper to be seated there.
And whereas Mrs. Jane Bell
widow of the late Mr. William Bell [Belle] has been led by the disquiet and irregular conduct of
Oswald Peel to supposed herself injured, by the late order of Vestry, in placing her two seats
back from the seat of Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], yet notwithstanding the disorders which have
arisen from hence, in consideration of her widowhood, as here husband Captain William Bell [Belle]
who was at the time of his death a worthy member of this Vestry, and a generous benefactor
as well as zealous promoter of the wellfare of this church, we recall all former resolves, in this
case made, and do order the said Mrs. Bell with her family to sit in the seat next but one to the seat
now belonging to Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], and Mrs. Read and Mrs. Bradford, to sit in the seat next before
that, and that Mr. Bradford if she pleases may remove to the seat next that, now appointed for
Mrs. Belle,
Ordered that a copy of the above minutes be sent to the parties respectively.
Be it remembered on Easter Monday April 15, 1745
the congregation of Christ Church assembled in the church
and made choice of the following persons for Vestry Men for the ensuing
year. Viz'd
William Clymer
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
John Ross
George Plumley
Ralph Asheton
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Peter Turner
William Hellier
Richard Peters
William Paschall
Walter Goodman
Joseph Sims
Richard Nixon
Thomas Gordon
Philip Sing [Syng]
William Cuzzins
John Phillips
A majority of the Vestry elected and then present made choice of
John Ross to by their Church Warden for the ensuing year.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 23, 1745:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Warden:
John Ross
Vestry Men:
William Clymer
Edward Jones
Richard Peters
Walter Goodman
Richard Nixon
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
William Hellier
William Casshule
Ralph Asheton
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Gordon
John Phillips
George Plumley
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joseph Sims
William Cuzzins
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] made choice of Thomas Leech for one of the
Church Wardens for the ensuing year.
Ordered that the chest provided for keeping the records of this
church be lodged and placed in the parsonage house that three locks
of different wards and keys be affixed to the same and the minister
and each Church Warden keep on key and that the minister and Wardens
together see the entries duly made in the registers.
Caleb Cash John Young Sam not think George Heap and and Noel Ledru having
offered themselves as candidates for the clerks place, it is ordered, that they or
any others who shall hereafter offer themselves be tried before the congregation
a week in their turn, and that they serve in their turn as here set down.
Ordered that William Hellier, William Paschall, and Philip Syng [Sing] be a committee
to settle and adjust the accounts of William Clymer treasurers of this church
and report their doings herein to the next Vesry.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia May 14, 1745:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Warden:
John Ross
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Clymer
Richard Peters
Edward Jones
Walter Goodman
George Plumley
Joseph Sims
Peter Turner
John Phillips
William Hellier
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Gordon
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] claims a right to make choice of a clerk
of this church in peursuance of the 91st cannon in such ease made.
After debate thereupon the Vestry resolved that it is the right of
the Vestry to make choice of a clerk for this church.
And thereupon the Vestry made choice of Mr. Caleb Cash to be the clerk
and do accordingly appoint him clerk of this church.
The petition of Charles Hughes Sexton setting forth his service in the
church is much increased and his salary very small and therefore prays
a further allowance be made him.
And thereupon it is resolved that the said Charles Hughes be allowed
the sum of ten pounds hereafter for his yearly salary.
It being represented to the Vestry that the school house is very much
out of repair, thereupon resolved that the Church Wardens do view the
same and inquire what is necessary to be down and the expense thereof
and make report thereon to the next Vestry.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia June 27, 1745:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Warden:
John Ross
Thomas Leech
Vestry Men:
William Clymer
William Hellier
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Thomas Gordon
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Edward Jones
William Cuzzins
John Phillips
The Church Wardens represented to the Vestry that sundry persons have
applied for sittings in the church and desire a committee may be appointed
out of the Vestry may be appointed for that purpose.
And thereupon ordered that the Church Wardens prepare a plan of
all the seats of the church and the names of the persons already seated
therein and lay the same before the next Vestry.
Ordered that Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Thomas Leech, Joshua Maddox [Madox]m and William Hellier or
any three of them be a committee to settle and adjust the accounts of Dr. John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
as late Church Warden and manager of the building and finishing
of this church.
In pursuance of a former order of Vestry the Wardens reported the
school house is much out of repair and in great need of a new roof, floor,
below stairs, and sundry other repairs, whereupon it is ordered that the
Wardens forthwith proceed to have the said school house new shingled.
It being moved that a steeple be erected and built to Christ Church in order
to have a ring of bells. It is thereupon ordered and agreed that a proper
[unclear] be prepared and drawn up by the Wardens for that purpose, and that
Thomas Gordon and Captain William Cuzzins receive and take subscriptions from Walnut
Street and the southward and there of and Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] and Mr. Joshua Maddox [Madox], Mr. Richard Peters,
and Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] from Walnut Street to Market Street, and Mr. John Ross
and Mr. William Clymer fro Market Street to the North End of the City.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
The 31st of March 1746 [March 31, 1746] being Easter Monday, the congregation
met as usual in Christ Church Philadelphia in order to choose
Church Wardens and Vestry Men and the following persons
were chosen.
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Sides Men:
George Okil [Okill]
Evan Morgan
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Ross
William Paschall
William Clymer
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
William Cuzzins
Richard Nixon
Joseph Sims
William Hellier
Richard Peters
Richard Sewell
John Willcox [Wilcocks]
Walter Goodman
Philip Syng [Sing}
Edward Jones
Thomas Gordon
_________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia 24 April 1746 [April 24, 1746]:
Present the Reverend Mr. Robert Jenney, Minister
Thomas Leech }
Jacob Duché [Dushé] } Wardens
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Gordon
George Okil [Okill]
Richard Sewell
Walter Goodman
John Ross
William Cuzzins
William Hellier
William Clymer
Joseph Sims
Whereas it was agreed upon and resolved by a former order of Vestry that
the sum of five pounds should be paid to the use of this church for every one
that should be then after buried within this body of the church, which order
order has for sometime been neglected and sundry persons buried in the said
church without the payment of the sum.
Therefore it is ordered that the Church Wardens call upon Doctor
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. for the church books and give to the clerk a copy of the
said order with directions to him to demand and receive the sum of five
pounds for all such as have been buried in the church and the said sum of
five pounds not just paid for the same and for the future to reacquaint
every one that shall apply for a burial in the church of the said order
of Vestry.
And whereas sundry persons where a corpse has been laid in the same
grave where another had been buried have refused to pay the fees for
opening the ground more than once.
It is ordered that every time the ground is opened those should be the same
grave the accustomed fees be recovered and received by the clerk or sexton
and that the sexton acquaint the persons concerned of this order.
And it is likewise ordered that no strangers be allowed to be buried
in the burying ground without the [unclear] of one of the Wardens, and
that for every stranger the sexton is ordered to receive double fees
for breaking ground, and that the sexton do acquaint them thereof.
Ordered that the Church Wardens agree with the workmen to go
on with the pews on both sides and the west end of the church, and pay for
the same out of the box money as it shall be collected.
It being moved that the last years order of Vestry about the building
of the steeple to Christ Church in Philadelphia be proceeded in, and such mesures
taken as may be most likely for the accomplishing the same.
Ordered that the Church Wardens and such of the Vestry as are
willing to give their attendance for that purpose view the foundation
already laid and consult with skillful architects and workmen, and
endeavor to get a plan or draft thereof to lay before the Vestry at their
next meeting with an estimate of the charges of the same as near as they can.
At a meeting of the Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia June 2, 1746:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Cuzzins
Richard Peters
John Ross
William Hellier
Evan Morgan
Richard Sewell
William Paschall
Thomas Gordon
George Okil [Okill]
Philip Syng [Sing]
Joseph Sims
The meeting of this Vestry was to consider on and view the several
draughts of a tower and spire in order to agree upon ne to be erected
to this church and after some time spent thereon it was agreed and
concluded upon that in the erecting the spire the draft which Mr. Harrison
drew should be followed.
And that Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] with the Wardens and two of the Vestry Viz
Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] and Mr. Richard Peters wait upon his
honor the Governor with the plan agreed upon by the Vestry.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia July 21,1746:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
John Ross
William Hellier
Richard Nixon
William Clymer
Richard Sewell
Philip Syng [Sing]
Evan Morgan
Dr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] laid before the Vestry a letter he had lately received from the
Society for Propagation of the Gospel in home on parts wherein it
appears they have come to a resolution to allow a salary of 30 pounds per annum
for the settling a Catechetical Lecture in our church of Philadelphia. Likewise a letter
upon the same subject from the Reverend Dr. Moore.
And after some debate had thereon it was agreed to be referred to
further consideration and in the mean time the members of the Vestry are
assigned to consult as many of the congregations as they conveniently can
in order to come to a resolution at the next meeting of the Vestry
upon the affair.
The copy of a letter from the Society:
Charterhouse April 18, 1746
Rev. Jenney
I gladly embrace this opportunity by Mr. Reading
of answering your letters, and had indeed wasted a considerable time for a
safe conveyance. The Society in compliance with your request
are come to a resolution of settling a Catechetical Lecture in your church
in Philadelphia for the instruction of negroes, and others with a salary of 30 pounds
per annum. But you must yourself look out for a proper person and send
him hither for Deacon and Priests orders, none such offering on this should the
water Doctor Johnson, I believe could furnish you from New England.
Mr. Reading is appointed missionary to appointed in the room.
William Pugh and William Blewet of Somerset County in Maryland recommended
by the Lord Bishop of Rochester to the mission in Kent County in the room
of poor Mr. Morris, he has billin favor of Mr. Evans The Society has ordered
to be paid, they have dismissed Mr. Lindsay from his itinerant mission and
appointed Mr. Lock upon the recommendation of the Lord Bishop of London
to succeed him, and I hope Mr. Lock will prove a worthy missionary and make
amends for the ill conduct of Mr. Lindsay, whom Mr. Camboll of Burlington
and some others as well as the two persons you [unclear] complained of
to the Society, and his selling of the Society's Books and other bad actions
were but too manifest Mr. Reading brings letters with him to Mr. Blewet,
Mr. Lock, and Mr. Lindsay and indeed to all the missions in the province with the
last anniversary sermon yet pointed and a few of the Society's collection of papers
half [unclear] of the sermon's and a couple at the [unclear] of the collections, I have
defunded him to present to you, and to dispose of the rest, among that missionary
heartily praying for success on your pious endeavors to promise true
religion in your province.
If Mr. Reading goes by way of New York I am your omissary
I shall send a box of books and some your very faithful and affectionate
of those [unclear]; Direction cynthe brother and servant
[unclear] for Pennsylvania. Philip Banecroft of Leech
At a Vestry meeting held September 11, 1746:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Edward Jones
Richard Peters
Richard Sewell
William Hellier
Evan Morgan
William Clymer
Philip Syng [Sing]
George Okil [Okill]
The Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry that the pews on the south isle
next to the wall were now finished and as there were a great many persons who
had applied to the Wardens for sittings in the church it would be now a very
proper time in their opinion to appoint a committee of this Vestry to meet in
the church one day every week in order to settle persons in those pews and
also to followup other vacancies in any other parts of the church.
Ordered that Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Richard Peters, Joshua
Maddox [Madox], Richard Sewell and William Hellier be appointed a committee for that purpose
and that they or any three of them with one of the Wardens meet next
Monday in the church and every Monday after until they have seated
the congregation and filled up vacancies where any shall be found
throughout the whole church.
Ordered that public notice be given by the clerk both morning
and afternoon on Sunday next after service to the end that as many
as want seats may attend on the committee in the church at the days and
times appointed for that purpose.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia December 6, 1746:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Clymer
Evan Morgan
William Cossins [Cuzzins]
Philip Syng [Sing]
George Okil [Okill]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] laid before the Vestry a letter hered from Mr. Henry Barnesbey Manst
of New York by the hand of a young gentleman who was elected and taken his
degres in the College in New England and recommended by Mr. Barclay as
a person well qualified to do services in the church, a copy of his letter follows.
New York November 25, 1746
Reverend Jenney,
The bearer hereof was recommended to me by Mr. Wetmore as a proper
person to succeed me at Albany, but as the miserable circumstances of that places
can afford him very small encouragement, he mentioned to me his desire of being
your assistant and desired me to write you a line in his favor Mr. Wetmore
tells me he has a very good voice and is a good reader and in all other respects would
qualified to do service to the church, if he answer this character, I hope you will
be his friend in this affair I am with much respect.
Your very honorable servant
Henry Barclay.
And after some consideration had thereon, it was agreed that Mr. Sturgeon
the gentleman recommended should be called in, and requested to read from
the pulpit a sermon of Bishop Tellosons that the Vestry present might be
enabled to judge of his voice and delivery, which was done accordingly, and
after he was withdrawn the members then present were of opinion that
his voice would answer very well. but inasmuch as the number of
Vestry Men present were but small, it was agreed that notice should be
given tomorrow, being Sunday for the Vestry to attend in the church immi-
diately after the sermon in the afternoon to consider further on this subject
matter of this letter, and also to take into consideration the letter from
the Society, which was laid before the Vestry July 21 last and
to come to some resolution thereon.
At a Vestry held in Christ Church in Philadelphia December 7, 1746:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
Philip Syng [Sing]
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
William Clymer
William Hellier
George Okil [Okill]
John Ross
Evan Morgan
After the reading the several letters relating to a Catechetical and assistant
and consideration had thereupon.
Resolved that such a person to reside amongst us is necessary and
convenient and that the Vestry on behalf of the congregation do thankfully
accept of the Society's offer of 30 pounds per annum towards the support of a Catechist.
And thereupon Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] signified to the Vestry that Mr. Thurgean
is a suitable person (as far as he can judge, from the conversation and argumentation
he has had with him since his coming here) to be recommended to the Society
for a Catechist and assistant, and that for a farther encouragement towards his
support here he is wiling to allow him the one mostly of his surplus fees
of marriages and curially which he supposes by the best computation he has
made, will amount to about 40 pounds per annum.
Resolved that the Vestry are inclined to come to a sudden
resolution in relation to recommending this gentleman to the Society (he being
an entire stranger to all of them) before they have a more particular
character of his learning and abilities, sobriety of his life and conversation, from
performs what have had long acquaintance and knowledge of him, and therefore
recommends to him upon his return home to obtain letters of recommendation
from Mr. Johnson and Mr. Wetmore, or other gentlemen of note, and when those letters
are laid before the Vestry and appear satisfactory they are of opinion that he
may be recommended to the Society for ordination and appointed for a
Catechisial Lecture in our church and to be an assistant to the [unclear].
Resolved that the Church Wardens pay to the Gentleman five pounds
out the box money towards defraying the charge of his
journey here and back again.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia January 5, 1746/7:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
William Clymer
George Okil [Okill]
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
William Hellier
William Sewell
Philip Syng [Sing]
The meeting of this Vestry being to consider of the recommendations of
Mr. sturgeon who was proposed by last Vestry to be a Catachist and an
assistant to the incumbent.
And after the reading the several letters from Mr. Johnson and Mr. Wtmore (relating to his character).
Resolved that he be recommended to the Society for that purpose.
And it is resolved that this congregation allow the gentleman the sum of 30 pounds
sterling towards defraying his expenses to England and back again to be
paid out of his box money.
And forasmuch as there is little money in bank, Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] offers to
give him a letter of credit to his nephew in London for the same sum to be
repaid him as the box money shall come into the hands of the Church Wardens,
and it is agreed that the exchange be at 85 cent.
And Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] is desired to track such a rector from the Mr. Sturgeon on this
delivery of the bills of exchange as may oblige him to return hither upon his
obtaining ordination, or to reimburse the said money to this congregation.
At a Vestry held January 7, 1746/7:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
Joshua Maddox [Madox]
John Ross
William Clymer
William Hellier
George Okil [Okill]
Evan Morgan
William Sewell
The meeting of this Vestry is to appoint a committee to draw up an address
to the Honorable Society and to return to them thanks for their grateful contribution of a
salary of 30 pounds per annum for a Catechist.
Ordered that Mr. Richard Peters, Mr. John Ross, and Mr. Joshua Maddox [Madox] be appointed for that
purpose.
Mr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] reported that he had furnished Mr. Sturgeon with a set of bills
for thirty pounds sterling and had taken his receipt according to the direction of
the Vestry for the same.
It being represented to the Vestry that the pall is so torn and ragged that
it will not serve any longe. Whereupon Mr. Richard Peters proposed that he would
request Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] (who is now going to New York) to purchase velvet for
a new pall,to be repaid out of this money arising from the pall, and says
that if Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] does not consent to take the pay in that manner he will
lay down the money for the same and take it again as the pall shall
bring it in.
At a meeting of the Vestry in Christ Church Philadelphia January 17, 1746/7:
Present:
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
William Clymer
William Hellier
George Okil [Okill]
Philip Syng [Sing]
Evan Morgan
The committee appointed to draw up an address to the Honorable Society
delivered the same into the Vestry which was read and agreed to by the
Vestry.
Ordered that the same be fairly transcribed and signed
by the Wardens and delivered to Dr. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] to go under his cover
to England by Mr. Sturgeon in order to be present to the Society.
The address follows. Viz.
To the Honorable the incorporated Society for the Propagation of the
Gospel in [unlcear] parts.
The humble address of the Church Wardens and Vestry of Christ Church
in the city of Philadelphia in the Province of Pennsylvania in Vestry assembled.
