M:EMO I0  R *'
REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D.,
AYID
SILAS N. KENDRICK.
S.'W. ADAMS,
PASTOR OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CLEVELAND, OHIO.
"Help Lord, for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children
of men."-Ps. xii. 1.
PHILADELPHIA:
AMERICAN BAPTIST PUBLICATION SOCIETY, 530 ARCH ST.
1860.








PR EFACE.
THE preparation of the Memoir of the late Dr. Kendrick, was originally committed to other hands. The
daughter was selected as the proper one to portray the
father's character, and hand it down to future generations. It is to be deeply lamented that this fondly
cherished work, which she was so competent to execute, was frustrated by an early death, and before a
single line had been written. At the earnest solicitation of the son, the late Silas N. Kendrick, whose
memory is fitly embalmed in the following pages, the
writer assumed the task of authorship, the fruits of
which are now submitted to the Christian public.
The original plan of a separate memoir of the father
has been so far modified as to allow the record of
the life of the son and of the father in one volume.
As a slight extenuation of the faults of the work,
it is due to say, that it has been executed amid the
pressure of pastoral and pulpit labors. In the tribute
paid to the son's memory, mutual friends will recognize the hand of one whom Silas N. Kendrick in life
1*




VI                 PREFACE.
loved as a brother, and who counts it a brother's privilege to hang a wreath upon his tomb.
For all the materials furnished by various friends
whose names are mentioned, together with the kind
wishes and prayers for the success of this undertaking,
the author now tenders his grateful acknowledgments.
As a slight memorial of departed worth, he would now
consecrate this volume to the cause of Christ, praying
that the interests which were promoted by the lives
of the sainted Kendricks, may be still advanced by the
record of them now delivered to the reading public.
CLEVELAND, April, 1860.




CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
Birth-Parentage-Conversion-Profession of Religion-Spiritual
darkness-Happy deliverance.............................................  13
CHAPTER II.
Call to the ministry-Preparatory study with Rev. Mr. Burroughs
of Hanover-with Dr. Burton of Thetford-Essays —Declines a
License-Journey to Franklin........................................ 23
CHAPTER III.
Notice of Dr. Emmons-His Habits —Qualifications as a Theological Teacher-Number of Students-Plan of InstructionThemes examined —Authors consulted-Method of StudyCertificate-Removal to Boston-Drs. Baldwin and StillmanRevival-Emotions on leaving Boston-Occasional Preaching... 31
CHAPTER IV.
Visit to Brown University- Sickness -Reflections-Bellingham
Baptist Church-Mr. Kendrick as a Supply-Visit to BostonHabits of Preparation-Social Intercourse-Neighboring Ministers-Journal-Visit to Hanover and other Places-ReturnRequest to visit the Baptist Church of Hoosick-Preaching in
Lansingburgh, Troy, and other Towns-Call to supply at Lansingburg-Call to settle at Bellingham —Farewell sermon.........  41




viii                    CONTENTS.
CHAPTER V.
Removal to Lansingburgh-The Church-Its prospects-Shaftsbury Association-Its Anniversaries-Christian HospitalityCall for Settlement-Ordination-School Teaching-First Baptism-Pastoral Work-Ministerial Intercourse-Quarterly Conferences-Missionary Spirit-Missionary Bodies-Their Fields, 51
CHAPTER VI.
Early attempts for a Convention of Associations-Foreign Missions-Foreign Missions unite brethren widely separated by
Distance-Home Missions-Mr. Kendrick a Missionary-Tours
-Labors-Incident-Providential Preservation —Call to a New
Settlement-Call to visit Churches-Views of Support to Missions-Marriage-Family-Close of labors in LansingburghFarewell Sermon...............................................   59
CHAPTER VII.
Removal to Middlebury-Prospects of the Field-Middlebury College-Numerous and Varied Labors-Extension of his FieldMonkton Embraced-Epidemic-Duties thereby MultipliedDeaths in Middlebury-Deaths in his own Family............ 69
CHAPTER VIII.
Death of Mrs. Kendrick-Extract from his Journal-Letters of
Condolence-Specimen of a Week's Labor-Visit of Luther
Rice-Co-operation of Mr. Kendrick-War-Its Effects upon our
Northern Frontiers-Naval Battle on Lake Champlain-Striking
Contrast....................................................................    77
CHAPTER IX.
Embarrassments in the Field —Thoughts of Removal-Request to
visit Sangerfield-Correspondence-Visit to Sangerfield-Madi



CONTENTS.                             ix
son Association -Re-engagement at Middlebury -- Numerous
Applications —Correspondence with the Baptist Churches in
Eaton —Visit-Call-Close of his Labors in Middlebury-Revival.............................................................................. 87
CHAPTER X.
Entrance upon a New Field-Prospects of Usefulness-Morrisville Church the Mother of Missionaries-Labors at length
confined to Eaton Church-Theological Lectures-Revival in
Eaton-Letter of Rev. S. B. Page-Second Marriage-Reunion
of his Family.................................................................    95
CHAPTER XI.
Ministerial Education-Colleges-Bounty of Thos. Hollis, Jr.Supply of Ministers-Action of Philadelphia Association-In
The South —Union in support of Brown University-Interruption from the American Revolution-Plan of aid to Beneficiaries
in the South-In the North-A new Era-Education SocietiesOrigin of New York Baptist Educational Society-Religious
Intelligence-A Weekly Sheet-The First Fruits of Education
Societies.1........................................................................  107
CHAPTER XII.
Origin of Hamilton Seminary-Its Founders — Place and Time of
Meeting-First Subscription-Agents-Field-First StudentConsociation-Peculiar Character of the School-Amount of
Subscriptions the First Year —Location at Hamilton................. 116
CHAPTER XIII.
Private Teachers-Collection of Students-Opening of the School
-First Teacher in it, Rev. Dr. Hascall-Co-operation of Vermont-Extended  Sphere —Patrons-Graduation of the First
Class-Growing favor of the Seminary-New Edifice-Means of
Furnishing the same-Theological Seminary in the City of New
York-Scholarships-Consecration services of Mr. and Mrs.
Wade, as Missionaries to Burmah...................................... 128




x                       CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XIV.
Death of prominent Members of the Board-Death of Mrs. Kendrick
-Current Expenses-Provision for the same —ScholarshipsLegacies-Providential Aid-Enlargement-Donation of Deacon
Payne-Incident —Site of University Buildings-Tours of Dr.
Kendrick-Increase of Teachers-Change of Vacations-Completion and Opening of New Edifice.................................. 139
CHAPTER XV.
Occupancy of New Edifice-Gradual Changes —Additional Teachers-Course of Study Extended —Preparatory Department —
Another Professor —Change and Reduction of Vacations-Beneficiaries —Manual Labor —Current Expenses —Salaries —Raising
Funds-Providential Relief................................................ 148
CHAPTER XVI.
Influence of Revivals in the Seminary —In 1828 —In 1830-31, Embraced in a letter of Rev. S. B. Page-Third Marriage of Dr.
Kendrick.....................................................................  155
CHAPTER XVII.
FROM 1834-1839 INCLUSIVE.
Moneys Expended and Invested-Enlargement-Additional Teachers -- New Building - Boarding Hall — Manual Labor -- Annual
Expenditures —Debt-Expedients to remove the same —Providential Favor —Karen Scholarships —Tour of Townshend and
Bright —The Three Departments fully developed —Change of
Plan in the Seminary-Dr. Kendrick's views thereon —Testimony of Mr. Edmunds —Remark of Father Bennet-Co-operation
of New Jersey and Pennsylvania......................................... 165




CO NTENTS.                          xi
CHAPTER XVIII.
FROM 1840-1848 INCLUSIVE.
Other Changes-Dr. Kendrick's views thereon-Popularity of the
New Measures-Library-Philosophical Apparatus —Aid from
Female Education Societies —Scholarships in Albany-Sum Total —Need of Aid —Hindrances —Floating Debt-Liquidation —
Growing Field —Changes in Faculty —Decease of Early Patrons
-Revivals-Summary of Labors —Closing Year of Dr. Kendrick's Labors —The Removal Question-Concluding Remarks... 178
CHAPTER XIX.
Doctrinal Views-Doctrines Modified-Causes of CorruptionLandmarks of Calvinism Defined by Edwards-Influences Adverse to Sound Doctrine-Total Depravity-Infidelity in Yale
College-Promoters of Revivals-Influence of Revivals upon
Doctrines-Dr. Kendrick's Partiality for the Strong Doctrines
-Views of Dr. Emmons-Dr. Kendrick's Dissent-Total Depravity-Regeneration-Sovereignty of God-Election-God's
Ultimate End-Atonement................................................. 191
CHAPTER XX.
Kindness towards those who Dissented from him-Class of 1830Views as a Baptist-Divine Providence-Illustrations- Striking
Instances of Interposing Providences............................ 203
CHAPTER XXI.
Plan of Discourses-Choice of Texts-Their Suitableness —Instances-Doctrinal —Not a Favorite with the Masses-His Mind
Deliberate-Anecdote-Appearance in the Pulpit-Occasionally
Eloquent-Treatment of Controverted Subjects-Instance —Special Occasions —Valedictory Address —Sermons Scriptural -
Counsel to Inquirers.................................. 211




xii                     CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XXII.
Congeniality- Frankness-Caution-Conversational Gift-Christian Gentleman-Pacificator-Bearing his own Trials-Illustration-Gaining the Confidence of others-A  Case in PointHome-Hospitality-Correspondence-Letters of Rev. A. Ten
Brook and James Edmonds.......................................... 220
CHAPTER XXIII.
Person-Family Characteristics-Counsellor-'" Chatauque Council''-" Speculative Free Masonry" —Reproof —Corresponding
Secretary-Solicitor-Titles-A  Conservative-Leading  Questions - Anniversaries - Tour to Michigan - Indian Missions -
Extracts from his Journal-Family Bereavement.............. 230
CHAPTER XXIV.
Cause of his Illness-Confined to his Room-Journey to New
York City-Surgical Examination-Affecting Scene-Interview
with Religious Friends-Return-Difficulties Increased-Last
Visit to the Institution-Letter from Dr. Church- His own Letters-Letter from Professor Bliss-His own Letters.................. 243
CHAPTER XXV.
Illness Continued-Letters-Letter to the Students —Letter from
Dr. Comstock-Reply-Other Letters-To Rev. A. Ten BrookTo his Children...................................................... 257
CHAPTER XXVI.
Prevailing state of Mind-Raptures-Correspondence-Testimony
of an Eye-witness-Attack of Dysentery-Closing Scene-Funeral Services-Report entered upon the Minutes of the Madison
Association-Notice in the Annual Report of the Education
Society-Brief Survey..................................................... 272




MEMOIRS
REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER I.
Birth - Parentage - Conversion - Profession of Religion - Spiritual
Darkness - Happy Deliverance.
NATHANIEL KENDRICK was born in Hanover, Grafton
county, N. H., on the 22d of April, 1777. In a family of
nine children, consisting of seven sons and two daughters,
he was the oldest son, and the second child. He was blest
with a worthy and pious parentage, and his early life was
passed, and his character formed, under auspices favorable to
vigorous habits, both of body and mind. No pampered heir
of wealth, he was a stranger to those false notions of life
which wealth too often engenders. Not bred to ease and
luxury, he was early taught the primitive lesson given to our
great progenitor, " In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat
bread."
His parents were among the first to penetrate the forests
of their valley town, and though not favored themselves beyond the ordinary privileges of their times, were yet diligent
in securing to their children the best advantages which a New
England settlement afforded, when emerging from a wilderness state. His father, Samuel Kendrick, was a native of
Coventry, Connecticut. As the ancestral line may be traced
with probable accuracy for several generations, we here insert the following record.
2




14    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
The first name that appears in the genealogy, is that of
Edward Kenrick, who married a grand niece of Archbishop
Cranmer, the noted martyr in the days of bloody Mary.
It must here be observed, that in the lapse of two hundred
years, the orthography of the name has undergone a slight
change. The d is an interpolation. Even the great grandfather of the subject of this memoir, omitted the d in his
spelling of the name, as the old town records of Coventry
bear witness.
Edward Kenrick, the great grandson of the ancestor first
named, was an eminent merchant of London and Rotterdam, and in 1652, Lord Mayor of London. He had three
sons, George, Thomas, and John. The last named of the
brothers, born in York, England, in 1604, emigrated to this
country. He was a member of the first church in Boston in
1639, and in 1656 moved to his farm in the south part of
Newton, at a place called, to this day, " Kenrick's Bridge,"
on the banks of Charles river; which place remained in the
possession of the descendants one hundred and seventy years.
Dying at the age of eighty-two years, John Kenrick left three
sons, viz., Joseph, John, and Elijah.  Through the last
named, the subject of our biography traced his descent.
Elijah Kenrick had three sons and three daughters. Of
the three sons, John, Elijah, and Ebenezer, the last settled in Brookline, having one son and one daughter. His
son Nathaniel settled first in Brookline, afterwards in Coventry, Conn., and finally in Hanover, N. H. His last removal
was made in the year 1771, when his children had mostly
reached maturity. Here, in a new and wilderness region,
he met the privations incident to pioneer life for about five
years, when he was suddenly killed by the falling of a tree.
Of the ten children of Nathaniel Kendrick, three of whom
died in infancy, Samuel, the father of the subject of our work,
was the fourth child. About three years after the removal
of the family to the Granite State, Samuel was united in martiage to Miss Anna Smith. The fruit of this union was a family




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.    15
of nine children, seven sons and two daughters, all reaching
maturity save one, a son, the youngest in the number, who
died under three years of age.  Three only of this numerous
household, two sons and a daughter, now survive.  The
average life-time of the five adults that have died, is above
sixty-one and a half years, and the tendency to longevity in
the family was still more evident in the parents, the mother
reaching the advanced age of eighty-one years, and the father
ninety-one years.
Both the parents were members of the Congregational
church, and were highly esteemed for their uprightness, kindness, benevolence, and uniformly consistent deportment.
They were among the finest specimens of the primitive New
England character. The father, besides high moral qualitieshis incorruptible and stern integrity, was distinguished by a
clear and sound practical judgment, great energy and executive capacity, and, in short, by that combination of qualities
which would have made him an influential and leading man
in any community. During his residence in Hanover he
served as one of the selectmen of the town for fifteen years,
and, by the suffrages of the people, he represented the interests of his district for two years in the State Legislature.
In the revolutionary struggle with the mother country, being
on the frontier, contiguous to the Indians and the British
forces in Canada, he stood as a minute man, and was frequently called out against the Indians and the British forces,
that were operating under Gen. Burgoyne upon the border
settlements.
Of the wife, it is sufficient to say, that she was worthy of
such a husband. The devotion of the parents to their children was ever distinguished by the greatest tenderness and
affection. Ample proof of this is discovered in the correspondence of the family, which bears faithful testimony to
parental love. It was a highly valued privilege to receive
the welcome epistles from their absent children. Nor was
the occasional visit to the home circle suffered to pass with.




16    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
out a merited recognition of the favor, as a token of providential kindness. If the year revolved without a journey to
the homestead, when only the Green Mountains divided the
children from the parents, it was a long and almost intolerable period to await the circuit of two suns before a re-union.
These mutual attachments bespeak the charms of the parental hearth-stone, and become a living commentary upon the
value of that early seat of domestic happiness, which was
the cherished home of Nathaniel.
We have no remarkable incidents, with which to spice the
record of this period of the future man. We have in fact
little to record of Mr. Kendrick during his minority, or up
to his twentieth year. Justice, however, requires us to state,
that he gave early proofs of more than ordinary intellectual
strength, and developed a character that bore the impress of
strong common sense and sterling principle.  His native
town was the seat of Dartmouth College, planted a few
years before his birth, and a flourishing seedling from the
first; and its founding was coincident with the commencement of a series of religious revivals, that continued for
several years to bless the towns in that vicinity. To this
hall of learning his early steps were not directed.  The
candidates for classical study were then few. In his boyhood he enjoyed no literary advantages beyond the provisions of a common district school. But in this, "the people's
college," all his educators were not found.  Of various
character, they studded the pathway of his youth. They
were all around him, in the charming and diversified scenery
of his native town. Its noble river, the Connecticut, flowed
gracefully on its border line, just one mile from his birthplace, and rising from its banks were gentle elevations, that
swelled into undulating hills, as they receded from the intervale. Here, before the woodman's axe had leveled many of
the forests, were some of Nature's master pictures set before
the youth, to cultivate his taste, enrich his imagination, and
draw forth other latent powers within him. To these power



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   17
ful educators we have only to point, and say, they were in
the presence of the lad till he put on the ripeness of the
man.
That he availed himself of the benefits of the sanctuary,
and the school-house that ever rose by its side on New
England soil, is to be presumed from the fact that he was
chosen to act as an instructor of youth, before he entered
upon the direct preparation for his public vocation. Devoid
as the season of his youth may have been of those special
facilities which we now enjoy, it was by no means a lost
opportunity to him, for he was taking on strength for coming
years in a proper physical development. The young man
was initiated into the habits of industry and the principles of
integrity; and their companionship was retained through life.
Besides, he was brought up to understand the value of social
affections, and to know that there are other springs of enjoyment and usefulness than those merely intellectual.
That which we are most anxious to know is concerning the
new birth which Mr. Kendrick experienced about his twentieth year. The period in which this occurred may be set
down as among the darkest of New England history in religious declension. The country had not yet recovered from
the depressing influence of the Revolutionary struggle, which,
as is usual with war, had wrouglht disastrously upon the
churches. A half century had elapsed since the great awakening promoted by the labors of Edwards, Whitefield, and
their cotemporaries.  But the people were on the eve of
another visitation, which, when it fully came, brought zeal,
vigor and health to very many churches in the Eastern States.
The Baptist churches were then few in number, sparse in
membership, and, by necessary consequence, the means for
stated religious services were quite inadequate. In the town
of Hanover, the Baptist church was numerically small and
pecuniarily feeble.  It had no house of worship, nor any
one to serve it statedly in the ministry of the word. Under
these disadvantages, however, it pleased God to make use of
2*




18    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK,  D.D.
this feeble body of believers, to promote a revival of religion
in the neighborhood in which Mr. Kendrick resided. The
school-houses were the places in which they ordinarily met
for their services on the Lord's Day. Their remoteness from
the long established places of worship, gave opportunity for
many to turn into these assemblies, who otherwise might not
have visited them. Some individuals who had no partiality
for the denomination, and were by education and habit averse
to this religious body, became, through frequent attendance
in these revival meetings, hopeful subjects of renewing grace.
The manner in which this revival commenced, has been
well described by Prof. A. C. Kendrick, D.D., in an obituary
notice written soon after the decease of his venerable relative.
" The first subject of conviction was Clark Kendrick, a
cousin and intimate friend of Nathaniel, and who, for about
twenty years, was a useful Baptist minister in Vermont. Being
engaged one evening in a religious conversation with a pious
friend with whom he was boarding, Mr. Kendrick requested
him to relate his religious experience. He did so, and in the
course of his narrative, deep convictions fastened themselves
upon the mind of the youthful listener, which followed him
until his troubled conscience found peace in the blood of the
Lamb. This was the commencement of a general and powerful work of grace, as the fruit of which, about forty persons connected themselves with the Baptist church.
" The subject of this memoir remained for some time without any deep impression. He had indeed advised his cousin,
when under the agonies of conviction, not to shake off, but
rather cherish his religious impressions, and expressed a desire to join him in the ways of righteousness. Still he found
in himself no inclination to yield to the claims of religion,
until one evening he was invited home by another unconverted young man, who said to him:' Our old friends are all
leaving us, and you are my only remaining companion.' This
remark awakened in Mr. Kendrick's mind a train of solemn
reflections, and he could not contemplate, without shuddering,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    19
the prospect of being left to find his sole companionship
among the enemies of God. His convictions were deepened
by listening to a sermon which filled him with apprehensions,
lest the season of mercy might be past to those who had
hitherto remained impenitent. Thus the horrors of despair
blended themselves with the pangs of an awakened conscience, and with a deep and crushing sense of the desert of sin.
Still he earnestly' supplicated mercy, and at length after
about ten days passed in the deepest distress, he had manifestations of the divine purity and excellence so clear and
ravishing, that he felt able to praise God, even in his condemnation. He beheld the glory of God diffused over the face
of nature, and with his spirit relieved from its burden of
guilt, he could not but rejoice, whatever might be his own destiny. Still, he as yet indulged no hope that he had experienced
a saving change, and it was not till he listened to the experience of other converts, that he recognized in his own exercises the marks of a' like precious faith,' and felt the evidence gradually forcing itself upon him, that he had'passed
from death unto life.' The word of God was precious to
him, and he enjoyed the society of the saints, and especially
of those who had just been brought into the kingdom."
It will be seen from the above sketch, that the conversion
of the subject of this memoir was strikingly coincident with
that of Edwards, the great theologian, with whom also, in
his views of Bible doctrine, he was mainly, if not entirely,
in unison. His discovery of the perfections of God, and of
the character of Christ, upon which he delighted to dwell
through life, were then remarkably vivid. It is not often
that young converts volunteer the remark, that they feel
able to praise God even in their condemnation: and it may
be taken as an indication of the depth and thoroughness of
Mr. Kendrick's Christian experience, that he was constrained
to express his views of admiration of the justice as well as
the mercy of God. In the medium through which he then
saw nature, he sympathized also with the great Divine. He




20     REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
rejoiced in the works of God, as well as in his government.
There was an oblivion of self, and a magnifying of the
sovereign God. He felt himself to be a grievous sinner
justly condemned, and that Christ alone was his complete
and perfect Saviour. It is said of Samuel J. Mills, that
immediately after his conversion, he could not refrain from
exclaiming, "O glorious sovereignty " "O glorious sovereignty!" With this he had quarreled for two full years.
Such views, attained in the hour of spiritual birth, must
cleave to the soul in its after history. Mr. Kendrick had
good and substantial reasons for retaining a strong partiality
for the doctrines of grace which he delighted to advocate,
not as a polemic, but as one who had drawn consolation
from them, and knew their power in his own soul. He
would have been false to his own experience, as well as to
his views of scriptural truth, not to have given them prominence, both in his theological instruction, and in the preaching of subsequent years.  While we are free to ascribe the
whole merit of salvation to grace alone, we deepn it highly
instructive to notice often the manifestations of divine favor
in conversion, and mark their adaptedness to the varied
temperaments and complexions of human character. In a
nature prone to ecstacies and sudden transports of joy, the
remarkably clear experience which Mr. Kendrick had, might
have superinduced an overweening confidence, perilous to
the soul's welfare; but in a nature that ever leaned to caution, it wrought no disadvantage. It gave rise to no spiritual
indolence.  It fostered no extravagance.  It rather begat
humility, and constrained the new-born soul to aspire after
higher attainments in the Christian life.  There is good
reason to believe that he early obtained that precious view
of Christ as an Infinite Saviour, and that captivating view
of the gospel as worthy of all acceptation, which were dwelt
upon through life with unfailing delight, and which, particularly in his last illness, were the frequent themes of discourse.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    21
The next important event with Mr. Kendrick was the
public avowal of his faith in Jesus. The pen which has
already described his conversion, has fitly delineated this
solemn transaction:
"With the joys of discipleship, he soon began to feel the
obligation of its duties, and to think of connecting himself
with the visible Church of Christ. The subjects and the mode
of baptism naturally excited much attention and controversy
in that section, and many whose early predilections were all
on the side of Pedobaptism, yet felt themselves obliged, in
opposition to the teachings of their parents, and the current
of popular opinion, to cast in their lot with the humble and
almost despised Baptists. Mr. Kendrick's mind was not of
a nature to allow so grave a subject to pass without due
consideration. He manifested, in his mode of treating it,
the caution and conscientiousness which eminently characterized all his subsequent history. Sprinkled in infancy, and
brought up in the Pedobaptist faith, all his early associations
and attachments lay in that direction, while on the other
hand, he could not regard with indifference the people among
whom he had received his spiritual birth. Feeling the need
of aid in his inquiries, he procured from the pastors, both of
the Baptist and Congregational churches,-with the latter of
whom he was boarding, and on whose preaching he chiefly
attended,-a statement of their reasons for their respective
opinions. Still dissatisfied, he read through the New Testament, marking and carefully weighing every passage which
related to the subject of baptism. The result was, that after
an anxious and protracted inquiry of about nine months,
he came to regard his early baptism as unscriptural, and
united with the Baptist Church. He was baptized in April,
1788."
Soon after his public profession of religion, he fell into an
unhappy state of doubt bordering upon despair. It bore a
striking resemblance to that condition in which father Bennett found himself, by the occurrence of his singular dream,




22    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. n.
noted by his biographer, although it continued but a brief
time. Mr. Kendrick was overpowered with the conviction
that instead of being what he had avowed himself so recently, a follower of Christ, he was no less than a reprobate. In
his distress he bethought himself of methods of relief. He
set out to call upon his faithful pastor, and acquaint him with
the state of his mind, hoping thereby to gain some consolation. On his way, however, the following scripture arrested
his thoughts, " Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and
maketh flesh his arm." This incident induced him to postpone his visit to his spiritual adviser for a while, and when
he finally recovered his determination to seek an interview
with him, it was with the resolution that he would accept of
no comfort that came not directly from God. Accordingly
he repaired to the pastor, and when interrogated by him about
his spiritual welfare, instead of indicating that he had any
reason to hope that he was an accepted believer, he replied
that "he was a poor miserable sinner."  Thereupon the man
of God and the minister of Christ, took the Bible in silence,
and, referred the victim of despair to these words of James.
"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh
patience."  With these words came the glad hour of deliverance. Light dawned upon his mind, and the comfort which
he obtained was so obviously of God, that he went on his
way rejoicing.  This early experience of a severe conflict
with the enemy, became instructive to himself, and prepared
him to labor understandingly for the edification of others.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    23
CHAPTER  II.
Call to the ministry-Preparatory study with Rev. Mr. Burroughs of
Hanover-with Dr. Burton at Thetford-Essays —Declines a License
-Journey to Franklin.
As we enter upon a more advanced stage of Mr. Kendrick's life, the materials are still too scanty to allow an
accurately delineated picture of the man. To some, this part,
could it be fully and faithfully portrayed, would be most of
all instructive in practical lessons of duty; for it embraces
the period, in which the solution of the grave question of
entering the ministry for his proper and appropriate vocation,
was sought and determined. The minutiae which we omit
from necessity, could be detailed only by the man himself,
who was the conscious subject of the deeply wrought convictions of duty to become an ambassador for Christ. The
dearth which we deplore, pertains really to a heart history
which must be left out, save as the overt acts and avowed
decisions of the man suggest the supplement.
A momentous change had now transpired with Mr. Kendrick, both in his apparent and real relation to God and to his
fellow-man. In the judgment of charity he had passed from
death unto life, and he had publicly signified his faith in a
crucified Redeemer by union with His people. Standing now
before the world as a professed disciple of Christ, he was
solemnly and publicly pledged to do all in his power to
advance the cause of his Lord. It was but reasonable to
expect that with a mind like his, thoroughly conscientious and
full of benevolent impulses, he should inquire how and where
he should spend his life for the glory of God, and to promote
the welfare of man.  It was not the habit of the convert
hastily to set aside a claim that pressed itself upon the heart,




24    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
especially when it looked towards them inistry of reconciliation. To all precipitate action he was continually averse,
and a question of such magnitude as to place him in public
life, was not to be decided by caprice or slight reflection. Mr.
Kendrick's situation favored deliberate and careful action.
He remained for nearly four years after his public profession
of religion with his father, dividing his time between the farm
and attendance in an academic school, or discharging the congenial duties of an instructor. Thus ample opportunity was
afforded him to anticipate and make a due estimate of all the
difficulties involved in his assumption of the sacred functions
of the preacher. Strong dissuasives were offered in his meagre acquisitions, so disproportionate to the work, and not the
least, in conscious unfitness for the holy office; so that for a
time he rejected the idea of direct engagement in this service
as beyond the sphere and range of his special qualifications.
This was not productive of rest and peace of mind, for his
convictions remained awaiting a righteous decision. So long,
too, as the matter of personal duty was not definitely settled,
Mr. Kendrick did not feel like making any systematic and
direct efforts at preparation for the ministry.
At length, however, the subject assumed a solemnity and
sacredness of import almost irresistible; his mind yielded to
its claims; and thenceforth sought to meet its ideal conception, of so high and holy a work. His idea of the nature and
grandeur of the preacher's mission, forbade his entering upon
it without some degree of the requisite discipline. It was
rashness, in his view, to seek at once to instal himself in
the pastoral office. Whence should he draw resources that
should edify the church, perfect saints in holiness, and attract
and guide the wandering sinners to the cross of Calvary?
In measuring the demands of such a task, he recognized the
necessity of securing settled views of Christian doctrine, and
habits of close and consecutive thinking, united with a heart
thoroughly versed in vital godliness, and hence he responded




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    25
to the heavenly call only by seeking the best preparation
which his circumstances would permit.
Having by his own industry acquired about $300, he made
arrangements to receive instruction from private teachers.
His initiatory course was entered upon under the direction of
the Rev. Mr. Burroughs, pastor of the Congregational church
in Hanover. With him  he continued for a term of four
months, applying himself assiduously to preparatory studies.
To appreciate the steps then taken, we need to be reminded
that a course of theological training was in the early part of
the present century pursued under widely different auspices
from those which mark it at the present day. There were
at that time no theological schools within the United States
belonging to the Baptist denomination, and but two of any
kind in the country.  One of these was located at New
Brunswick, N. J., and the other at Canonsburg, Pa.  The
latter belonged to the Associate Church, the former to the
Dutch reformed. Several colleges had been established, but
Brown University was the only one under the patronage and
control of the Baptists.
Candidates for the ministry who entertained the purpose
of systematic study in divinity, found it necessary to resort
to some pastor's residence, and there receive such hints and
suggestions as the active incumbent might find time to furnish. It may be reasonably conjectured, that as the public
functionary set over a parish had his arduous duties to discharge, aside from attention to divinity students, the seasons
of intercourse between teacher and pupil were both irregular
and fragmentary, and therefore less valuable. Pastors there
were, in those days, of gigantic minds, stored with learning,
and imbued with the spirit of earnest, humble, and sincere
piety. Besides being thoroughly read in the schools, they
were trained in scholastic controversy. They were accustomed to measure lances in debate. Not a few acquired
fame in polemic discussions.  In addition to their attain



26    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
ments, which were the fruits of severe study, they had great
practical skill as preachers.
With the privilege of personal choice in the selection of
instructors, Mr. Kendrick placed himself under divines whose
views were not in strict harmony with his own. This yielded
him the advantage of calling into requisition the exercise of
his own discriminating judgment in the conclusions reached,
Besides the teacher already named, he placed himself successively under the instructions of Drs. Burton, Emmons,
Baldwin, and Stillman; all men of eminence.
Of the benefits derived from these instructors, we may determine something from the qualifications and habits of the
men, from the exigencies of the times in which they lived,
served, and ruled, and still more from the spirit, application
and ability of the pupil.
His first theological guide was the Rev. Asa Burton, of
Thetford, Vt. It was with the advice of his father, that Mr.
Kendrick sought his instructions. For a series of years
Dr. Burton was in the practice of receiving students into his
family, and conducting their studies in theology. He was
regarded as one of the most able, learned, and profound divines in the valley of the Connecticut. For more than half
a century he officiated as the pastor of the church in the
town above named, and Tracy observes, in his history of the
Great Awakening, " that to him must be ascribed, more than
to any other man, the extensive prevalence of sound religion
in that part of New England."
With this theologian Mr. Kendrick commenced his course
in divinity, July 5th, 1802, and continued under his instruction till near the close of the ensuing October. That his
time and opportunities were improved in a manner creditable
to himself, and promotive of his cherished objects, is evident
from the fruits of his investigations. In his brief pupilage
under this excellent divine, he surveyed the leading subjects
embraced in the ordinary field of theological study. These
were taken up in logical order, and the sentiments adopted,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    27
and the reasons in their support, were embodied in dissertations, lucidly expressed and carefully written. These papers
all evince thoroughness, and a mastery of the subjects under
examination, such as may well surprise us. They are, in
style, concise, and full in argument; none of them shrinking
into mere skeletons. They are liberal in length, and comprehensive, some even to prolixity, in their range of discussion. Though more than half a century has stamped its
traces upon the manuscripts, they still give occular proof that
the author of these essays elaborated them with genuine enthusiasm. He manifestly took pleasure in writing upon such
themes, and executed his labor with a zest which took from
it entirely the character of a drudgery. Hence a recurrence
to these essays, in after years, must have awakened satisfaction, since the sterling manner in which they were cast would
not demand a reconstruction. The neatly written sheets,
compact in form, and firmly stitched together, bear their years
without mutilation or decay, and may be handled almost as
well as bound volumes. They are fine models for students
now, who can command stationery far superior to that produced a half a century since.
The merits of teacher and pupil are still farther disclosed
in the questions put by the former, and the ingenuity and
skill with which they are treated by the latter. On the doctrine of church membership, and gospel order, it must be
borne in mind, they were at issue. It may have been, and
doubtless was, singularly fortunate, that he who, in subsequent years, was to act as a guide to students in divinity,
who would themselves be guides to many, should have the
privilege of sitting at the feet of no second-rate man, but a
champion of the ecclesiastical order to which he belongedthe Congregationalists of New England.
The gist of the difference in their opposing views was
elicited by the following questions:
" 1st. What warrant had Abraham to circumcise himself
and his house?




28    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
" 2d. What was the design of circumcision?
" 3d. What is meant by one thing's coming in the room
and stead of another?
"4th. Did not God command Abraham's seed to circumcise
their male children?
" 5th. Has Abraham a seed among the Gentiles, if he has,
who are they?
" 6th. Are not God's commands binding till revoked by
Himself; and is not a revelation of God's will necessary to
revoke a command?
" 7th. What is the design of baptism?
"On the supposition that Infant Baptism is not valid,
how are the following questions to be answered:
" 1st. Infants were the subjects of a religious rite under the
Old Testament. What reasons can be assigned why they
should not be the subjects of a religious rite under the New
Testament, such as baptism?
" 2d. If it was the design of God that they should not be
the subjects of the religious rite of baptism under the New,
as they were of circumcision under the Old Testament, what
reasons can be given why God has not given express information on this subject in the New Testament?
" 3d. As the Jews in the apostolic days warmly opposed
the omission of ancient rites, among which washing or baptising infants, as well as adults, with water, was one, what
reason can be given for their silence, when they saw that
this rite was omitted, by the Apostles, towards the infants
of adult parents whom they had proselyted?
" 4th. If there be no arguments sufficient to destroy the
validity of infant baptism, and no arguments sufficient to
establish its validity, in what light must we view infants,
and why should they be more neglected under the New than
under the Old Testament?
"How are we to understand 2 Cor., vii., 14,'For the
unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, &c.''And
Acts ii., 38?' "




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    29
Thus it will be seen that the main points of the Pedobaptist doctrine were set before Mr. Kendrick, and the
essays written at that time furnish convincing proof that he
did not evade the questions pressed upon him, but with his
clear and penetrating views gave an easy and scriptural
solution of thenl. Those pertaining to this subject far exceed
in length others produced at that time.
It affords us no less satisfaction to appeal to collateral
testimony, showing a coincidence of opinion as to the calling
which divine providence had marked out for Mr. Kendrick.
We refer to the convictions of Christian friends, and particularly those with whom he held his church relationship.
Personal convictions had constrained him to adopt the
measures above detailed. There was now an endorsement
of his aims and purposes by an expressed wish on the part
of the church of which he was a member that he should
accept a license to preach.  To this he could not accede. In
the language of the author quoted in the previous chapter,
" So deep was his conviction of his want of the necessary
qualifications that he declined receiving it, and at length,
regarding a body so feeble in numbers and gifts, as scarcely
competent to decide on a question of such importance, he
proposed to them to lay the subject before the Woodstock
Association, with which they were connected, and obtain the
opinion of that body.  The church, accordingly, in its next
letter to the Association, requested them to examine Mr.
Kendrick in relation to his qualifications for the ministry,
and express their opinion to the church. They, however,
regarding such a procedure as scarcely consistent with the
usages of the denomination, declined the request, but advised
the church to consult with sister churches." Here the matter
of licensure rested for the time.  Meanwhile preparatory
study was prosecuted under new auspices. To enjoy the
benefit of a change of location he sought a new position
under the supervision of Dr. Nathaniel Emmons of Franklin,
Massachusetts.
3*




30    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
With the facilities afforded by modern travel it would have
required but few hours and no fatigue to pass from Hanover,
Hew Hampshire, to the residence of the far-famed divine in
Franklin. But in the absence of these, when the traveler
must turn pedestrian, or make his solitary way on horseback, the journey of an hundred and fifty or two hundred
miles, forms an episode in life. Particularly is this so when
the tediousness of the journey can neither be relieved by the
soft breezes of summer, nor enlivened by the gay livery of
nature in her best attire, but the solitary stranger must
meet her rugged hills and leafless forests in the sullen sternness of a New England winter. Mr. Kendrick left his native
town December 16th, 1802, and arrived at his new seminary
quarters on the 25th of the same month. Thus nine days of
laborious travel for man and beast were requisite to overcome
the distance that can now be passed over in as many hours.
But in this toilsome journey-which lay south through the
valley of the Connecticut, till he reached a parallel line with
Franklin, then turned nearly due east- he was learning, by
personal observation, the character, condition, and wants of
the people as he could not otherwise have done.  There was
even here a foreshadowing of the labors of the future man.
Here was a foretaste of that intercourse which he shared in
after life in the extensive tours which his professional service
required him to make.
The day following was the Lord's day, and he had the
pleasure of hearing him preach, at whose feet he was to sit
for a season, to be conducted into the farther mysteries of
Christian doctrine.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    31
CHAPTER  III.
Notice of Dr. Emmons-His Habits-Qualifications as a Theological
Teacher - Number of Students - Plan of Instruction - Themes
examined - Authors consulted - Method of Study-CertificateRemoval to Boston-Drs. Baldwin and Stillman's Revival-Emotions on leaving Boston-Occasional Preaching.
WE can scarcely render justice to the auspicious relation
which Mr. Kendrick now enjoyed, without adverting to the
genius, habits, and acquirements of his new teacher.
Dr. Emmons was a rare man, and would have been so
regarded in any age. His peculiar and predominant love of
order demanded that every thing should be suitably arranged,
whether it pertained to articles of apparel, the furniture of
his room, or the treasures of his mind. The prattling child
that was led into his study when he began his pastorate, and
re-entered it an aged sire when he closed his labors, beheld
the desk, books, papers, hat, shovel, and tongs in the same
place. His habits of body and mind were fixed, and he gave
himself wholly to his work.  His study-chair was his royal
seat, and his parish was his kingdom. It speaks much for
the aptitude which he possessed for guiding others, when we
note that significant and pithy expression of his, indicating
the line and order of his labors in doctrinal theology. " I
have spent half my life in making joints."
Sustaining for sixty-seven years the pastoral relation, during more than fifty of which years, " he discharged personally and statedly the duties of his office," he united in himself the benefits of a large experience in pulpit and parochial
service. From first to last between eighty and ninety pupils
were under his charge, as candidates for the ministry. His
life, which closed in his ninety-sixth year, was spread over
nearly a century.




32     REV. NATIIANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Naturally discriminating to a remarkable degree, a bold,
vigorous, and independent thinker, he was well fitted to give
direction and discipline to candidates for the sacred office.
His works which have appeared since his decease, are a
monument to his industry, and to his ability as a thinker.
It is no slight evidence of superior merit, that a professor*
of large experience has said to young ministers, "By all
means read Emmons." And the same counsellor expresses
the wish that unpublished matter from the same pen may see
the light, and that in place of half a dozen volumes, we may
have half a score.
By common consent the " Exercise scheme" originated with
Dr. Emmons, to which the "Taste scheme" was opposed.
Of the latter system Dr. Burton was a sturdy advocate, and
the pupil adhered, in this important branch of theological
metaphysics, to the views of his earlier rather than of his
later teacher.
It was the privilege of Mr. Kendrick to enjoy the instructions of this eminent man after he had gained the ripe experience of thirty years in his ministry in Franklin.  At no
period in the course of his long and eventful pastorate, could
his services have been more efficient and instructive, and
although the term of pupilage under him was a brief one,
being less than three months continuously, yet followed as it
was by subsequent interviews with him, rendered easy from
the proximity of Mr. Kendrick's chosen field of labor, the
interchange could not prove otherwise than profitable.
The plan of instruction pursued in this school of the proplets wa a       fEllow 8- Dr. Emmons furnilewd lai atludmnta
with a system of theological questions, or subjects upon
which they were required to write essays, after they had consulted the best authors of opposite sentiments upon the topics
under examination. Then these productions were subjected
to criticism both in their arrangement, style of composition,
* Dr. Enoch Pond.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    33
and doctrine. HIe also frequently lectured upon the duties,
difficulties, trials, and advantages of ministers. His interviews with them often took the form of colloquy. Of the
character of these conversational lectures we may judge, for
they are minuted down in the handwriting of Mr. Kendrick,
bearing the date of their occurrence, and sufficiently copious
to give the drift of the discussions.
Dr. Emmons' eminent fitness for the service which he had
assumed, may be readily inferred from the fact that his aid
was sought by so large a number, to guide them in preparation for ministerial labor. When the first pupil had remained
with him the proposed term  of a few weeks, he had no expectation of any future application; but one after another
resorted to this spiritual Gamaliel, until, as already hinted,
nearly a hundred had shared the benefit of his able instruction. Dr. Emmons was also pre-eminent as a counsellor.
From first to last he was invited to more than one hundred
ecclesiastical councils, nearly all of which he actually attended.
At the burial of this divine, no less than fifty ministers were
present, and the concourse of people was greater than had
been known for a century, in the vicinity where his long and
useful life was spent. This becomes highly significant, when
we recall the fact that his parish was one of the rural districts
of New England, and by no means densely peopled. Having
described so fully the qualifications of the teacher, we may
indicate some of the subjects that were taken up by the pupil
then admitted to his charge, and the authors consulted in the
course of investigation. Prominent among the subjects, and
those which are noted in the diary of Mr. Kendrick, we find
the following, viz.: Freedom of the Will, the Decrees of God,
Reprobation, Election, Predestination, the Atonement, Conversion, Baptism, Efficacious Grace, Perseverance of the
Saints, the Logos, Moral Evil, and Moral Agency. The
writers whose works treating the above list of subjects were
particularly consulted, for the purpose of ascertaining their
views, and the arguments with which they defended them,




34    REV. NATHA NIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
were these: Dr. Whitby, Dr. Stephen West, Dr. John Smalley, President Edwards, Dr. Samuel Spring, Dickenson, and
Lowman, not to mention others of less note. It will be observed that these are not all accordant in their views. Both
the Calvinistic and Arminian schools are represented.
We here give a specimen of Mr. Kendrick's study as
noted in the diary which he then kept.
"January 5th. Wrote a sermon in part. In the evening
read Whitby on Conversion, Decrees, Reprobation, and
Election.
"January 8th. Read on Saints' Perseverance, Whitby; on
Agency, West; on the Duty of Concert for Prayer.
"January 14th. Reviewed Dr. Edwards on the Atonement; read a sermon to Dr. Emmons; wrote a dissertation
in part on the Atonement.
This term of study was one necessarily improved with
much industry, for the reading was followed by an analysis
or brief of the topics surveyed. MTore attention was given
to sermonizing during his residence with Dr. Emmons, then
under Dr. Burton. As many as four sermons fully written
are noted as having been read and submitted for criticism.
The following copy of a certificate found among the papers
of Mr Kendrick, will show the estimate which the teacher
placed upon his pupil, and will add its corroboration to the
substance of these pages.
" FRANKLIN, February 10th, 1803.
"This may certify all whom it may concern, that the bearer
of this, Mr. Nathaniel Kendrick, conducted with great propriety during his residence in my family. His mind is strong,
inquisitive and penetrating. He is capable of conversing
and of writing upon theological subjects, with ingenuity and
accuracy. He possesses much better pulpit talents than are
commonly found in one of his advantages; and should he be
properly recommended as a Preacher, I doubt not, but he




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    35
will not only serve the cause of religion, but do honor to the
Christian and ministerial character.
"NATHANIEL EMMONS."
Our narrative now brings us to another change in the
faculty of instruction, and also in the seat of operations for
the completion of a self-imposed curriculum. After the lapse
of about seven weeks in which Mr. Kendrick makes a journey
to Hanover, we find him in the City of Boston, and a member
of the family of Dr. Thomas Baldwin. Hitherto, his lot had
been cast with Congregationalists, from whose instructions, to
say the least, he was likely to learn the points of difference
existing between them and his own ecclesiastical order, and
to see those points from a vantage ground.  It now remains
to take a supplementary view. How fortunate the position
now afforded in the providence of God, may be seen from the
character of the man with whom he took up his sojourn, and
the intercourse enjoyed with other ministers in Boston, and
in towns adjacent.
The pastor of the Second Baptist Church was a model
minister. Nature had endowed him with liberal gifts, and
grace was not bestowed in vain. None could better appreciate the aspirations of a youthful candidate for the
ministry, whose course of study had been pursued with difficulties which personal energy alone could overcome, than Dr.
Baldwin. Trained himself in the severe school of self-denial,
and uncommon hardships, he entered into close sympathy
with those who were perseveringly prosecuting theological
studies. At no time could it have been more fortunate for
Mr. Kendrick to receive the hand of such a pattern and
guide as was Dr. Baldwin, than in the year 1803. For
about twenty years he had labored successfully in the
pastoral office, seven of those years he had encountered the
hardships of missionary life in the sparse and newly settled
regions of New Hampshire, and thirteen not less laborious in
the city of Boston. He was now in the zenith of his popu



36    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
larity and usefulness. It was not as a pastor and preacher
alone, that his excellencies were noted. He had experience
in the defense of our distinguishing views as a denomination,
and by the voice of his brethren, was the same year called to
the additional labors of Editorship of the American Baptist
Magazine, for many years the only religious journal of the
Baptists in America. Besides his varied and wide experience,
he was a man of rare goodness, and one whom the poor and
neglected claimed as their friend and favorite. " Under his
fostering hand, many of the Churches in the vicinity of
Boston arose, and by his parental care were they sustained.
And it is no small praise, both to his piety and to his ability,
that they drank so universally into his spirit. He had the
faculty, the true evidence of greatness, of forming other men
into his own likeness. And hence, it is, that his character
has left so broad an impression upon all that part of New
England. He set before his brethren an example of simple
unaffected piety. He was a man of peace, and hushed all
their contentions, until in his vicinity contention was wholly
forgotten. "
Dr. Samuel Stillman was at this time the honored pastor
of the First Baptist Church of Boston. With him Mr.
Kendrick was permitted to associate quite frequently, deriving the benefit of his criticisms upon discourses written and
submitted to his inspection. It was at this stage in his
course also, that Mr. Kendrick began to occupy pulpits in
the vicinity of Boston; and as he was also invited to preach
both in Dr. Baldwin's and Dr. Stillman's pulpit, he had the
advantage of their suggestions in the delivery of sermons.
The occasion of preaching before the latter is particularly
noted as a season of unusual embarrassment, and the hints
given at that time were never forgotten. It should be borne
in mind that Dr. Stillman had then occupied his post in the
city for nearly forty years, with great acceptance. He had
come down from the stirring scenes of'76, and brought
with him the sterling piety of a trial age. " As an eloquent




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.    37
preacher he held the first rank. He possessed a pleasant
and commanding voice; and he was enabled to transfuse
his own feelings into the hearts of his auditors. Such was
his urbanity of manners, and his kind, catholic spirit, that
he was comparatively alike popular with all denominations.
His uncommon vivacity and energy of feeling were united
with a perfect sense of propriety, and with affability, ease
and politeness. These qualities gave him deservedly great
influence in Boston."
In addition to the privilege of being under the tuition of
such men as we have now sketched, it was no slight benefit
to attend upon their ministrations on the Lord's Day, and
their weekly lectures, which were so arranged that he could
hear both-Dr. Stillman's coming on Wednesday, and Dr.
Baldwin's on Thursday evening.  This city was then a focal
point for ministerial talent, not in our own denomination
alone, but in the "Standing Order." Mien of eminence were
there often heard, and occasions of great interest transpired
in the year 1803. It was in June of this year that William
E. Channing was ordained, and the staunch opponent of
infidelity, Dr. Tappan, then Professor of Divinity at Cambridge, delivered the sermon on the occasion. In August
following, this noted defender of the gospel went to his
reward, and the funeral solemnities, witnessed by Mr. Kendrick, were of a deeply impressive character.
The crowning privilege of his term of study in the city
of Boston, was to be under the instruction of the Holy
Spirit during a remarkable work of grace which began in the
spring of 1803, and continued for the period of two and a
half years. This season of special effusion of the Divine
Spirit was characterized by greater power than any enjoyed
since the memorable awakening of 1740. It was not the
word only, presented by the ministers, that appealed to men,
but "almost every thing seemed to preach." The tongue of
the profane was sobered; the Sabbath-breaker was reclaimed;
and the gambler recovered from the fascination of his peril4




38    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
ous ventures. Extracts might be given here from the private letters of Dr. Baldwin to Mr. Kendrick, after he left
the city, showing the remarkable character of this work.
"The attention to religion here is truly wonderful," he
writes again and again. When the interest was at its height,
meetings were held every night, and Dr. Baldwin's house of
worship was crowded, sometimes filling the aisles up to the
pulpit stairs, and hundreds leaving without the possibility of
gaining admission to the sanctuary.  Some were arrested
with convicting power, or brought into the liberty of Christ,
almost every meeting.  " 0 my brother," writes Dr. B., "it
is a harvest time indeed. The attention is greater than I
ever saw here before. People flock from all parts of the
town to see and hear."
This interest commenced simultaneously in both the Baptist churches, resulting in an accession of one hundred and
thirty-five to the First Baptist Church, and two hundred and
twelve to the Second, making an aggregate of three hundred
and forty-seven. Nor was the work confined to these; it
extended to the churches in other communions. It is confidently believed that a happy change in the religious views
of a large portion of professing Christians in Boston, owes
its origin to this revival. The tide of LUnitarianism was
gradually coming into orthodox churches; this work created
a repelling current, and gave it a salutary check.
While Mr. Kendrick continued in his studies in Boston,
using his time with much economy and industry, he was in
constant attendance in these revival meetings, discoursing
personally with many under conviction for sin, and rendering
himself a welcome and useful laborer. Thus early in his
ministerial training was he mastering lessons in the school
of Christ, which are not placed before every theological pupil
now admitted to the best furnished schools of the prophets.
Having given an outline of the opportunities set before
the candidate, at this eventful period, we may introduce him




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    39
to the reader in his own language, when he is about to sever
the ties that bound him to teachers and Christian people.
The date is September 5th, 1803. " This day I have had
some painful feelings at the thought of leaving such an agreeable society, and so many affectionate friends, but more particularly those dear youth in the agonies of distress for their
souls. The solemn meetings which I have within a few days
attended, have excited in me various feelings. God is in this
place of a truth. O that his work may prosper, and sinners
flock to him and be saved. Great God wilt thou grant me
the quickening influences of thy Spirit. May I never spend
a day less to thy glory than this; when I leave this place may
I not leave thee; may I know what it is to have my confidence
in God. Divine Redeemer, wilt thou order my desires to
glorify thee with success."
We will not detain our readers to go over the record of
texts that were used by officiating pastors and others that
were called in to aid in this gracious work, suffice it to say
they were such scriptures as exhibited the marrow of the gospel. This was the staple food for the hungering multitudes.
This was the sole fabulum furnished in the provisions of
God's house, nor did it need the condiments of wit, or the
flourishes of rhetoric to excite a relish in those who came to
be fed with the Bread of heaven. Reluctant to depart from
the sanctuary when dismissed, they at times tarried till
ten o'clock, and, had they been encouraged by resident pastors,
would doubtless have prolonged their sessions to the midnight hour.
It is not common in the revivals that now take place, to
witness in those who in the judgment of charity are hopeful
subjects of conversion, convictions for sin so pungent, and
approaches so near the verge of despair as were frequently
observed at that time. A transcript here from Mr. Kendrick's
diary will exhibit these features.
" Sept. 3d, 1803. Attended a prayer meeting at the vestrya solemn attention-a number under weighty impressions.