Having had this Honor to be informed be Doctor Barecroft
your secretary in his letter of the April 8th last to our Rector for Doctor Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
that the Society n compliance with the request of our worthy and pious
Rector were come to a resolution of setting a Catechetical Lecture in
our church for the instruction of negroes and others with a salary of
30 pounds per annum, we most heartily thank the Society for their singular
insistance of their care of us, we are obliged to our good minister for
his faithful representation of this condition of our congregation, whereby
the Society has seen the necessity and expediency of assisting us, and we
would express in the strongest terms possible our grateful [unclear] of the
the Society's goodness in their seasonable and generous provision. And to give
the Society some evidence of the effect their generosity has had, we beg leave to
inform them, that on our Rector's communicating Dr. Barecroft's kind letter
to some of the members of our church, the Vestry met and took immediately
into their consideration what further provisions could be procured to induct
a reputable and well qualified person to come amongst us, and on consulting
with our Rector and receiving from him some advantageous proposals.
We found that it would not be difficult to raise such an addition to the Society's
salary as would be a sufficient and decent memberance for such a Catechist
especially if by the father favor of the Society he may be permitted to be
assistant to the Rector of this church for the time being as doctor Barecroft
tells our Rector in his said letter. That he must himself look out for a proper
person and send him for Deacons and Priests Orders, no such offering on that side
of the water. Doctor Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] has been good enough to side immediately
to his brethren and friends in the other colonies, none offering in our own, that
they would use their diligence to find out a person of sufficient learning
and other endowments proper for such a city as this, which abound with
all kinds of sectaries and if they should be so happy as to light of such
a person to send him here, that the congregation might have an
opportunity of conversing with him and judge for themselves. Of these
letters a young gentleman, one William Sturgeon of Yale College in connection
come to this city and offered himself to our Rector and congregation, and
being well recommended by some of the Society's missionaries and other gentlemen
of reputation and property, the Minister after Church Wardens and Vestry agreed
agreed to accept him and to recommend him to the Society for Christ Church
praying that he may at the same time officiate as assistant to the
Rector for the time being we pray fervently that the pious labors of
the Society may have everywhere their desired success, and that this
may answer all their purposes and proved the means of making our holy
religion appear to more advantage in the eyes of sectaries and of
winning abundance of souls over to the pure worship of almighty God
according to the forms and contributions of our most excellent church
May it please thee.
_______________________________________________________________________
The 20 of April 1747 [April 20, 1747] being Easter Monday, the congregation
met at Christ Church in Philadelphia in order to choose Church Wardens
and Vestry Men according to the usual customs and the
following persons were chosen
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Sides Men:
Evan Morgan
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
Samuel [Samuell] Hasell
William Clymer
Benjamin Morgan
John Ross
William Hellier
Richard Sewell
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Gordon
George Okil [Okill]
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Richard Nixon
Joseph Sims
Edward Jones
Thomas Bond
____________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia May 11, 1747:
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenney, Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
John Ross
William Hellier
Richard Sewell
Evan Morgan
Joseph Redman
Samuel Bond
Philip Syng [Sing]
The committee appointed by order of Vestry to audit and settle the accounts
of Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] Sr. relating the finishing the inside of the church made
their report in [listing?] and is as follows. Vizt.
We whose names are underwritten having been by ordered of Vestry appointed a committee
to settle the accounts of Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] of the money expended upon the finishing
and ornamenting the inside of Christ Church in Philadelphia, and also his accounts as Church Warden
for part of the year 1743 and the year 1744. Do report that in pursuance of said order we met
the said Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and examined the accounts by him exhibited and the voucher for the several
articles therein charged, do find that a balance of four pounds eight shillings and ten
pence half penny appears to be due to the said Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. exclusive of one article of
two pounds five schillings ten pence, charged in his Warden's accounts for printing church difference
and an article of ninety two pounds charged for his labor and attendance as surveyor of
the work in finishing church with two articles we refer to the determination of the Vestry.
Signed: Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
William Hellier
And after some consideration had thereon it was resolved that the
thanks of this Vestry in the name of the congregation be given to Doctor
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. for his care and trouble in furnishing and ornamenting
the inside of this church, and also that a piece of oak be purchased and
paid for out of the monies arising from the collections made by the box
and present to Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. in the name of the Vestry and congregation
as a lasting memorial and grateful acknowledgement of his services
done for this church and congregation.
Ordered that Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. Richard Peters, and Mr. Philip Syng [Sing], and Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
be a committee to wait upon Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and in the name of the Vestry
and on behalf of the congregation return him their thanks accordingly
and acquaint him of the other part of their resolve.
It being again moved that the church is in great need of a
pall, and that the stock is very low and not money sufficient in bank
to purchase one.
Whereupon Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] and Mr. Richard Peters kindly made an offer to
lay down as much money as should be necessary for that purpose
to be repaid them or the fees arising from the pall should be collected.
Resolved that the Church Wardens procure select and get the
pall made accordingly, and that the fees received by the church for the use
thereof be wholly applied for the repayment thanks to the said Misters Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
and Mr. Richard Peters while the total cost thereof be repaid to them.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia May 24, 1747:
Present:
Reverend Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
Edward Jones
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
William Hellier
Benjamin Morgan
Joseph Redman
William Clymer
Joseph Sims
Thomas Gordon
Samuel Bond
Richard Nixon
Richard Sewell
It was proposed that inasmuch as Our Lordship Governor desires to embark
for England in a few days, that this Vestry do address his Honor before his
departure, and return him our hearty thanks and grateful acknowledgement
for the many favors conferred upon this Church Vestry.
and conclude with our hearty and [unclear] prayers for his life and
prosperous voyage and is unanimously
Resolved that an humble address to his honor the good be
drawn up accordingly and laid before the Vestry for their approbation.
Ordered that Mr. Richard Peters, Benjamin Morgan, Richard Sewell, Edward Jones, and William Hellier
with the Wardens be a committee to draw up the same and that they
have it in readings to lay before the Vestry on Tuesday next at 5 o'clock
in the afternoon at which time this Vestry appoint to meet again.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia May 26, 1747:
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenney, Minister
Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Thomas Gordon
William Hellier
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Richard Sewell
Evan Morgan
Edward Jones
Joseph Sims
Joseph Redman
William Clymer
Richard Nixon
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
The committee appointed by last Vestry held July 24 to draw
up an address to the Governor laid the same before the Vestry for their approbation
which being read and considered was agreed to.
Ordered that the same be transcribed in order to be presented
and that Mr. Richard Peters and Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] wait upon his honor the Governor and acquaint
him that the Vestry have agreed upon an address to him, and desire to know
when he will be pleased to be waited upon an address in order to present it.
Wo returned and reported that they had waited on the governor and
delivered the message they had in charge and that the governor was pleased to
appoint tomorrow at 5 o'clock in the afternoon.
And the Vestry appoints to meet at the Church tomorrow at 4 o'
clock P.M. in order to go to the governor's house to present their address
accordingly.
Then the minute of the 11th of this [unclear] May being read.
Mr. Richard Peters reported that he with Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] waited upon Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
gave him the thanks of the Vestry as was directed and that they also acquainted
him what the Vestry had proposed to do farther as an acknowledgement of his
care and trouble in and about the rebuilding and ornamenting our church, and
that the Doctor after some discourse had upon that subject said that he should
acquiesce, and would be satisfied with whatever the Vestry should conclude to
do upon the occasion.
Whereupon the Vestry came to the following Resolve.
That a piece of plate to the value of forty pound be directed to be made and
given in the name of this congregation to the Doctor as a present for his attendance
on the rebuilding and ornamenting this church. And that it be made of such
form and figure as the Doctor himself shall choose and direct, and that such
an inscription being even thereon as shall be devised by the committee here under
named, and agreed to by the Vestry. And that the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney, Mr. Richard Peters and
Mr. Evan Morgan are desired and appointed to get the same done accordingly and that
the money raised by the box be applied for that use after the appropriations
thereof already made be fully complied with and satisfied.
______________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church May 29, 1747:
Present:
Reverend Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Vestry Men:
Richard Peters
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Thomas Gordon
Thomas Bourne [Bourn]
Richard Sewell
Benjamin Morgan
Philip Syng [Sing]
Joseph Sims
Joseph Redman
William Clymer
Richard Nixon
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Evan Morgan
The Vestry according to appointment of yesterday evening met
met and having compared the address with the rough draught ordered that
Church Wardens signed the same in and for the Vestry, and that Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
be desired to read the same to, and then present it to the governor.
Then Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] with the Vestry waited upon the governor and delivered
the address accordingly, And follows in those words, Vizt.
To the Honorable George Thomas Esq. Lieut. and Governor and Commander in
chief of the Province of Pennsylvania and the counties of New Castle, Kent
and Sussex in Delaware.
The humble address of the Rector, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men of Christ
Church in Philadelphia.
May it please Your Honor:
The Vestry of the Church of Philadelphia for themselves
and the rest of the congregation are desirous to express their duty and affection to your
honor upon this unpleasing occasion of your departure out of this province.
We should have though our selves happy had your continuance amongst
us been as long as your life, which we hope may yet be preserved for many years
to come. When we consider how much your judgement has been relied on in
all public affairs relating to America and what reputation this province has
acquired by your great talents for government we are not surprised at the universal
concern shown by all sorts of people for the loss of a governor who knows so well, and is so
cordially in the interest of the colonies.
Excuse us said if the known eminency fo your character forces us to mention a few
of the benefits we have enjoyed and your administration.
Such an universal peace and quick subjects in the province as has not been known
since its first settlement. A sure demonstration of your great abilities and of the uprightness
of your government. This public office that have recent since your accession
have been disposed of without present or reward. May our virtuous example in a point
so material to this administration fo justice be imitated in America especially since
should corruption prevail there it just infallibly put a stop to its growth and prosperity.
All have had easy access to your person, and state appearance that encumbrance
or government. You have known how and when to lay aside without diminishing
your authority or dignity. We might were we to do justice to our own sentiments
and to the sentiments of others, say abundance in favor of the money virtues you possess
is a private gentleman exclusive of your public character. But we wait on your honor not
to enumerate your virtues, but to return you our unfeigned thanks for your generous
benefactions to our church and for your charities to the poor of our congregation, and to
offer up our prayers that almighty God ever regard full of good men may reestablish you
in a complete enjoyment of your health and grant you a safe prosperous voyage, what it may
answer the utmost extent of your wishes. We cannot take our leave of you without
expressing our hopes that your presence in England may at this time be very fortunate for the
colonies in general as you can put many things in their true light both with respect to what hase been
and may be done for the preservation and extension of his Majesty's Dominion in America.
To which the Governor gave the following answer:
Gentlemen
I think myself extremely obliged to you for the favorable opinion you are
pleased to entertain of me. As I am a member of the Church of England from judgment
as well as education I cannot but wish the advancement of your society.
Permit me therefore to recommend to you a constant harmony amongst
yourselves, and a Christian charity for such as desired from you, as the most
likely means of engaging them to unite with you.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia
October 30, 1747:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Peters
William Clymer
William Hellier
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Joseph Redman
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Richard Sewell
Richard Nixon
Evan Morgan
Mr. Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] our Minister introduced to the Vestry Mr. Sturgeon the young gentleman
by wohn we had sent letters of recommendation to the Society for Orders to be an assistant
and Catechist, who delivered a letter directed to the Church Wardens, and Vestry from
Mr. Bearcroft Secretary to the Society, which was read and is as follows.
Worthy Gentlemen,
The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in foreign in
foreign parts have consented to your request in appointing Mr. Sturgeon to be
their assistant to the worthy Rector of our church in the offices of Religion upon
your promise to make such as addition to the Society salary of 30 pounds per annum to Mr.
Sturgeon as Catechist to the negroes, as shall be a comfortable and decent maintenance for him
not doubting your making good this promise in the most liberal sense and hoping that
Mr. Sturgeon by his prudent conduct, diligence in his station, and good life will deserve it to
your and heartily recommending you to God's blessings. I am Gentleman your
very obedient humble servant
Philip Bearcroft
Secretary
After which Mr. Sturgeon Delivered at the Board his Deacon's of Preist's Orders
and his appointment as assistant to the Rector of our Church and Catechist and
which were severally read in Vestry, and returned to him.
Then the Vestry took the Principles into Consideration, and came to the following
resolution. That Mr. Sturgeon be inducted into this Church, and he is
now admitted to exercise the Offices of Religion therein as assistant to Mr. Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
and as Catechist to the Negroes according to the Society's letter.
Easter Monday
April 11, 1748
The Congregation of Christ Church in Philadelphia assembled according to custom
and the following persons were duly elected Vestry Men for the recent year.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Benjamin Morgan
William Hellier
Philip Syng [Sing]
Benjamin Price
Thomas Bond
Joseph Redman
William Clymer
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Richard Scovell
Thomas Gordon
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
John Ross
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
And thereupon Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] the Minister chose Evan Mordan for one Church
Warden and the Vestry chose Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] to be the other, to serve this present year
and Joseph Reman and Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr. were chose for Side Men.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church June 17, 1748:
Present:
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
William Hellier
Joseph Redman
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Richard Peters
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
William Clymer
Thomas Bond [Bonde]
Misters Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], William Hellier, William Cuzzins [Cossins], and Evan Morgan are appointed a
committee to settle the Church Wardens accounts since Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. time and likewise
to regulate such settings as shall be found vacant in the church.
As this Vestry think that the Society's salary to Mr. Sturgeon with part of Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s
fees is not sufficient to support him agreeable to his station. Mr. Richard Peters and Joseph
Redman are therefore requested to attempt a collection for this present year.
Ordered that the present Church Wardens collect and take into their charge all books
papers of accounts minutes of Vestry and all other writings belonging to this church
as they shall find them and make report to the Vestry that the said papers may be deposited
where they shall think proper.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] is requested to order a light or window to be made near the north
east corner of the church in the best and safest manner, the outside thereof to resemble
brick-work as near as possible.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia September 21, 1748:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
Richard Peters
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Clymer
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Bond [Bonde]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Benjamin Price
Upon the repeated complaints of diverse persons about the bad condition the burying-
ground was in the Church Wardens with one of the Quiet Men went and tok a view
thereof and found that by means of some breaches in the west side great quantity of water
came in great rains and sometimes filled the new dug graves.
It is therefore resolved that the burying ground and passage to it be put in good
order, and Mr. Philip Syng [Sing], Joseph Redman, and Thomas Bond [Bonde] are desired to get it
done the best and cheapest manner.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church March 16, 1748/9
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Richard Sewell
Thomas Leech
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Clymer
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Joseph Redman
Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], William Cuzzins [Cossins], William Hellier, an Evan Morgan, a committee
appointed June 17, 1748 to settle the Church Wardens accounts since
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.'s time. Two of the aid persons, Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], and Mr.
Evan Morgan proceeded to the business and having examined said accounts with their vouchers -
do find that in settling Thomas Leech's accounts there's a balance due to
him of eighteen shillings and one penny. And also a balance due
to Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] on of setting his Church Warden account for 1747 and 1748 of
the sume of twenty and three pounds four shillings and eight pence half
penny. - The said committee have likewise pursuant to their oders
examined the vacant seats in the church and have placed therein uch
persons as applied. A copy of which regulation is delivered to the
clerk with orders to him to acquaint all the parties concerned where they
are seated and also those with whom they sit are to be acquainted therewith.
March 27, 1749 Easter Monday
The congregation of Christ Church Philadelphia met according to custom
and the following persons were duly elected Vestry Men for the said church for the year.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Charles Willing
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Richard Sewell
James Humphreys
Peter Bard
Abraham Taylor
Thomas Leech
Joseph Redman
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Evan Morgan
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Clymer
Philip Syng [Sing]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Townsend White
Then Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] chose Townsend White for one Church Warden, and
the Vestry chose Evan Morgan for the other for this present year
and Mr. Henry Elwise [Elwes] and James Humphreys were chosen Just Men or
Side Men.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 10, 1749:
Present:
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
William Clymer
James Humphreys
Abraham Taylor
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Thomas Leech
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Peter Bard
Misters Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], Townsend White, and Peter Bard are appointed a committee to
settle the Church Wardens accounts of last year.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia April 21, 1749:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
Thomas Leech
Richard Peters
James Humphreys
Joseph Redman
William Clymer
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Richard Peters and Joseph Redman who were appointed to attempt a
collection for the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon our Catechist, accordingly
report that they have collected sixty pounds from sundry members of the
congregation pursuant to a minute of Vestry of June 17, 1748.
Ordered that Mr. Richard Peters Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and Thomas Leech be a committee to write
a letter to Doctor Bearcroft Secretary to the Society for Propagation of the Gospel,
in answer to his dated May 28, 1747 relating to Mr. William Sturgeon, and they are to
present the same to the Vestry for their approbation.
Further that the above gentlemen together with the two Church Wardens
do take into their charge all books, papers or accounts and deeds of the church
ground, parsonage and schoolhouse ground; burying groung et cetera and report
their doings to the next meeting of the Vestry that they may order them to be
deposited in such part of the church as may be by them thought convenient.
And whereas it has been observed by several of the Vestry that many
inconveniences arise to his Church for want of being incorporated, it was therefore
concluded that a proper application for a charter should be made to the Honorable
James Hamilton Esquire our Governor. And Mr. Richard Peters is desired to
learn from his Honor whither such as application would be pleasing to him;
and in what manner it had best be done, and he is to make report of their doings
at the next meeting of the Vestry.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church April 25, 1749:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Peters
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
James Humphreys
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Abraham Taylor
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
Richard Sewell
The committee appointed to draw up a letter in answer to Doctor Bearcroft have
wrote the following which was read and approved and is as below.
Reverend Sir. Philadelphia April 25, 1749
We have the Honor to acknowledge the receipt of your obliging
letter of May 28, 1747 wherein you inform the Church Warden and Vestry of
this church that the Society had consented to Mr. Sturgeon's being assistant to our minister
on their promise to make such an addition to the society's salary of thirty pounds a year
granted him as Catechist to the Negroes as should be a comfortable and decent
maintenance to him. - We should not have delayed our answer so long
had it not been with the consent and indeed in a great measure of the insistence or Mr.
Sturgeon himself who knowing that the congregation was not out of debt on account
of the large church they have been building as well as that there were no funds out of
which a salary could be raised for him but that he must depend on the voluntary
Voluntary contributions of the members desired he might have an opportunity
of endeavoring to obtain the affections of the congregation by his behavior
and that no collection might be made until the end of the year.
We have now the pleasure to inform you that Mr. Sturgeon has rendered
himself agreeable to the congregation and considering his youth and the stinted
education given in the American Colleges he discharges extremely well
the offices of his function and will we do not doubt continue to give in time
satisfaction. In return Mr. Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] give him half his perquisites which
year amounted to and the congregation have
by voluntary contribution presented him the sum of sixty pounds and were
this at least will be annually raised for him and perhaps a larger sum
as he comes to be more intimately acquainted with the people.
We are thankful to the society for their allowance of a salary for a
Catechist for the negroes, who are very numerous here being the servants
much used by many people and we take this opportunity of making you
the acknowledgements of the congregation and our own for the favor you
have shewn us, and are et cetera Signed by order Evan Morgan and Townsend White Church Wardens
Mr. Richard Peters reports that according to a minute of last meeting he had represented
to the Governor the inconveniences attending our church for want of a charter of
incorporation and that the Vestry having it under consideration was disposed to
address his honor for one if they might be to happy and to have his inclinations
in their favor. And that the Governor was pleased to say he would be glad of any
opportunity of promoting the interest of the church and if the Vestry thought a charter of
incorporation would be of service and should present their petition to him for that purpose
together with a draft of what they think felt to be inserted in such charter they might
promise themselves success if the matter thereof should be such as he could grant.
Whereupon, Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Esquire, Abraham Taylor Esquire, John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Thomas Leech,
and Richard Peters, together with the Church Wardens are appointed a committee to
prepare drafts of a petition and charter and lay them before this Vestry for approbation.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church in Philadelphia
July 14, 1749:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Richard Peters
William Clymer
William Bingham
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Joseph Redman
James Humphreys
Mr. Samuel Kink having made application for the Sextons Post in the room of Charles
Hughes deceased is accordingly appointed Sexton of this church his salary ten pouds
a year as Hughes's was.
At a Vesry held at the House of Mr. Townsend White on Tuesday
December 19, 1749:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
William Bingham
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Richard Sewell
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Abraham Taylor
Richard Peters
James Humphreys
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
William Clymer
It being represented to the Vestry by the Church Wardens that it is now a year since
since the last collection was made for the Reverend Mr. Sturgeon. It was agreed that
Misters William Clymer, Townsend White, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and William Cuzzins [Cossins] be appointed to
collect from the members of our church such sums of money as they respectively shall
think proper to give; which when so collected the are desired to present to Mr. Sturgeon
and make report of their doings therein at the next meeting of Vestry afternoon.
A rough draft of the charter sometime ago proposed was laid before the Vestry and read
and after some debates thereon was referred to the same committee for amendment; who when
they have altered it as they think expedient are to present it again to the Vestry for their perusal.
At a Vestry held at the House of Mr. Townsend White February 23, 1749:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Peters
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Clymer
James Humphreys
Charles Willing
Richard Peters
William Bingham
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Peter Bard
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
The persons appointed to collect for Mr. Sturgeon report that they have
received from sundry persons (of whose names they have a list) the sum of
Which money is paid to hi according to a minute of the last meeting.
As it appears by the report of the said persons that many people are much
dissatisfied at the present method of fundraising money for Mr. Sturgeon our Catechist. It was proposed that Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. should be asked to accept a certain annual. After
some conference on that subject, Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] said that if he could certainly have two
hundred and fifty pounds a year and the parsonage house put into good repair, he would
relinquish the pew money. Whereupon it was concluded that this proposal
should be maturely considered by the member of Vestry against their next meeting.
The committee for composing a charter reporting that they have not finished
the same; they are desired to get it completed as soon as they conveniently can in order
to present it to the Vestry for their perusal.
Easter Monday, April 16, 1750:
A number of the congregation met at Christ Church according to custom
and the following persons were duly cosen Vestry Men for the present year.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Charles Willing
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Evan Morgan
James Humphreys
Peter Bard
Abraham Taylor
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
Joseph Redman
William Bingham
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Henry Harrison
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Clymer
Richard Sewell
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Richard Peters
Then the minister chose Townsend White for one Church Warden and the Vestry
elected Evan Morgan for the other, and Henry Elwise [Elwes] and William Humphreys for Quiet Men.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church April 24, 1750:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Richard Sewell
Abraham Taylor
William Clymer
Joseph Redman
Henry Harrison
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Humphreys
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
The Church Wardens, accounts for the year 1748 and 1749 were brouht in by Evan Morgan
Evan Morgan consisting only of the box money and the sum of three pounds one shilling
and one penny received of William Clymer for remainder of branch money on the creditor side
and sundry charges paid by him on the debtor side, there being a balance in his hands of
forty nine pounds one shilling and ten pence, the clerk having brought no account
of breakings of ground and pall money for the said years.
Therefore Misters Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], Peter Bard and William Cuzzins [Cossins] are appointed
a committee to settle said clerks accounts and Mr. Cash is ordered to lay the said accounts
before them immediately.
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s proposal of 250 pounds a year certain; which he consented to take you a motion made in Vestry is referred to the consideration
of another meeting.
A draft of a charter approved by a most of the committee appointed for that
purpose was brought into Vestry; but the consideration thereof is also referred to another
meeting of the Vestry.
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., James Humphreys and Joseph Redman are appointed a committee
to regulate and fill up of vacant seats in the church with such persons as shall
or have applied for the same. Evan Morgan and Townsend White Church Wardens
________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church the 25th Day of July anno 1750. [July 25 1750]
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Peters
William Clymer
James Humphreys
Joseph Redman
William Cuzzins [Cossins]
Richard Sewell
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Whereas upon a motion made at a meeting of Vestry at the house of Mr. Townsend White
on February 23, 1749 Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] our minister, consented to relinquish the
pew rents and to accept of the certain sum of two hundred and fifty pounds
current money per annum, provided that the Vestry would repair the parsonage
house, and that matter was then referred to further consideration.
It is therefore now agreed by this present Vestry that they accordingly
do take the pews under their care for a year and that the sum of two hundred
and fifty pounds for one year be paid by the Vestry unto Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
in two equal half yearly payments of one hundred and twenty five pounds each.
out of the moneys to be collected for the rent of the pews.
It is also ordered that the charge of repairing the parsonage house be paid off
by the Church Wardens, out of the box money et cetera.
The committee appointed at the last meeting of Vestry to fill the vacant seats and
declining to act, Misters William Clymer, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Josseph Redman, by their
own consent are appointed a committee to regulate the sittings and fill up the
vacancies with such persons as may apply.
Ordered that Mr. Caleb Cash the clerk prepare his accounts of breakings ground and pall
ever since the settlement with Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] Church Warden for the year 1747, and present them
to the committee appointed to settle them; and that on or before the fifteenth day of
August next. Evan Morgan and Townsend White Church Wardens
_________________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at the house of Mr. Townsend White March 5, 1750 [1751]:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Richard Sewell
Richard Peters
Thomas Leech
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
William Clymer
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Henry Harrison
The Church Wardens reported that they had collected 154 pounds; 13 shillings; 4 pence for the last
half years pew money and that having paid Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] his half year's salary 125 paid
per agreement, there remained in their hands 29 pounds; 13 shillings; 4 pence the dispositions of which
they pray the Vestry will order ....... and it is ordered that they pay that
surplusage, with what more moneys they shall yet collect for the said half year unto
the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon our Catechist for his services for the said half year
ending September 29 last past.
Further that the Church Wardens examine several bills brought in containing
sundry charges of repairing and flooring the church school house and if they find them
reasonable and just they are ordered to pay them off accordingly out of the box money.
Upon a motion made about building a steeple to our church, there seeming
to be a disposition in the Vestry to carry on that work; the matter is proposed
to be further considered in a Vestry to meet next Monday.
Evan Morgan and Townsend White Wardens.
At a Vestry held at Christ Church March 11, 1750/1:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Clymer
Richard Sewell
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Richard Peters
Peter Bard
William Bingham
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Pursuant to the proposal of last meeting of the Vestry for building a
steeple and providing bells, that matter was again taken into consideration
and as it was reported by several members that there is a hearty inclination to the king
in the inhabitants of this city, not only of our own church but in sundry persons
of other religious societies. It was therefore unanimously agreed that a
subscription for that purpose shall be immediately begun and carried on
under the care and direction of the Minister Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] and the Church
Wardens for the time being, who may call to their assistance any member of the
Vestry or congregation all of them being hereby earnestly desired to give their
ready and cheerful help. ........... And it is further agreed that the
aforesaid persons get a subscription book ready and as soon as is convenient
wait on the honorable James Hamilton Esquire our Governor to get him to subscribe
such sum as he shall think proper for a beginning of this work.
Evan Morgan and Townsend White Wardens
Easter Monday April 8, 1751. A number of the congregation
of Christ Church met at said church according to custom and the following persons were chosen
Vizt:
for Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
and for Sidemen or Quiet Men:
Peter Turner
William Bingham
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Clymer
Richard Peters
Richard Sewell
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Townsend White
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Henry Harrison
Peter Bard
Evan Morgan
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Ross
David Hall
John Baynton
At a meeting of the Vestry in Christ Church Philadelphia April 15, 1751:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
Evan Morgan
William Clymer
John Ross
Thomas Leech
David Hall
John Baynton
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Ordered that Evan Morgan Townsend White Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] and
Richard Sewell be a committee to settle the church accounts.
Ordered that John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. Thomas Leech Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] and Richard Sewell
be the supervisor for carrying on the steeple and that Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
be the treasurer for receiving the money raised for the that use.
At a meeting of the Vestry in Christ Church Philadelphia April 29, 1751:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
Richard Sewell
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Baynton
Henry Harrison
John Ross
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Ordered that John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Thomas Leech, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Richard Sewell
the present managers for carrying on the building of the steeple
do forthwith proceed to imply such proper workmen and provide
such necessary materials for the speedy accomplishing the said work
as they think proper.
Ordered that the committee for settling the church and clerk and
sextons accounts do compare their accounts with the register.
At a Vestry held in Christ Church Philadelphia September 2, 1751:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Richard Sewell
Evan Morgan
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Townsend White
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Baynton
David Hall
John Ross
Ordered that Townsend White and John Baynton do go with the book
to collect for the steeple Wednesday and Thursday next William Pywell [Pyewell] and
Joseph Redman Friday and Saturday next and Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] and Evan Morgan
the Monday and Tuesday next.
Ordered that Evan Morgan do pay the balance of his account
as Church Warden for the last year into the hands of Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee].
At a Vestry held in Christ Church Philadelphia October 11, 1751:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Richard Peters
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
John Baynton
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Townsend White
Richard Sewell
Henry Harrison
Ordered that Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Mr. Richard Peters, Mr. Thomas
Lawrence [Lawrance], William Pywell [Pyewell] be a committee to wait upon
the strangers now in town fro subscriptions for the steeple
ordered that Henry Elwise [Elwes], John Baynton, and John Ross be a
committee to wait on such asters of vessells and others as they
think proper for subscriptions for the steeple.
At a Vestry held in Christ Church Philadelphia January 22, 1752:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
John Baynton
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Richard Peters
William Bingham
Mr. John Ross, Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], were desired to endeavor
to collect the remainder of the subscriptions to the steeple.
Mr. William Bingham and Mr. John Baynton to receive the book
from them.
Mr. Evan Morgan and Mr. Henry Elwise [Elwes] to follow them.
Ordered that Samuel Kirk do collect the money arising from
funerals and pay the same to the Church Wardens once every month
William Pywell [Pyewell] and Joseph Redman Wardens
Easter Monday March 30, 1752. A number of the congregation of Christ
Church meet at said church according to custom and the following
persons were chosen Henry Harrison and James Humphreys Wardens.
Sidesmen:
Peter Turner
William Bingham
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Abraham Taylor
Richard Peters
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Ross
Evan Morgan
Richard Sewell
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Joseph Redman
John Baynton
Townsend White
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Charles Stedman
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia April 6, 1752:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
John Ross
John Baynton
Charles Stedman
Joseph Redman
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Townsend White
William Bingham
Resolved that Richard Sewell, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Evan Morgan be a committee to settle the Church Wardens
clerks and sexton's accounts to this present time.
Ordered that Samuel Kirk Sexton do take Cash notes for breaking the ground and for the pall from those who
are not willing to pay immediately the note to be taken in his own name for the use of the church.
At a Vestry at Philadelphia May 13, 1752:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Thomas Leech
John Baynton
Richard Sewell
John Ross
The committee appointed by the Vestry to settle the late Church Wardens accounts report that they find a
balance of seventy eight pounds; nine shillings; and ten pence half penny; in the hands of Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell]
Late Church Warden. The Vestry taking the same into consideration fo confirm the report and order Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell]
to pay the said balance into the hands of Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] Treasurer.
Whereas the Vestry find some difficulty in carrying up the steeple, arising from the backwardness of the people
in paying in their subscriptions for the remedying of which it is ordered that the following gentlemen shall
take the several following wards in order to collect in what money is already subscribed and get as many new subscriptions
as possible that they make report of their success to the Vestry on Monday the first Day of June Next.
Dock Ward Walnut and South Wards Lower Delaware and Chestnut Wards Middle Ward
William Pywell [Pyewell] Richard Sewell Evan Morgan Joseph Redman
John Baynton Peter Turner Henry Elwise [Elwes] Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Upper Delaware and High Street Wards North Ward Mulberry Ward
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr. Townsend White John Ross
Henry Harrison James Humphreys Charles Stedman
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia August 6, 1752:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
William Bingham
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
Charles Stedman
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
It being represented by Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., Thomas Leech, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Richard Sewell; Managers for
Building the Steeple that there was a balance due to John Palmer Bricklayer for work already done
and that there was not money in the Treasurer's hands sufficient to pay the same. Ordered that James
Humphreys do pay to Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] Treasurer what box money is in his hands and that the said Treasurer
do receive from William Pywell [Pyewell] what he had collected of the subscription money to enable the
managers to discharge the said balance.
It being moved that the subscription books might be examined to see what monies remain yet unpaid. Resolved
Henry Harrison, Evan Morgan, Jonathan and James Humphreys be a committee to examine the same and make report
to the next Vestry.
The managers for building the steeple are desired to collect in the tradesmaen's accounts and lay them before the next Vestry.
At a Vestry at Christ Church Philadelphia October 27, 1752:
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
William Bingham
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Joseph Redman
John Baynton
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Richard Sewell
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan Jr.
The Vestry considering the state of the steeple and the necessity there is for a grater supply of money to finish
the same resolved that the sum of be raised by way of lottery and that a scheme of a
lottery be drawn up in order to raise the same.
_____________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at Christ Church Philadelphia October 30, 1752:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Abraham Taylor
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Joseph Redman
John Baynton
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan Jr.
The Vestry being met according to adjournment to consider on a way of raising money (for finishing the
steeple purchasing a sett of bells) by a lottery; a scheme; for raising the sum of one thousand and twelve
pounds ten shillings; by a deduction of fifteen pounds and cent;on one thousand eight hundredeighteen thousand Spanish Dollars
commonly called pieces of eight; to be raised by the sale of four thousand five hundred tickets at four
pieces of eight each ticket, was presented by Henry Harrison and agreed to and John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.; Thomas
Leech; Evan Morgan Junior were appointed a committee to prepare the same for the press; persons appointed
to manage the same with the scheme as following:
Number of Prizes Value in pieces of 8/8 Total Value
1 of 1500 are 1500
2 of 500 are 1000
5 of 200 are 1000
20 of 100 are 2000
25 of 50 are 1250
40 of 20 are 800
200 of 10 are 2000
1375 of 6 are 8250
1668 prizes First Drawn 100
2832 Blanks Last Drawn 100
4500 Tickets a lot 8/8 each is 18,000
The money to be paid to the Possessors of the tickets that are prizes; as soon as the drawing is finished, the sum
of 15 pence: cent being first deducted out which seems to be the best method not only as the fortunate can best afford it,
bus also by this means the lottery is enriched by an addition of 2700 pence of 8/8 and the adventurers chance much better
there being not quite two blanks to a prize.
The drawing to begin on the first day of March next, or sooner; if sooner full of which timely notice will be given
in the public paper; that such adventurers as these to be present may be the tickets put in the boxes.
The following persons are appointed to be managers vizt; Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]; Abraham Taylor; Benjamin Franklin;
Henry Elwise [Elwes], John Baynton; and Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]; who are to give bond and be on oath for the faithful performance of their trust.
Prizes not demanded in six months after drawing to be deemed as generously given for the use above mentioned; and not to
be demanded afterwards but applied accordingly.
The tickets will begin to be sold by the managers; at their respective dwellings on November 20.
As there seemed to be on inclination in the inhabitants of this city to have the steeple built upon the foundation laid many years
ago, the Vestry were encouraged to attempt a subscription; but as all the money they could raise; including what little is yet
outstanding fals much shourt of hte sum necesary to complete the work; as will be shown by a state of the account of what is already
done, they are therefore under a necessity to take this methord; or the building remain unfinished.
We hope that a work of this kind which is purely ornamental will meet with encouragement from all well wishers to the
credit, beauty, and prosperity of Philadelphia.