40     REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Discoursed with          who were almost in despair; one
said' I could tear my flesh front my bones if that would give
me relief.' O that God would show them mercy."
" Sept. 3th. Lord's day morning, attended prayer meeting
at the vestry at 6 o'clock.  The      -    find no relief.
Others who were present were in much distress —."
It is probable that being an eye-witness, and actor in revival scenes marked by such amazing power as was this awakening, left its indelible impress upon Mr. Kendrick's mind,
and put him upon strict vigilance, to examine with a searching and distrustful eye, even every work that had not decisive
evidences of depth and lasting effect.  Contracting thus in
the incipient stages of ministerial experience, a partiality for
revivals of religion of a strong doctrinal type, he was in after
life wary of those promoted by loose theological views. His
connection with this work of grace, under the labors of men
of so much practical skill and eminent godliness, as then filled
the two Baptist Pulpits of Boston, formed one of the most
fertile chapters of his life.  The revival season itself is thus
alluded to by Dr. Baldwin in one of his letters.  "It appears
to be a fine school for a young minister."
In concluding this account of his preparatory training, we
should do injustice to the subject of these annals, did we fail
to apprize the reader, that his gifts were frequently called
into requisition during his stay in the city. At the date of
his departure Sept. 6th, he had preached in Charlestown, Newton, Woburn, Bellingham, Danverse, and Beverly, in some of
them several times, besides repeatedly supplying the pulpits
of his reverend and honored instructors.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    41
CHAPTER  IV.
Visit to Brown University-Sickness, reflections-Bellingham Baptist
Church-Mr. Kendrick as a Supply-Visit to Boston-Habits of
Preparation —Social Intercourse-Neighboring Ministers-JournalVisit to Hanover and other places-Return-Request to visit the
Baptist Church of Hoosick —Preaching in Lansingburgh, Troy, and
other towns-Call to supply at Lansingburgh-Call to settle at Bellingham. Farewell Sermon.
WE come now to the period of Mr. Kendrick's transition
from preparatory study to actual pastoral service. Hitherto
he had supplied vacant pulpits here and there, or yielded to
the solicitations of friends in presenting an occasional discourse. He was now to enter the field of continuous labor.
Known already to some extent, it was not necessary for him
to embark upon a tour of exploration to find destitute and
desirable pastorates. To watch for eligible posts, seemed not
to come within the scope of his plan. His personal preferences were held in abeyance, and his responses were made to
the manifest calls of Divine Providence.
Desirous of witnessing the anniversary exercises of Commencement at Brown University, he availed himself of the
opportunity then afforded him of paying a visit to that venerable seat of learning. In this brief journey to Providence he
enjoyed the company of a few friends, sufficient to beguile the
weariness of the way, we may be certain, since Dr. Baldwin
was one of the number. By no means the least of prized
entertainments then, was the generous Christian hospitality
which was shown on these annual festivals.  Whether it were
due to the welcome escort, or some other source, it was the
fortune of Mr. Kendrick to share the kind hospitality of Dr.
Gano, then pastor of the First Baptist Church in Providence,
whose favorite mottos were, "house room for many," and,
"heart room for multitudes. " His hospitality was appreciated,
4*




42    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
and proved in fact very timely. Scarcely had the public exercises concluded, when Mr. Kendrick, was seized with a
severe and threatening illness, which continued for several
days. The disease assumed a dysenteric form, yielding, however, to vigorous treatment, so that, in the lapse of ten days, he
was able to resume his labor. In this sudden prostration he
appreciated the attention of friends in a city of strangers, and
the affliction was evidently sanctified, as will appear from the
following record, made after his recovery, dated Bellingham,
September 19th, 1803: "0 God, Thou hast called me to
experience new dispensations of providence for two weeks
past. Thou hast threatened me with a mortal stroke, but hast
suspended it. 0, may this not leave me now hardened in sin.
Glorious God, hast thou not some good to answer by administering this affliction? May it quicken me nowto the discharge
of my duty.  May I live, redeeming the time. May I daily
inquire, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Impart to me
new grace every day. Let me not spend one idle day in the
succeeding part of my life, nor a day in which I shall not know
more of Thee at the close of it, than at the beginning. 0,
may I feel my constant dependence upon thine all-conquering
grace. Dear Lord Jesus, subject my obdurate heart to thyself; help me to fulfill thy blessed will. May I throw away
all of my own righteousness, that I may be clothed with
thy spotless righteousness.  Divine Redeemer  wilt thou
kindle a flame of sacred love in my cold heart. 0, do I not
feel some breathings after thee at this time? Lord suffer me
not to languish. May my pride be humbled, and my soul be
kept at the foot of the cross. May I enjoy the enlightening
and teaching influences of the Spirit, that I may understand
the Bible. May I ever open that sacred volume, praying for
that temper of heart which will relish its divine truths, and
give me desires to search for its marrow and fatness. 0, Lord,
succeed a right desire if I have one in my heart."
We should not expect that one actuated by the spirit and
temper here exhibited, would be long in fruitless search of a




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    43
place, nor so particular about the terms of settlement, as to
prevent a prompt engagement. As soon as his strength warranted a return to the pulpit, we find Mr. Kendrick with the
people at Bellingham, Mass. His acquaintance here had
begun by his supplying them three successive Lord's Days in
the June preceding. The circumstances of his position may
be better understood by a brief allusion to the early history
of this body.
The church in Bellingham was constituted in the year 1137,
consisting of fifteen male members. It claims to be the
daughter of the First Baptist Church of Swansea, a town
within the old Plymouth colony. The present church is the
oldest Baptist church in the Bay State, and next to the oldest
in the United States-the First Baptist Church in Providence,
R. I., being the oldest,-having originated in 1663, under the
Rev. John Miles, from Wales, and from a town bearing the
name of Swansea. At the time of the constitution of the
Bellingham church, there were but three churches within the
limits of what is now known as Massachusetts, to wit, the
First Church in Boston, the First in Swansea, above noticed,
and one in SouthBrimfield. We learn from Benedict's History,
" That Bellingham was, for many years, the favorite resort of
the few Baptist ministers in the country." Here the Warren
Association often held its sessions, which was the first Baptist association formed in New England, consisting at first of
only four churches, of which the Bellingham Church was one.
In later times, this church became the foster mother of the two
eminent ministers, John and Aaron Leland. Unfortunately
it became involved in difficulties concerning a successor of the
Rev. Noah Alden, and for many years lost its visibility. It
was during a part of this period of trial that Mr. Kendrick
ministered to the people of Bellingham. From a historical
discourse by Dr. Fisher, who was for many years pastor of
this church, we have the following paragraph touching the subject of this memoir:
"After the erection of the present house, several ministers




44    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D D.
preached in town for short terms; but Mr. Nathaniel Kendrick was the first who continued for any considerable length
of time. He resided and preached here about two years.
And here permit me to express my respect and affection for
Mr. Kendrick, not only as one of my predecessors, but as my
former instructor, and as my continued and esteemed friend.
The recollection of such an instructor and friend, excites at
once the tear of regret, and the smile of pleasure and joy."
The statement of time, given above, is not exact. It was
about a year and a half from his first supply at this place, to
the close of his labors; and this short period of labor was
farther diminished by three intervals of absence, one of three
weeks, and two of about seven weeks each.
After preaching six weeks from the period of his recovery,
Mr. Kendrick returned to Boston, where for three weeks he
was permitted to witness a display of convicting and converting grace. It was a season rich in the outpouring of the
Holy Spirit. Many were anxiously inquiring the way of
salvation, and it was no common privilege to direct them to
Christ, as well as to listen to the testimony of those who had
recently been brought to the saving knowledge of the truth.
Mr. Kendrick had now numerous acquaintances in the city,
and the prevailing religious interest lent to his intercourse
with them a charm which rendered it unspeakably precious.
The value which he attached to these opportunities is evinced
by almost daily entries in his journal, of which the following
are brief specimens:
" O, that God would enable me to be in some little degree
faithful in His cause."
" Nov. 19th. I have this day had some satisfaction in
discoursing and contemplating upon religion."
After having received some gifts of friends, he says: " O
that God would give me grace to improve to his glory all the
blessings which He and his dear people confer upon me."
From this season of reunions and renewed fellowship with
brethren, Mr. Kendrick returned to resume his labors at




REV. NAT  ANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.    45
Bellingham. He continued here for twelve weeks, receiving
the moderate compensation of four dollars for each Lord's
Day. He was then invited to supply the desk for six months,
at the rate of five dollars per Lord's Day. Although the
amount seems but a mere pittance, compared with what most
now receive, it was no doubt fair for the general standard of
ministerial support, and no hint is indicated but that it was
all that could be reasonably expected.
It will not be unprofitable to indicate the manner in which,
in this early period of his ministerial labors, he employed his
time. A prominent share was devoted to study. His most
immediate attention was given to the planning and composition of sermons. To this work he gave a portion of each
day, from near the commencement to the close of the week,
allowance being of course made for the numerous inevitable
hindrances incident to the pastoral relation. His strength,
however, was not all spent in this direction. He had a strong
taste for doctrinal investigations, and diversified his labor by
consulting the ablest works in biblical and metaphysical
theology, and in history, both sacred and profane. On contested questions it was not his habit to restrict his reading to
a single side. It was rather his uniform method to select
those works, on both sides, which took decisive, and even
extreme views. Thus he possessed himself of the best modes,
alike of defense and refutation, his own leanings being decidedly Calvinistic, and strongly marked.
His intercourse with his people was familiar and frequent;
scarcely a day passed in which he was not either called upon
by some of his own parishioners, or by friends from abroad;
and besides, he often met one or more families socially. Nor
were these interviews barren of good, or frittered away in
idle conversation.  His journal here and there bears witness
to the themes that came up for familiar discussion, and the
course of thought which the occasion originated.
Mr. Kendrick was accustomed to converse with the impen



46    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
itent, and to record the varying phases of individual experience in regard to the interests of religion. Although it was
not a season of unusual attention to religion while he labored
in Bellingham, yet cases of awakening were of occasional
occurrence. And not a Lord's Day service passed, not a conference meeting was held, of which he does not specify the
attendance, and the spirit and tone of the exercises, and the
time-honored practice of referring to a goodly season in
preaching as one of " enjoying liberty," is not omitted.
The congregations were usually large and attentive, and
the evidence was clear and gratifying that his labors were
received with acceptance and favor.
During Mr. Kendrick's labors in this place he had also
good opportunities for intercourse with brethren in the
ministry. He was not remote from the residence of some of
his esteemed teachers, and besides the pleasure of paying
them visits at their own homes, he had the satisfaction of
receiving a visit from Dr. Emmons and Dr. Baldwin. He
appears to have been on terms of intimacy with Dr. Gano,
with whom he also exchanged pulpits, and we cannot say but
a link in the chain of providences was then forged, the golden
lustre of which was not to be displayed till near a quarter of
a century later, when the veteran pastor, still at his post, full
of years and full of honors, meets him who was once the
candidate at Bellingham, in the Empire State, set apart with
others to conduct the school of the prophets. The allusion
here will have a full development in a future chapter.
We have now indicated the style of service to which Mr.
Kendrick gave himself in this part of the Lord's vineyard,
except that for a while he guided a few pupils in their studies,
a work which, at that day, was necessarily devolved, far amore
than at the present era of academic institutions, upon pastors
of churches. The following selection from the pious breathings contained in his private journal will show what at this
time was his interior and spiritual life: "0 thou gracious
God have. mercy, have mercy upon thy sinful creature. Wilt




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    47
thou work a reformation in him by thine all-conquering
Spirit. Does any sin lie on his conscience unrepented of?
Lord thou knowest. If there be, wilt thou show it to him,
and grant him sincere repentance. May I not live at such a
dying rate.  Gracious Lord! Wilt thou revive in me a
spirit of secret devotion! O that I may not be so far from
worshiping thee in spirit. When will thy presence return?
Most merciful God forsake not the work of thy hands. I
acknowledge I have sinned against thee, and deserve thine
everlasting displeasure; but O God let thy mercy appear
for the sake of thy dear Son, who died to save even the
chief of sinners. How can I live without thy presence?
Wilt thou humble my hard and proud heart? Wilt thou
crown these desires with success?"
On the 15th of February, 1804, Mr. Kendrick made a tour
to his native State, spending one Lord's Day in Boston, on
his way homeward, and two on his return, besides one in
Charlestown.  He spent one also in Hanover, his native
place, one in Haverhill, and one in Thetford with Dr. Burton,
his former instructor. In all these places he preached upon
the Lord's Day, and during the week yielded to the solicitation of friends to hold forth publicly the word of life. Thus
his season of visitation with relatives and friends was one
that abounded in labors. Knowing that he was set for the
defense and propagation of the gospel, they did not suffer him
to lack opportunities for the discharge of this service.
When Mr. Kendrick left Bellingham, on his visit to New
Hampshire, his mind was undecided as to his future place of
labor. The following letter, written from Hanover on the
21st day of February, will explain both the causes of his
journey and the result to which he arrived:" GENTLEMEN,
"Com. of Supplies for Bellingham.
"I have made your request a subject of attention, and
have endeavored to study my duty in relation to it. I wish




48    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
I could, with propriety, delay my answer until I could visit
several vacancies in these parts. I learn that the Lord is
beginning to revive his work in a town where I have been
several times solicited to supply them, and that they are yet
without stated supplies, and have been waiting for my
return.
" I have not made them a visit, nor do they know of my
arrival, the town being about sixty miles distant.
" The call for gospel laborers in these parts is as great as
I expected to find, but I acknowledge, sirs, that the state of
things at Bellingham almost brought me to a conclusion of
mind to return, before I left Boston. Although there are
several weighty motives to induce me to tarry in these
regions, yet having taken all things into view, I possess a
measure of conviction that it is the will of the Great Head of
the Church that I should return to you and labor in that part
of his vineyard.
" Thus, gentlemen, I now conclude to comply with your
request, and by divine permission will begin the proposed
term of six months, the second Lord's Day of April, unless I
give you previous information of deferring it till the fourth.
" That our farther acquaintance may be accompanied with
many spiritual blessings, is the prayer of your indebted servant.
"NATH. KENDRICK.
"Conm. of Supplies, Bellingham."
On the 8th of April he resumed his labors in Bellingham
and continued them until the tenth of September following.
In the meantime the Baptist church in Hoosick, Rensselaer
county, New York, a small and feeble body, made application
through the Rev. Clark Kendrick, of Poultney, Vermont, to
have Mr. Kendrick visit them, with a view of settlement.
The communication sent by the committee in the month of
March, failed to reach its destination until the seventh of
June, and no step was taken by way of making the acquaint



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   49
ance of this church until nearly three months later. The
urgent appeal may, or may not have been the chief inducement to undertake the journey over the Green Mountains.
At all events the tour was made, and the following towns
were visited, to-wit: Hanover, Norwich, Poultney, Rutland,
Hoosick, or Mapletown, Lansingburgh, and Troy. In all
the above towns he preached, and in all save one spent a
Lord's Day. In Hoosick he spent two weeks. He formed
several agreeable and profitable acquaintances, and his intercourse with the Lansingburgh church resulted in a request
to come and preach with them for six months. He acceded
to the request, and agreed to be with them in seven or eight
weeks from that date, November 4th, 1804.
Upon Mr. Kendrick's return to Bellingham, he was urged
to remain until April following, the society offering as an
inducement an increase of salary. This was soon followed
by a unanimous call to become their pastor. The document
containing this request shows an appreciation of his labors,
and that the society meditated no annual engagements which
might be suddenly terminated. It is as follows:
"The Society met, agreeably to warrant from the committee, and after choosing a moderator, they proceeded to
business as follows, viz.:
" 1. A motion was made that the society's committee
apply to Mr. Kendrick, and request him to settle with us so
long as he shall be useful to us, and we agreeable to him,
and that the yeas and nays be taken on the motion; in
which result there were yeas thirty-four, that being the
number present.
" 2. Voted to give him a salary of two hundred and sixty
dollars for the first year."
From private correspondence he was subsequently assured
that there were none who dissented from the wish that he
would return. The matter was to be held under advisement
for several weeks, and in the meantime he was solicited by
the church and society to make no engagement until his
5




50    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
term at Lansingburgh had closed. His reply to the call so
urgent was, however, averse to the wishes of the church and
society. His labors terminated with this people on the ninth
of December. The occasion was improved from the words
chosen by Paul when about to part with the Elders of Ephesus, contained in Acts 20: 32. It was befitting him who
had taken so deep an interest in this people, to adopt the
above passage as a farewell sentiment, and they in turn
evinced their respect and attachment by a full house, and
solemn attention to his parting words.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    51
CHAPTER V.
Removal to Lansingburgh-The Church-Its prospects-Shaftsbury
Association-Its Anniversaries-Christian Hospitality-Call for Settlement- Ordination — School Teaching-First Baptism-Pastoral
Work-Ministerial Intercourse-Quarterly Conferences-Missionary
Spirit-Missionary Bodies-Their Fields.
THE preceding chapter closed with Mr. Kendrick's consent
to supply the church in Lansingburgh for a term of six
months. He commenced his labors at this place on the 30th
of December.
In some respects we cannot speak in flattering terms of
the change that was now made. It was not auspicious, so
far as either numerical or pecuniary strength in the church
and society was concerned. The church was organized that
same year, consisting of thirty members, and had united
with the Shaftsbury Association, at its recent session in
June. Like many other churches at that time, it was struggling to maintain its visibility against many obstacles, not
the least of which was poverty. At the first covenant meeting which Mr. Kendrick attended, fourteen members were
present. In a company so small, and feeble in resources, it
was a befitting period to apply the prophet's query, "By
whom shall Jacob arise? for he is small."
There was, however, a more favorable side of the picture.
Of recent origin, the church had not to mourn over habits of
disunion, and unbrotherly traits of character, which too often
mar the beauty of churches venerable for age. If it was an
infant body, in its weakness it was united, and herein possessed the germ  of strength.  The town itself gave fair
promise of a growth, from which the church might anticipate
a corresponding expansion Its site was on the eastern bank
of the Hudson, three miles above Troy and nine above




52    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D, D.
Albany. With a navigable stream touching the tide waters,
its commercial facilities would lend it an importance beyond
that of inland towns. Nor were these the only desirable
aspects of the field. The church had united itself to an
Association of great usefulness and respectability; one that
had nearly completed its history of twenty-five years' successful operation, and at that time enrolled a list of fortyeight churches, with an aggregate membership of over four
thousand four hundred.  In this body there were many
ministers of whom it may be said, their " praise is in the
Gospel throughout all the churches." We have only to mention a few: —Caleb Blood, Lemuel Covell, Obed. Warren,
Elias Lee, Edward Barber, Samuel Rogers, Abijah Peck,
Isaiah Mattison, Joseph Craw, Justus Hull, John Leland,
and Isaac Webb. These names will suggest to many, who
have long "borne the burden and heat of the day," others
no less precious, whose "witness is in heaven," and whose
"record is on high."  The'names of thirty-six ministers
were reported as then in connection and fellowship with
the body.
Many associations are now determined by the boundaries
of a single county, and hence take their distinctive name.
The one before us stretched its generous arms over seventeen
counties;and these were not shut in by any particular State
lines. The field was mostly within the Empire State, but included portions of Massachusetts and Vermont, and embraced
also five churches which had been gathered in the missionary
regions of Upper Canada. The anniversaries of an association whose churches were extended over so wide a territory,
very naturally became seasoned by deep and thrilling interest.
In the absence of iron ways, and steam driven chariots, laymen and ministers made their journeys in private conveyances,
scores of miles, consuming many days in travel, to attend
these spiritual festivals in Zion. Along the thoroughfares
converging to the focal point chosen for the anniversary, were
Baptist homes of large hospitality, eager for the season to




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    53
come round, when they could welcome the messengers of the
Churches to their habitations, both going and returning.
These Christian salutations on the journey, were such as
Paul and his compeers enjoyed in their travels, and formed
no unimportant link between the ministers and churches.
There were appointments on the road to be met, and hearts
surcharged with Christian love were telegraphic batteries to
send out, and communicate the good news of a prosperous
and rejoicing Israel to the more distant tribes.  Connection
with such a body whose pulsations of life were throbbing to
its distant extremities, was indeed a privilege of no slight
moment. If here and there a church was not specially affected by the union, its pastor was admitted to an intercourse
and fellowship which might tell in various ways upon the interest of Zion in after yeais. It is in this light we may view
the relationship of Mr. Kendrick to the Shaftsbury Association.
It was then, as we have intimated, with a church few in
numbers, and small in pecuniary strength, yet favorably allied
in its affinities to sister churches, and to a pious, faithful and
self-denying ministry, in adjacent regions, that a brief engagement of six months was first made. When this term had
expired he was called to assume the pastoral charge permanently. The following communications speak for themselves,
showing the state of the church and the cordiality and concurrence of the society, in the action of the infant body.
" After finding ourselves in the enjoyment of peace, harmony and fellowship, and some comfortable communications
from the Spirit of divine consolation, and being impressed
with the solemn importance of having the ordinances of
Christ's House statedly and duly administered amongst us,
and as the time for which you were engaged to minister unto
us has almost expired, it was therefore unanimously the voice
of the church, viz.:
"That as God in his kind providence has been pleased to
5*




54    REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
bring you to dwell amongst us for a season, and since we have
reason to think that your ministrations and labors have been
greatly blessed to our use, edification, and also to the cause
of Christ in this place, it was therefore resolved that we invite you to continue amongst us a gospel minister as long as
God in his providence may make us mutually beneficial. Moreover, the church have to request that you receive ordination
as soon as a kind providence may permit.
" Wishing you divine assistance and consolation, in behalf of
the church,
"M. WILLARD, Clerk."
The following, of June 17th, 1805, is from the society:
" As God in the course of his providence has brought Mr.
Nathaniel Kendrick to dwell with us for some months past,
and as we are of the opinion that his labors and ministrations
have been greatly blessed among us, it is our unanimous wish
to concur with the church in requesting him to continue with
us as long as God in his providence may make him useful
amongst us, and also that he may be ordained as soon as convenient. "
This call he accepted, and in compliance with the wishes of
his people, was ordained on the 15th of August ensuing, by
a counsel duly convened for the purpose.
Nearly coincident with his settlement as pastor, he entered
upon the laborous task of teaching a select school, in connection with his ministerial duties. For more than half the
period of his six years pastorate in this town, he found it
necessary to prosecute this work, to make up the deficiency
of a salary quite inadequate to his wants. It demanded a
rigid economy of his time to discharge the pulpit and parochial duties, along with those of his school. Few are able
for any considerable period to meet the two-fold labors of
minister and teacher, without serious inroads upon their
strength, or but superficial attention to the obligations of
tasks so onerous. That he was competent to endure so much,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    55
was owing to a most admirable physical constitution attempered in the bracing atmosphere of the Granite Hills, and to
a mind which corresponded to his physical frame, in its perfect symmetry and balance, and in its capacity of patient toil.
It was not Mr. Kendrick's privilege to receive large accestions to the church at any time during his ministry in
Lansingburgh. The highest number of candidates received
by baptism in any one year, was nine. About one year from
his ordination he welcomed the first candidate to this precious
ordinance of the New Testament.  On that day he makes
this entry in his Journal: "0 that God may be praised for
his goodness."
In the following month he visited the baptismal waters
again, and on that day he received into the fellowship of the
Church, one with whom he was almost half a century
associated in the benevolent enterprises of the day. We
refer to the late Friend Humphrey, of Albany, then a youth
of about nineteen years of age.
We can scarcely attempt to conduct the reader into the
details of his pastoral work, while in this place. It was not
marked by unusual events. We might, indeed, give place to
here and there a scene of mental agony upon a sick and
dying couch, or some striking providence which passed under
Mr. Kendrick's notice; but these are only a specimen of what
transpire in almost every parish, and hence need not encumber these pages. We should fail to come up to the level
of the hour, if we restricted our survey to the small village
which is the seat of his ministrations on the Lord's Day.
There was much fraternal and social intercourse in the
Baptist ministry at that period, which looked directly to the
affectiveness of evangelical preaching. Doctrines were discussed with a relish which those of later birth, and more
recent consecration to the sacred office, possess not, or if they
do, infrequently indulge. This springs, in part, doubtless,
from the fact that the theological discussions, which are now
so advantageously and intensly prosecuted during a course of