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia February 16, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
John Ross
Townsend White
Evan Morgan
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Abraham Taylor
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Baynton
Charles Stedman
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] Treasurer produced to the Vestry his account concerning the steeple, by which it appears, he has
received the sum of nine hundred and nineteen pounds ten shillings and six pence; and paid, the sum of nine hundred and five
pounds fifteen shillings and six pence and thereupon; Henry Harrison, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], Evan Morgan, and James Humphreys, are
appointed a committee to draw a short state of the said account; in order to publish the same according to
promise in the lottery schemes and to settle the balance of the Cash, in the hands of the collectors of the Subscriptions not
yet paid in
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia February 22, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
Evan Morgan
John Baynton
Thomas Leech
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Joseph Redman
Charles Stedman
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
It being represented to the Vestry that the sum raised by the sale of the lottery tickets; was not sufficient to finish the
steeple; it was debated; whether a sum equal to that already raised; to be applied for finishing the steeple purchasing
a ring of bells and a good clock might not be raised by a supplement to the lottery; and agreed to whereupon the
following scheme was drawn up and ordered to be published.
Supplement to the Philadelphia Steeple Lottery, to raise one thousand and twelve pounds; ten shillings to finish the
steeple with a ring of bells and a good clock viz.....
Number prizes Value in pieces of 8/8 Total value
1 of 1000 is 1000
1 of 750 is 750
2 of 500 is 1000
5 of 200 is 1000
20 of 100 is 2000
25 of 50 is 1250
40 of 20 is 800
200 of 10 is 2000
1350 of 6 is 8100
1644 prizes First drawn 50
2856 blanks Last drawn 50
4500 tickets; at 4 pieces of eight each is 18000. The money is to be paid to the possessors of prize tickets as soon as the drawing
is finished 15 pence cent being first deducted out of all prizes.
The drawing will certainly begin on the first day of June next; great part of the tickets being already bespoke.
The following persons are appointed managers Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Abraham Taylor, Benjamin Franklin, Charles Stedman
Evan Morgan, Thomas Leech, Henry Elwise [Elwes], John Baynton, Henry Harrison, James Humphreys, Joseph Redman, and Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
who are to give bond and be on oath for the faithful performance of their trust.
Prizes not demanded in six months after drawing to be deemed as generously given for the same use as the 15 pence cent.
The tickets will begin to be sold by the managers at their respective dwellings; on March 5 next.
THe first steeple lottery was not calculated to raise the whole sum thought necessary to complete the work; as it was judged more easy to
raise such as sum at twice than at once, neither was it convenient that so much cash at one time should be taken out of the circulation
and locked up for so long a time as it must have been if the lottery had been large and the time of it's filling consequently longer
and by this method the adventurers have an appointment of a double chance as they may if they please lay out part of
the money they receive by prizes, in new tickets and those who were unfortunate in the first may not be so in this...
As the prizes in the rist lottery rise from 500 dollars to 1500; without any intervening prize, which made to great an one equation
in the chances, this supplement therefore reduces the 1500 dollars to 1000; and adds a prize of 750 dollars, which must make the [unclear] of
of the lottery much more equal, especially as there are not two blanks to a prize.
And as we have no prospect of raising a sum sufficient for the above mentioned purposes by other means, it is hoped that all
the generous adventurers in the first lottery as well as others who missed that opportunity; will promote the design of having a
ring of bells in these parts; and encourage a work that must be so great an embellishment to the city of Philadelphia.
___________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia March 19, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
Evan Morgan
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bingham
John Baynton
Charles Stedman
It being represented to the Vestry by the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], that some gentlemen from the south end of the
city had visited on him to acquaint him, they were going to build a new church, desiring his opinion and encouragement;
the Vestry taking the same into consideration appointed Henry Harrison, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Evan Morgan a Committee (in
conjunction with him) to draw up their sentiments thereon; and lay the same before the Vestry at their meeting on Wednesday
next.
__________________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia March 21, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Townsend White
Charles Stedman
William Bingham
Evan Morgan
The Vestry being met according to their adjournment; the committee appointed in conjunction with the Reverend
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]; to draw up their sentiments on an answer to be sent; to the gentleman concerned in building a new church
at the south end of the city; report; that upon a more mature consideration of the matter it is their opinion
that Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] himself should answer the gentlemen; according to his promise pursuant to which a draught
of a letter from the doctor was produced; and upon perusal of the same it was agreed; that the said letter be sent by
him.
_____________________________________________________________________
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia April 12, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Abraham Taylor
William Bingham
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Thomas Leech
John Baynton
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Joseph Redman
Evan Morgan
The Reverend Doctor Bearcroft Secretary to the Society for Propagating the Gospel in Society [unclear], having by letter acquainted the
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] our Rector; that the Reverend William Charles Chambers had left a hundred pounds sterling for books
to be given and disposed of as the said society should direct. And that they accordingly had been so kind as to order the same
one hundred pounds worth of books, to be given to the use of Christ Church in Philadelphia; under the care and direction of
the Minister and Vestry of the said church who may make rules and orders concerning the same; as to them shall seem convient
the better to answer the good design of the generous donor,
Now the books being arrived and here before us; we do most
thankfully accept the same and after some consideration thereon it is agreed that the minister and Church Wardens for
the time being shall have the care and management of the said library of books; and that they together with all the
other books; belonging to Christ Church aforesaid shall be deposited and kept in the School House on proper shelves; which
the Minister and Wardens may provide at the charge of the church as soon as conveniently may be and that the Minister
and Wardens; Thomas Leech, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee], and Evan Morgan shall be a committee to make such prudential rules concerning
the use and loan of all the said books from time to time; as they shall think expedient so that the said rules are approves
by the Vestry and further it is ordered that the same committee draw up a letter of thanks to the Society for their
kind preference of our Church in their disposing of the said donation.
NB the number of books given by the society are as follows viz one hundred twenty one folios, nineteen quartros and
two hundred seven octavos.
On Easter Monday, April 23, 1753 the congregation of Christ Church after divine service elected
the following Church Officers
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Sides Men:
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
John Baynton
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Abraham Taylor
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
John Ross
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Evan Morgan
Townsend White
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Charles Stedman
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Peter Turner
Joseph Redman
William Bingham
Davis [David] Hall
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia April 30, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman
Abraham Taylor
Joseph Redman
The Vestry taking into their consideration; the smallness of the collections every Sunday afternoon an alteration
of the same was proposed (as thinking should be much to the benefit of the church) when it was agreed that
for the future the collections should be made in the morning during the singing of the Second Psalm and that
notice be given in the church next Sunday morning.
James Humphreys accounting Church Warden having laid his accounts before the Vestry Evan Morgan, Townsend
White, Joseph Redman were appointed a committee to examine and settle the same.
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia May 21, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Abraham Taylor
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Joseph Redman
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman
Evan Morgan
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. having represented to the Vestry that the money already raised by the first lottery was not
sufficient to finish the steeple in the manner designed; it was proposed; whether any part of the money raised by
the supplement to said lottery be applied for that purpose and resolved that the sum of two hundred pounds of said
money be applied accordingly if wanted.
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia May 31, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman
Abraham Taylor
Joseph Redman
The Vestry taking into their consideration; the smallness of the collections every Sunday afternoon an alteration
of the same was proposed (as thinking should be much to the benefit of the church) when it was agreed that
for the future the collections should be made in the morning during the singing of the Second Psalm and that
notice be given in the church next Sunday morning.
James Humphreys accounting Church Warden having laid his accounts before the Vestry Evan Morgan, Townsend
White, Joseph Redman were appointed a committee to examine and settle the same.
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia May 21, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Evan Morgan
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr.
Townsend White
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
The committee appointed in Vestry of April 12 to draw up a letter of thanks to the Society for Propagating the
Gospel for their kind preference of our church in the disposal of the Reverend Mr. Chambers's bequest, presented the
following letter which being read was agreed to and it was ordered that the same be copied over fair and sent by Captain
Mesnard.
Philadelphia May 31, 1753
Very Revered Sir,
We the Minister, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men having seen your letter acquainting that a late Reverend Gentleman
hath been so piously disposed as to bequeath his books to the honorable The Society for Propagating the Gospel and to be made a parocial
library in some place in America, and that the honorable Society hath preferred our church and sent them accordingly do
acknowledge the receipt of them by Captain Mesnard and in the name and behalf of our congregation return the sincere
thankfulness of most grateful hearts for the unmerited favor and are fully purposed to apply them in such a manner
as we hope will answer the pious design of the bequeather and donors:
According to your direction in your letter of January
13th, we are about fitting proper convenience for them; along with those given to our Church by the late pious Queen
Anne and some other well disposed persons and we shall make such rules concerning them as to secure them from being
damaged or lost and render them as generally useful as possibly we can.
That almighty God will please to bless the pious and charitable labor of that honorable body in
promoting true religion in these remote parts of his majestic dominions is the hearty prayer of
Very Revered Sir
Your most obedient humble servants
Done in Vestry and order .................. Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
To the Very Reverend Doctor Phillip Bearcroft Henry Harrison
Secretary to the Honorable Society for Propagating James Humphreys
the Gospel and at the Charter House.
London
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia July 17, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
John Baynton
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Charles Stedman
Evan Morgan
Evan Morgan, Townsend White, and Joseph Redman the Committee appointed in Vestry April 30, 1753 to settle
James Humphreys the Church Warden's account from April 1752 to April 1753 report that they had ex
amined the same and find a balance upon the whole (due to the church) of thirty seven pounds, eleven shillings,
and five pence half penny. Remaining in the hands of the hands of the said James Humphreys; and that there are
sundry outstanding for burials but as the said James Humphreys is still acting Church Warden
they referred settling them until the end of the present year.
A representation being made to the Vestry of the ill conveniences attending burials going so late after the time
of invitation the same was left to the consideration of the next meeting and the Vestry adjourned to Saturday the
twenty eighth instant..........
At a Vestry held at the School House Philadelphia July 28, 1753:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Abraham Taylor
William Bingham
Townsend White
Evan Morgan
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Joseph Redman
John Baynton
The Vestry being met according to their adjournment took into their consideration the last minute of Vestry, relating to
the inconveniences attending burials going so late after the time of invitation; ordered that for the future every burial
move an hour after the time of invitation and notice be given in the church every morning and afternoon for four succeeding Sunday
and to prevent the inconveniences that attended persons being buried in the church it was resolved that the sum of
ten pounds should be paid for every inhabitant of this city that should hereafter be buried in the church, and the sum
of twenty pounds for every stranger.
Whereas the Vestry have been informed that John Ord has lately built a vault in the burying ground of ten feet
long and six feet wide, being above three times the dimensions of a common tomb resolved that he pay the sum of sixteen
pounds and that the Church Wardens demand the same and make report thereof to the next Vestry.
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] April 30, 1753
present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney], Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Elwes
Thomas Leech
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman
Abraham Taylor
Joseph Redman
Church Wardens having produced to the Vestry their accomplishments[,] Evan Morgan[,]
Townsend White and Joseph Redman were appointed a committee to
examine the same.
The Vestry[,] taking into consideration the smallness of the sums
collected every Sunday afternoon, thought an alteration of the same
would be much to the advantage of the Church, resolved for the
future that the collections be made in the morning during the
singing of the second Psalm and that notice be given in the Church
next Sunday morning.
[as a footnote:] this minute entered before
=================================
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] October 29, 1753
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenny, Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
John Ross
George Schill
William Bingham
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché
Joseph Redman
Thomas Lawrence Jr.
Townsend white
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Turner
The Vestry being met took into consideration what sum of money would
be necessary to send to England for purchasing a ring of bells, and agreed
that the sum of seven hundred and thirty-one pounds five shillings currency
should be laid out in purchasing a bill of exchange of four hundred and
fifty pounds sterling to be employed in purchasing a ring of eight bells[,]
the tenor to weigh about eighteen hundredweight and the rest in propor-
tion. And the treasurer is ordered to pay the said sum into the hand
of Henry Harrison, who is desired to purchase the said bells. Townsend White,
Peter Turner and Henry Harrison are appointed a committee to remit
the aforesaid bill and write to Mssrs. David Barclay & Sons and Mr.
Lawrence Williams[,] merchants in London[,] to request their
assistance in purchasing the aforesaid ring of the bells and send them to us on
the easiest terms they can.
At a Vestry held at the School House, Philadelphia, December 3, 1753
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny], Rector
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
John Ross
Peter Turner
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché
Joseph Redman
William Bingham
Thomas Lawrence Jr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White[,] Peter Turner and Henry Harrison [--] the Committee appointed to remit a bill of exchange and
write to Messrs. David Barclay & Sons and Mr. Lawrence Williams[,] merchants in London [--] produced their letter which[,] being
read[,] was approved by the Vestry; but[,] they apprehending the sum sent would not be sufficient to purchase the bells[,]
refused to send the said letter unless the Vestry would secure to them what balance should be due on purchasing
said bells. Whereupon it was agreed by the Vestry Men present that a writing of indemnification be drawn up[,]
signed by the Minister, Church Wardens and all the members of the Vestry and that the same be lodged in the hands
of said Committee.
=================================================
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] December 27, 1753
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny], Rector
Church Warden:
James Humphreys
Vestry Men:
John Ross
Joseph Redman
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Peter Turner
Evan Morgan
William Pyewell [Pywell]
John Baynton
Townsend White
Jacob Duché
The Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon having represented to the Vestry that the annual income he received from the Church
was not sufficient for his support, it was debated what other method could be taken to advance his salary and
after some consultation thereon[,] it was agreed that a subscription be tried among the congregation and that the Vestry
do undertake the same by turns weekly[,] the Church Wardens beginning on the first day of January 1754[,] to which
time the Vestry adjourned.
=================================================
[undated]
The Vestry met according to adjournment of the last sitting, but not being a sufficient
number to proceed upon the affairs of the Church[,] no business was done.
=================================================
Easter Monday, April 15, 1754
The Congregation of Christ Church after Divine Service elected the
following Church officers for the ensuing year, viz.
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Schill [uncertain]
Sides Men:
Redmond Cunningham
John Sayer
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bingham
Thomas Lawrence Jr.
Evan Morgan
Abraham Taylor Esq.
Townshend [Townsend] White
Henry Elwes [uncertain]
John Ross
Henry Harrison
Jacob Duché [Dushé]
Joseph Redman
Charles Stedman
Peter Turner
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Humphreys
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] April 22, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Schill [uncertain]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
John Sayer
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Charles Stedman
Henry Elwes [uncertain]
Thomas Leech
William Pyewell [Pywell]
John Ross
Redmond Cunningham
James Humphreys[,] late acting Church Warden[,] is praying the Vestry
to appoint a committee to settle his accounts[.] Evan Morgan[,]
Townsend [Townshend] White and Joseph Redman were appointed a committee
to examine and settle the same.
Reolved that Captain Henry Elwise [Elwes] hath an allowance of six pounds
thirteen shillings out of the 12 tickets sold Walter Peilten [uncertain] on
he proving insolvent.
The Vestry having taken into consideration the request of Mr.
Thomas and John Lawrence [Lawrence] for their having a vault built in
the Church Burying Ground, agreed that they build a vault
12 feet long 10 feet wide with an entry of 4 feet long and 2 feet 10 inches
wide for which ground it is agreed that they are to pay thirty five
pounds 35 [shillings].
It is agreed that the overplusse [surplus?] of the box money [pew rentals?] and also the sum of
35 pounds be applied toward defraying the deficiency in the charge of the bells.
==================================================
At a Vestry at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] June 20, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenny [Jenney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Evan Morgan
Henry Harrison
Joseph Redman
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Seyer [Sayer]
James Humphreys
Evan Morgan[,] Townsend [Townshend] White and Joseph Redman being appointed a committee to examine
the accounts of the late Church Wardens, do report that they have examined said accounts and that there
is a balance due to the Church in the hands of Mr. James Humphreys fifty five pounds six
shillings and three pence, which sum is ordered to be paid to Captain Henry Harrison, and that George
Okill [Schill] receive from Mr. Lawrence [Lawrance] thirty five pounds and pay the said sum to Henry Harrison
according to a minute of the last Vestry. The pew money collected by the late Church Wardens from
Easter 1752 to 1753 three hundred and fifteen pounds six shillings, two hundred and fifty pounds
of which be paid to the Reverend Doctor Jeney [Jenney] [Jenny] and the remaining sixty five pounds six shillings
to the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon; that they also collected from Easter 1753 to 1754 three hundred
and thirteen pounds one shilling six pence, two hundred and fifty pounds of which was paid to
the Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jeney] [Jenney] and the remaining sixty three pounds one shilling and six pence
to the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon.
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] September 26, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
James Humphreys
Henry Harrison
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Joseph Redman
Peter Turner
Townshend [Townsend] White
William Bingham
Redmon [Redmond] Cunningham
Ordered that Captain Henry
Harrison do purchase a bill of exchange for sixty pounds ten shillings sterling and remit it to Mr.
David Barclay [Barcley] & Son, it being the balance due to them on account of the bells, which bill was
purchased and remitted.
===================================
At a Vestry held at the School House[,] Philadelphia[,] November 15, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
George Okill [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duchee [Duché] [Dushé]
Evan Morgan
Townshend [Townsend] White
Joseph Redman
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Henry Harrison
Peter Turner
Whereas there is a balance on account of the bells due to Mr. David Barcley [Barclay] & Son of sixty pounds
seven shillings and eight pence sterling, it is ordered that the Church Warden pay to Mr. Henry Harrison
on account of the box [pew] money now in his hands, the sum of fifty pounds, and it is further agreed that every
person who subscribed on account of a deficiency to pay to Mr. Joseph Redman fifty shillings each to
be appropriated with the above sum of fifty pounds to purchase a bill and remit to Mr. Barcley [Barclay] & Son to
reimburse them the said above balance.
==============================
At a Vestry held at the School House November 26, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jeney [Jenney] [Jenny], Rector
Church Wardens:
George Okill [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Doctor John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly]
Thomas Leech
Peter Turner
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend [Townshend] White
Jacob Duchee [Duché] [Dushé]
Joseph Redman
Henry Harrison
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
James Humphreys
Charles Stedman
Redmon [Redmond] Cunningham [Conyngham]
Ordered that Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell], Mr. Evan Morgan and Mr. Townsend [Townshend] White collect the old subscriptions
due from the different subscriptions for the steeple and bells from the south side of Market Street down town, and
that Henry Harrison, Joseph Redman and George Okill [Schill] collect from the north side of Market Street up
town.
Agreed that Doctor Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly], Thomas Leech and Jacob Duchee [Duché] [Dushé] do treat with the man that
came from London with Captain Starling to know on what terms he will hang the bells and make report
thereof to the next Vestry.
=================================
Whereas the Vestry of Christ Church have ordered Henry Harrison, Peter Turner and
Townsend [Townshend] White to write to London for a set of bells, and the money they now have not being sufficient for
the payment of them[,] we [--] the Minister, Church Wardens and Vestryman [--] do obligate ourselves to raise the
said sum by subscriptions or otherwise, and that immediately on the account being produced of what balance
appears[.] As witness our hands this December 3, 1753.
Townsend [Townshend] White 2 10
Peter Turner 2 10
George Okill [Schill] 2 10
Henry Elwes [Elwise] 2 10
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] 2 10
Charles Stedman 2 10
John Baynton 2 10
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance] Jr. 2 10
John Ross 2 01
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly] paid 2 10
John Sayre [Sayer] [Seyer] paid 2 10
Robert Jenney [Jeney] [Jenny], Minister 2 10
Henry Harrison, Church Warden 2 10
James Humphreys, Church Warden 2 10
Thomas Leech 2 10
William Pyewell [Pywell] 2 10
Evan Morgan 2 10
Jacob Dushé [Duchee] [Duché] 2 10
Joseph Redman 2 10
William Bingham 2 10
Davis Hall 2 10
Redmond [Redmon] Conyngham [Cunningham] [paid?] 2 10
At a Vestry held at the School House December 28, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
[Vestry Men:]
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly]
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
Jacob Dushee [Duché] [Dushé]
Henry Harrison
John Ross
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joseph Redman
Townsend [Townshend] White
Peter Turner
William Bingham
John Sears [Sayre] [Seyer] [Sayer]
Redman [Redmond] [Redmon] Conyngham [Cunningham]
James Humphreys
Ordered that Mr. Leech, Mr. Morgan and Mr. Humphreys be a committee appointed to examine and
settle Mr. Dushee [Duché] [Dushé] treasurer[']s accounts and make a report of the same to the next Vestry on the 31st instant at
3 o'clock.
Agreed that Mr. Ross, Mr. Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance], Mr. Redman and Mr. Humphreys
go about with a subscription from the north side of Market Street and Mr. John Baynton, Mr. Peter
Turner, Mr. Bingham and Mr. Conyngham [Cunningham] go with another subscription from the south side of
Market Street down town.
Ordered that the old spindle and vane belonging to Christ Church in
Philadelphia, when taken down[,] be delivered to Mr. John Ross for the use of Emanuel Church in
New Castle.
=========================================
At a Vestry held at the School House December 31, 1754
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jeney [Jenney] [Jenny], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
[Vestry Men:]
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly]
Thomas Leech
Henry Harrison
Evan Morgan
Townsend [Townshend] White
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
John Ross
Jacob Dushee [Duché] [Dushé]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Henry Elwise [Elwes]
Redman [Redmond] [Redmon] Conyngham [Cunningham]
James Humphreys
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Thomas Leech, Evan Morgan, Henry Harrison and James Humphreys[,] having examined the treasurer[']s
account[,] do report that they have examined said account and that there is a balance due on account of the steeple
bells etc. amounting to the sum of one hundred and twenty six pounds seventeen shillings currency.
Ordered that the said account be published in the next week[']s paper.
=====================================================
At a Vestry held at the Schoo,l House February 10, 1755.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jeney] [Jenny], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
[Vestry Men:]
Doctor John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly]
Thomas Leech
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Peter Turner
Charles Stedman
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Henry Elwes [Elwise]
Evan Morgan
Jacob Dushee [Duché] [Dushé]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Cunningham]
John Ross
William Bingham
Townsend [Townshend] White
Henry Harrison
Joseph Redman
As there been a dispute between the Reverend Mr. Sturgeon and Mr. Cash relating to the marriage fees, it
is agreed by the Vestry that the Minister shall not be accountable to Mr. Cash for the customary fees of
six shillings for every marriage from this date. The Vestry having taken into their consideration, have
agreed that Mr. Cash's salary be advanced the ensuing year five pounds in lieu of the above fees.
It appearing to the Vestry that Mr. Sturgeon[']s salary is not sufficient for the support of his family, it is
agreed that there be a collection made every Sunday evening and the monthly lectures to be collected by the
Church Wardens and Sides Men or any of the Vestry and that the clerk give notice the three succeeding Sundays.
=====================================================
Charter House, October 19, 1754
Reverend Sir,
Your several letters are come duly to hand and before the recommendation of you by the Rector
and Church Wardens arrived, the Society had taken notice of your great pains and diligence in the work
of the Ministry and ordered you a gratuity of ten pounds, which you may draw for when you please, over and above
your salary[,] on Edward Pearson Esquire[,] their treasurer[,] in Barton Street[,] Westminster; and if upon the respresentation in
your favor[,] the Society shall think proper to do any thing farther you shall have due notice of it but I am apt to believe
the Society will desire to know first what the Vestry itself doth for you to see whether they, who express themselves so very sensible of your desires,
have on their part made the proper return to you. With this comes some Bibles[,] Common Prayer Books etc. for the Negroes to be distributed at your
[continued on following page]
[continued from preceding page]
best discretion; that God may bless and you in due time receive the reward of your pious labors is the
hearty prayer of
Your very humble and affectionate servant and brother,
Philip Bearcroft
To The Rev. Mr. Sturgeon
Catechist to the Negroes in Philadelphia
===================================================================
Easter Monday, March 31, 1755, the Congregation of Christ Church after divine
service elected the following Church officers for the ensuing year, viz.
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Sides Men:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Coningham [Conyngham] [Cunningham]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
Peter Turner
William Plumstead
William Bingham
Townsend [Townshend] White
Jacob Dushee [Duché] [Dushé] [Dushea]
Thomas Leech
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Henry Elwes [Elwise]
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Evan Morgan
John Ross
Charles Stedman
James Humphreys
==============================================================================
At a Vestry held at the School House April 7, 1755:
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Peter Turner
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Coningham [Conyngham] [Cunningham]
James Humphreys
William Pyewell [Pywell]
Jacob Dushee [Duché] [Dushé] [Dushea]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
Joseph Redman
Doctor Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly]
William Bingham
Thomas Leech
George Okill [Okil] [Schill], acting Church Warden[,] praying a committee may be appointed to examine
and settle his accounts, Mr. Humphreys, Mr. Redman, Mr. Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham] are appointed a
committee to examine and settle the same.
Whereas Mr. Kirk is very infirm and not capable of collecting the money arising for breaking
the ground and pall money, it is ordered that Mr. Cash collect the same; in consideration
of which the Vestry agreed to advance his salary to 35 pounds per annum.
==============================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at the School House August 23, 1755.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
Jacob Dushea [Dushee] [Duché] [Dushé]
Joseph Redman
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham]
Thomas Leech
James Humphreys
Townsend [Townshend] White
Henry Elwes [Elwise]
William Byngham [Bingham]
Mr. Humphreys, Mr. Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham] and Mr. White being appointed to settle the Church Wardens' accounts do
report that they have examined said accounts and that there is a balance due to the Church now in the
hands of George Okill [Okil] [Schill], acting Church Warden, twenty eight pounds three shillings and ten
pence.
Mr. Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché], treasurer to the monies raised for building the steeple etc., having paid away all the cash
which came into his hands by subscriptions and lotteries for that purpose[,] amounting to 3,162 pounds 9 shillings 11 pence[,] and
closed his accounts[,] now desired they may be examined; and as he was appointed by the Vestry one of the
superintendents for carryinig on the work, prays that he may be now be discharged in like manner.
The Vestry present accordingly examined his accounts with their vouchers[,] all which they found exactly to
agree. and that they said accounts are just and true, and that he has none of said monies remaining in his
hands. Therefore it is agreed that the said Mr. Jacob Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché] be this day discharged from any
[continued on following page]
[continued from preceding page]
further particular care as superintendent aforesaid, and that the Church Wardfens do so on the behalf
of this Vestry return their hearty thanks to Mr. Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché] for his great faithfulness, care and pains in the
aforementioned service.
Mr. Jacob Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché] producing John Thornhill's account[,] it was agreed that the charges therein
contained are very extravagant, and it is agreed that Mr. Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché], Mr. Leech and Doctor Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly]
get some person to measure said work and make a report thereof to the next Vestry.
===========================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at the School House February 3, 1756.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Wardens:
John Baynton
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly]
William Plumstead
Jacob Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Charles Steadman [Stedman]
James Humphreys
Thomas Leech
Henry Harrison
William Bingham [Byngham]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Joseph Redman
Henry Elwes [Elwise]
Townsend [Townshend] White
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham]
George Okill [Okil] [Schill], acting Church Warden, having laid a plan and estimate before the Vestry of the
charge of the walls around the north side and west end of the Church Yard, and also of the
palisadoes to the front, it was agreed that Mssrs. James Humphreys and John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears] do collect from
the south side of Market Street down town and Joseph Redman and George Okill [Okil] [Schill] collect
from the north side up town, and that the cash arising from said collections be paid to the said
George Okill [Okil] [Schill] for the above purposes.
===========================================================
At a Vestry held at the School House March 24, 1756.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Rector
Church Warden:
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Vestry Men:
Joseph Redman
Thomas Lawrence [Lawrance]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Townsend [Townshend] White
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
Thomas Leech
William Plumstead
James Humphreys
The Church Warden reported that the collection for the Church wall etc. amounts to one hundred
and sixty five pounds nine shillings and six pence, eighty seven pounds six shillings and
three pence of which was collected by John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears] and James Humphreys, and seventy eight
pounds three shillings and three pence by Mr. Joseph Redman himself.
===========================================================
Easter Monday April 18, 1756, the Congregation of Christ Church after Divine
Service elected the following Church officers for the ensuing year:
Church Wardens:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham]
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Sides Men:
William Bingham [Byngham]
Edward Duffield
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
John Ross
Hugh Davy
Henry Harrison
Townsend [Townshend] White
Joseph Redman
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
James Humphreys
William Byngham [Bingham]
Jacob Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Edward Duffield
James Child
John Baynton
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham]
Daniel Robedeau [Roberdeau]
===========================================================
At a Vestry held in the Free School April 26, 1756.
Present:
The Reverend Doctor Jenny [Jenney] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayre [Seyer] [Sayer] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Conyngham [Coningham] [Cunningham]
Vestry Men:
Doctor John Kearsley [Kearsly] [Kersley] [Kersly]
Henry Harrison
Jacob Dushé [Dushee] [Dushea] [Duché]
John Baynton
William Byngham [Bingham]
Joseph Redman
Daniel Robedeau [Roberdeau]
Edward Duffield
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Thomas Leech
George Okill [Okil] [Schill][,] late acting Church Warden, praying the Vestry to appoint a committee
to settle his accounts[,] Henry Harrison[,] Daniel Robedeau [Roberdeau] and Joseph Redman were
appointed to examine and settle the same.
Ordered that as George Okill [Okil] [Schill] projected[?] and began the wall now carrying round the
Church Yard,[,] he be appointed to supervise and carry on the same until it is
complete with the pallisadoes to the front[,] agreeable to the plan.
At a meeting of the Vestry in the Free School May 3, 1756:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
James Child
Hugh Davy
Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau
Townsend White
Charles Stedman
Evan Morgan
John Baynton
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Harrison
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Agreed that in consideration of the sum of one hundred pounds, which Hugh
Roberts and Attwood Shute agreed to pay. Viz: fifty pounds thereof to be
immediately paid and the remaining fifty to be paid in six months from
the date thereof An alley or foot way of six feet wide shall be left open
and out of the southermost part of the church yard or ground and shall
for every hereafter remain open and free as a common and public alley
or foot way for all persons that the walls on the north side of the said
alley shall be built at the expense of the congregation and that the
said Hugh Roberts and Attwood Shute pay and be at the expense of
regulating, paving, and fixing posts and rails at each end of the
said ally... And to the intent that the said alley shall not be in-
commode it is agreed that the said alley shall be enlarged six inches
more in breadth that if omission of necessity require a fence or wall
may be erected on the south side thereof to prevent any attempt from
there [unclear] to incommode the same.
Ordered that until some farther provision can be made for the Reverend
Mr. Sturgeon's support the evening collection be continued.
=====================================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry in Doctor Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s June 15, 1750:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Charles Stedman
Joseph Redman
John Baynton
Evan Morgan
Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau
Hugh Davy
Henry Harrison
Edward Duffield
James Humphreys
Henry Harrison, Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau, and Joseph Redman the committee appointed April 26
to examine the address of George Okill [Okil] [Schill] late acting Church Warden do report
that they have examined the same and find there is a balance due the
church of two pounds thirteen shillings, and nine pence which George Okill [Okil] [Schill] has paid
to the present Church Warden.
By the late Church Wardens accounts appears that
from Easter 1754 to Easter 1756 they collected pew money to the amount of 628.14
out of which they paid the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] 2 years salary ending September 25 last 500.
and the remainder they paid to the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon. 128.14
At the request of Mr. Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau, the Ministers, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men
do agree to give him the following certificate Viz:
At the request of Mr. Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau of this city of Philadelphia, merchant. We the Ministers Church
Wardens, and Vestry Men of Christ Church in Philadelphia aforesaid do hereby certify that the said
Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau has from his infancy been a member of that church and has
always supported the character of an honest, person's religious upright sober man
given under our hands at Philadelphia June 15, 1750.
At a meeting of the Vestry in the Free School August 25, 1750:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Evan Morgan
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Baynton
Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
Charles Stedman
James Humphreys
It was unanimously agree that an address should be presented to the Honorable William Denny Esquire: our governor and Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], Doctor
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Evan Morgan were appointed to prepare the same to which they did in the following words.
To the Honorable William Denny Esquire, Lieutenant Governor of the
Province of Pennsylvania and Counties of New Castle, Kent, and
Sussex and Delaware.
The address of the Minister, assistant
Church Wardens and Vestry Men of Christ Church in Philadelphia.
May it please your Honor
We the Minister, Assistant, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men of
Christ Church in Philadelphia beg leave to congratulate you on your
safe arrival to your Government of Pennsylvania.
As member of the established church of
England we have the greatest reason to hope your honor's
protection and good offices will on every occasion be kindly
extended to us, and we sincerely pray that your administration
may be attended with peace and unity and concord amongst our
selves and a general vigorous pursuit of the public good
Signed by order in Vestry
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham] Church Warden
=====================================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s November 22, 1756:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Ross
James Humphreys
Townsend White
Daniel [Daniell] Roberdeau
George Okill [Okil] [Schill]
Henry Harrison
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
A committee to consist of John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears], Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], Evan Morgan
and Edward Duffield was appointed to examine that part of the
steeple which is like to be injured by the weather and to call
in what tradesmen they thought proper and agree with them
on the best terms for having it speedily repaired.
At a meeting of the Vestry at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s March 3, 1757:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Evan Morgan
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
James Child
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
Henry Harrison
Charles Stedman
James Humphreys
By whom James Child, James Humphreys, William Bingham, Joseph Redman and
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears] or any three of them are appointed a committee to examine
and state the address depending between George Okill [Okil] [Schill] deceased and the several
tradesmen concerned in carrying up the walk round the church hanging
the gates there and that Henry Harrison be requested diligently to search
among the papers of George Okill [Okil] [Schill] for any agreement that may have
subsisted between him and the tradesmen and if any such be found yet
they may be laid before the committee to digest them into a proper
form for the inspection of a future Vestry.
====================================================
Easter Monday April 11, 1757 the congregation of Christ Church
after divine service elected the following church officers.
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Sides Men:
William Bingham
Edward Duffield
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
John Baynton
Townsend White
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Thomas Leech
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Evan Morgan
Peter Turner
John Ross
Charles Stedman
Hugh Davey
Daniel [Daniell] Robedeau [Roberdeau]
James Humphreys
James Child
====================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s April 18, 1757:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
Thomas Leech
Charles Stedman
James Humphreys
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Peter Turner
Hugh Davey [Davy]
John Baynton
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
At the desire of Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham] acting Church Warden, Evan Morgan,
Charles Stedman, and James Humphreys are appointed a committee to examine
his accounts for the last year and make a report thereof to the Vestry.
Ordered, that Henry Harrison, Peter Turner, and William Bingham be a committee
to examine and settle the accounts of George Fudge and other tradesmen for work
done in the church yard and on the walls around it, begun under the
direction of George Okill [Okil] [Schill] deceased and that in the mean time twenty pounds
be paid George Fudge by the Church Warden until his accounts are settled and
laid before the Vestry its further ordered that the same committee agree with
the said Fudge for throwing down and rebuilding that part of the north wall.
that has given way.
At the request of William Amos Strettle permission was granted him to build
a vault in the church burying ground for Mr. Jane Hazell deceased and
for the use of that family for which he was to pay what the Vestry thought
reasonable, who have therefore determined that in proportion to that vault
some time since built for Thomas Lawrence deceased. The said Amos Strettle
shall pay the sum of fifty pounds carry which the Church Wardens is to
call upon him for.