56    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
preparatory study, were then spread over the whole surface
of ministerial life. To our fathers with their limited early
advantages and comparative isolation, these occasional discussions were a necessity. They came to them as a rich
privilege and luxury, and we, from our more favored position,
although we see in them sometimes the infirmities of human
nature, can as a whole, look back to them only with the most
profound respect.
A development of this taste and habit, is furnished in those
Quarterly Conferences which were maintained for awhile, in
which sermons were preached, essays were read, oral criticisms were made, and individual views and judgments compared. In these gatherings, the subject of our memoir bore
a prominent part.  His pen drafted the questions for discussion, and gave a summary of the conflicting, or accordant
views. Nor was his pen remiss in duty when it devolved
upon him to produce a more elaborate dissertation.
Of great practical moment was the missionary spirit that
took its rise in the Shaftsbury Association with the dawn of
the present century. The genuine missionary spirit is indeed
coeval with the birth of Christianity, and coextensive with
its reign.  Still the type of the church's piety is unquestionably liable to be influenced by the general characteristics
of the age, and it is a happy feature of our modern society, that
it developes on so large a scale, the practical energies of the
churches. The period in which this particular body put
itself into an aggressive attitude, was the epoch of its
increasing usefulness. The attention of pastors and people
was doubtless called to this work by seeing the inadequacy
of individual exertions without concerted action, to meet the
wants of destitute districts both near and remote. Prior
to the year 1800, the eccentric Leland had performed itinerant
labor in the states of Virginia, Pennsylvania and South
Carolina, and in the year 1800, he made a tour occupying
four months' time, in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island
and Massachusetts, and in the same year, his labors were




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    57
abundantly blessed in the town of Cheshire, in which he
resided. We find in the minutes of the following year, that
" Elders Samuel Rogers and Joseph Craw, were commended
to the favorable regard of all good people, wherever they
might be disposed to travel, to bear the glad tidings of the
kingdom of God as ministers in good report at home." But
now the minds of brethren began to look for united effort, in
supplying destitution abroad. It was proposed to form a
plan, to sustain such ministers as might enter upon itinerant
labors for a portion of the year, just so long as they might be
released from their pastorates.
The suggestion originated with the Rev. Lemuel Corell,
then of Pittstown, N. Y.
The missionary field contemplated was the " Far West,"
the limits of which were quite as indefinite then, as now,
although the phrase has since advanced a long journey towards the setting sun. Then it comprised Western New
York, Upper Canada, and Ohio.  These embraced the
extreme limits, and the people to be reached were the pioneer
settlers upon the frontiers, and aborgines of the wilderness.
The proposition to contribute for the above-named purpose,
was submitted in the year 1801. As the fruit of this measure,
twenty dollars were forwarded at the next anniversary, and
Rev. Caleb Blood performed a tour, lying chiefly between
Cayuga Lake and the head of Lake Ontario, consuming ten
weeks in the service. This became the signal for enlarged
operations. In the ensuing year Brethren Corell and Warren embarked in this itinerant work, and pushed their journey
as far as Buffalo, and into Canada as far as Long Point, occupying about four months. It is difficult to conceive the contrast between the aspect then exhibited by this vast field,
and its present condition. Cities are now teeming with a
numerous population, and the surrounding districts are rich
in agricultural thrift and beauty, where then the little village
had but just chosen its site, and formed its little cluster of
houses, while stately forests begirt the infant settlement. On




58    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
the journal of the missionary, Buffalo is noted down as " a
small village, at the mouth of a creek of that name, just at
the foot of Lake Erie, having no stated meeting for religious
worship, nor any religious society formed." Five or six miles
up the creek was an Indian village, where the council of different tribes was held for ten days together, to determine
whether missionary work should be encouraged amongst
them or not, the famous sachem of the Seneca Nation, RedJacket, favoring the measure, and his counsel at length prevailing.
In the year 1802 a Board of Missions was constituted, which,
with but little change of plan, continued for nearly a score
and a half of years, to be the fiscal agent of the Shaftsbury
Association.
It is interesting to observe, as showing how a common
spirit of missionary action was taking possession of the
churches, that in the State of Maine, in the year 1799, a plan
of operation was originated called the " Gospel Mission," the
object of which was to raise money to sustain missionary
efforts among the new settlements.  This was done in the
Bowdoinham Association; the oldest in the State.  In the
same year the Massachusetts Baptist Society was formed.
In the year 1807 the Lake Baptist Missionary Society was
organized in Pompey, Onondaga County, New York, whose
name indicated that the lake country was to be the field of its
operations.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    59
CHAPTER VI.
Early attempts for a Convention of Associations-Foreign MissionsForeign Missions unite brethren widely separated by DistanceHome Missions- Mr. Kendrick a Missionary-Tours — Labors —
Incident- Providential Preservation-Call to a New SettlementCall to visit Churches-Views of Support to Missions-MarriageFamily-Close of labors in Lansingburg-Farewell Sermon.
IN the missionary bodies noticed in the preceding chapter,
we have the germs of our national organizations of later
date. A further coincidence may here be noticed, showing
that the minds of brethren widely separated by distance, were
meditating co-operation and union in their work. In the
year 1800 the Philadelphia Association suggested the propriety of holding a convention of associations, to be annual,
biennial, or triennial, and the different associations in the
United States were requested to express their opinions in
reference to it. The question was formally submitted to the
several churches in the Shaftsbury Association, and although
the measure was not entertained as then feasible, yet we have
in these movements a foreshadowing of those combinations
for evangelical effort, which took effect a few years later.  It
was reserved for the call of Divine Providence from the
shores of Burmah, to convince brethren in every quarter of
the necessity of immediate organization and united action.
With this missionary work in which the association engaged, Mr. Kendrick sympathized, and was ready to go in
person to the destitute.  In the year 1808 he made a missionary tour into Western New York and Upper Canada.
He was accompanied by the Rev. Clark Kendrick in this
itinerant work.  In prosecuting the object of their mission,
they took different routes in portions of their journey, and
while on the field, that they might extend their labors as far




60    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
as possible, and prove mutual helpers in counsel to each other,
and to give the feeble churches the benefit of their united
wisdom. Their main route lay through the Mohawk Valley,
and the great central line of travel through the Empire State.
Entering upon apostolic work, they preached as they went,
until they reached their designated field, which extended
along the northern shore of Lake Ontario. They set out in
this missionary trip on the 17th of August, and reached Lansingburgh on the 9th of November. Mr. Kendrick enters this
summary of his labors in his journal:
" I was absent from home eighty-five days, and rode twelve
hundred and eighty miles, preached sixty-two sermons, attended and heard eleven sermons preached by other ministers.
Preached five funeral discourses, attended two church meetings, twice administered the Lord's supper, baptized two
persons, attended several conferences, and met with two associations."
We notice, also, from his journal, that on his way to the
province, he spent one Lord's Day in Salisbury, one at Hartford, and one at Lewiston, and on his return he spent one in
Canandaigua and one in Vernon.
On his return he had the company of Father Holmes,
the missionary at Tuscarora Village, as far as Canandaigua.
One incident deserves a place here, showing the providential
protection that was over them. On the 26th of October,
soon after entering a piece of woods of thirteen miles in extent, on the Indian Reservation, a terrific wind swept through
the forest, more fearful than was ever known before in that
section of country. It commenced about eleven o'clock, and
continued for four hours, subjecting them to the greatest
peril. In the words of Mr. Kendrick, "We had not proceeded far before the trees fell on every side. We found no
place for shelter, but traveled on. Our protection was too
evidently from the hand of Providence to pass unnoticed.
Our path was much obstructed before we got through the
woods, by a great number of trees prostrated across it. The




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    61
whole forest was in awful commotion for the space of four
hours, but we escaped unhurt."
On the next day, Mr. Kendrick was detained on his way
to conduct the funeral services of one, who, while using all
possible precaution to save himself from the ravages of the
wind, was instantly killed by the falling of a limb from a
tree in the open field, only a short distance from his own
dwelling. " That he should be taken, and I spared to preach
his funeral sermon," says he, "was an affecting consideration. "
The condition of this field of labor, which he then visited,
may be seen from a few remarks, and also the preservation
that he enjoyed under more or less exposure:
"My health during the most of the time that I was absent, was very good, although I traveled, on the first part of
my mission, more than two hundred miles through a country
where the people were very sickly. I was not prevented
from supplying every appointment which I made. Several
appointments failed on the part of the people. I visited no
place where there appeared much of the work of conviction
and conversion, but in general I met with a very serious attention to preaching.  The people in the province of Upper
Canada entertain a very grateful sense of the favors of the
Shaftsbury Association, in every place where they have sent
their Missionaries. There is an extensive part of the harvest-field which is extremely destitute of gospel laborers. I
can hardly imagine a place where evangelical preachers are
more wanted. None but those who can and will preach the
discriminating doctrines of grace, will be suitable persons to
send.
"It is important that we send no missionaries into that
province but such as have prudence enough to say nothing
against their government."
The second missionary tour was made in 1809; leaving
home on August 15th, and returning on the 10th of November, consequently embracing twelve weeks.
6




62    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Both journeys were undertaken and prosecuted with zeal
and energy, and the exposures and discomforts were numerous, as the only possible mode of travel was on horseback,
and the return was made at rather an inclement season. The
result of these itinerant labors were auspicious and gratifying
in the encouragement and edification of the churches. The
pecuniary recompense was at the moderate rate of twenty
dollars per month; but the soul reward could not be measured.
In April, 1809, Mr. Kendrick was earnestly solicited to
settle with the Baptist church in Clinton, Upper Canada, the
brethren urging upon him the claims of that and sister
churches in the province. This was gratifying evidence that
his labors in that region, although brief, were highly appreciated. In the fall of 1809, and in the spring of 1810, he
was warmly solicited to visit the villages of Utica and
Whitesboro, where he had made some acquaintance in passing through on his missionary tours-but these invitations
he declined. The views which Mr. Kendrick then entertained of missionary work, are well set forth in an address
published in the Minutes of the Association in the year 1810,
from which we make an extract:
" BELOVED BRETHREN: We have taken under consideration
the general interests of Zion, as far as we have had an opportunity to extend our inquiries. The subject of Missions
to the destitute parts of our country, and even to regions
beyond, we deem of sufficient importance to merit a more
general attention than you have heretofore given it.
"You are anticipating the period when the gospel shall be
preached among all nations, and Christ shall have " the
heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the
earth for his possession." You know that " faith cometh by
hearing, and hearing by the word of God." "And how shall
they hear without a preacher; and how shall they preach
except they be sent?" There are extensive parts of the
harvest which have hitherto been unnoticed by the laborers




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    63
of the vineyard. Who can tell why the events of Providence
were so arranged, as to convey the gospel to us, in distinction from any of the darkest regions of the world? Have
we received the gospel, as the miser does gold, that we may
treasure it up in some secret deposit, where it will be useless
to ourselves and others? Surely not. Were we to inherit
it, in this way, it would eat as doth a canker, and eventually
prove a savor of death unto death.
"A few churches and individuals in this Association, have
for several years past made worthy exertions to send missionaries into destitute places; while others have withheld
even the smallest encouragement. We cannot think those
who duly appreciate the benefits of the gospel, can for a moment dispute the duty and necessity of those exertions.
They have hitherto been attended with the blessings of
Heaven, and the hearts of many in the wilderness have been
made glad. This is a cause worthy of the patronage of
every Christian. Were all the members of the Association
to pay only six cents annually, it would amount to more than
has been raised in any one year since the commencement of
the Institution. Were each to pay but one cent a month, it
would produce the annual sum of $398 52. Were we to go
as far as the females in Boston, Providence, and Salem, who
are constituted into mite societies, and tax themselves with a
cent a week, we should annually raise $1,726 92. Is it necessary to take the most parsimonious measures, to wring from
the hands of Christians a few cents of their abundance, to
support that cause which they deem of infinite importance?
What shall we think of that conscience, which can give dol.
lars for ornaments to appear in the fashions of the world,
and scrupulously withhold even cents in the cause of God?
We are persuaded, Brethren, that many of you have inconsiderately overlooked your duty respecting this important
subject. A word to the wise is sufficient. We hope, at our
next annual meeting, no church will fail of their liberality,
and that our Missionary Society will meet with a more gen



64    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
eral patronage. May we be helpers together of each other's
joy, and be cordially united in the most effectual means for
extending the triumphs of the cross. May we not shrink
at the burden and heat of the day, but be found faithful unto
death. Brethren, the time is short, when this world will be
no more with us. May we at last, through grace, exchange
it for those mansions in our Father's house which are reserved for the everlasting habitations of the saints."
While acting as the pastor of the Church in Lansingburgh
an event transpired of great moment to himself, and the cause
of Christ. We refer to his marriage, which took place in
December 11th, 1808. The lady with whom this useful and
happy union was formed was Miss Eliza Choate, of Lansingburgh. We may gain some proper understanding of his
motives in this change of his relations, by a few paragraphs
from his pen, which reveal a heart studying ever devout and
reverent submission to the divine will:
" I know not what arrangements to make to be the most
free of embarrassments, that I may give myself the more
fully to the work I have undertaken. I have been for some
time in a state of suspense, respecting my duty in a matter
which must materially affect me through life. I know not
what I ought to do. I have too much neglected asking direction of God. O thou merciful Jehovah, suffer me not to act
blindly and without thine approbation and direction.  O
that thou wouldst grant me wisdom from above to guide
me in the way of understanding. Be pleased to grant thy
Spirit to lead my mind to a decision which will be favorable
to my duty and usefulness. Enable me to withstand every
sinful and selfish consideration; and be contented with the
allotments of thy holy providence.
"O permit me not to go astray in the following things:" 1st. Respecting my duty about the important change in
my affairs, which has been an object of serious meditation
with me of late.
"O that I may be led duly to consider and sufficiently




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    65
weigh the circumstances which belong to the subject. Shall
I be more or less encumbeied-will these encumbrances
materially embarrass me in my calling-will there be sufficient advantages to counterbalance all disadvantages?
"My wisdom and discernment are totally incompetent to
determine these questions. These things must be determined by an over-ruling Providence; and to this Providence
let me appeal for this direction.
" 0 thou gracious God, for the sake of thy precious cause
in the world-for the sake of thy dear Son-and for the sake
of thine own glory-wisely interpose, and determine things
as thou shalt please, and ever grant me a willing submission
to thy holy and sovereign dictates.
"2d. Respecting the means by which such a change may,
with propriety, be accomplished.
"Let thy wisdom and power ordain and establish the
means. It belongs to thee to appoint means as well as
ends. Those of thine appointment will best suit the end
for which they are designed. 0 God let thy providence
determine. Thou hast hitherto had the disposal, for which
thou art worthy of my unfeigned thanks. Furnish me with
that wisdom and prudence which will enable me to conduct
the matter with uprightness, and leave no injurious impressions on my mind."
Again, upon the same subject, we find the following:"0 that God would grant me the unfeigned spirit of
thankfulness, for his over-ruling providence, and for the
establishment of mind which I have been enabled to obtain
through thy mercy. 0 thou gracious God, let no earthly
object possess that place in my heart which belongs alone to
thee, but enable me to esteem thee above all; and then
my affection to another will be such as will neither be offensive to thee, nor dangerous to happiness. May I ever be
satisfied with the allotments of thy providence.  Grant
gracious God the constant influence of thy spirit to keep my
heart and mind in thy love.
6*




66    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
" May the object of my highest affection in the world be a
friend to thee. May our hearts be sanctified to thy service,
and may we live as heirs of the grace of life. O let thy
mercies follow us like a mighty stream through time, and
may grace convey us to an everlasting rest in thy kingdom."
A union entered upon with such care and circumspection,
was productive of domestic happiness, and the source of
increased usefulness. The fruit of this marriage was three
children, two daughters and one son. The eldest child,
Eliza, became the wife of Zenas Morse, for many years the
very successful principal of Hamilton Academy, and for a
while also Professor of Languages in Brockport Collegiate
Institute. She died at the age of twenty-six years. The
second child died in infancy. Of the son, Silas N. Kendrick
we need only here say that his memoir accompanies the
father's in this volume.
Among the inducements which Mr. Kendrick had for
seeking a new field of labor, were the want of support in an
entire devotement of his energies to the ministry, and a field
too limited for his ability. The matter is fully expressed in
a letter of correspondence between him and the churches of
Utica and Whitesborough.
" My brethren here, are full in the sentiment'that those
who preach the gospel should live of the gospel,' and their
disposition to do is beyond their abilities; but their number
is small, and my principal support comes from four or five.
I have done much towards supporting myself by a school,
but this embarrassment has been submitted to with a degree
of reluctance. I am not bound to the people here, but by
affection, a bond which has by no means become impaired.
I am at liberty to make you a visit agreeably to request."
The above was written November 23d, 1809. He then
meditated a visit to the above named churches, but subsequently his plans were changed, and his removal was to an
eastern field, in the State of Vermont. This removal took
place in October of the following year. The farewell dis



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    67
course delivered on the 14th of October, from which we give
an extract, was full of counsel and good will. It was founded
upon these words, "Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect,
be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the
God of love and peace shall be with you."
"I have endeavored, my brethren, to lay before you the
apostolic direction which marks the Christian's way to Heaven.
The period has now arrived, according to the evident dictates
of Providence, for me to relinquish my charge over you. I
have told you the ground on which I wish to leave you, and
the way in which I can bid you farewell.
"You know my manner of life ever since I have been with
you; you find many things to forgive; I have been with you
in weakness and fear; I have tried to set before you the gospel
of the grace of God, and distinguish between true and false
religion: I have tried to feed the sheep and lambs of Christ
with the provision of His house; how far I have come short
of my duty, and the errors I have committed, the heavens will
by and by make known. I can assure you a retrospect of the
past affords me but very little pleasure. The barrenness which
has accompanied my own soul, and the barrenness which has
accompanied my labors among you, has been, and still is to
me a source of pain. I have no remaining hope of acceptance
with God, but in his sovereign, electing grace. You will never
forget to remember me in your prayers. I leave you, my
brethren, in an evil world; your way is dangerous; in the
path you have nothing to fear, but on both sides are bottomless pits.
" At this period of the world, there is much false religion.
May your deeds be wrought in God, and your faith and hope
be the fruits of his Spirit. You stand before the world as a
church of Christ. The public worship of God is an indispensable duty in which His declarative glory, and your own
happiness, are both concerned.
"Keep your doors shut against ministers irregular in practice, and unsound in doctrine. Do not encourage speakers with




68    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
ill acquired recommendations, or without any. Forsake not
the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some
is. Maintain the discipline of the house of God, suffer not
sin upon a brother. Be much in prayer. Be watchful, be vigilant, be faithful unto death, and the Lord will give you a crown
of life. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to
the word of His grace. Finally, brethren, farewell I Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace, and
the God of peace shall be with you. Amen and amen.
" A word to the congregation. It is in my heart to bid you
farewell, but I cannot say it will be well with you if you love
not our Lord Jesus Christ. The scripture says, let such be accursed. I have been pointing out the only way in which souls
can have any hope of future felicity.
"All your kindnesses to me are most gratefully acknowledged, and I commend you to the Christian's God. May
you be found among the chosen of God, when he shall make
up his jewels. Finally, my friends, farewell I"




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    69
CHAPTER VII.
Removal to Middlebury-Prespects of the Field —Middlebury CollegeNumerous and Varied Labors-Extension of his Field-Monkton
Embraced-Epidemic-Duties thereby Multiplied-Deaths in Middlebury-Deaths in his own Family.
WE follow now the labors of Mr. Kendrick in his second
pastorate. His attention was first called to the Baptist interest in Middlebury, Vt., by the Rev. Sylvanus Haynes, in the
summer of 1810. It so happened, in the providence of God,
that Mr. Haynes spent one Lord's Day with the newly constituted church in Middlebury. As the church had no house
of worship, the Court House was used as a temporary sanctuary, a practice common in the shire towns, with interests
too feeble to be otherwise provided. In this hall of human
justice, Mr. Haynes gave forth the messages of divine mercy,
in three regular services upon that day.  Such was the character of the assemblies, in point of number, respectability,
and attention to the word, that he was favorably impressed
with the fair prospects of the church. The anxiety and determination evinced on the part of the people, to have a minister
of the Baptist order, and the spirit and zeal apparent in their
plans to support him, whom they hoped to obtain to go in and
out before them, left no doubt in Mr. Haynes's mind, that at
no distant day, with suitable labor, a church of strength and
commanding influence might be gathered.
The people, deeply solicitous to procure the right man, lost
no time in seeking a person to serve them. In reply to their
urgent inquiries for an eligible candidate, Mr. Haynes directed
their attention to Mr. Kendrick, of Lansinburgh. The suggestion of his name, and the persuasion that he possessed the
qualifications requisite to cultivate the field, and conduct the




70    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
interest with success, prompted them without delay to open
a correspondence with him.
The official steps were taken on the part of the church, to
obtain, if possible, a visit from Mr. Kendrick, embracing a
period of two or three months, or such length of time as he
might deem proper for a mutual acquaintance. In this proposal of a visit, the church engaged to render satisfactory
compensation for his services.
This invitation for a visit came to hand on the ninth of
July, with the request that the messenger sent, should bring
back an immediate answer. Compliance with this, imposed
upon Mr. Kendrick the necessity of acting without the advice and expressed wishes of his brethren towards whom he
uniformly showed a deference, even when after mature con~victions he was compelled to differ from them. Although free
to enter upon any engagements that should hold out the
promise of increased usefulness, yet his committal to pay
them a visit, is penned in the following guarded language,
addressed to the Clerk of the Church.
"DEAR SIR:
" Yours of the 9th inst. was handed me this morning, and an
answer requested this afternoon; of course I have not time
to lay the matter before my brethren for their approbation.
Although I am not holden to them by any stipulation, yet I
think it my duty to consult their judgment if not their feelings
in the case. I presume they would have no objections to my
being absent from them two or three weeks, in which time I
might make you a visit, and longer than that I cannot consistently leave home.
" You request the visit to be soon, if convenient. I know
not but I can come shortly, as well as a few weeks hence.
I think it most likely I can come next week and spend two
or three Sabbaths with you. If not next week, I will endeavor,
by the leave of Providence, to be there the week after. If




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    71
this calculation should be interrupted by any intervening
providence, I will give you the earliest information by mail.
"Yours, respectfully, in the best of bonds,
" CAPT. ROGERS.          NATHANIEL KENDRICK
" LANSINGBURGH, July 11th, 1810. "
The proposed visit was soon made, and an opportunity
furnished for a mutual acquaintance of minister and people.
The result of this brief intercourse, was a call from the
Middlebury Church to become its Pastor at a salary of three
hundred dollars per year, including subscriptions, house-rent
and fire-wood; the expenses of removal to be borne by the
church. The communication containing the proposals for
settlement bears date September 20th, 1810. The reply to
that letter is as follows:
" LANSINBURGH, October 8th, 1810.
" DEAR SIR:
" Your letter in behalf of the Baptist Church in Middlebury,
dated September 20th, was duly received. That I might
not give them a premature answer, I have been daily deliberating with prayerful attention upon the subject ever
since their first intimations. It has been with no small difficulty, that my mind has become sufficiently settled on the
subject, to give you anything like a decided answer.
" I find I had not fully anticipated that degree of reluctance,
with which my brethren here submit to your proposition.
"In view of all circumstances, however, I am inclined to
think the more evident dictates of Providence are in favor of
my complying with your request. Under this conviction, I
make you my answer in the affirmative, and if God will, shall
endeavor to come and serve you the proposed term of one
year, on the conditions stipulated in your letter.
" You have, dear brethren, had a short opportunity to
know that I am but a poor earthen vessel; a further acquaintance will inform you that I am of myself an empty