The Vestry having taken into their consideration the inconveniences that may
attend a number of vaults being built in the church ground have ordered
that for the furutre no vault or tomb shall be there built without
the persons craving leave to build such vault or tomb do pay ten
shillings currency for each square foot in such vault or ten pounds currency
for such tomb there to be escorted and that for every corpse afterwards
put into either vault or tomb the usual fee of four shillings and six pence
shall be paid as bor breaking groung.
Ordered that the Church Wardens do wait on William Moore Esquire and demand
of him any deed or writings he may be possessed of that belong to
either the parsonages or church grounds.
See minutes of Vestry July 15, 1731
also minutes of Vestry February 22, 1744/5
Relating to Tomb Stones
=========================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s August 9, 1757:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
William Bingham
James Humphreys
Joseph Redman
Edward Duffield
Evan Morgan
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
Henry Harrison
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Daniel [Daniell] Robedeau [Roberdeau]
John Ross
The committee appointed to examine the Church Wardens accounts for the last
year do report that they have examined the same and do find that there
is a balance owed the church in the hands of Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham] the
presently acting Church Warden seventeen pounds five shillings and a penny.
By whose hands it appears that the money collected at the communion
table for the last day and distributed among the poor amounted to
fifty nine pounds eighteen shillings and eight pence including five pounds the
bequest of Mr. Peter Baynton [Bainton] and that the sum received from the persons and
due September 25th last amounted to three hundred and twenty seven pounds 2/6 327.2.6
out of which the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] was paid two hundred fifty pounds 250.....
and the remaining seventy seven pounds 2/6 was paid the Reverend Mr. Sturgeon 77.2.6
Henry Harrison and William Bingham of the committee appointed to settle George Fudge's account
do report that they could obtain no abatement to his demand the Vestry
have therefore agreed that the balance of account now due George Fudge
be paid him conditionally and agreeable to his own proper all that
[unclear] down and effectually rebuilt that part of the church wall that had
given way at his proper expense the Vestry finding material to
perfect the same which Henry Harrison, James Huphreys, and Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
are ordered to provide and pay for and superintend the carrying on the
work, and in the mean time the Church Warden is ordered to pay Georg
Fudge in part of his and ten pounds and the remainder as soon
as he has completed the wall to the satisfaction of the committee
appointed for that purpose.
The Vestry were unanimous in their opinion that five pounds should
be allowed the estate of Jane Hazelle deceased on account of a tomb
formerly paid for by the family which is now included in the
space occupied by the vault lately built in the church ground on
the request of Amos Strettle to the Vestry for which he was to pay
fifty pounds.
Ordered that the balance due the estate of George Okill [Okil] [Schill] for
disbursement on the church wall seventeen pounds six shillings and five pence
be paid as soon as the Warden is in cash.
Ordered that the five pounds be paid Arthur Miller
sufferer of the Indian Ravages in consideration of his poor and distressed
condition of his being a member of the Church of England.
====================================================
At a meeting of the Vestry at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s September 22, 1757:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister
Church Wardens:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Peter Turner
John Ross
Evan Morgan
James Humphreys
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Henry Harrison
Townsend White
The charge of lodging the Reverend Mr. Cleveland with his funeral expense in all
amounting to twenty six pounds two shillings being taken into consideration
it was agreed that a subscription should be begun for raising among the
members of the Vestry a sum sufficient for the discharge of them debts
until Mr. John Ross who has undertaken to collect Mr. Cleveland's effects
shall be albe to adjust them, and return the account to the Vestry, and that
if any deficiency in the effects to repay the subscription, that deficiency
shall be paid out of the box money.
A proposal for paving half the street
opposite to the church being made, it was unanimously agreed that the
same should be done provided the inhabitants on the opposite side would
agree to pave their proportion and Henry Harrison is appointed to settle
that point with his neighbors and agree with the workmen for perfecting
the same and paving a small part of the street before the parsonage
houses to be paid out of the public money of the congregation.
===========================================================
Easter Monday March 27, 1758 The Congregation of Christ Church
after divine service elected the following church officers.
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Sides Men:
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
Peter Turner
John Baynton
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Charles Stedman
Alex Fledman
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
James Child
John Ross
William Pywell [Pyewell]
======================================================
At a meeting of Vestry at the parsonage House April 3, 1758 present Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] all the
above named new Vestry, but Mr. John Baynton and Mr. John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears].
Ordered that Charles Stedman, Joseph Redman, Townsend White, and James Humphreys or any three of them be a committee
to inspect and settle the Church Wardens accounts of the last year and make
report of their doings therein at the next meeting of Vestry.
The Church Wardens are ordered to collect half year's pew money now due. Carried over.
April 3, 1755
Resolved that the ringers of the bells be paid the sum of nineteen pounds
yearly, as usual for ringing the bells for the service of the church on Sundays
and for their ringing on the following Holy Days, to wit, Christmas,
Circumcision or New Year Day, Easter, Whitsuntide, the 29th of May, and fifth of
November, they are to receive from the Church Wardens fifteen shilling for each
of said days. And further it is resolved that the church bells shall ring only one night
a week for improvement in that art; and they are not to be rang at any time
but as above mentioned, without an order from the Church Wardens, and the sum
of thirty shillings paid to the Warden by whosoever that request them to be rang
to be by him paid to the said ringers for that particular service.
==================================================================
At a meeting of Vestry at the School House June 1, 1758:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] and Mr. Sturgeon Minister and assistant
Church Wardens:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
James Humphreys
Townsend White
Henry Harrison
William Bingham
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
The committee appointed at the last meeting to settle the last years accounts, report,
that they have pursuant to received order examined the said accounts and the proper vouchers, and
find a balance due to the church, thirty four pounds seventeen shillings and eleven pence
remaining in Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham], possession which he is ordered to pay into the hands of
Evan Morgan present accounting Church Warden {The Communion Alm accounts now produce
amounts to 54.3.6 received and given away}
And Evan Morgan acquaints the Vestry that he has paid the saviors account
for the pavement fronting the church groung and part of the parsonage lott, amounting to
sixteen pounds sixteen shillings, and three pence for 192 yards and 7 feet of paving;
stones, gravel, and includes 16.1.3 and for hauling ten loads dirt 15 shillings, makes
in all sixteen pounds, sixteen shillings, and three pence, in pursuance
of a minute of September 22, 1757.
And the Church Wardens acquainted the Vestry that they had almost done the
collecting of last half years pew money and already paid Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] one hundred
and twenty five pounds in full for a half year, including Easter last past, and they are desired
to finish the collection and report to the Vestry what it amounts to at next meeting.
Then a letter to the Reverend Mr. Hargeon (assistant minister and catechist to the
negros here) from one Mr. Waring and the associates of Doctor Bray in London was read
but the consideration of matters therein contained relating to erecting a school for
teaching negroes Christianity and was referred to future consideration.
Also a letter from Doctor Peter Sonmans of this city directed to the Vestry was
read and contained sundry proposals for promoting and building a new church and for
the government of the same is likewise referred to next meeting of Vestry.
==================================================================
At a meeting of Vestry June 12, 1758 at the school house:
Present:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] and Mr. Sturgeon Minister and assistant
Church Wardens:
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] [Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Townsend White
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
James Humphreys
Joseph Redman
James Child
Edward Duffield
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Plumstead
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Henry Harrison
Alex Stedman
John Ross
The letter to Mr. Sturgeon concerning erecting a negro school was considered and
the present Vestry resolve that the affair does not lay before them, the whole authority
concerning a negro school being vested in Mr. Sturgeon and therefore advise that he
execute his powers in such manner as he thinks will best conduce to answer the
purposes intended and that if at any time hereafter he shall stand in need of the
advice of the Vestry concerning the same they will be ready to give it.
Then the building a new church was taken into consideration, and Mr. William Plumstead produced a paper
containing a proposal of sundry person subscribers for said church, which was read and implies
that the collecting monies and building the church and management there of should be in the Vestry until otherwise
ordered by a majority of the [unclear] to [unclear] new church; and upon a vote whither this paper
should be accepted as it is; it passed in the negatie, then the Vestry rose referring this
business to further consideration at next meeting.
At a meeting of Vestry at the school house, June 20, 1758:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Bingham
William Humphreys
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
James Child
Alex Stedman
James Humphreys
John Ross
Edward Duffield
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
The business referred at last meeting being again taken under consideration; it is
unanimously agreed that another church is much wanted. And then several gentlemen
desirous of having a new church erected at the south end of the city, on a lot of ground
lately granted by out honorable proprietaries for that purpose sent in to this Vestry
a proposal in writing in the following words.
It is proposed that the taking and collecting the subscriptions and conduct
of the affairs relating to the building and finishing the said intended
church shall be under the management of the minister, church
Wardens, and Vestry of Christ Church, for the time being.
And that the title or preamble fo the several subscriptions
papers shall be thus Vizt:
We the subscribers do hereby for ourselves severally promise to
pay unto Joseph Sims the treasurer for the new intended church,
to be erected at the south end of the city of Philadelphia, the sum
of money against our names by us respectively hereunder set
down to be applied for building and finishing a church for
divine service according to the rites and usage, of the Church
of England, as by law established and for paying for the
contiguous piece of ground purchased for the use of the said
church.
Which being read, considered, accepted, and appeared by the Vestry, it is
thereupon ordered that John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., William Plumstead [Plumsted], Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea],
Alexander Stedman, James Child, Evan Morgan, and Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
be a committee to recieve and take in subscriptions for the building
the said intended church; and take the care and management of the
building the same: And the committee aforesaid are requested to
prepare a plan of the said intended church, and an estimate of the
expense thereof, in order to be laid before the next Vestry for their
approbation. Then this Vestry adjourned to the 27th day of this present
month, to receive the committee's report and:
Our Minister being afflicted a shadow of breath, proposed
giving his sentiments in writing which was done and approved of and
should have been inserted above.
The following paper was delivered in Vestry by Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], after reading the
above proposal and ordered to be inserted in the minutes. Vizt:
Gentlemen,
The condition I am in makes it improbable for me to express my sentiments which I would freely
do in relation to the new church you propose to build and therefore I think it necessary to
deliver them in writing. Your proposal of the thing in Vestry seems to intimate
that you design that it shall be in such a manner as may regularly fall under the
consideration of this body, which I think it cannot do, unless the design is that both the
congregations shall be united in the closest manner, in doctrine, discipline, and church government.
Otherwise you would make us to be felo de se, by contributing to ruin the peace, unity, and concord
of our church and gratify the worst malice of our enemies. And I see no way that we can keep up
this unity but making the new church a chapel of ease to the old and both together to be
one congregation, under one minister or rector, any (any other minister engaged beside being
his assistant and acting as such) to be also under the same sot of Church Wardens, and
Vestrymen chosen as usual every one having a vote in the election and being instilled be chosen.
(if a majority shall think fit) by those who have a seat or sitting in either of the churches and that nothing
done by one separate from the other shall be good and valid. If you keep to this unity I heartily join in recommending
the promoting of it, otherwise I am against it: and must declare that if the Vestry consent to promote the building without
this unity we betray our trust and give up the unity of the church and contribute to promote discord, division and schism
init. I hope gentlemen as you know the consideration I am in you cannot imagine that I have any selfish
view in what I say: If I had I cannot enjoy the benefit of it long: and I solemnly declare that the real interest
of our holy church is my sole motive. I pray God direct you to consider in all your consultation his
glory the good of his church and the eternal salvation of souls. Warden Evan Morgan.
At a meeting of Vestry at the school house June 27, 1758:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
James Huphreys
Edward Duffield
James Child
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
Joseph Redman
Henry Harrison
Pursuant to the minutes of last meeting of Vestry, the committee then appointed
have produced a plan or ground plot of the intended church, ninety feet longby
sixty feet broad, which was approved of by the present Vestry; and the said committee
are desired to proceed in the work to agree with the workmen for laying the foundation
this fall and for carrying on the whole business on the most reasonable terms:
The same committee are also desired to apply to George Fudge and the owner of the lot
adjoining him on the south side the Church Groung, and know on what terms they
will sell their said lots. And Mr. Joseph Sims, Treasurer for the new church
is now added to the number of the committee for building said new church.
Morgan Warden.
=================================================================
At a meeting of Vestry September 19, 1758 at the schoolhouse:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Henry Harrison
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Joseph Redman
James Huphreys
William Bingham
Edward Duffield
The Church Warden present, acquainted the Vestry that several persons
had demanded the fifty shillings lent by them to pay a balance due on account
of the ring of bells. And it is ordered that the accounted Warden do pay
the same to the persons to whom it is due.
The committee for building the new church requesting that for the
better carrying on the collection that Attwood Shute, John Wilcocks [Willcox], Samuel
McCall Junior; James Humphreys, and William Bingham, may be added to their
number. Ordered that they are accordingly added to the said committee.
The following clause of the late Captain William Clymer, will produced
by the Church Warden, being read Vizt:
I will and desire that my Executor do as soon as possible raise
out of my personal estate the sum of one hundred pounds current money
of Pennsylvania and apply or lay out the same sum in the purchase
of some good perpetual yearly rent or annuity or at interest on good
security as my said Executor shall think best, which said rent annuity
or interest I give and devise unto the mistier and Church Wardens of Christ
Church in Philadelphia and their successors for ever on this special trust and
confidence in them reposed and to the intent that they the said Minister and
Church Wardens, and their successors shall and do distribute and pay the said
rent annuity or interest on the twentieth day of September yearly for ever
unto twelve poor widows frequenting, and belonging to the congregation
of the said church as the said Minister and Church Wardens and their
successors shall judge good and proper objects.
After considering the same; ordered that the minister and
Church Wardens to whom the care of the distribution of the said
annuity is committed do make enquiry after an annuity of ground rent
to settle and endeavor to purchase the same in manner as by the will is directed .
Upon a motion of the present Warden, that something be done to procure
the 300 pounds in England left by Mr. Jauney and applied by the Society for the Propagation of
the Gospel, for the use of out minister as appears in the Society abstract of their
proceedings for the year 1435. Page 33. Ordered that the Minister and Church Wardens
think of what may be proper to write home and lay it before the Vestry
at a future meeting.
EM
At a meeting of Vestry at the School House November 10, 1758:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Humphreys
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Townsend White
James Child
John Baynton
Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] intending to send for his some home next spring, who is now in
Clare Hall in Cambridge University finishing his studies, and as his said son was
always designed for the ministry he craves the favor that the Vestry would address
the Bishop of London to get him admitted into holy ordersand licensed to officiate in the
Churches in this city.
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] accordingly produced a certificate in writing which he intend-
ed to accompany said address in the following words.
This is to certify whom to whom it may concern that Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Junior, born in
this city and baptized in our church hath all along behaved himself decently, modestly,
piously, and meritorously, and I verily believe him to be a very worthy young
gentleman and whereas, I am informed that his intention is to be ordained as a Minister
of our church and to serve as such in these parts, I heartily recommend him for that
purpose believing that he will act very becomingly and usefully in that
office. Witness my hand this, 1758 Robert Jenny
Nevertheless, after some conference on the affair; a majority thought it advisable
the said Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Junior had better kept longer in the University at Cambridge
he not yet being quite twenty one years of age.
=========================================================================
At a Vestry met at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s house February 7, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Peter Turner
Townsend White
James Humphreys
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Henry Harrison
Evan Morgan
The committee for building the new church acquainted this Vestry of the alteration of the form as to the windows in the
said church, in placing the tallest above and shortest below
which was approved of.
Pursuant to a minute of Vestry September 19, 1758 Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister and the Warden
produced a rough draught of a letter to the Society for Propagation of the Gospel,
which was approved of, and ordered to be copied here, signed by the Minister, the
Wardens and sent by next ship bound for London, which letter is as follows.
To the Reverend Doctor Philip Bearcroft, Secretary to the incorporated Society for Propagation
of the Gospel in foreign parts.
Revered Sir,
In or about the year 1732 the sum of three hundred pounds sterling was
bequeathed to the Society for Propagation of the Gospel, to be by then disposed of in the
best manner for the conversion of the infidels and by the last will of one Mr. Jauney
which money with its intercept was afterwards appropriated for the use of the minister
of our church for the time beng; as appears by an abstract of the societies
proceedings for the year 1735, in which is recorded the following minute:
A benefaction of 316:17:6 paid by the Reverend Mr. Poole, out of the
residue of the estate of Edward Jauney Esquire, deceased; which is particularly
appropriated for the benefit of the Minister of the Church of England at
Philadelphia in Pennsylvania for the time being; and the same is laid
out in new south sea annuities hill lands can be purchased in Pennsylvania.
Accordingly our Ministes have as we suppose received the interest from time to time ever
since, but how it has happened that the good design of the Society for fixing this
pious gift in lands has been neglected to this day will not be material for us to
relate. We are now desirous that it should be done and therefore with submission
we pray the Society would be pleased to empower the [unclear] Church Wardens to draw on
their Treasurer for the above sum with its advance (if there is any) and it
shall be immediately laid out in a piece of land, and lot to tenants on ground
rent, by which means its income will be greatly increased; we will take care
that proper deeds shall be made, investing the Society with the land for the uses
above mentioned; which indenture shall be sent to England, or otherwise
as the Society shall direct. The Societies
compliance with their request well much obliges us and more completely answer
the design of the generous donor, and of the board which made the appropriation.
We pray success in your pious undertaking and are of our honor.