72    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
vessel and easily broken. But, such as I am, I hope, while
with you, to be your servant for Jesus' sake.
" In the hope and fellowship of the Gospel,
" I subscribe myself your unworthy brother,
" NATHANIEL KENDRICK.
"To the Baptist Church, Middlebury."
The field of labor in the new pastorate held out considerable promise of success. The church though small, for
it was only organized in the winter preceding Mr. Kendrick's
settlement in Middlebury, had received several accessions
and could rejoice in the union and spiritual life of its
members.  One very encouraging feature was, that the
audiences were both large and attentive. This awakened
the reasonable hope of increase to the church, and of extensive
usefulness to the community. Middlebury was the shire
town of Addison County, and the seat of Middlebury College,
which was founded in 1800, and although not embracing a
very large number of students, was yet doing an important
work in the cause of education. This was to Mr. Kendrick's
mind no indifferent feature in the parish; for although lie
had not been favored with a collegiate course of study himself, still his tastes and aspirations were in that direction.
Intercourse with the students, some of whom were members
of Baptist Churches, and candidates for the ministry, served
to foster in him habits that were highly serviceable to him in
after life. The presence of the college gave of course to the
church, and to his relation to it as pastor, an importance beyond that which attached itself to a church remote from a
high seminary of learning. We cannot regard it as a casual
thing, that Mr. Kendrick occupied a post in close proximity
to this seat of education for about seven years, witnessing its
Commencements, and in various ways receiving the legitimate
benefits of such an institution. The belief in providence will
recognize in this residence a special means by which God




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    73
was fitting him for his own subsequent agency in the important work of ministerial education. Nor was he without
direct spiritual contact with the members of the college.
His journal records the fact of his visiting several young
gentlemen in the college who were under awakening, with
the approval, if not the presence of one of the faculty of
instruction. A revival was, indeed, manifestly in progress,
and the journal breathes forth the petition that alike there,
and in the vicinity, God would carry on his work and build
up his kingdom.
The relations of a pastor were at that time, and in that
town, quite numerous and his duties much diversified. During a portion of the time in this pastorate, the last war was
in progress, and a number of soldiers were stationed at Middlebury. Mr. Kendrick visited them at their barracks, and
held service with them. Wherever his gifts were sought in
the line of his vocation, he was equally ready to exercise
them for others' good, whether it were among the well known
people of his care, or among strangers; the students in the
college, or the common soldiery, or the members of the learned
professions, on the bench or at the bar; among all alike he
was ready to bestow his labors as a minister of the cross.
In some respects the custom of that day differed from that which
is now we believe generally prevalent. It was then deemed
appropriate to open the Sessions of Courts by a recognition
of the Judge of all the earth, in the solemn exercise of
prayer. This service was conducted by clergymen. Thus
in an official manner all classes were reached, some individuals
of which might not be found in the sanctuary to observe its
stated services. This passing allusion, will help us to form a
just idea of the manifold labors of a New England clergyman,
forty or fifty years ago. In this manifold variety of labor Mr.
Kendrick had his full share.
After one or two years labor in Middlebury, the pastor of
a single church becomes the pastor of two. In the town of
Monkton, situated about sixteen miles North of Middlebury,
7




74    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
a small church makes application for stated preaching one
half the time. During two years, therefore, Mr. Kendrick
divided his pulpit labors between these two places. It is not
in our power to state with definiteness the measure of success
enjoyed in this outpost.  In the second year, however, a
house of worship was dedicated, an event thus referred to
in his journal:  "May God follow with his blessing the
opportunity, and render the place glorious by his Spirit
and grace."
Two fields of labor, separated by a distance of sixteen miles,
may be easily conceived to have imposed upon him very
arduous labors. But besides this he was burdened with still
other engagements. His limited salary compelled him in the
autumn of 1812 to open a school which soon contained not
fewer than fifty pupils. His time was thus so completely engrossed as scarcely to allow any opportunity for relaxation.
At the expiration of two years, the church in Middlebury
called him to serve them the whole time. This brought him
again to the limits of a single parish.
Without attempting to delineate the labors of each year,
we shall notice barely the prominent events that transpired
in connection with this pastorate.
The year 1813 may be selected as abounding in severe
labors. It will be recollected by many who read these pages,
as a year of desolation and unwonted sorrow, on account of
a widely prevalent mortality. A fatal epidemic raged extensively in Vermont, New Hampshire, Northern New York,
and in some parts of Massachusetts, spreading alarm far and
near, and hastening many to an unexpected grave. The
number of deaths in the town of Middlebury alone was not
less than seventy, embracing for the most part heads of families. In some instances husband and wife were laid at once
in a common grave. In others the disease, in its terrible malignity, swept away five from a single family. Several corpses
would be awaiting burial in a single township at the same
time.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    75
From the New England Journal of Medicine and Surgery,
we gather the following facts pertaining to this dreadful disease:
" This complaint made its first appearance in the autumn
of 1812, among the soldiers at Greenbush, its ravages were
afterwards remarkable in the army of the United States in
various places; at Plattsburgh, Burlington, Sackett's Harbor,
Boston, and Charleston. Its severity in the army was attributable to the sudden change of the mode of living of the
newly enlisted soldiers, to intemperance, and exposure to the
weather. During the winter, it appeared among the citizens
of Vermont, and the Northern part of New York, and at the
close of winter, in some of the interior towns of Massachusetts, and sporadically in various parts of the United States.
Its fatality among the soldiers, and in a few places among the
citizens, was considerable."
The cause which disposed to this disease was supposed to
exist in the atmosphere. The exciting causes were, exposure to cold, and moisture, and fatigue, especially after excesses and debauchery of any kind.
There were appearances in the disease which served to
identify it with what was called the "spotted fever" or technically the "petecchial fever" which prevailed in 1810. The
apparent differences arose from the head having been most
affected in the epidemic of 1810, and the lungs in that of
1813. The latter disease was called by a medical committee appointed to report upon it in a given district in New York State,
viz.: Saratoga, " The Bilious Pneumonia," and in the city of
Albany, the typhoid tendency of the fever induced a respectable physician to call the epidemic the " Peripneumonia Typhoides. "
The epidemic was not contagious we understand.
The mournful condition into which families, and whole districts were suddenly thrown, imposed heavy duties upon the
ministry. Mr. Kendrick, from the fact of having occupied
more than his one pulpit in Middlebury, was often called into




76    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
adjoining townships, and his list of funerals was very
large.
During the autumn of the same year, he was called to meet
affliction in a form before untried. A little daughter, the
second by birth, upon whom two summers had shed their
smiling beauty, was removed from the family circle by death.
This first summons to the silent yard of graves to drop the
tear of bereaved affection, was followed by a second in the
ensuing spring, to inter a female friend and member of his
family, who died of consumption. Prior to these visitations
of death in his own family, the circle of relatives near and
remote, had been frequently invaded, and the excellent and
godly father of Mr. Kendrick, writes him upon the receipt of
the intelligence of the first affliction, expressing the hope that
these strokes of divine providence may be sanctified to their
spiritual good.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    77
CHAPTER VIII.
Death of Mrs. Kendrick-Extract from his Journal-Letters of Condolence-Specimen of a Week's Labor-Visit of Luther Rice-Cooperation of Mr. Kendrick-War-Its Effects upon our Northern
Frontiers-Naval Battle on Lake Champlain-Striking Contrast.
WE are not allowed to pass over a wide interval before we
have to record another bereavement. It is a heavier stroke.
A child was first summoned, but in about two years the
mother of the child and the wife of his bosom was removed
from her earthly toils. Called often to comfort others in
their sorrow, his heart would even melt with tender sympathy; but then only could he thoroughly master, under the
teachings of a bitter experience, the lesson which is taught
to a bereaved husband. The precious companion's life, and
her faithful and valued labors of six years, served now to
make Mr. Kendrick's loss the more severe; and the vacancy
in his home and his heart was all the greater, as he looked
~upon two motherless children. This decease was not sudden.
There were premonitions of its approach. In the long and
painful illness of this Christian woman, she gave evidence of
her patient submission to the will of her Heavenly Father,
and of her meetness for the mansions above. Her release
from a body of death occurred October 11th, 1815. Just at
a period when it might be said that her usefulness had fairly
begun, her life closed.  In her twenty-seventh year, she
rested from her labors.
The following entries in his journal, will exhibit the emotions of the bereaved husband:
"Wednesday, 11th. The ushering in of this day is marked
with the most trying dispensation of providence that I have
ever experienced. My dear companion was called of God
out of time at a quarter past four, which summons she
7*




78    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
obeyed with apparent willingness. She is gone I alas! She
will never return I And can I ask for her back? O no.
God's will is done. I am alone with two motherless children, but God is able to provide. O thou Divine Spirit, be
entreated to write the law of submission upon my heart.
O grant thy supporting presence; and by this wise and holy
chastisement, wean thy sinful creature more from this world.
O do thou prepare him more for thy service. May he not
be left to dishonor the profession he has made; but may he
glorify God in this affliction.  O give him the spirit of
prayer; may he have the Spirit in the closet, in his family,
and in the church of God. May the word of God be made
a blessing to him. May he be enabled to train up his little
ones for thee. One thou hast taken, and may the others
be trained up and consecrated to thee.  Will God take
possession of their hearts by his grace, and according to the
multitude of his mercies, show them mercy. Will God be
pleased to supply them in his own way with mercies adequate to their bereavement, in the loss of a dear and affectionate mother. May it please thee, O God, to sanctify this
stroke to us all."
"Thursday, 12th. This day the remains of my dead companion are with me. I think God has not wholly withdrawn
his presence and his mercies from me. O for a heart to improve this bereaving stroke of his providence to his glory.
Be pleased, thou Father of Mercies, to support thine unworthy and sinful creature, and give him a heart to praise
thee. Enable him to say,'all is well.' Thanks to God
that he has so ordered it in his providence, that I should
have two of my brothers (Adin and Eleazer having arrived
this day) to visit and mourn with me on this occasion."
"Friday, 13th. This day I commit the remains of my
dear companion to the tomb.
"Elder Green preached on the occasion in the Congregational meeting house from Matthew 24: 44-a good sermon.
"O God, thou knowest how far my heart has been sub



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    79
missive to thee under this holy chastisement. 0 grant me
the spirit of thankfulness for that composure of mind which
thou hast afforded me to-day, and may I not say, some
reconciliation of heart.  O permit me to cast myself into the
arms of thy grace and love, with my dear little ones, and
may the Holy Spirit be permitted to extend his comfort to
my aching heart. Remember the aged and afflicted mother
of the deceased; grant her thy supporting presence. Sanctify the dealings of thy hand to us all."
In this hour of desolating bereavement, however, Christian
sympathy was not wanting; and so far as this element could
assuage the sorrow of the husband's heart, it was most
generously tendered. As a slight tribute of respect for the
deceased, and a token of sympathy for their afflicted pastor,
the female friends of the Baptist Church and Society of
Middlebury caused a monument to be reared, with this simple inscription:
"0  reign forever, mighty King,
Born to redeem and strong to save,
Death! cruel monster! where's thy sting?
And where's thy victory, boasting grave?"
Among the list of Mr. Kendrick's letters, we find one or
two which merit a place here, to show the extent and degree
of that sympathy which was tendered him in this affliction:
"BOSTON, November 14th, 1815.
"REV. AND DEAR SIR:
"Your very interesting and affecting epistle of the 18th
ult., by Mr., was handed me on his way to Roxbury.
I desire to sympathize with you in your present affliction.
I am not altogether a stranger to your feelings, having been
called to pass through the same trying scene. But under all
our trials we rest assured, that our Heavenly Father does
not grieve willingly, nor afflict the children of men without a
need be. We are too prone to fix our attachments to earthly
objects, without duly considering that they are all uncertain;




80    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
yet this evidently is the tenure by which we hold all earthly
joys. As one considerable stream of earthly comfort is dried
up, I hope you may be led nearer to the fountain. I trust
you can say with the Psalmist,' God is the strength of my
heart, and my portion forever.'  He is indeed an ever
present portion, an all-sufficient portion, and an eternal
portion.  Can we then be destitute while enjoying this?
Surely we cannot.
" I hope, dear sir, your affliction may be sanctified to you.
The comfort afforded you in the last hours of your dear
companion, must greatly mitigate your grief. When our
friends die in the Lord, we cannot consider them lost, but
only gone before, and it will be but a little time before we
shall follow them.
" I hope, my brother, that those sweet consolations which
you have been enabled to impart to others, may be richly
poured into your own soul.
" I subscribe myself your affectionate friend and brother,
" THOS. BALDWIN.
"REV. MR. KENDRICK."
A few weeks later than the date of the above letter, Mr.
Kendrick received a note of condolence from Ira Chase, then
a student at Andover Seminary, and known during many
subsequent years as Professor Chase of Newton Theological
Seminary.
"What shall I say? Dear sir, the intelligence has reached
me that Mrs. Kendrick is no more. Shall I attempt to console you? I need not do it. All the sources of consolation
which I could mention have long since been familiar to your
mind. But permit me to say that I sympathize with you in the
afflictions through which you have been called to pass. You
are not forgotten in my most serious hours. Often have I
thought of you with the tenderest emotions; and never may
I cease to pray for your welfare. 0 for that faith which sus



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    81
tains and soothes the soul amidst the severest trials, and
enables the afflicted to look with rapture beyond this vale of
tears to that blessed world where God shall wipe away all
tears from their eyes I"
But if the year 1813 was signalized by severe and painful
toils devolved upon him by the ravages of death around him,
and its invasion of his own family circle, the year which followed was one of toil scarcely less arduous. With a school
upon his hands, and with numerous calls into surrounding
towns to bury the dead, and administer the ordinances of
Christ's house, he must have failed in strength but for his
remarkably robust constitution, and his resolute spirit. We
select a single week as a specimen. We have the customary
services upon the Lord's Day; a funeral discourse upon
Wednesday; on Thursday a lecture in New Haven, and on
Friday a discourse and the ordinance of baptism administered
to five candidates in Cornwall, where we learn that a revival
was in progress. Had the above services been required in
one place, and from a man freed from the burden of a school,
or had the occurrence been a rare one, we might not count it
worthy of special notice; but the weeks were often interrupted in a similar manner. His long acquaintance in the
region, and its destitution of Baptist ministers, subjected him
to many calls which in better supplied communities would
have been shared with others. But these manifold and heavy
drafts on his time and strength, Mr. Kendrick ever met with
the utmost cheerfulness and the strictest punctuality. The
ministry had never been contemplated by him as a sinecure.
He had consecrated himself to a life of toil; and Providence
which blessed him with the will to act, endowed him also
with a power of endurance corresponding to the exigences
of his position.
This year did not pass away without a cheering event.
" God, who comforteth those that are cast down," comforted
the brethren in Middlebury by the coming of Luther Rice,




82    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
recently returned from Burmah. The mission of Mr. Rice
among the American churches, constituted an epoch in the
history of the Baptist denomination. His visits were everywhere received with enthusiasm, and were productive of great
good. Wherever he went, he kindled a missionary spirit, and
his peculiar position invested him with an influence which no
other man could command, save his worthy compeer, Judson.
Mr. Rice had made many sacrifices of feeling to become a Baptist. This step had been taken in the face of powerful denominational influences, and proved the occasion for severe strictures from brethren, whom in charity we believe to have been
sincerely devoted to the interests of Christ's kingdom, both at
home and abroad. The presence of one who, for truth's sake,
had sundered the ties of religious brotherhood, and had, in
his zeal for the propagation of the gospel, actually penetrated
the realms of heathenism, was calculated to create a lively
and lasting interest in the cause of foreign missions.
In this tour of visitation to the churches, Mr. Rice's object
was to influence and encourage them to adopt the plan and
policy inaugurated in the Triennial Convention that had been
formed at Philadelphia on the 18th of May of that year. In
the formation of that missionary body, delegates from eleven
states had cordially united, and now its accredited agent, in
the person of Mr. Rice, was urging its claims upon the charities of the denomination, for promoting the cause of Christianity in Burmah. Following out the direction of the Board,
that he should spend the year in the northern and middle
states, Mr. Rice came in course to Middlebury. His visit
was made in August, during the anniversary exercises of the
college. He spent about ten days in the town, preaching six
times, and on one occasion in the College Hall. His immediate method of operation was to form state missionary societies, auxiliary to the Baptist Board of Foreign Missions,
and then in towns and in associations, societies auxiliary to
the state organization.
Into these views and plans Mr. Kendrick entered with




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    83
heartiness, and though severely ill during a part of the time
that Mr. Rice remained in the town, still he did all in his
power to make way for the favorable reception both of him
and the cause which he represented. Subsequently he became Corresponding Secretary of the Vermont Missionary
Society, auxiliary to the parent body, and Mr. Rice urged
upon him the task of collecting the statistics of the churches
and associations in his connection, and suggested the desirableness of obtaining the same throughout the state.
This early acquaintance with Mr. Rice, who, more than
any other man, was instrumental in forming the Triennial
Convention, prepared the way for Mr. Kendrick's co-operation in the foreign mission work, and led him, perhaps, to
an intelligent estimate of the unspeakable importance of that
institution, to which, in after years, he was so deeply
devoted. Being also a cotemporary with the men who were
leading spirits in the work of missions, both home and
foreign, he had the advantage of a personal knowledge of
the incipient steps of the whole enterprize. We have shown
in one of the foregoing chapters that he was thoroughly
identified with home missions, for he gave himself to go in
person into the new settlements of western New York and
Upper Canada, to preach Christ to the pioneers of the wilderness. Further on in our narrative we hope to point out the
part which he performed in developing another agency, which
lies at the basis of all our systems of benevolent labor, and
has trained multitudes of consecrated spirits for high usefulness, alike in our own land and on heathen shores.
Yet another cause rendered this year a memorable one to
the people in that section of the country in which Mr.
Kendrick was laboring; this was the varying fortunes of the
war which then raged along the northern frontiers. The
struggle which began in 1812 had not yet terminated, though
in the early part of this year's campaign there was a lull to
the war. A proposition made by the British Government to
negotiate a peace at London, or Gottenburgh, had been




84    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
accepted, and distinguished statesmen were on their way to
effect so desirable an object. But in the meantime the fortunes of England underwent a change. Napoleon Bonaparte,
the great military chieftain, who had been turning the plains
of Europe into fields of carnage, had been checked in his
victories, and was forced to abdicate his throne and retire to
the island of Elba. Great Britian, now at peace with all the
world, except the United States, could direct against her
single foe her immense force, which was before divided
between France, her near antagonist, and the more distant
enemy across the water. Soon, from the ports of conquered
France, veteran and victorious armies were wafted across the
Atlantic, some destined to the South and some to the North.
In the early part of September the northern section of New
York was invaded by an army of fourteen thousand men.
Plattsburgh, located near the shore of Lake Champlain, was
the coveted prize; or rather it was the object of this large
force to capture the American fleet anchored there. This
movement of the enemy threw the country into great excitement and just alarm, particularly Vermont and northern New
York. As intelligence of this movement was rapidly disseminated, large numbers of our militia were rallying at the
seat of war to repel the anticipated assault.
This state of agitation and fear was any thing but propitious to the cause of religion. It turned the thoughts of the
people from the salvation of their souls to the safety of their
persons and possesssions. Their homes were threatened
with invasion, and there was little time to give to serious
reflection. This feeling reached its culmination when the
celebrated naval engagement took place upon Lake Champlain, in which the American forces achieved a great victory,
and which also closed the campaign on the northern frontier.
It shows how disastrous warlike operations are to religion,
that in this instance the naval action occurred upon the Lord's
Day, thus trampling in the dust this strong bulwark of Christianity. But this very fact brings the different classes of forces




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    85
which are acting upon the world's destiny into immediate and
interesting contrast.
While upon the western shore of the lake the sons of
Britain and our own land stain its crystal waters with their
blood, on the other side of Champlain, and away inland a few
miles, in a pretty town of Vermont, is another and a very
different scene. One is there engaged in extending a kingdom, the victories of which are not pushed forward "with
confused noise, and garments rolled in blood," but "with the
sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." There stands
the ambassador of Christ, making known to sinful men the
terms of peace and reconciliation with God. He makes no
flourish of trumpets, no parade of arms. Enlisted under the
Prince of Peace, his mission is to preach those principles,
which in their adoption are destined to convert the " sword
into a plough-share and the spear into a pruning-hook," and
dispose nations to renounce the inhuman art of war, and
learn it no more. On that memorable day, the eleventh of
September, the text from which Mr. Kendrick preached was
this, " Repent ye, therefore, and be converted, that your sins
may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come
from the presence of the Lord."  He occupied the whole day
upon this passage. We claim not to know the effect of that
day's labors.  Of course we cannot say that its achievements
were superior to any other day's doings in the kingdom of
Christ, but we may safely say that the labors of that day, in
connection with many other similar ones, were directly instrumental in preparing Mr. Kendrick, himself, to be of essential
service to many who are now standard-bearers in Zion, and
are pushing their victories towards the final conquest of the
world.
How striking the contrast which inevitably forces itself
upon the mind, as we turn from the record of the acts of the
unpretending pastor, to the record of victories which wreath
an army with laurels! Of the two contemporary classes of
events, the quiet preaching of the cross in a New England
8




86    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
parish attracts but slight notice, while the naval triumph fills
a conspicuous page in history, and in universal estimation
sheds added glory upon the nation. At a future day all this
may be reversed, and the world may be constrained to believe
that the Christian ministry, leading forward to moral conquests, is superior to the sword in the hands of a trained
soldiery.  The sacramental hosts of God's elect fulfill an
incomparably nobler function than the marshalled hosts that
wade through slaughter to victory.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    87
CHAPTER IX.
Embarrassments in the Field-Thoughts of Removal-Request to visit
Sangerfield-Correspondence-Visit to Sangerfield-Madison Association-Re-engagement at Middlebury-Numerous ApplicationsCorrespondence with the Baptist Churches in Eaton-Visit-CallClose of his Labors in Middlebury-Revival.
MR. KENDRICK continued to labor in Middlebury and vicinity, until the spring of 1817. He was subjected to the very
great embarrassment of deriving only a meagre support from
his people, and under the necessity of teaching a select school,
for about one half of the time, to make up the deficiencies of
his salary. Here was still another disadvantage which it was
desirable to remove: his labors were divided between the
church in Middlebury and feeble interests in neighboring towns,
which engrossed more or less of that precious time in passing
from one station to another, which otherwise might have been
given with more effectiveness to one field. During the year
1816, there were several indications of divine providence,
that it might be duty for him to meditate a removal to a field
that would require his undivided energies, and yield him ample
support.
Mr. Kendrick was by no means disposed to be courting
attention from vacant pastorates, and his mind turned with
great reluctance to changes save as they were warranted by
the unequivocal dictates of divine providence. About two
years after his settlement with the church in Middlebury, he
was invited to return to Lansingburgh. A few lines in the
letter, sent in reply to the call, evince the abiding love which
he cherished for the people whom he had once served as pastor,
and the conscientious disposal which he made of their request.
After stating that he had held the matter under serious advisement, he writes as follows:




88    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
" The most of the time since I saw you, my mind has been
in a state of suspense, and two or three times I was on the
point of compliance with your request; but not being fully
satisfied that the mind of God was in it, I delayed my answer
for a clearer discovery of duty; and now I am prevailingly
convinced that it is the will of the Great Head of the church,
that I should continue here for the present."
In the early part of the summer of 1816, the church in Sangerfield, N. Y., opened a correspondence with Mr. Kendrick,
for the purpose of obtaining a visit from him, with a view to
settlement. His name was suggested to them by brethren
Galusha, Warren, and Hascall. The field was represented as
one of large promise, and then in pressing need of an able and
efficient minister. Mr. Galusha, at that time pastor of the
Baptist church in Whiteboro, had been upon the ground, and
spent one Lord's Day in the place. The assemblies were large,
and the attention to the word fixed and solemn. From a personal inspection of the field, he took occasion to write to Mr.
Kendrick, urging upon him the importance of considering its
claims, and expressing his conviction, that in a call so very
urgent it must be his indispensable duty to visit Sangerfield.
In addition to the bright prospects of this interest for one
given to the ministry, there was the preceptorship in the
academy to be filled, to which the committee of invitation also
directed Mr. Kendrick's mind. In referring to the last suggestion, Mr. K. has this remark, "I must not omit to inform
you, that my knowledge of the classics, and especially of the
dead languages, is inadequate to the duties of a preceptor of
an academy."
The following letter, in reply to the brethren in Sangerfield, will explain the situation in which he was placed, by
the urgency of brethren at home and abroad.
" M1DDLEBURY, August 1, 1816.
"The Baptist Church of Christ in Sangerfield:
" DEARLY BELOVED:-A few days' absence prevented my




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    89
receiving yours of the 15th until Saturday last. I laid it
before my church and society on the Sabbath, together with
letters received from Elders Warren and Galusha on the same
subject. Your first letter had been previously laid before the
church, which was received at the time I was starting for
Albany, and accompanied with a request that I might proceed from that place to Sangerfield, and make you a visit.
Their unwillingness to have me absent any length of time,
dictated my return as soon as I had accomplished the particular object of my journey.
"Their result, which was forwarded to me, when received
in connection with my engagement to them, left me no room
to doubt concerning the path of my duty. Until your last
was communicated to them, my brethren indulged the hope
that the Great Head of the church was making other provision for you, and that he would not favor my removal from
this part of his vineyard. Although they have not at command the competent means of my support, yet they are unwilling to be destitute. On the subject of my paying you a
visit, however, their decision is not precisely the same as
at first. But, for reasons you will be delighted to hear, they
think it my absolute duty to delay my visit till September.
About a fortnight since it pleased God to pour out his Spirit
on the people to whom I preach one-third of the time, in
New Haven. I met a large assembly there last Tuesday,
when seven had obtained hope, and a large number appeared
anxious. This is in the remote part of a Congregational
society, where the minister of the town preached once a
month. At the meeting above named four Congregational
ministers were present. The Divine Spirit is also hovering
down upon this place. There have been several hopeful
instances of conversion among the inhabitants and students
in college. But whether the borders of the Baptists will be
enlarged by this, remains for the event to inform us. We
can say, however, God has lately given us two respectable
members from the Congregational church, who were baptized
8*