Signed Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] EM and RC
The Vestry being now acquainted that Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], Esquire had determined to
call his son home next summer, it was agreed that a letter of recommendation
to the Bishop of London should be sent by the ship now gong, which
letter was read and ordered to be fairly copied, signed by the minister and
Church Warden, and sent accordingly.
To the Revered father in God Thomas Lord Bishop of London the address
of the Minister, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men of Christ Church Philadelphia February 7th, 1759:
May it please your lordship.
As the American Plantation were long ago annexed
to the Diocese of London by his late Majesty, and our ministers have
ever since been licensed by your Lordship's Benediction, in that see and these
Churches are a part of your particular case; we therefore address ourselves to your Lordship
to give you an account of the present state of our church, as to our Ministers.
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] our Minister has been for two years affected with a
paralytic and asthmatic disorder, which renders him incapable of performing any Ministerial
duty and it seems likely to continue so that we have scarce any hopes of his ever being able
to officiate again, as he is now seventy years old, the Society's Catechist and Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s
assistant, the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon, supplies our church himself in all the parts of the
ministerial office, the duties of which are now very great, and should it please
God to visit him with any sickness our case world be deplorable our people would
be scattered. This is become a large and populous city, and in
great need of ore churches, for want of which we loose our people among the
many Societies of dissenters with which this city abounds, and some who are not inclined
to join them, stay at home for want of room at church, for which reason the Vestry
lately came to a resolution to build a large church as soon as possible by the
voluntary contributions of our own people, the work is accordingly begun and many
have given bountifully thereto, and we are in hopes that with a little assistance from
our mother country, it will in another year be ready for divine service
it is to be a neat and handsome building 90 feet long and 60 broad, founded on a lot of
ground given for that purpose by the honorable our proprietary.
By the short narrative of the state of our affairs, your lordship will easily
perceive that we shall be in want of more Ministers to serve these churches between
which there is to a happy union, by mean, of their being under one and the same
government. Seeing therefore that Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] is lide to remain
as above mentioned so unhappily circumstanced, we humbly pray your Lordship
in humane and pastoral care towards getting Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Junior now at
Clare Hall in Cambridge admitted into holy orders, and that your Lordship will
also license him to officiate as an assistant Minister in the Churches of Philadelphia.
And when your Lordship considers that this young gentleman was born and bred amongst us
here in this city, that he has from very early years of his life been strongly inclined to the
Ministry himself, and his father always concerning who accordingly hath sent him home to
England to complete his education for that purpose, and that we of the congregation are
fully satisfied of his virtue, capacity, piety, and acquired accomplishments for that holy
function, we have no doubt of succeeding with your Lordship that Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] my be
ordained and licensed to come over among as to his native place to be one of our assisting
Ministers, for which purpose he will have letters by this conveyance [unclear]
with account of our proceedings here in, that he may in due time wait on the Lordship's
pursuant to our desires and be ordained accordingly. This we shall acknowledge as
an instance of your Lordship's pastoral care over us, and pray for your happiness,
and prosperity in the great work of being a spiritual father of so great a part
of the Church of England as the Diocese of London.
We are
signed Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Evan Morgan and Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
February 7th, 1759 Church Wardens
E Morgan
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage house on March 3, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
John Baynton
Joseph Redman
Townsend White
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Bingham
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Edward Duffield
Henry Harrison
Peter Turner
James Humphreys
John Ross
It being represented by several Vestrymen now present,
that the manner of our elections, is inconvenient, as
electors of late are become numerous, and that many people
of our congregation are desirous, of having liberty to vote by tickets.
Therefore this Vestry, considering that the practice of
of this church in the mode of electing, has not been altogether
uniform; nor at any time settled by act of Vestry, so that fixing
the mode cannot be said to affect anything constitutional,
Do now agree, that at elections for Vestry Men, every
elector may deliver his suffrage, or vote, in a written
ticket at the time and place and unto the persons,
whose business it is, according to usage and custom, to
receive them.
E. Morgan Warden
=================================================
At a meeting of Vestry at the Parsonage house April 2, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Vestry Men:
James Humphreys
Evan Morgan
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Henry Harrison
Townsend White
William Bingham
Part of the north and west sides of the church yard wall next to the Northwest Corner
being in danger of falling by the pressure of the Earth within,
Agreed that the church Wardens got the said wall properly shored up for
the present to prevent their falling; and the consideration of what may be
necessary further to be done, is referred to next meeting of the vestry.
EM
=================================================
At a meeting of Vestry at the Parsonage April 14, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Minister
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
James Child
William Bingham
Townsend White
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
James Humphreys
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
The Church Warden produced John Thornhill's old account against the steeple
which was faulted by Vestry, August 23, 1755, and persons were then appointed to get the work
measured; which order was neglected from time to time; and this year the Vestry desired
the Wardens to get it done and settle said Thornhill's account as well as they could. Now this
Vestry order hat the balance as now settled be paid unto the said John Thornhill
which appears by this settlement to be seventy-two pounds and four shillings.
Henry Elwise [Elwes] brought an old account against the steeple which being
considered, it is ordered that the Church Wardens settle that also in the best manner
they can, and pay such balance as shall appear to be justly due to the said
Henry Elwise [Elwes]. by order EM Warden.
=================================================
Easter Monday April 16, 1759. The congregation of Christ Church
met, after divine service according to custom, and the following persons were
duly elected Church Wardens and Vestry Men for the ensuing year. Vizt:
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Quest Men:
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Thomas Leech
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Ross
Peter Turner
John Baynton
Townsend White
Henry Harrison
Joseph Redman
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Edward Duffield
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
James Childs
At a meeting April 23, 1759 at the Parsonage:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
James Humphreys
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
Henry Harrison
William Pywell [Pyewell]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Edward Duffield
but not being a quorum, no business was done. E Morgan
================================================
At meeting of the Vestry at the Parsonage on Thursday May 10, 1759:
It being reported that Mr. Daniel [Daniell] Robedeau [Roberdeau] had something to offer from a number
of the congregation, and was attending for that purpose: he was called in, and being
desired to inform the Vestry of his business offered a written paper in behalf of
himself, and others of the congregation subscribers thereto, which paper (Mr. Daniel [Daniell] Robedeau [Roberdeau]
being first deserved to withdraw) was read in the following words: to wit.
Whereas the indisposition of our pastor, the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] renders
it absolutely necessary that an able assistant to the Reverend Mr. William Sturgeon be
appointed to the Ministry, and other clerical offices of the church. We therefore hereby
signify our approbation of the Reverend Mr. William Macdinaghan, and hope he will be
appointed to that station, as we believe, if on inquiry his private character shall
be found agreeable to his function, that it will tend to the advancements of piety, and
Christian knowledge, and to good order and harmony in the church.
We are further of opinion that an ample support may be provided for such an
assistant, by a private subscription in our congregation, entirely independent of the
present revenue of the church, until another is built on the Diocese of the
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney].
Peter Sonman Francis Wade John Nixon John Moyes William Dunwick
John Pilips Thomas Charlton George Leadbetter John Reily James Whilton
Hugh Davey James Claypoole John Palmer John Wilkinson Jr. Mark Khule
Hank Fleaston Thomas Lawrence Thomas Oliver John Howard John Leacock
Richard Swan Abraham Usher Andrew Doz John Wilkinson James Doughtery
Walter Shea William Jackson Chisip Benezch Joseph Wood Thomas Williams
Alexander Moore William Standley Francis Harris John Relf David Hall
Thomas Cuthbert Anthony Stocker Samuel Hasell Charles Stow Jr. Henry Rigby
Daniel Roberdeau James Worrel John Wood Wiliam Vanderspeagle George Bootham
John Knowles Francis Sewer James Harding John Doyle Richard Footman
James Stevenson Zach Neiman George Rankin William Ritchee Richard Stiles
Robert Towers Philip Hubberh Francis Many Bing Fuller Henry Dawkings
Dan Dupey James Keappock John Coates Jr. William Shute John Hughes
John Ord Thomas Wells Ephraim Bondham George Sheed
John Cox Thomas Penrose Thomas Bitchee Thomas Overend
Them William Plumstead Esquire, John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr., and Mr. Thomas Leech were appointed a committee
to wait on the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], who through indisposition was confined to his chamber, read
the paper to him and report his opinions thereon to the Vestry, which committee soon afterwards returned,
and reported in the following words, to wit. That Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] declared (the substance of the paper
being first communicated to him) he was very willing, with the consent of the Church Wardens, and
Vestry that Mr. Macdenaghan should have the liberty and use of his pulpit to preach in, during
the pleasure to them the said Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Church Wardens, and Vestry only: Thereupon the Vestry taking
the same with consideration, do agree, that the said Mr. Macenaghan shall have the liberty and use of
the pulpit to preach in as a lecturer only, during the pleasure of the said Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Church Wardens,
and Vestry. He producing sufficient testimonials of his good life and conversation: provided the
persons subscribing or desiring the same as aforesaid shall support and maintain the said Mr.
Macdenaghan.
Evan Morgan
Warden
At a meeting of Vestry at the Parsonage on Tuesday June 19, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
John Baynton
Peter Turner
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Child
John Ross
Henry Harrison
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Townsend White
James Humphreys
The letters of ordination from the Lord Bishop of Lincoln to the Reverend William
McClanaghan, together with some letters of recommendation to and of him from the
Reverend Doctor Bearcroft secretary to the honorable Society were produced and read
and this Vestry being informed of the hearty desire of most of the congregation to have
Mr. McClenaghan fixed, settled, and established, as an assistant Minister to the Reverend
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], in this church, without interfering with the present revenues
thereof. This Vestry taking the premises onto their serious consideration,
and nothing appearing against the orthodoxy and morals, of Mr. McClenaghan
do order and resolve, with the advice of the congregation, that the said Reverend
William McClenaghan hence forwarded be, and is thereby admitted, received, fixed,
settled, established, and taken to be an assistant Minister with Mr. Sturgeon,
to the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] of Christ Church in Philadelphia and to be supported
by the voluntary donations and subscriptions of the members of the congregation
until other suitable provision can be made for his support. And it is
further ordered, that an address be prepared from this Vestry, in nature of a
presentation to the Lord Bishop of London, praying his Lordships license
for Mr. McClenaghan to officiate as assistant Minister (with Mr. Sturgeon)
of his church according to the practice and custom of this church, in such
cases, used, and approved, on his ordering further testimonials of his
morals and good life.
[struck out] I sign as clerk to the Vestry but do not Evan Morgan
approve of the above minute Church Warden
===================================================================
At a meeting of Vestry at the Parsonage July 18, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
James Child
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
James Humphreys
Townsend White
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
William Bingham
John Ross
A letter was presented by one of the Church Wardens directed to the Minister, Church Wardens,
and Vestry from Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Jr. in London, ordered to be read and entered
in the minutes, and is as follows.
To the Reverend the Minister, Church Wardens and Vestry Men
of Christ Church Philadelphia
Gentlemen.
I think myself bound in gratitude to send you my sincere thanks
for your very kind recommendation of me to the Lord Bishop of London
for Holy Orders, appointed me at the same time one of the assistant Ministers
of your churches at Philadelphia. Before the receipt of your letter and address
his Lordship had been graciously pleased, notwithstanding my want of age to grant me
Deacons orders with a license to exercise my function in the province of Pennsyl-
vania, as well as consequence of my recommendatory letters from Philadelphia and my
testimonials from the University of Cambridge as at the particular instance and
request, of my late worthy tutor the Provost of the College of Philadelphia.
Young
young as I am, person as young have, upon some occasion been admitted into orders
yet, as I could not have claimed these singular favors from the rules proscribed by
the church or from any extraordinary ment of my own I shall ever acknowledge
them with the sincerest gratitude, and shall spare no pains in the exercise of
my Ministerial Duty at Philadelphia, well knowing that this will be the best step
I can take towards discharging the obligations I am under to my Lord of London,
and to you. I am gentlemen with all due respect your most humble
servant Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Clerk
London March 15, 1759
Two letters, the one from the Reverend Mr. Chandler at Elisabeth Town, to the Rev. Mr.
William Sturgeon, the other from the Reverend Mr. Browne of Newark to the Reverend Mr. Peters of
this city were read; the first of which contained some insinuations or reprots against
the moral and religious character of the Reverend Mr. MacClenaghan, and he appearing in
Vestry, prayed to be allowed time to go to Boston in order to procure proper petitions
mials of his religious character. The Vestry taking this prayer into
consideration think it just and reasonable and he is requested and allowed
to proceed to Boston for the purposes aforesaid.
Evan Morgan Warden
=================================================================
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage House September 27, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Vestry Men:
James Child
Townsend White
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
Edward Duffield
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Ross
James Humphreys
Henry Harrison
John Baynton
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
The Vestry having in their address to the Lord Bishop of
London February 7 last, recommended Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Junior to his said Lordship
for holy orders and that he would also license him to officiate as an assistant Minister
in the Churches in Philadelphia. The Church Warden now acquaints this Vestry that
Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] is arrived from England and is attending in next room; then he was
called in, and presented his diploma from Bachelor of Arts from the College of this City, his
letter of holy orders for the office of Deacon, and license to preach in Pennsylvania
both from the Bishop of London also testimonials from Clare Hall Cambridge and a compan-
ion of his chaplaining to the Earl of Sterling.
Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] also acquainted this Vestry that Doctor Bearcroft had received their
letter to the Society dated February last relating to the 900 pound sterling, the bequest of one
Mr. Jauney; and desired him to let the Minister and Vestry know that the said Society
had complied with their request, and that Doctor Smith would bring with him the
particulars of that affair.
Then the Vestry having taken Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] credentials into their
consideration and being fully satisfied with them, and of Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] qualifi
cations, good life, and conversation; do now receive him as one of their
assistant Ministers, to the Churches of this city, and will endeavor to
provide form him as soon as they can.
Then the Reverend Mr. MacClenaghan came into Vestry and delivered sundry letters
and testimonials from his late congregation in New England and diverse gentlemen in Boston
which were read and duly considered; and the Vestry thereupon declare they are
satisfied with the testimonials and of the fair character of Mr. MacClenaghan and
thereupon order an address to be prepared and sent to the Lord Bishop of London, praying
his license to Mr. MacClenaghan to officate in this church according to their former
minute and that Dr. John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr. and Mr. John Ross be a committee to prepare
said address.
Evan Morgan Warden
[struck out]N.B. Altho I entered this and signed as Church Warden, yet I
thought his credentials exceedingly defensive, and declared this in open
Vestry at the time for they only consisted of negated and feint
accounts drawn up with such cantor that any [unclear]
feel that persons who signed were just to it to make their certificates tolerably palable.
At a meeting of Vestry at the Parsonage House October 3, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Vestry Men:
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Evan Morgan
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Ross
Townsend White
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
The committee appointed to frame an address to the Lord Bishop of London
praying him to license the Reverend Mr. William MacClenachan to preach in this
church; produced a rough draught, which was read and approved, and is
as follows, and fair copy's ordered to be made.
To the Right Reverend Father in God Thomas By Divine [unclear]
Lord Bishop of London
The address of the Church Wardens and Vestry of Christ Church
in the City of Philadelphia in the Province of Pennsylvania
in the behalf of themselves, and the members of the said church.
In all humble manners honor the
That since it hath pleased Almighty God in the courses of
providence to visit with sickness our Pastor the Reverend Doctor Robert
Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] in such manner as to render him unable to perform any public service
in our church, whereby the whole duty for sometime past hath been
discharged by the honorable Society's Catechist among us, the pece and Mr.
William Sturgeon, a service too hard and difficult for any one gentleman to execute.
The Reverend Mr. William McClanaghan one of the Honorable Society's mostly
missionary on the eastern frontiers of New England on on about the first
day of May last came among us by accident was invited to preach in our
church public he cheerfully did on several Sundays with as much
satisfaction to our congregation that they prayed us to ordain and settle him
among us, they undertaking to make suitable provision for him by their
voluntary subscription until other proper support can be had
that on the nineteenth day of June last past, the Vestry did approve of, settle
and establish Mr. MacClanaghan to be assistant members to the Reverend
Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] in this church he introducing to us testimonials of his
religious and moral character, which he hath since done to the
the satisfaction of us the Vestry, and we double not of all who have seen his credentials.
Permit us, may it please your Lordship to say; that since Mr. MacClanaghan
coming among us, our church has been much crowded appears to be in a very flourishing
state, and from his pious and heartily labors, we double not many will be address our
numbers from among the dissenters of very work; and it give us the most sensible
pleasure to find he stands so fair with, and high in the esteem of the Honorable
Society for Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts for his faithful discharge of his
the Reverend Doctor Bearcrofts late letter to him.
The present visitation and affliction of our Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
has disabled him from writing on joining with us in this address; yet declaring
that a Minister chosen by and agreeable to the people as his assistant will
well please him.
May it therefore please your Lordship to favor the
earnest desires of us and this congregation in the settlement of Mr. MacClanaghan
in this church as an assistant to Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] for the doing where of, we most
humbly pray your lordship will be pleased to grant your license to the
Reverend Mr. William MacClanaghan thereby licensing and authorizing him to
officiate, perform, and discharge his holy office and duty in this our church at
Philadelphia as an assistant to Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]; according to the rites and
ceremonies of the Church of England. Evan praying for your Lordship's
health in this world, and happiness in that which is to come. We pray leave
to subscribe ourselves may it please your Lordship's.
Philadelphia October 3, 1759
Your Lordship's most obedient Humble servants
At a meeting of Vestry held at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s Philadelphia October 3, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
John Ross
Townsend White
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Joseph Redman
Thomas Leech
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
A letter of thanks to his Lordship Bishop of London was read and approved
of and ordered to be signed by the Minister and Church Wardens, relating
to Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] which letter is in the following words.