90    REV. NATIIHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Sabbath before last. There appear to be some others almost
persuaded to take sides with their convictions, and adopt our
mode, which they acknowledge appears to them the more
scriptural. The present has become a season of much importance to us, and it may please our Divine Master to afford
me some of the joys of the reaper, in a place where I have
thought I have labored in vain. One thing I have desired
of the Lord, that I may in future give myself wholly to the
work. Whether he is about to make this provision for me
here, or is about to order me to another place, I am at present uninformed. I make it a subject of prayer that I may
do His will.
" If I have not misjudged, I think I have the present dictates of his spiritual providence, in making this calculation,
to continue here till the first Sabbath in September, and then,
if God will, I shall come to you, with permission from my
brethren to be absent from them three Sabbaths. If our
common Lord should otherwise provide for you, in the mean
time, you will not fail to give me notice.
" I cannot, dear brethren, conceal from you one serious
embarrassment you have imposed upon me against coming
to you, that is, the too favorable opinion you have formed
concerning me, which I am confident you can never realize.
You will therefore be prepared to compassionate my case,
and help me with your prayers, that God will keep me from
a proud ambition to attain to the extent of your expectations,
which are no doubt beyond my measure. You will grant me
your effectual and fervent prayer, that no selfish nor sinister
motive may bias my heart from the rugged path of duty, nor
induce me to dictate to my Master what part of his vineyard
shall be assigned to me.
" The more our own interest is swallowed up in the common cause, the more we shall find it promoted. You will
daily lay your case before the Great Head of the Church, who
has granted his Spirit to build up his cause among you, and I




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    91
trust will not fail to accompany it with such means as will
best accomplish his own purposes.
" You will accept assurances of my affectionate regards;
and permit me to subscribe, your unworthy brother in the
best of bonds,
"NATH. KENDRICK.
"To the Trustees of the Bap. Ch. of Christ in Sangerfield."
The contemplated visit was made at the time designated,
and although there were strong probabilities that it would
result in his settlement, yet it was otherwise ordered. Rev.
Joel W. Clark was with the church on the same Lord's Day
that Mr. Kendrick was first present, and the labors were divided between them. The decision of the church was to
retain Mr. Clark upon trial, which resulted in his settlement
as pastor. This journey seems, however, to have been a
necessary step in divine providence to bring about his removal to this state, and to a field in close proximity to the
school with which he was so long identified. Upon this tour
he attended the anniversary of the Madison Association, held
in Cazenovia, and preached by appointment upon the second
day of the session. This afforded Mr. Kendrick an opportunity to make the acquaintance of a large number of brethren. The Association was then numerous, having upon its
list forty-three churches, and an aggregate membership of
over three thousand four hundred. Upon his return to Vermont, he continued his labors as before, and at the expiration
of his term renewed his engagement for another.year.
During the autumn and winter, however, of 1816, Mr.
Kendrick continued to receive numerous, pressing solicitations to visit unoccupied fields of labors. Among them, we
mention the following: Schuyler, Cazenovia, Albany, and
the First and Second Baptist Churches of Eaton, N. Y. The
correspondence with the churches in these several places was
in some instances of so very urgent a character, as to render
either a refusal or compliance with their wishes, not a little




92    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
embarrassing.  Through the Rev. Daniel Hascall, with
whom in after years he was long both pleasantly and
profitably associated, his attention was called to two or three
vacancies in the northern counties of New York, where the
people were very desirous of procuring the labors of one or
two able and efficient ministers of the Baptist order.  He
also urged upon his notice the vacancies in Eaton. Early in
January of 1817, a correspondence was opened on the part of
the two Baptist churches in this town.  Having recently
renewed his engagement with the church in Middlebury for
a year, he did not feel at liberty to offer any encouragement,
even to make them a visit. In reply, however, he was
sufficiently frank and explicit to let the people know his real
situation. The letter is so characteristic of the man, that we
give place to a portion of it.
" Although but little more than half my support is derived
from my people, and for the rest I must depend upon my own
exertions, yet I hope no hardships will induce me to leave
this destitute part of the vineyard, without the permission of
my Divine Master. After I received Elder Warren's letter
laying before me your peculiar circumstances, I should have
presented it to my brethren and requested them to release
me, had I not been afraid that a selfish motive would have
dictated the act, I doubt not but they would release me if I
should ask it, but I am not yet persuaded that the Great
Head of the Church would approve it.
" I presume, my brethren, as God has given you the ability
and the disposition to support the administration of the
gospel among you, that he will send you a pastor after his
own heart. That he will do so, I trust you will not pray in
vain.
"You will permit me to reciprocate your expressions of
love and good will, wishing for yourselves and the churches
in whose behalf you have written mercy and peace from God
our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ."
The request, however, was renewed by the Churches of




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    93
Eaton both to Mr. Kendrick and to the church at Middlebury, and he consented to visit them, which he did in the
following April, spending a few weeks, and receiving a call
to preach in the two churches upon alternating Lord's Days.
Before he gave an answer to their request, he laid the matter
before his church and permitted them full opportunity to advise with him.  The record of that scene is thus given.
" They met yesterday for a decision, knowing the inability of
the brethren, some of the sisters came and promised the
widow's mite, the influence and the worth of such offerings
are above gold. All, however, were disposed to be candid.
They considered their circumstances, and they considered
mine; and then above all the common cause of our Divine
Master. They appeared to discover the hand of Providence,
pointing to a decision, in view of which we could but weep;
for it denoted a separation. They at length said they were
unable to provide for me, and they would relinquish their
claim and leave the decision wholly with myself.
" This I regard as one of the most trying occurrences of
my life; but I must decide, and under present conviction of
duty, my decision cannot be different from what my brethren
have already expected. I have concluded to comply with
your request, and labor as God shall enable me in your part
of the vineyard for the year to come."
The relations of this pastorate which embraced over six
years, were such as to awaken the tenderest sympathies at
its close. The labors had been manifold and arduous, and
such as to demand great self-denial. But we find not the
slightest intimation of complaint; rather frequent records
indicative of sincere gratitude to God. The eyes of Mr.
Kendrick were'opened to behold the goodness of God on
every hand. If he was visited with sickness in his family,
he pens in his diary this witness of his resignation to the
Divine mind: "Will God be pleased to mete out all our
changes in mercy and grant us a holy contentment with his
will."




94    REV. NATItANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
In the midst of his multiplied and oppressive labors, his
kindred are not forgotten; and he takes special pains to visit
his parents with frequency, though journeys were then slow
and toilsome compared with the present modes of travel.
The closing year of Mr. Kendrick's labors in Middlebury
was attended with a precious revival of religion. A notice of
this work of grace, contained in a letter to the Rev. Luther
Rice, conveys to us a better idea of it, than can be derived
from any other source:
" It has pleased God by a direct and gracious influence to
give to this as well as to most other parts of his vineyard, a
more pleasing aspect, than we have ever before witnessed.
We have been favored with a season of refreshing in this
town, which commenced early in the summer. It has been
more or less general in most of the towns in this part of the
state. New Haven, Ferrisburg, Charlotte, Panton, Addison,
and many other towns on the North have been highly favored.
In Cornwall, Brandon, Hubbardton, Castleton, Poultney,
Fair Haven, and through the County of Washington in the
adjoining part of New York, the work has been almost without a parallel. The Lord truly appears in his glory when he
builds up Zion. May the time shortly come when all nations
shall know and fear him."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    95
CHAPTER X.
Entrance upon a New Field-Prospects of Usefulness-Morrisville
Church the Mother of Missionaries-Labors at length confined to
Eaton Church —Theological Lectures-Revival in Eaton-Letter
of Rev. S. B. Page-Second Marriage-Reunion of his Family.
ACCORDING to the intimation given in the last chapter, we
must now follow the subject of our narrative to a new field
of labor, and to another state. We observed that his labors
closed in Middlebury while a revival was in progress; it was
a time of interest, also, in the section whither he removed.
The churches in Eaton, which he now engaged to serve in
the gospel, had an aggregate membership of about two hundred. The places of stated worship were four miles asunder.
The First Church was located at Morris Flats, known latterly
as Morrisville, and the seat of justice for Madison County.
This was on the Cherry Valley Turnpike, once a great central thoroughfare. The church was constituted in 1809, and
at the time when Mr. Kendrick commenced his labors in the
town, had seventy enrolled members and a house of worship.
The Second Baptist Church of Eaton, was situated four
miles south of Morrisville, on the Hamilton and Skeneatelas
Turnpike. This church had been organized but a little more
than a year. It consisted originally of seventeen members,
of which eight were men. Its prosperity for the first year
and a half of its existence was very great. It was increased
in that time by an accession of one hundred and twenty-two,
of which accession one hundred members were by baptism.
This year of its enlargement was also the year of its union
with the Madison Association. It had then no house of worship. The two churches shared equally in the support of the
newly-elected pastor, each raising the sum of one hundred
and fifty dollars.




96    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
His prospects for usefulness were here more promising
than at any post which he had previously occupied. The
churches were planted in a rich and flourishing country, and
the population was made up of industrious and enterprizing
people. Besides, the field was spacious, and now, for the
first time in a ministry of some fifteen years, Mr. Kendrick
was permitted to give his undivided attention to the preaching of the word. Added to the features just mentioned, it
was a region early settled by Baptists, who constituted the
prevailing denomination in this and adjacent sections. The
old Hamilton Church, the honored mother in Israel, formed a
radiating centre for a wide sweep of territory, and the Madison Association, it will be borne in mind, was the third formed
west of the Hudson River. This field, so favorable to the
distinctive principles of our denomination, was selected by a
far-seeinig and gracious Providence, as that in which this servant of Christ was to pursue the remainder of his eminently
useful career.
On the third Lord's Day in July, 1817, the man whom we
have followed from the hills of New England, where stern
trials proved him, and heavy afflictions chastened him, meekly
begins his pulpit duties in the church in Morrisville. He
must alternate by spending one Lord's Day in the abovenamed village, and the following in Eaton. His residence is
fixed in the latter place, and his membership cast in with the
brethren of that church; and it may be mentioned as a fact
having more significance then in an infant church and in an
infant cause than now, that a record stands thus, "fixed one
fortnight from this, to have a contribution for foreign missionary purposes." We could wish that the channels of benevolence were opened upon the very threshold of all pastoral
labors, and it would unquestionably contribute not only to
render efficient aid in the fulfillment of the prophet's vision of
the holy waters, but to inaugurate a peaceful, prosperous, and
happy pastorate.
After about two years of labor distributed in the manner




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    97
above mentioned, Mr. Kendrick was requested to serve the
church at Morrisville the whole time. To this measure he
did not accede, but renewed his engagements for one-half of
the time. This continued until January, 1820, when he solicited a temporary release, that he might undertake an agency
for the institution at Hamilton.  In this half of his field, the
Rev. Obed. Warren succeeded him about that time.
In the results of his ministry with this church, we have no
large accessions to mention. The additions were only gradual, both by baptism and by letter; no general revival accompanying his labors here. It was a field, however, that produced well in after times, and the church has been the privileged mother of missionaries to the heathen world. We need
only remind our readers that our highly-esteemed brother, Dr.
Dean, of the China mission, came from this church. Here
he was brought to experience the Saviour's love. It was
here, also, that the first Mrs. Dean was made a subject of redeeming grace; and the last wife, also, of Dr. Judson, claimed
here the home of her childhood, and her spiritual birth. Here
it was that these eminent servants of the church made their
espousals to the Lord in their early youth. Were there no
other products than these, it were a harvest-field that has
yielded its rich increase to the praise of divine grace.
Mr. Kendrick continued to minister to the church in Eaton
for one-half of the time until April 18th, 1823, when he was
requested to serve the church for the whole time. Previously
to this period, for some two years, the pulpit when not occupied by Mr. Kendrick, had been supplied by students from
the seminary. He acceded to the request of the church.
The assumption of the pastorate for the whole time, had been
preceded by another and very responsible engagement. He
had, for a considerable time, delivered theological lectures in
the Hamilton Institution, and was now appointed as a permanent professor in that school. It was about this time that
the church, with a spirit of self-sacrifice, took into consideration the propriety of Mr. Kendrick's change of residence to
9




98    REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
the village of Hamilton, generously consenting to the measure, and submitting the whole matter to his own judgment.
He effected this removal in the year 1824. His life and
labors became now identified with the cause of ministerial
education, and the nurture and prosperity of the institution
that was a chosen instrumnentalitv in the hand of divine providence to advance this noble cause.
It is necessary to notice a little further the results of this
pastorate, which was extended over sixteen years from the
commencement to the close, in six of which he was with the
church every other Lord's Day, or only one-half of the time.
It will doubtless give but an imperfect idea of the beneficial
results of his ministry, to say that the list of members added
was one hundred and fifty, of whom one hundred and eleven
were by baptism. There are many things that deserve enumeration, and which can be known only in their full extent,
when the aggregate of influences shall be finally estimated.
In this period six or seven licentiates were sent out by the
church, to publish the gospel publicly.
The season of the greatest religious interest occurred in
the summer of 1831. This work of grace is quite minutely
described by Dr. Kendrick's own pen. The narrative was
originally furnished for the New York Baptist Register, and
we here insert as there published:" MR. EDITOR:-A brief account of the late revival of religion in this place, may afford some pleasure to the readers of
the Regist er.During the winter and spring there were favorable appearances, both in the church and society, which encouraged individuals to hope that God was about to revive
his work. Sabbath and weekly conferences were held, and
though often thinly attended, yet the Divine Presence was so
frequently realized as to encourage Christians to hope that
the time of his merciful visitation was near at hand. A few
instances of seriousness occurred during this period, yet accompanied with such efforts at concealment, that little was
known of them at the time. On hearing of protracted meet



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.    99
ings in neighboring churches, which were attended with remarkable out-pourings of the Divine Spirit, much was said
and felt by individuals both in church and society, on the
subject of having such a meeting in this place. It was
thought by some that there were things to be set in order in
the church, before they would be fully prepared for it, and it
was put off a few weeks for that purpose.
" Without accomplishing all that was desired, the question
for such a meeting was taken up on the last Sabbath in June,
to be decided whether it should be held that week, or delayed
until the hurrying season of the year should be over. On
this question, there were different opinions, and some thought
that such a meeting might have too much human management in it, to be profitable at any time. It was at length
concluded to make the experiment, and give out an appointment for a meeting to commence on Thursday following, at
nine o'clock in the morning, to continue one day, and longer if
at the close of the day it should be thought expedient. The
appointment was accordingly made, and the attendance of
several ministering brethren requested.
" The meeting commenced on Thursday morning, the last
day of June. It was opened by prayer, and an address to
the church on the subject of removing every obstacle which
might be in the way of God's pouring us out a blessing. Several spoke in the language of penitence, expressing a great
sense of their wanderings from God, and a desire to return
unto him with full purpose of heart. Prof. Baruas Sears,
then addressed the assembly in a sermon, which was followed
by some remarks, and a season of prayer, which closed the
exercises of the forenoon, leaving a solemn impression upon
the people generally. The meeting was conducted in the
same manner in the afternoon, when more of the church
came forward, with brokenness of spirit confessing their sins,
and were afterwards addressed in a sermon by Elder Smitzer. The order and solemnity which pervaded the assembly,
and the deep-toned feelings of those who spoke, were evident




100   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
indications of the divine presence, and at the close of the
afternoon exercises, the people expressed a wish to have the
meeting continued another day, which was accordingly agreed
upon. The people met again in the evening; and a number
came together at five o'clock the next morning for a prayermeeting. At the commencement of the forenoon exercises
of the second day, further acknowledgments were made by
numbers of the church who were not present the first day, or
who had not spoken. After a general expression of penitence and of supplication was made by the church, it was
then proposed to any who felt a desire for the prayers of
Christians, to manifest it, and immediately three or four came
forward and took seats in front of the assembly. After a season of prayer, Bro. Lewis Leonard addressed the people in a
sermon, at the close of which a number more requested
prayers.
" The meeting was conducted in the same manner in the
afternoon, when the number of the anxious was increased to
about twenty.  With little variation in the order of exercises, and with increasing interest, the meeting was protracted from day to day, by the special request of the assembly,
manifested at the close of each day, and in accordance with
the evident indications of the Divine Spirit, until Thursday
night of the following week, making eight days in all.
"The number of anxious was daily multiplying, until it
amounted to about one hundred and fifty, who came forward
and expressed desires for prayers, and previous to the close
of the meeting about sixty of the number manifested hope in
the Saviour.
" Much assistance was afforded from the professors and
theological students at Hamilton, and from a number of
neighboring ministers, and especially, from Elder Smitzer,
who was present the whole time.
" The whole assembly was profoundly silent and solemn,
and appeared overawed with a sense of the presence and
power of God. It was evident that the Holy Spirit imparted




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   101
an unusual measure of light and truth, and fervor of feeling,
to those who addressed the assembly in exhortations and
preaching, and especially while leading the devotions of the
humble supplicants to the mercy seat.
The word of God fell with weight from the lips of his
servants upon the consciences of both saints and sinners, and
the realities of eternity, and the light and power of the gospel, were brought to bear upon the understandings and hearts
of the people in a remarkable manner.  The scene was too
awful to be tumultuous. In no case was more than one heard
to speak at a time. Every speaker was listened to by the
whole assembly with the most profound attention. Although
many were in great anguish of spirit on account of their sins,
and the wrath of God which they had incurred, yet their
sighs and their groans were scarcely heard.
"Previous to the commencement of the meeting, and for
some little time after, unfavorable opinions were frequently
expressed by numbers in the community, of the propriety
and tendency of such a meeting. But on witnessing its
practical results, and the divine blessing which was poured
upon it, the good sense of the people approved it, and very
few were left to doubt of its importance to the best interests
of man.
"Very rarely have such a number of souls'been delivered
from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom
of God's dear Son,' with less apparent opposition than appeared during the meeting.
"It is due to the youth from this and the neighboring
towns, who held a ball in the village, on the fifth day and
evening of our meeting, but a few rods from the place where
we were assembled, to say, that no reference, in getting up
this ball, was had to a religious meeting, but to celebrate this
day of our national independence in a way most enchanting
to giddy and graceless youth, who are senseless of the source
of all our mercies, and regardless of the divine abhorrence
in which such celebrations are held. The ball was appointed
9*




102   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
before the meeting was agreed upon; and when the meeting
was commenced, there was no expectation of having it continued over three days at most. A number concerned in
the ball would have gladly given it up in favor of the religious meeting, if they had not considered themselves pledged
to others. When the celebration was ended, they resorted
to the house of God, and some have since obtained mercy.
"The propriety of assigning seats to the anxious, and
inviting them to express their desires for the prayers of
Christians by the act of taking them, was a subject of much
conversation for a time, and even some of the anxious themselves had strong objections to resorting to this measure, as
though it was something out of the ordinary course of
means, if not altogether useless. How far the measure was
misunderstood by any, or regarded in a light foreign to what
was intended, I know not. It must be admitted by all who
regard the scriptures as their guide, that God has appointed
prayer as an important means for the salvation of the sinner.
The saints are instructed to pray, and not to faint-to pray
without ceasing-to pray with all prayer and supplication
for all men-to pray for the peace of Jerusalem-to pray
one for another-and to pray for the Spirit. And God has
not said to the seed of Jacob, seek ye my face, in vain.
The Saviour said to his disciples,'All things whatsoever ye
shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.''And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the
Father may be glorified in the Son.'
"A full explanation was given on the occasion, showing
that nothing more was intended by the measure, than to
obtain an expression from those in distress that they desired
the prayers of the saints, as a means for their salvation. By
this they were directed not to look to the seats nor the
saints for salvation, but to him alone who has the words of
eternal life, and has power to change and subdue the heart
and the will, and cleanse them from all iniquity.
"I have never been more sensible of the impotency of




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   103
human efforts, and the entire dependence of sinners on the
life-giving energies of the Holy Spirit, than when beholding
this work of salvation.  It might truly be said,'Neither is
he that planteth, anything, neither he that watereth, but God,
who giveth the increase.'
"It seemed hardly reconcilable to the ordinary ways of
providence, in carrying forward the work of revivals, that
sinners should hope so soon after their first awakening.
This excited strong suspicions that the conversions of many
who were awakened, and indulged hopes, during the meeting, were spurious.  Those suspicions, we are happy to say,
have been greatly weakened in very many instances, as far
as we have been able to test these conversions by the word
of God. Believing it to be the same gospel, carried home
to the hearts of sinners by the same Spirit, which produced
the conversion of three thousand souls, on the day of Pentecost, we have no ground to say that sinners cannot be convicted and converted on the same day, although we have
not been accustomed to see the work accomplished in so
short a time."
The writer has been favored with a brief communication
pertaining to the pastor, from the Rev. S. B. Page, who
was present in these revival meetings of the Eaton Church
at that time.
"It was my privilege to attend this meeting, and to see
Dr. Kendrick in a new position. I have often heard him
preach and pray, and seen him examine classes in theology,
and have venerated him as a man of great talent and piety,
but with many others at this time, supposed that his strong,
i)z-tanea v ews in certain doctrines of theology, would be
somewhat in his way in exhorting sinners to flee from the
wrath to come. I thought he could not be practical and
direct in his appeals to the unconverted. I did not understand before how Calvinism, so called, and so often misunderstood, could be so practical. I was then led to see that
all Bible theology becomes practical and effective, where the




104   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Spirit of God is making men in earnest about the salvation
of their own souls, or the conversion of the souls of others.
" No man at this meeting was more earnest and direct in
addressing the unconverted than Dr. Kendrick, the pastor of
the church. His noble form and kind face, expressive of
sympathy and love, are before me now, and I can hear his
very tone of voice, as he stood on the floor in front of the
pulpit day after day, pleading with penitent sinners to come
to Christ, and often kneeling and pleading most earnestly in
their behalf before the throne of grace. I could see but
little difference in his spirit and manner, from that of other
earnest workers at this time in the spiritual harvest field,
unless in the greater depth and permanence of his interest.
The work went on from day to day, as we have seldom seen
a work progress, even in 1858, the memorable year of revivals."
After Mr. Kendrickhad labored about ayear with the churches
in this State, he was married to Miss Cordelia C. Covell, of
Charlotte, Vt., daughter of the Rev. Lemuel Covell, to whom
allusion has already been made in this memoir, and sister to
the late Rev. Alanson L. Covell, who was removed a few years
since in Albany; dying in the midst of his usefulness, and
deeply lamented by all who knew his worth.
The relations of Mr. Kendrick to this family, were of a
deeply interesting and affecting character. For many years
he had known the family intimately, and about twelve years
prior to his connection with it by marriage, was called under
painful circumstances to sympathize with them in the loss of
the revered head. The Rev. Lemuel Covell died while on one
of his missionary tours in Canada. Mr. Kendrick and Mr.
Webb, of Troy, were deputed to convey the sad tidings to the
bereaved widow, a task which they were constrained to devolve upon an aged friend of the family, Dea Rouse, of Pittstown.  Mr. Kendrick, however, made the journey from Lansingburgh, where he then resided, to Cheshire, a distance of
forty-three miles, to alleviate, if possible, this sore bereave



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   105
ment. The intelligence of the sudden death of one so widely
known, and universally beloved, as was Mr. Covell, caused
the house of mourning to be thronged for days together, by
sympathizing friends. At the importunity of the people, Mr.
Kendrick preached at the widow's house, which was literally
a Bochim, selecting those timely words, " Trust in the Lord
at all times, O ye people, praise ye the Lord."
Addressing a weeping company, under scenes so moving
and tender, the occasion was one not often, if ever, repeated
in a lifetime of three score years and ten. Mr. Kendrick incidentally noted in his journal that "he had some freedom,"
(which always implied all that he expressed), and that "he
never saw a more afflicted family than this, and more sensibly
mourn with submission to God."
Reminiscences of this character, were well calculated to
open the way to the warmest welcomes in after years. The
antecedents of domestic affliction, running back to this period,
conspired to enhance the happiness of the conjugal union
formed on the 18th June, 1818. The past was a presage of
true sympathy and affection in the future. At his own domestic altar his little ones, whom death had spared, were again
collected, and his hearth-stone once more made cheerful by the
presence of a partner formed to his tastes, and the apartments
of home again echoed the footfalls of little feet, and the blithe
voices of children.
The home which death has once desolated by removing its
light, and the husband's desire, becomes a retreat and refuge
to the head that is doubly prized, when its altar fires are
kindled anew, and its silence broken by the voice of wedded
love.
None were better adapted than Mr. Kendrick to appreciate
and enjoy the sweets of such a change. The tenderness of
his domestic affections was in full proportion to the vigor and
breadth of his intellect, and rendered him eminently susceptible to the sacred pleasures of domestic life. The afflictions
which he had passed through had also enriched his Christian