To the Right Reverend Father in God, Thomas Lord Bishop of
London
May it please your Lordship
We the Ministers, Church Wardens, and Vestry
of Christ Church in Philadelphia beg leave to
return your Lordship's our hearty thanks fro your kindness and paternal care
in ordaining and licensing Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], agreeable to our request of
February last.
That young gentleman is now by God's mercy safe arrived among
us, in his native city, and fixed one of our assistant Ministers, and your Lordship
may be assured of his being provided for more amply as soon as our new church
is ready.
We pray for your Lordship's peace and happiness, and are with
profound respect, your Lordship's most obedient sons and servants.
Philadelphia October 3, 1759 Signed by order of Vestry
At a meeting of Vestry held at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s Philadelphia November 28, 1759:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Evan Morgan
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Vestry Men:
Thomas Leech
Charles Stedman
James Child
Edward Duffield
Joseph Redman
James Humphreys
Peter Turner
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
Henry Harrison
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
A motion having made by some of the members that the new governor Mr. Hamilton
should be addressed, it was agreed unanimously that an address should be presented
to our new governor and that the two Wardens should prepare a draught of an
address for that purpose to be laid before the Vestry at the next meeting then
the Vestry adjourned to morrow morning 11 o'clock.
November 29, 1759
The Vestry met agreeable to their adjournment of yesterday and a draught
of the address to Governor Hamilton was produced by the committee and rad
which was agreed to unanimously: and follows in these words. Vis.
To the honorable James Hamilton Esquire Lieutenant Governor
and Commander in Chief of the province of Pennsylvania, and counties of New Castle,
Kent, and Sussex upon Delaware.
The address of the Minister, assistants, Church
Wardens, and Vestry Men of Christs' Church in Philadelphia.
May it please your honor.
The Minister, assistants, Church Wardens, and Vestry Men of Christ Church in
Philadelphia, beg leave to congratulate you on your arrival to the Government
of this Province.
Whether we consider you as a native of the colony, as possessor of
considerable property in it, as a gentleman well acquainted with, and well
affected it its best interests on reflect on your former happy administration
we cannot but esteem your second appointment to the same high trust, as a
blessing from heaven worthy of our devout acknowledgements. So many
assurances of your firm uncorrupt attachments to the public service
place you in the light of a deliverer in this juncture of danger and
difficulty.
Your zeal for the constitution in church and state leave us
no room to doubt that you will give all due contenance and protection to
the church of which we are members. Full therefore of the joy, which such
a desirable concurrence of circumstances justly inspires we sincerely pray
that your government may long continue easy and honorable to yourself
and imminently beneficial and satisfactory to the people, whom you are
appointed to govern. Signed by order of Vestry.
R.J.
November 29, 1759
To which the Governor was pleased to make the follwoing
answer.
Gentlemen,
I heartily thank you for this obliging address and for the favorable opinion you are
pleased to entertain of me.
So kind an acceptance of my past endeavors to serve the public, is the greatest encouragement
that could be offered for my continuing to serve in the best manner I am able.
I profess myself a member of the Church of England and well affected for its doctrines and
discipline, I should look upon myself as greatly wanting in duty both to God and the [unclear]
I did not afford it all the countenance and protection in my power.
Easter Monday April 17, 1760 the congregation of Christ Church after
Divine Service elected the following officers for the ensuing year vis.
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Sides Men:
Townsend White
Peter Turner
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Thomas Leech
John Ross
James Child
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
John Baynton
Evan Morgan
William Bingham
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Humphreys
Joseph Redmond
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Edward Duffield
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Church Warden
=======================================================
At a meeting of Vestry held at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s April 14, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Vestry Men:
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Townsend White
Joseph Redmond
John Ross
Evan Morgan
Peter Turner
John Sayer [Seyer] [Sayre] [Sears]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
James Humphreys
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Ordered that James Humphreys, Townsend White, and William Bingham be a
committee to settle the accounts of the late Church Warden Mr. Evan Morgan
and make report thereon to the board.
Ordered that notice be given to the committee for building the new church, that
they make report of their proceedings to their board at their next meeting.
Ordered that Church Warden Harrison, Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], and Mr. William Pywell [Pyewell] be a committee
to superintend the repairs of the church for the ensying year.
Resolved that the two old bells now in Christ Church be removed to the
new church for the use of the said church, and Mr. Morgan is desired to see them there.
At a meeting of Vestry held at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s June 10, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Vestry Men:
John Ross
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
Joseph Redmond
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
Peter Turner
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
Thomas Leech
Evan Morgan
James Humphreys
A letter from Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] was read setting forth that he has refused
Mr. MacClanaghan any further use of his pulpit which letter follows in these
words.
Gentlemen,
I take this opportunity of laying before you a letter which I have
this day sent to the Reverend Mr. MacClanaghan, notifying my determination of refusing
him the further use of my pulpit, and of transmitting the reasons of my conduct to
those who have the proper cognizance of them.
To you gentlemen who have been witnesses
to the manner of this man's introduction among us and the confusions which he has
ever since occasioned, it would be needless to say much at present. At the desire of
many of you who with much reluctance of mind, I allowed him the occasional usage of
my pulpit, upon the only conditions on which it was in any favor to receive him
namely his conformity to the canons of discipline of our church and his obtaining these
approbation of license of the Lord Bishop of London for his settlement here. But with
respect to the latter, you will see by authentic proofs which I lay before you, in
how bad a light he stands with his late employers, he Society at Home and how unlikely
it is hat he should ever receive any license on countenance to settle here. And in
regard to his conformity to our church it is submitted to you, how agreeable to the
canons are his estempore praying of preaching his railings and railings in the pulpit,
his leaving our church and his duty during the time of Divine Service, and carrying
many of the congregation with him to other societies. These things added to
his known connections with those who do not belong to our church and have
an evident interest in dividing and distracting it. might have long ago justified
my withholding my pulpit from him. But of late his aversion[?] of the
whole body of our church and clergy, their doctrines and principles, their
Sir Doctor Bearcroft's Letter Turn over
their lives and writings, have been so bold and indiscriminate, that I should have
thought myself wanting in every duty, had I suffered my pulpit to be any longer
employed for such purpose.
I trust therefore that I shall meet with your
approbation and support in what I have thought it necessary to do for the
interest and preservation of that church, where in by the grace of god, I
have been for fifty years a conscientious and I hope a faithful Minister. I am
with much regard and esteem Gentlemen
June 17, 1760 Your obedient Minister and
To the Church Wardens and Vestry Men faithful servant
Christ Church Philadelphia Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
The Vestry taking the foregoing letter into consideration and knowing the
facts there contained to be true.
Resolved that this Vestry do approve of Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s having refused Mr.
MacClanaghan the use of his pulpit until the Lord Bishop of London's
pleasure be known; upon the matter above represented.
The following is copy of a letter from Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] to Mr. William MacClanaghan
Reverend Sir,
about a full month ago, having been much afflicted by sundry persons
in my congregation, I granted you the occasional use of my pulpit. You must certainly
know that the only conditions upon which it was in my favor to grant this
were your conforming yourself to the canons and discipline of our church
incurring sufficient testimonials of your former conduct and obtaining the
Bishop of London's license and approbation for your removal to this place.
But though you have had sufficient time you have not only produced no such
license on approbation on the contrary I am sufficiently assured that your
whole conduct is so much disapproved of that you will never obtain any
license so that i might have been well warranted in denying you my pulpit
some time ago. But I must now tell you that your late conduct has been such
that even if you were licensed to preach here I could not allow you any more
use of my pulpit till I had laid the matter before your superiors and
therefore you are to take notice that you are henceforth to desist from
Preaching in my church or congregation. My reasons for this I shall transmit
to those who have the proper authority to take cognizance of them.
May God forgive you, the disturbances you have made in my congregation
and the uneasiness you have added to those which the hand of heaven and
infirmities of age had already laid upon me.
June 17, 1769
Your Humble servant
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
To the Reverend William MacClanaghan
in Philadelphia
The following is copy of a letter the Reverend Doctor Philip Bearcroft
to the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Dear Sir, London Charterhouse February 20, 1760
This comes by Mr. Thompson who hath happily succeeded in his [unclear]
and is appointed missionary to the counties of York and Cumberland and I hope will
find you in a tolerable state of health, notwithstanding the trouble and disturbance
MacClanaghan's doings must necessarily have occasioned you, he will be far
from meeting with any countenance on this side the water. He hath indeed
prevented the Society from prenouncing him by dismissing himself from
their service; but that now no sollicitation of some particular gentlemen will
dare venture to promise, prevail on the Lord Bishop of London to License
him to officiate in your church. I would willingly hope, those that were so fond
of him on his first appearance, as he must by this time be better known, or now
much cooled in their affections towards him, and will give up noise and
nonsense to sober thinking and prefer peace and order to confusion and
very civil ork Mr. Morton is appointed to the Mission he came over recommended
to and as soon as in full orders will come over to it in the mean time I have
sent by Mr. Thompson the anniversary sermon for the year 1750, and that for the last year
shall follow by Mr. Morton, if it comes out before he sets sail, to be distributed as
usual in Pennsylania, wishing you much health and happiness. I remain dear sir
To the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Your affectionate servant
in Philadelphia and brother in Christ.
Philip Bearcroft
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage June 21, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Assistants:
Mr. William Sturgeon
Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Vestry Men:
William Plumstead [Plumsted]
William Bingham
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
Edward duffield
Peter Turner
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Humphreys
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Thomas Leech
Charles Stedman [Steadman]
Joseph Redman
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] delivered the Vestry a letter from Reverend Samuel Nicolls Secretary
to the Lord Bishop of London. In answer to letters from the late Vestry in which
they had recommended Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Jr. and Mr. William MacClenaghan to the Lord
for license which answer is as follows viz.
To
The Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney] Minister of Christ Church in the city of Philadelphia
To the Reverend William Sturgeon and the Reverend Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] Ministers assistants there
and to the parishioners of the said church assembled in Vestry.
Gentlemen,
I am especially commanded by the Lord Bishop of London, with his
hearty commendations to you to let you know that he has received your several
letters and addresses to him relating the settlement of Ministers in the church of
Philadelphia and after having well considered the circumstances of your case
his Lordship is firmly of opinion that two assistant Ministers are sufficient
for your church ...... Mr. William Sturgeon has been many years among you and
he's well supplied the duties of the church during the indisposition of your worthy
Minister Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]; and now of late since the duty is increased his Lordship has at your
own request ordained a very promising young gentleman Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] and at your
request likewise has licensed him to be another assistant in the same church:
in justice therefore to those two gentlemen who have devoted them selves to your
service and in regard to your own recommendations of them which have been strong
in their favor his Lordship thinks proper that they shall be the officiating Ministers
in Philadelphia and no other.
In respect to Mr. MacClanaghan his Lordship has many reasons why he cannot license
him in the parts of Pennsylvania, he was so ordained and license to a mission in the
society's service from which he has withdrawn himself in a manner that does
him no credit, since that he has engaged himself to a parish in Virginia, and
has received weak[?] marks of their favor, that he ought to think himself under
obligations to serve them, it is incumbent upon him therefore to return thither
in order to obtain a proper settlement from the governor and commissary of that
province in the parish where he may be appointed to leave and not to give
any disturbance in the congregation where Ministers are already settled and established.
Therefore gentlemen, the Bishop desires and expects it from you that you give
Mr. MacClanaghan no encouragement to remain in Pennsylvania, but on the contrary
that you assist him in removing back again to the place where his duty call's him
and where he ought to be.
His Lordship orders me to assure you of his hearty good will and affection for you
with his sincere prayers for the welfare and prosperity of your church and country:
I am gentlemen with the greatest respect and esteem, your most obedient and faithful
London March 25, 1760 humble servant Samuel Nicolls
The Vestry agree that Mr. MacClanaghan shall be furnished with a copy of the letter
and that Joseph Redman and Henry Harrison wait on said MacClanaghan with a copy
of the above; the Vestry also agreed that the above letter be read in church next
Sunday morning. Henry Harrison
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage August 8, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Vestry Men:
Evan Morgan
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Bingham
Edward Duffield
Peter Turner
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
James Child
James Humphreys
Townsend White
The committee appointed to settle the late Church Warden's accounts report that
they have examines said accounts and find a balance due to the church of one
hundred and sixty four pounds seven shillings and two pence, which said account
the Vestry approve and have ordered the late Church Warden Evan Morgan
to pay the said balance to Henry Harrison the present Warden.
The Vestry order the committee that are appointed to build the church yard wall
to build three vaults of thirteen foot long and ten in breath, against the said wall for
the support of it; which said vaults are to be disposed of as the Vestry shall think fit:
Sundry complaints against William Kirk, the present Sexton was heard by the Vestry
setting forth his arbitrary conduct and disobedience which was considered on by the
Vestry and agreed that William Kirk be sent for; he accordingly appeared; and said
he was not capable of doing the business and if the Vestry could get a better
in his room he was wiling and satisfied and would send the kets if they
desired it, which he was told to do; and discharged by the Vestry from acting
any longer. And Robert Cor was appointed Sexton in his stead.
Henry Harrison
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage August 19, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Edward Duffield
Evan Morgan
James Humphreys
Townsend White
Joseph Redman
William Pywell [Pyewell]
William Bingham
Robert Cor, who was appointed Sexton at the last meeting having delined
serving in that station and William Shead was recommended to the
Vestry to serve as Sexton, he was sent for and agreed to act aas such.
The Vestry present therefore agreed with him to be Sexton, and he
is ordered not to suffer the church groung to opened for any funeral
til he has an order from the then Church Warden
Henry Harrison
At a meeting of Vestry held at Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]'s December 2, 1760:
Present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Alexander [Alex] Stedman
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
Evan Morgan
James Humphreys
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Peter Turner
Joseph Redmond
Edward Duffield
William Bingham
John Kearsly [Kearsley] [Kersley] [Kersly] Sr.
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
A power of attorney was read from the Society of Propagation of the Gospel
empowering the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], the Reverend William Smith, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
John Ross and Evan Morgan Esquires, on the major par of them; to purchase
lands in Pennsylvania for the use therein mentioned, which power of attorney
follows in these words. Viz.
Know all men by these presents that the incorporated
Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts hath made ordained,
constituted and appointed and by these presents doth make, ordain, constitute and
appoint the Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney], Doctor in Divinity and Minister of the Church
of Christ. Church in the city of Philadelphia, the Reverend William Smith, Doctor
in Divinity and Provost of the College in the said city, Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea], John Ross, and
Evan Morgan Esquire, all of the said City of Philadelphia, on the major part of them
to be the said incorporated Society's true and lawful attorneys, jointly for and in
the name of the said Society to buy and completely purchase lands in the Province
of Pennsylvania in American, which they they said attorneys shall think worth (and
for which the said Society doth hereby bind and engage themselves to pray) such
sum or sums of money as shall be raised by the sale of three hundred thousand New
South Seas Annuity Stock and the annual rents and profits of such lands so
purchased shall be and remain to the sole use and behalf of the Ministers of
the Church of Christ Church in the City of Philadelphia for this time being, and
his successors forever. And the said Incorporated Society do hereby ratify all
and confirm all and whatsoever their said attorneys on the major part of them
shall lawfully do on cause to be done in and about the premises by virtue
of these presents, in Witness where of the said Society have have unto
fixed their seal on June 13 in the 32 year of
the reign of our Sovereign Lod George the Second, and in the year of Lord
1759.
The Vestry desires that the Gentlemen appointed in the foregoing Power of
Attorney may purchase lands accordingly the Church Wardens, Mr. Morgan,
and Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] are appointed to prepare a letter of thanks to the Society
and to bring in a draught there of to this Vestry at their next meeting.
The Vestry taking into consideration that a proper salary should be
provided by them for the Reverend Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] one of our assistant
Ministers and tho he has served us in that capacity for fifteen months
no provision has yet been made for him.
Resolved that this Vestry will endeavor to raise by subscription the sum
of two hundred pounds per annum, as a salary for said Mr. Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea] to
commence from the 19th of June last past, until some other fund can
be got for his support and the Church Wardens, Mr. Evan Morgan, and Mr.
William Bingham are appointed to take in subscriptions for this purpose.
Mr. Henry Harrison is added to the committee for building the new church
there the Vestry adjourned to Thursday next, three o'clock afternoon.
At a Vestry held at the Parsonage December 4, 1760:
present:
Reverend Doctor Robert Jenney [Jenny] [Jeney]
Church Wardens:
Henry Harrison
Vestry Men:
Jacob Duché [Dushé] [Dushee] [Dushea]
William Bingham
Redmond [Redman] [Redmon] Cunningham] [Coningham] [Conyngham]
Joseph Redman
Evan Morgan
Edward Duffield
William Pywell [Pyewell]
Townsend White
James Humphreys
The committee appointed to draw a letter of thanks to the Society
as for last minnell: produced the same which was approved of
and is as follows viz.
Philadelphia December 4, 1760
Very Reverend Sir,
The Vestry having received (by the Reverend Doctor Smith) The Society Power
Directed to Sundry members of our church, enabling them to purchase a piece
or groung with the money left by William Jauney and appropriated by the Society
for the use of our Minister we think our selves in duty bound to express our
gratitude to that venerable body; by returning our most sincere and cordial
thanks for this farther instance of their kindness to the church of Philadelphia.
We shall as soon as possible make the purchase and in proper time draw
bills for the money, in which we humbly hope your wanted favor to expede to
the business whenever it shall come before you, and we heartedly pray for the
future happy success of the Society in all their pious undertakings,
referring ourselves their and your sincere friends and most obedient humble servant
Signed by order of Vestry
The Church Warden Harrison is ordered to dray a fair copy and get it signed
by the Minister and Church Wardens to send it home.
Henry Harrison Warden
This book repaired by C. Kemble Sept 23 1837