106 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
experience, and deepened the tone of his character, and thus
his usefulness to the living was increased by his visits to the
sanctuary of the dead.
From this second marriage two sons were born, in Eaton,
and one daughter, the youngest child, born in Hamilton.
The eldest son of this marriage discovered predilections for
a sea-faring life, much to the distaste and disquietude of the
father Only an occasional letter, after long intervals, apprized
the family of his journeys upon the deep, until a silence of
long years had left the relatives to infer that he had ended the
voyage of his earthly life.
The second son, a young man of decided ability, died January 15th, 1841, while a member of the junior class in Hamilton College.
The daughter was a person of strong intellectual powers,
possessing qualities of heart that much resembled those of
her endeared father. After receiving a good education, she
became the wife of the late Rev. Linus M. Peck.  Some two
years after the decease of her husband, she was united in
marriage with the author of these pages, and thence forward
to her departure, displayed in her active and wide sphere of
labor, the crowning excellencies of a gifted Christian woman.
She died October 7th, 1852, in Cleveland, Ohio, lamented by
all who knew her, and embalmed in the memory of hundreds
as a pastor's wife.
We shall, in subsequent chapters, follow the subject of this
memoir into another sphere of active service, the duties of
which he discharged with eminent ability and faithfulness, and
for which he was evidently raised up in the providence of
God.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   107
CHAPTER XI.
Ministerial Education-Colleges-Bounty of Thos. Hollis, Jr.-Supply
of Ministers-Action of Philadelphia Association-In the SouthUnion in support of Brown University-Interruption from the
American Revolution-Plan of aid to Beneficiaries in the South-In
the North-A New Era-Education Societies-Origin of New York
Baptist Educational Society-Religious Intelligence-A Weekly Sheet
-The First Fruits of Education Societies.
To render justice to the period of Mr. Kendrick's life upon
which we now enter, we must give a slight outline of what
had hitherto been done for the cause of ministerial education,
within the bounds of the United States.
It should be borne in mind that when the oldest collegiate
institutions were founded in this land they were under the
patronage and control of other denominations. Our numbers
were few, our resources were scanty, and our influence
inconsiderable.  When, in 1700, Yale College was founded,
which was from the beginning designed to rear up candidates
for the ministry, the Baptist churches in the entire country
did not exceed fourteen in number. A school for this special
purpose was not established till a little more than half a
century later. Individual effort, however, was enlisted much
earlier in this cause. By the liberality of Thomas Hollis, Jr.,
a merchant of London, provision was made for the education
of ministers in Harvard University, a portion of whom might
be Baptists. " The bounty of Hollis, after it began to flow,
-which was during the presidency of Everett-was like a
perennial stream." As President Quincy remarks, " scarcely
a ship sailed from London, during the last ten years of his
life, without bearing some evidence of his affection and
liberality."  This embraced the time from 1720-1730.  The
particular objects of his bounty were, first, the library, to the




108   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
enlargement of which he devoted much time and care, as well
as money; secondly, the maintenance and education of pious
young men for the ministry, who are poor in this world; and
thirdly, the endowment of professorships. He endowed a
Professorship of Divinity in 1721, and a Professorship of
Mathematics and Natural and Experimental Philosophy in
1726."
He devoted ~80 per annum to each of the professors, and
~10 each per annum to ten indigent students, of reputable
character, designed for the ministry, as an aid to defray the
charges of their education, besides ~20 per annum to the
college treasurer, as a compensation for his services in managing the donations which he sent to him.
Hitherto the churches in those infant settlements had
looked for their supply of ministers across the Atlantic. The
conviction had now become established that they must provide the supply at home. Nearly simultaneously with the
generous bounties of Mr. Hollis, we find the churches acting
upon the policy which his munificent donation suggested.
The Philadelphia Association, the oldest in the United
States, by about half a century, and the first in this, as in
other good causes, recommended to the churches to seek out
young men endowed with talents, giving promise of usefulness adapted to the ministry, and inclined to learning, for the
purpose of having them duly commended to Harvard. The
leading spirit in this enterprise was Abel Morgan, one of the
most worthy and noted ministers of his time.
There was nothing like denominational action beyond this
for thirty-four years later. In 1756 the Philadelphia Association resolved to establish a school and sustain it for the
education of candidates for the ministry. This first " school
of the prophets," under Baptist auspices in America, was
commenced at Hopewell, New Jersey. The resident pastor,
Rev. Isaac Eaton, was appointed a theological professor.
This was continued in successful operation for some ten or
twelve years, and was then merged in the Rhode Island




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   109
College, founded in the year 1764, and chartered in the year
following.
Some names that adorn the history of our denomination
received the rudiments of their education here, among which
stand conspicuous those of James Manning, D.D., Samuel
Jones, D.D., Hezekiah Smith, D.D., Isaac Stillman, D.D.
The effort in the middle states to achieve something for
the cause of ministerial education was followed by a like
movement in the southern states. The Charleston, South
Carolina, Association, the oldest in the south, and the second
in age in America, entered upon measures to promote this
work in 1757, six years after its origin.
It was proposed to raise a fund for this purpose. The
plan was acted upon, and among those to share its provision
were Evan Pugh, Samuel Stillman, and Edmund Botsford.
The first effort had been in the centre of our occupied field,
and the second in the south. It remained now for the
extremes to unite with the intermediate district in establishing
a common institution of a high literary grade —an institution
which has now for nearly a century been making its annual
contributions to the learned professions, and recruiting largely
the ranks of the ministry.
The Philadelphia Association, the Charleston, S. C., and
the Warren Association, each recommended, both to their
own churches, and to every church on the continent, to take
an annual collection in favor of the college.  Thus it was
regarded as the legitimate offspring of the denomination.
No more congenial soil could have been selected than the
little state of Rhode Island. Small in area, but great in deeds,
she fills a large space on the page of history, and has established an empire of intellectual and moral freedom as limitless
as the ocean that laves her coast.
Lesser hindrances would of course occasionally arise,
springing from inadequate views of the cause to which the institution was devoted. But these were lost in that great event
which convulsed the entire country, and for six years sus10




110   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D, D.
pended wholly the operations of the college-we mean the
American Revolution.  This struggle, however necessary
to the advancement of our civil liberties, operated with the
disastrous influences inseparable from war, upon the interests
alike of learning and religion.
Nor had the founders of this seminary made provision for
the support of such as were unable to educate themselves.
T'he brethren of the south were moving upon this subject as
early as 1789. The plan devised, was the creation of a permanent fund to assist candidates while prosecuting their
studies preparatory to the work of the ministry. The moderate manner in which this was done, is told by the fact, that
in the lapse of twenty years, thirteen candidates were aided,
at a cost of three thousand three hundred and ninety-seven
dollars and seventy cents, while nine thousand three hundred
and eighty dollars and two cents was raised in all. It is
cheering to know that those benefactions were not lost;
among the names of the persons assisted we find those of
John M. Roberts, Jesse Mercer, Wim. T. Brantley.
The Baptists of the north were stimulated by this example
of their brethren at the south, and entered upon a similar
work. It began in the Warren Association, and was proposed by Dr. Stillman. The suggestion proved the germ of
a society which was styled "The Trustees of the Baptist
Education Fund," and thus incorporated by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1794. This was continued for about
thirty years, in due time giving place to later and more
efficient organizations.  The interest only of the fund could
be expended. Its benefits were shared by twenty-nine candidates for the ministry; among the first of whom were
Dr. Jeremiah Chaplin, D. D., George Phippen, and the subject of this memoir.
We reach at length a new era in Christian effort, in this,
as in other branches of evangelical enterprise.  The period
in which foreign missions began to obtain patronage from
American shores, was no less a period in which the attention




REV. NATIIANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   111
of the church was turned to the means of securing men for
the work. The same year that Judson and Price left our
shores for the East, the Baptist Education Society of the
middle states was formed. Prior to this period, Dr. Staughton had received, from time to time, students in divinity into
his own family.  To him  the Rev. Dr. Sharp was indebted
for theological instruction, and was, we believe, the first to
enjoy his valuable services in this department.
Dr. Baldwin was another who lent his services to this
work, and we might add the names of Dr. Stanford and
Dr. Chaplin.  The systematic plan of cooperative action, in
conferring the means of theological instruction, now begun
in the middle states, was rendered further effective, by
making choice of Dr. Win. Staughtonr as tutor to divinity
students, and virtually transforming his own house into a
theological seminary. Humble and unpretending as this
might be, it was yet the germ of Columbian College, in the
District of Columbia. How many were educated prior to
the establishment of the college in its present locality, we
have not the means of determining. The scheme was a
noble one, fraught with blessings to the denomination; while
the establishment of such an institution evinced the just
estimate which its founders placed on intellectual culture, it
was no less wisely located where it could be most easily
accessible to the entire denomination under whose auspices
it was established.  A high educational institution at the seat
of government, coincided with the expressed convictions of
Washington, that there should be a national university. He
felt the importance of such a school, and not barely desired,
but recommended the establishment of one.
The work inaugurated under the auspices of the so styled,
Baptist Education Society of the middle states was transferred in the year 1820 to the General Convention, and
continued under the control of this body until 1826, when
the relation was dissolved.
Measures thus initiated in the central section of our confede



112   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
racy, were soon followed with commendable zeal by brethren in
the New England states.  The birth of several societies for
educational purposes varied only in the following order of
dates, 1814, 1816, 1816, 1817, 1817.  Their names in corresponding order were as follows: The Massachusetts Baptist
Education Society; The American Education Society; one
in the Warren Association similar to the Massachusetts
Education Society; the New York Baptist Education
Society; and The Baptist Society in South Carolina and
Georgia for the education of pious young men for the
ministry.
We are particularly concerned here to notice the origin and
progress of the New York Baptist Education Society with
which Hamilton Institution has been identified.  This body
took its rise in the following manner. The Rev. Daniel
Hascall, upon the perusal of the address of Dr. Chaplin,
which was delivered at the formation of the Massachusetts
Baptist Education Society, conceived the whole purpose of
forming a similar society in the limits of the Empire State.
The exigencies of the churches seemed to call for such an
institution. The work of evangelism had begun with the
dawn of the present century.  The oldest association in the
state, the Otsego, was in vigorous operation, with its thirtyfive churches, fourteen ministers, and an aggregate membership of one thousand six hundred and fifty-nine.
Though no missionary bodies in form existed, yet, in effect,
missionary work was performed. In 1807, the Lake Baptist
Missionary Society was formed, changing its name in the
following year to the Hamilton Baptist Missionary Society.
This continued its work until it was merged in the Convention of the State in the year 1825.
With the expansion of the churches, and the demands of the
new settlements, there was a growing necessity for ministers
of Christ.  Hitherto, those who had served the churches
were distinguished for their zeal, their self-sacrifice, their
unreserved devotion, and their heroic endurance of privations




REV. NATHANIFEL KENDRICK, D.D.   113
for the cause of Christ.  They were self-made men, deserving of all praise for what they did; and it may be truthfully
said, they abounded in labors. But few, however, had enjoyed
the advantages of a liberal education.  In the whole state
west of the Hudson river, there were but three ministers in
the Baptist denomination that were regular graduates of a
college.
With the growing intelligence of the people, there was a
demand for a ministry of enlarged culture. For all that had
been done, there was reason for congratulation. But then
the able and judicious councillors, both among the ministry
and the people, began to feel the want of a well-furnished
ministry. As there had been a marked development of the
missionary spirit with reference to foreign and home fields,
so must there be commensurately with this, enlarged effort to
provide a ministry equal to the times, adequate in number
and efficiency to the demands of the denomination.
There was, moreover, a growing eagerness for religious
intelligence. Resolutions were passed in the Otsego Association as early as 1806 and 1807, to encourage the issue of a
weekly sheet.  Some years, however, were suffered to glide
away before this enterprize was consummated. In 1814, the
first number of " The Vehicle" was issued under the auspices
of such brethren as Elders Hascall, Lawton, and Peck. This
little magazine of forty-eight pages duodecimo, was issued at
first only thrice a year; and before the expiration of the first
year, the Hamilton Missionary Society had accepted the offer of
publishing the magazine. The following year it was issued
quarterly, and its name changed to the " Western Baptist
Magazine."  After it had completed four volumes, it was
merged in the New York Baptist Register.  This sheet, under
the patronage of the Convention for very many years, and
for more than thirty years under the able and judicious editorship of A. M. Beebee, LL.D., will long be remembered by
the present generation. Its early visits when a very small
sheet are among the childhood recollections of the writer.
10o*




114   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
The varied forms of Christian enterprize which we have
been describing were nearly coeval. One seemed to require
the others.  The spirit of home and foreign missions was not
to advance without the functions of the weekly press. These
could not be jointly prosecuted to the highest desirable
results, without ministerial culture. Indeed, permanent provisions were required to raise up an order of men that would
always be in advance of their age, and would be able to
guide the sons of the churches into wide and ever-growing
fields of Christian labor, and to originate and conduct all the
great enterprises of good that would naturally accompany
advancing civilization. Such a corps of men could be secured
only by enabling those who were called of God, to prosecute
a course of study beyond the scope of a district school or
village academy.  We have remarked above that the number
of those in our ranks who knew by experience the benefits of
a liberal education was very small; but there were a goodly
number that had suffered conscious inconveniencies in their
work, from a lack of systematic and thorough study. These,
to their praise be it recorded, were among the best supporters
of a theological school. There were also many who cherished deep-seated prejudices against learning as an aid to the
ministry. These prejudices often sprang from the present
regard for the welfare of Zion. They grew out of the apprehension that learning would be put in the place of piety, and
that, in dependence upon this alone, men would be encouraged to enter the ministry. The holy motives that environed
these prejudices, often rendered their removal more difficult.
It may be adduced as a significant fact, that the first beneficiaries of three leading educational societies in this country
were consecrated to missionary work.  Coleman and Wheelock, Wade and Kincaid,-the first two aided by the Massachusetts Baptist Education Society, and the last two by the
New York Baptist Education Society. The Rev. Samuel
Moseley, the first beneficiary of the American Education So



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   115
ciety, was also devoted to the missionary work among the
Choctaw Indians.
We have now taken a survey of the cause of ministerial
education, limited indeed, but sufficient to appreciate the part
which the subject of the memoir took in the enterprize to
which a large portion of his remaining life was consecrated,
and the narrative of whose progress blends itself inseparably
with the delineation of his life and character.




116   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER XII.
Origin of Hamilton Seminary-Its Founders-Place and Time of Meeting-First Subscription-Agents-Field-First Student-Consociation —Peculiar Character of the School-Amount of Subscriptions the
First Year-Location at Hamilton.
THE brief survey which we have taken in the last chapter,
has prepared us to trace the progress of that enterprize with
which the subject of our memoir stands in more immediate
relation. This enterprize had its birth under the following
circumstances.
To the Rev. Daniel Hascall belongs the honor of having
" first suggested the idea," out of which originated the movement in behalf of ministerial education in central New York.
During the visit of'Mr. Kendrick to this state, in the autumn
of 1816, in which he had the pleasure of attending the anniversary of the Madison Association, he met his early friend
and fellow-laborer, the Rev. Daniel Hascall. The latter, then
a member of the above-named association, and pastor of the
First Baptist Church of Hamilton, had been deeply exercised
for some time, upon the subject of providing means for securing in the rising ministry, an order of men qualified for their
sacred work. With his mind full of the magnitude of this
subject, he made a disclosure of his views and feelings to Mr.
Kendrick. In him he found a ready sympathizer: most cordially did he second his opinions, and espouse the cause upon
which his own personal experience had taught him to set a
high value. The two men concurring in their judgments, and
harmonizing in their practical views, mutually fostered an
enthusiastic interest in their contemplated project, and were,
of course, ready to co-operate in any feasible plan for realizing
their noble conception.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   117
The removal of Mr. Kendrick from the State of Vermont
to the town of Eaton, Madison Co., N. Y., in the following
year, was a providential step in a series of movements, which
resulted in the establishment of a " school of the prophets,"
whose influence has since girdled the globe.  The proximity
of these two brethren to each other, as well as the sympathy
generated in minds endowed alike with rare natural gifts, and
a rich intellectual and spiritual culture, drew them much into
each other's society. Their parishes were contiguous to each
other, and their homes separated only by a hill-range, from
whose summit both their habitations, and their fields of labor
were seen at a glance. They were apprized of each other's
counsels and plans, and to the strengthening of these, their
long cherished friendship and confidence powerfully contributed.
Another striking providence was apparent in the movement
that gave rise to this enterprise, showing that it was an offspring of the church, born in and of Zion; we refer to the
transactions in the Triennial Convention holding its second
session in May, 1817. At that anniversary it is stated in the
minutes that the venerable Dr. Furman, of Charleston, S. C.,
"the President, having, with the approbation of the convention, called the Rev. Dr. Baldwin to the chair, placed before
the body, in a speech of considerable length and great interest, the very serious and religious importance of a well
informed ministry."
While that subject was obtaining such advocacy before that
dignified body, in the City of Brotherly Love, five or six individuals under another meridian in the village of Hamilton, at
the residence of that godly man Deacon Samuel Payne, located
at the foot of what is now University Hill, were in conference
upon the same subject, without the slightest knowledge of
what their brethren were doing in a distant city. After mature deliberation and prayer, these few brethren ventured to
issue a call, which was published on the cover of the Western
Baptist Magazine, already referred to, inviting the friends of




118   REV. NATIIANIEL KENDRICK, D I).
the cause to meet in Hamilton, on the 24th of September ensuing.
We might naturally suppose that, with an interval of
nearly four months for the circulation of such a call, the
second session would embrace in its company a goodly
number of clerical and lay brethren. Some might hope that,
aside from the intrinsic merits of the cause, the power of
curiosity would summon many from their homes, to hear
what these few brethren issuing the call might have to say
on the then novel theme of ministerial education. But we
must not disguise the fact, humiliating though it be, that
there were then strong prejudices, and widely prevalent,
against what was termed, in current phraseology, "a manmade ministry" —a term designating the ministry that had
enjoyed the benefit of collegiate institutions.  This may
partially account for the small number that responded to
the call.
The day arrives.  No spacious hall is demanded for this
convention. A single apartment in the house of Deacon
Jonathan Olmsted has full capacity to contain the members.
The names of all will not encumber our pages, and for historic interest they deserve a place here, as they have a place
in the hearts of our brethren in the churches.  They are as
follows: Revs. J. Bostwick, P. P. Roots, Joel W. Clark,
Amos Kingsley, Daniel Hascall, Nathaniel Kendrick; Deacons Jonathan Olmsted, Samuel Payne, and Samuel Osgood,
Dr. Chas. W. Hull; Brethren Thomas Cox, Robert Powell,
(afterwards ordained a minister, and the only survivor,) and
Elisha Payne. Eight of this number were members of the
Baptist church in Hamilton, two were from  the Second
Baptist church in Eaton, one from Sangerfield, one from
Hartxvick, Otsego county, and one was an itinerant missionary.
They were convened, as we have remarked, at the residence of Deacon Olmsted, located about one mile from the




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   119
village of Hamilton, directly south, a little below University
Iill.
The only survivor in that company represents the scene
on that occasion as a marked and impressive one.  The
brethren were mostly seated upon the south side of the
room. Rev. John Bostwick was chosen moderator, and Dr.
Charles W. Hull, clerk. The meeting, duly organized, must
then advance to the momentous question before it. Side by
side sit those men, who for so many years were yoked
together and foremost in this enterprise, to-wit, Hascall and
Kendrick. Nond are hasty to deliver their opinions. There
is a look of gravity upon all countenances, indicative of deep
thought. There ensues a period of profound silence in the
meeting, as if all, by common consent, were engaged in
solemn and silent prayer. The hour was a momentous one.
The object for which they had assembled was one of immense, almost appalling magnitude.  A crisis was upon
them. They, and they alone, must meet it. There was an
evident trembling under the weight of responsibility rolled
upon them; apprehensive lest they were unequal to the
burden, and yet they saw no others to assume the burden of
that eventful hour. Under the guidance of Divine Providence they had advanced to a point from which they did not
dare in conscience to recede. Shrink they could not. Like
the children of Israel in the valley of Migdol, they must
proceed though an undivided sea confronted them. At this
stage of their reflections they instinctively turn to heavenly
counsel. Prayer is proposed, and Mr. Kendrick is desired
to lead in this exercise. All bow their knees before God,
and their hearts go out as the heart of one man. When this
season of devotion is concluded, they proceed to consider
the constitution and plan of organization. The instrument
offered as the basis of united action was discussed and
adopted without opposition, but not without misgivings and
fears for the result of their grave and anxious deliberations.
As evidence that they had embarked in the enterprize with




120   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D
purse, as well as with pen, they commenced a subscription
by signing one dollar each. Here was laid the corner-stone
of the institution that has since risen to favor, commanding
influence, and world-wide usefulness.  There was the germ
of what is now known as Madison University.  It was
planted in the hearts of a few noble Christian men, most of
whom struggled with poverty. Nor was this the greatest
obstacle which they were called to meet.  Deep-rooted
prejudices existed against the movement in churches of
influence, and among ministering brethren of high standing;
and these could be eradicated only by patient and persevering effort in carrying forward the enterprize as one born
of God, and destined to triumph. We are here reminded of
the first donation said to have been made to Yale College,
by eleven ministers, who brought forty books, using these
words, as they laid them upon the table: "We give these
books for founding a college in Connecticut."
The brethren who had thus made this humble beginning
in this cause were animated with hope, and inspired with
zeal for energetic action. Nearly forty agents were appointed
in the central and eastern portion of the state, who were
expected to lend their services gratuitously in procuring
subscriptions for the cause.  Five hundred copies of the
constitution, together with an address of three octavo pages,
were printed and circulated. In this address an earnest plea
was presented for ministerial education; and as a stimulating argument, they urged the example of brethren in
Great Britain, and in the eastern and middle states, who had
already made some provision in this direction, and were
beginning to reap the benefits of it. The same was true of
the brethren in the city of New York and its vicinity.
The great distance between the central part of the state
and its emporium, precluded, of course, the apprehension of
any clashing or interference with each other. Nothing could
be anticipated but mutual good feeling, and a desire to render reciprocal aid. The absence of railways made the moral




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   121
distance commensurate with the geographical, and it was
not even dreamed that the efforts which had commenced in
the city in 1812, could ever reach in their results the central
and western portions of the then new and undeveloped state.
In about five months after the organization of the New
York Baptist Education Society, an application for assistance
was received from a licentiate of the Baptist Church of Hartford, Washington county.  On the 14th of February, 1818,
the Executive Committee duly examined Mr. Jonathan Wade,
and accepted him as a beneficiary. He was immediately
placed under the charge of Rev. Daniel Hascall. It was
ascertained that others were anxious to be admitted to the
same privileges, both in the vicinity of Hamilton and in the
eastern part of the state.
It deserves to be mentioned in this place, that while Mr.
Kendrick was active in co-operating with his brethren in the
educational movement, he did not neglect measures that
served to stimulate brethren already in the ministerial and
pastoral work, to investigate thorougly the word of God, and
become grounded and settled in the doctrines of grace.
Chiefly through his instrumentality, a consociation was
formed, the object of which was to promote the efficiency of
the ministry and especially to aid the younger and less
experienced in the sacred calling, in obtaining just views of
systematic divinity.  The first meeting of this body was
held about a week after the Education Society was formed.
Its sessions were bi-monthly.  The exercises consisted of
dissertations and discussions upon the doctrines of the Bible.
Upon the question proposed at each meeting, every member
was required to write, or prepare himself to give his views
orally. The clerk was required to give a condensed summary
of these views, which was read at the opening of the following meeting. In these sessions, they began with the first
principles in theology; and the plan pursued had no doubt
a happy tendency to foster a spirit of vigilant inquiry. These
exercises were not continued for a great length of time, as a
11




122   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
general revival of religion occurring in the spring following,
imposed additional labors upon the ministry, which, besides
the necessary steps for putting the Education Society in
motion, left but little time to carry on in concert, the projected measures of the consociation. But the plan was not
without its practical value, in promoting the great work to
which its originator had now consecrated himself.  It served
to impress many minds with the importance of systematic
measures for imparting culture to the rising ministry. The
only surviving member of the noble thirteen, who was then a
young man, and about engaging in the ministry, has
expressed the conviction, that he has ever since felt the
benefit of those early discussions.  In those discussions,
Mr. Wade participated, and his views then elicited deep
interest, supported as they were with much argumentative
tact.
In the attempt to plant a school designed especially and
exclusively for the benefit of the rising ministry, the projectors did not ignore the existence and the character of other
schools of a high grade. We give their opinions in their
own words: " We have well regulated schools, academies,
and colleges, in which various sciences highly useful are
taught. But they are far from affording all the advantages
which are desirable, and which, by our united exertions, may
be obtained for those young men whom God calls to the
ministry of the gospel. We are fully of the opinion, that a
different institution may be established for them, better
adapted to the little time many of them have to study, and
the means of defraying their expenses, as well as to the
preservation of their morals and the promotion of their piety;
an institution in which they shall be assisted in the pursuit
both of literary and theological knowledge, and in which they
shall be directed to such a course of studies as shall be
deemed most conducive to their usefulness."
It is important to notice this feature in the school which
they now proposed to establish, a feature which it preserved




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   123
for about twenty years. It will explan the consistency of
the position which Mr. Kendrick maintained, though he was
overruled by the judgment of his brethren; we refer here to
the change which was made in the year 1839, which opened
the doors of the institution to students not designed for the
ministry, and gave it many of the features of an ordinary
college.
It will be seen that the plan was originally for the ministry
alone, and the enterprise was placed wholly within the control of the denomination, for the constitution of the society
provided, that the board should be made up of members of
good standing in some regular Baptist church.
The safeguards were numerous and so arrayed, that the
enterprise was not likely to be fustrated. The first annual
meeting of the Baptist Education Society of the State of
New York, was held in Sangerfield, June 3d, 1818. The
opening sermon was delivered by Mr. Kendrick, from 2 Tim.
2: 2, "And the things that thou hast heard of me among
many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who
shall be able to teach others also."
The first anniversary of this society was of a decidedly
encouraging character from numerous considerations. All the
steps taken by the body and its board of officers, had been
harmonious.  It had not been anticipated that in the brief
period betwen the organization of the society and its first
anniversary, many of the churches would become familiar
with its projected plan of a seminary, and yield it their sympathy, yet a goodly number had become acquainted with the
enterprize, and many individuals gave it their cordial support.
The field of operations was confined chiefly to the counties of
Madison, Oneida, and Chenango. Through the instrumentality of the following agents, viz.: Rev. Joel W. Clark, Caleb
Douglas, and Daniel Hascall, about seventy contributors were
secured, pledging their gifts, ranging from one dollar to a
hundred dollars, and in one instance reaching the sum
of four hundred dollars in real estate, and making in




124   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
the aggregate two thousand one hundred and eighteen dollars and eighty-eight cents, exclusive of annual donations.
These pledgeswere given on time of ten and twelve years, the
one-half to paidin each year, with the privilege of redeeming
the pledges, earlier if the donors desired. The names of these
donors are to be seen with the respective sums subscribed by
each in the first published report of the Society, and they are of
themselves a memorial of good men, many, if not the most
of whom are now among the sainted dead. Taking the effort
as a whole, the most sanguine hopes of its friends were realized and transcended. The dictates of divine providence were
unequivocally to advance, and for this they constructed their
plans.  Steps were taken for some slight alterations in the
constitution, and the trustees were directed to make application to the legislature, at their next session for an act of
incorporation under the name which they had already assumed, viz.: "The Baptist Education Society of the State of
New York."
A still more important measure was adopted thus early,
respecting the location of the proposed school.  The committe entrusted with the businss of selecting the most suitable site, consisted of Col. David Norton of Sangerfield,
Elisha Payne, Esq., of Hamilton, Deacon John Morse, of
Westmoreland, Charles Randall, Esq., of Norwich, Major
Amos Smith, of Schuyler, Hon. Squier Monroe, of Camillus,
Dr. William Fitch of Franklin. The members of the committee were well distributed, that full justice might be rendered to the merits of the pending question of permanent
location.
Measures were also taken for promoting the interests of
the society, by the appointment of agents, whose office was
no sinecure, but rather involved a great amount of labor without any stipend whatever. About eleven were added to the
list already commissioned to solicit funds. Besides this, several brethren were appointed to visit associations and the
Executive Committee were to prepare a circular letter to the




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   125
several associations which they wished to reach. At this
stage of the enterprise, the acting members of the society
were not inattentive to the health of the students, and recommend to the Executive Committee, the propriety of requiring
of the students suitable exercise for the improvement of their
health, while regarding this, an important subsidiary to the
great and primary object of all their labors " the work of the
ministry, and the edifying of the body of Christ."
Mr. Kendrick was called to serve upon the Executive Committee, and being an accurate and ready, if not strictly elegant writer, made out the reports of this body from time to
time. This imposed a burden which he bore most cheerfully,
and in doing which he became versed in all the details of the
society's operations.
The second anniversary of the society, was held in Whitesborough, June 2nd, 1819. The opening sermon was delivered by the Rev. Joshua Bradley, from Ex. 33: 15, " And
he said unto him, if thy presence go not with me, carry us
not up hence."
Since the last anniversary the work of enlargement had
gone forward steadily. The list of beneficiaries from a solitary member had been increased to six, and as they were the
first fruits of this enterprize, we give their names, Norman
Gitcan, William Watkins, Eugenio Kincaid, Van Renssalaer
Wall, and Harvey Blood. The most of these were engaged
in preparatory study. Mr. Gitcan alone, was occupied in the
study of divinity.  The society's field of patronage had
become very much extended during this year.
The employment of the Rev. Elon Galusha as agent, secured the most efficient services in the way of diffusing a knowledge of the enterprise, and securing to it contributors.
Nearly four hundred contributors were obtained, and in the
aggregate, the sum of eight thousand four hundred seventyeight dollars and fifty-two cents, pledged in the counties of
Madison, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Genesee.  This liberality
11*




126   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
awakened expectations that were not fully justified.  It
appears that some pledges were given with reference to the
location of the contemplated institution, and inasmuch as
the decision of the committee disappointed them, they did
not feel bound to discharge their indebtedness; some compromised by paying a part, others died or emigrated, or
became insolvent before the time expired in which the subscriptions were to be paid. Like many other subscriptions
made to this and kindred causes there was a failure to realize
the whole of specified sums.
The committee of seven having failed to accomplish the
object for which they were appointed, another committee
consisting of three, viz.: Elisha Payne, Esq., of Hamilton,
Dr. Charles Babcock of New Hartford and M. Monroe of
Camillus, were appointed to select the most eligible situation
within the counties of Oneida, Madison, Onondaga, and Cayuga, and report at the next meeting of the Board.
During this year the Education Society was chartered by
the act of the Legislature of New York, bearing date March
5th, 1819, and the object as avowed in the preamble was "to
educate pious young men to the gospel ministry."
It now became desirable to have the committee upon location discharge their duty. It was a question of moment, and
elicited deep interest. Several towns evinced their enthusiasm in this matter, by entering the field as competitors.
Those deserving of particular mention are Skaneateles, Elbridge, Troupsville, Peterboro, and Hamilton. Generous contributions were offered on condition of being preferred.  The
grave and perplexing question was at length settled, by the
decision of the board at its second meeting on the subject,
held at Peterboro, on the third day of November 1818. It was
decided to make Hamilton the seat of the institution, upon
condition, " That the people in the village and vicinity, pay
over to the institution the sum of six thousand dollars, in the
following manner, viz.: three thousand five hundred dollars to




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   127
be laid out in a buildin g, to be completed within four years, and
two thousand five hundred dollars to be paid in board, at one
dollar and fifty cents per week, in five equal annual payments; a place for the school was also to be furnished by
the first of May."
These conditions were accepted, and securities furnished
for the fulfillment of the contract.




128   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. P.
CHAPTER XIII.
Private Teachers-Collection of Students-Opening of the School-First
Tea her in it, Rev. Dr. Hascall-Co-operation of Vermont-Extended
Sphere- Patrons-Graduation of the First Class-Growing favor of
the Seminary-New Edifice-Means of Furnishing the same-Theological Seminary in the City of New York —Scholarships-Consecration services of Mr. and Mrs. Wade, as Missionaries to Burmah.'UP to the date at which the question of location was definitely settled, as noted in the last chapter, the New York
Baptist Education Society had had no regularly organized
school for the training of its beneficiaries.  The number that
had shared in the benefactions of the society was thirteen.
These students, instead of being gathered at one place, had
been distributed about in different places, though for the most
part located either in Whiteboro' or Hamilton.  They were
either at academies or with private instructors, where they
could be conveniently boarded and also advanced in study.
We find in the list of those who engaged as private instructors, to some one or more of the society's beneficiaries, Rev.
Joel W. Clark, Daniel Putnam, Daniel Hascall, and the subject of this memoir.
It was now determined to collect the pupils in one place,
and organize a distinct school for their instruction. Accordingly on the first of May, 1820, the school, having a membership of ten students, was formally opened in the village of
Hamilton, occupying the third story of the brick building
then used as the exclusive edifice, and subsequently for the
ladies' department of the village academy.
It was of vital moment to secure to the infant seminaryfor such it was now designated —a permanent teacher.
Counsel was sought from brethren abroad, and applications




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   129
were made successively to Messrs. Francis Wrayland, Jr.,
and Adiel Sherwood, but without securing their services.
These honored names xMere destined to adorn other seats of
learning. The minds of the managers centered upon the
Rev. Dr. Hascall, who had already rendered valuable services
in the work of instruction, as one who, for the present, must
take the superintendence of the school. He was still pastor
of the church in Hamilton, but consented to occupy the post,
and received for his compensation the moderate sum of
twenty-two dollars and fifty cents per month.
"His services proved so acceptable that he was subsequently appointed to a permanent professorship, and continued
many years in the service of the society, abounding in labors
and sacrifices, and in various ways striving to promote a cause
which lay very near his heart." For sixteen years he held a
professorship in the institution, and in the meanwhile, when
not engaged in imparting instruction to his classes, consenting
to be the society's agent for the collection of funds, or
assuming the work of a contractor in rearing the.needed
seminary buildings. He was ready to become a servant to
all, if he might thereby push forward an enterprize which he
firmly believed to be of God, and not of man. Honor to his
memory, for he descended to his grave toiling for the prosperity of this " school of the prophets." His last labors were
put forth in its behalf, and those who visit the grounds of the
university will look, with a tearful recollection of his virtues,
at the marble shaft that has been reared upon the spot where
his honored dust reposes.
The labor of nearly three years had now been accomplished,
and by the good hand of divine providence, it had been
crowned with sufficient success to excite high hopes of future
enlargement.  The plan already projected for a spacious
edifice, was evidence of progress, and called for corresponding
measure of expansion in every direction whence the school
was to derive its support. About the time that the question
of location was pending, attempts were made to establish a




130   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
seminary in the western part of Vermont, which would make
a draft upon the eastern section of the Empire State. Aware
of this project, then in its inception, the patrons of Hamilton
Seminary deemed it desirable to effect a coalition between the
two enterprizes, believing that such a coalition would promote
the interests of Zion. A correspondence was opened between
the two societies, and measures were inaugurated that led to
the abandonment of a plan for a new and distinct school in
Vermont. To bring about this union Mr. Kendrick was
sent to visit the president of the society in Vermont, and
several members of the board. His advances were met by
the authors of the Vermont enterprize with a spirit of corresponding liberality and paramount regard to the general
interests of the cause. In his cousin and early friend, Rev.
Clark Kendrick, especially, one of the leading Vermont
ministers, and one of the originators of the Vermont movement, he found a cordial sympathizer, and one ready to sacrifice all local considerations for the common good. Thus, by
the exercise of much discretion and sound judgment, this
delicate affair was successfully accomplished, and western
Vermont identified her own educational movements with
those of New York.
This gave an enlarged sphere to the seminary. Its field
was unobstructed to the Green Mountains on the east, and the
Niagara river on the west, and its latitude on the north was
determined by the natural chain of waters, Lake Ontario, and
river St. Lawrence, and for its southern boundary reaching into
the Keystone State.
Within these prescribed limits, were nearly five hundred
Baptist churches, about three hundred of which were west of
the Hudson river. But a small number of these churches
had then been visited by an agent of the seminary, or had
become at all familiar with the operations of the Educational
Society. The limits now defined left full scope for the new
seminary.
An efficient agency in promoting the aims of the institution




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  131
was secured by the influence of such men as the Rev. Messrs.
Joel W. Clark, John Peck, Elon Galusha, Deacon Jonathan
Olmsted, and the subject of this memoir. It was a measure
that gave proof of their judgment, to send, not a single one
at a strong point, but two, and even three, to effect the object
proposed. If the suggestion was borrowed from scripture,
it was certainly none the less valuable on this account. In
illustration of this, we refer to the visit, recorded in the society's Third Annual Report, of that triad of worthies, Kendrick, Galusha, and Olmsted, to the city of Albany, and observe
their success, while the object for which they pleaded was as
yet but obscure and slightly known. Names adorn that subscription list, which it is even now edifying to review. There
among others of less note, are registered the names of His
Excellency, Gov. De Witt Clinton, of Lieut. Gov. Taylor, and
of Chancellor Kent.
In a tour of fifty days, made during this year, (1820), Mr.
Kendrick secured to the society, by his individual labors, subscriptions to the amount of five hundred and one dollars and
fifty cents, besides two hundred and ninety-five dollars and
fifty cents, obtained in Albany with the co-operation of his colleagues. Up to the close of the third fiscal year, ending
June 7th, 1820, about eleven thousand five hundred dollars
had been raised in donations and subscriptions, chiefly through
the agency of the men whose names we have mentioned, but
also with the aid of others whose record is in the earthly and
heavenly Zion.
During the first year after the organization of the seminary,
but a single teacher was employed. The operations of the
second year were conducted with the most rigid economy.
Board was obtained at the low rate of a dollar per week, including lodging and washing, and of this fund but one-sixth
was to be paid in cash, the remainder in produce, wheat being
reckoned at seventy-five cents per bushel. This gave rise to
many subscriptions in produce, and probably drew many to
the support of the institution who otherwise would not have




132   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
rendered it aid, or have become particularly interested in the
cause.
The school for the first year was divided into three classes,
the first of which were completing their preparatory study,
and ready at the close of the year to enter upon the study of
theology.
In the fall of the same year, Mr. Kendrick was employed
to lecture on Moral Philosophy and Theology three times a
week; thus began his connection with the department of instruction.  For his services during the year (which were confined to the senior class,) he received the sum of forty-three
dollars. At the expiration of the second year of the institution,
its friends were permitted to witness the graduation of the first
class, consisting of Jonathan Wade, Eugenio Kincaid, John
G. Stearns, Jason Corwin, and Van Rensselaer Wall, all of
whom still live to labor in the cause of their Master, and two
of whom have long been known as efficient missionaries in
Burmah.
Their graduation was. of course the occasion upon which
the seminary held its first anniversary. Its friends might well
congratulate themselves upon an event so auspicious, and upon
having achieved something worthy of their endeavors.
The society had now assisted twenty-nine young men who
had been approved and licensed by the churches; some of this
number had remained but a short time in the institution, a
part had gone through with the prescribed course, and a part
had yet to accomplish their plans of study. The brief period
that had elapsed since the school began its work, had afforded
but little opportunity to advertise the friends of the denomination of the practical character, and active fruits of the enterprise. At the fourth triennial session of the Baptist General
Convention, held in Washington, in 1823, we find it noted in
the minutes of that body, that "Brother Galusha gave a gratifying account of the Theological Seminary at Hamilton, New
York. Brother Bolles gave a short, but pleasing account of the
college at Waterville, Maine. After which, the convention




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   133
expressed their extreme pleasure in hearing of the success of
these institutions, and hoped they might be eminently useful
in the cause of religion and science."
Another, and more effective method of apprizing the public of the existence of this school, and of its legitimate
benefits, was through the agency of its students.  These
were sent out to supply vacant pulpits, sometimes for a single Lord's Day, and again for several weeks together;
besides, the vacations were occupied, more or less, in this
kind of labor. This gave an opportunity for the people to
make the acquaintance of the young men engaged in the
seminary, and they would not fail through them to learn the
object proposed by its projectors and friends.  It is no exaggeration to say, that in the Christian character and pulpit
exercises of these students, there was generally created a
strong and decided impression, both in their favor, and in
favor of the school which they represented.  There were not
a few instances in which revivals of religion commenced
under the labors of these candidates for the ministry, and in
the converts to righteousness there were sure to be found
warm  friends of ministerial education.  Through such instrumentalities the churches were gradually constrained to
lay aside their long-cherished prejudices, and became zealous
in their support of this theological school; and churches, in
want of pastors, naturally began to look to it as a means of
supplying their necessities. Thus the institution and cause
to which it was consecrated, grew in favor, less by the formal
advocacy of their claims through the pulpit and the press,
than by the practical demonstration which they furnished of
the utility to the preacher of systematic study.
When it was shown, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that
a man called of God to the functions of the sacred office, was
rendered far more efficient by thorough mental training and
scholastic discipline, it was no longer problematical whether
concerted measures to perfect this culture were entitled to
support.  It was no longer a matter of doubtful experiment;
12




134   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
it commended itself to every friend of Zion, and every coworker in the cause of universal evangelism.
The prosperous condition of the seminary at its second
anniversary, the vigor and efficiency of the labors of Mr.
Kendrick and his associates on its behalf, will be seen by a
few simple statements. Eight students were graduated at
this time. The scheme, printed for the occasion in Van
Sice's best style, is of antique character, and has names from
the senior and middle classes that have since adorned various
posts of usefulness in our beloved Zion.  Seventeen orations
are in the programme, followed by an address to the class
from Prof. Kendrick. The liberal sheet on which it is printed
possesses no slight historic interest. A copy of anniversary
scheme of thirty years ago, is no uninstructive relic of the
past. It guides us to the head springs of influence which
have since sent forth living streams of healing power. As
a single copy of a newspaper, tells at a glance its own story
of the age in which it was issued, so here, the anniversary
sheet of the institution is an index of its condition.
The organization of the institution now also received a
degree of completeness and permanence which it had hitherto
lacked.  The instructors hitherto temporarily employed,
were, after full experience of their competence, confirmed in
their appointments; and Rev. Daniel Hascall was then forreally elected Professor of the Latin and Greek Languages,
and Mr. Kendrick of Christian Theology, each with a salary
of $400 per annum.
This anniversary was also an eventful one, from the fact
that the straitened quarters of the school, in the third story of
the academy, were to be exchanged for the new stone edifice
then completed.  This structure, thirty-six by sixty-four feet,
and three stories high, offered eligible accommodations, much
in advance of the former building. This edifice, complete in
its arrangements, greeted the eyes of visitors six months
earlier than was specified in the contract, much to the credit
of the people of IHamilton.  The committee appointed to




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   135
estimate the building and board, and to decide upon the fulfillment of the contract, consisting of Rev. Alfred Bennett,
brethren Charles Randall, and Seneca B. Burchard, reported
a fulfillment of the contract, with a little over thirty dollars
in favor of the covenanters.
The investment of over five thousand dollars in a building,
consisting of rooms for students, and suitable apartments for
recitations, and rhetorical purposes, required a new draft upon
the liberality of friends for the means of furnishing it. To
meet this necessity, an appeal was made to the benevolence
of ladies, who were encouraged by the general agent of the
Education Society, and others, to form female societies for
the purpose of aiding in the cause of ministerial culture.
The donations that took the form of necessary articles in the
furniture of the building, were highly acceptable, and of
greater value than money, for such gifts stimulated many to
offer small contributions with the needle, or the fruits of
femals industry, who would not have deemed themselves
able to present money to any considerable amount. Thus
they were admitted to the luxury of doing something for the
good cause, and were stimulated to other and still larger
gifts.
It would disparage the work of female societies if we
were to mention only small donation, since among the early
benefactions from this source, we must place to the credit of
the "New York Female Baptist Association for Education
Purposes," a temporary scholarship amounting to two hundred and ten dollars.
The Institution had now reached the sum of twenty-five
hundred dollars per annum in its current expenses. To
provide this amount, contributions were solicited annually
from the churches, and individuals of well-known liberality
were appealed to. The most competent men were selected
for this collecting agency. The names of Galusha, Clark,
Peck, Warren, Olmsted, Hascall, and Kendrick could never
pass from memory because of their labors in this department




136   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
alone.  The territory was now extending from which contributions were gathered.  Vermont, as already hinted, had
opened her fruitful field and given one of her most gifted
sons in the person of the Rev. Clark Kendrick to be the
solicitor and almoner of her bounties.  This example was
followed by the brethren of the metropolis, and of the state
of Connecticut.  The New York Baptist Theological Seminary in the City of New York, formed a coalition with the
New York Baptist Education Society. The resolution passed
by the board of this body, is dated March 14th, 1823, and
reads thus: "Resolved, That it is expedient to send the
seminary at IIamlilton, such an annual sum as mav be conveniently spared, and such students as may by this board be
received. "
In a report presented the following year, we find this
minute expressive of the view  of the society.  "The
Hamilton Institution combines utility and economy. The
course of instruction there pursued meets our entire approbation, and in the integrity, intelligence, and evangelical zeal
of its Professors, we repose the most unlimited confidence.
The Institution, although but in its infancy, now contains
forty-three theological students, of whom thirty-eight are
beneficiaries, and for whose support, fresh and vigorous
efforts must be made."
From all the information that we have been able to glean
from different sources, pertaining to the operations of the
Theological Seminary in the City, we do not learn that its
students were at any time numerous. The report of 1822,
makes mention that "the Faculty of Instruction, by a late
election of the Board of Trustees, consists of
REV. JOHN STANFORD, A. M., President and Professor
of Theology;
REV. ARCHIBALD MACLAY, A. M., Professor of Ecclesicstical tHistory and Biblical Literature;
MR. DANIEL Il. BARNES, A. M., Professor of Languages;




REV. NATIIHANIEL KENDRICKI, D.D.   137
who have already entered on the duties of their professorships. "
This seminary was remembered in the munificent gifts of
John Withington. In the list of his bequests to various
objects, amounting in all to over forty thousand dollars, we
find twelve hundred dollars given to this school.
As preeminently efficient in preparing the way for the
union of these two societies, the general agent, (Rev. Joel
W. Clark,) made special mention of brethren Barnes, Maclay
and Colgate.
" These excellent brethren," says he, "had pursued such a
course in regard to the great and good object to be accomplished, as will ever mark the worth of prudence and wisdom,
and should put their praise in all the churches."
This union was one of the most auspicious events to the
Hamilton Institution.  The churches of the city became
valuable contributors, and of their young men who were converted to Christ, those who were called to the ministry, began
to seek in this school, the requisite preparation for their work.
Similar encouragement was derived from the state of Connecticut.
Another favorable feature marked the history of the present
year, preserving a financial stability and growth beyond the
most sanguine expectation of its founders.
We refer now to scholarships, endowed with a thousand
dollars each, the interest of which was sufficient to support
a student, and which would of course bear the donor's name.
Five of these perpetual scholarships were secured.  The
names of Olmsted, Monroe, and Moss were the first enrolled
in this work, each individual subscribing his thousand dollars,
and the other two referred to were raised by individuals
uniting their means, and called the Crandall, Fox and
Gregory's scholarship, and the other the Canaan and Austerlitz's scholarship.
Three days after the commencement exercises, the committee in the State of New York, appointed by the Baptist
12*




138   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Board of Foreign Missions in the United States, to examine
candidates for missionary service among the heathen, were
convened in Hamilton for the pleasing task of determining
upon the qualifications of the first beneficiary of the Education Society, Mr. Jonathan Wade, and his wife, Mrs. Deborah
Wade. The result of their examination was a unanimous
recommendation to send them as missionaries to the empire
of Burmah.  The eleventh of June was appointed as the
day of their formal consecration to this work. The public
exercises were held in Utica. It was a memorable day to
those godly men who bore part in the solemn and appropriate services. It was offering up the first fruits of their
favorite enterprise to the heathen world; thus pledging their
"school of the prophets" to the missionary cause, as well as
to ministerial culture. This devotement of the first-born of
this institution to heathen lands proved an earnest of after
gifts. Many have since followed the example of Mr. Wade,
and what is more, the example of the Great Missionary
from heaven to earth.
The services on this ocession consisted of a sermon by
Mr. Kendrick, founded upon 2 Tim. 2: 10-" Therefore I
endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also
obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal
glory." Rev. Alfred Bennett, of Homer, offered the consecrating prayer. Rev. Daniel Hascall gave the charge; and
Rev. Joel W. Clark presented the hand of fellowship. Rev.
John Peck delivered some appropriate remarks to Mrs.
Wade; and Rev. Elon Galusha tendered her the hand of
Christian fellowship; and the concluding prayer was offered
by Rev. E  F. Willey.  It is said, "The services were
solemn, affecting, and deeply interesting to all who attended.
It was a season that can never be forgotten by many who
were present."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   139
CHAPTER XIV.
FROM 1824 —127 INCLUSIVE.
Death of prominent Members of the Board-Death of Mrs. KendrickCurrent Expenses-Provision for the same-Scholarships-Legacies
-Providential Aid-Enlargement-Donation of Deacon PayneIncident-Site of University Buildings-Tours of Dr. KendrickIncrease of Teachers-Chance of Vacations —Completion and Opening of New Edifice.
As the life and labors of Dr. Kendrick were now thoroughly identified with the Seminary, its history will, to a
great extent, be a record of his own biography. Being a
member of the Faculty, and one of the Executive Committee,
and Corresponding Secretary, he must of necessity be versed
in all the details of business connected with the Education
Society, and the internal management of the school. No
new plan could be projected but it must come before his
mind prior to its adoption by the Board; and every item of
interest that pertained to the welfare of the institution was
at once brought to his knowledge, and often he was the chief
and only channel of communication with the Board.
In the Seventh Annual Report, which covers a part of the
period indicated by the heading of this chapter, there is a
notice of the decease of two members of the Board, whose
removal was felt as a severe less. One was the Rev. Clark
Kendrick, of Poultney, Vt., the acting President of the
Board, and the superintending agent of the cause of ministerial education in his own state.  This fellow-laborer of
the subject of this memoir, converted about the same time,
and being a kinsman of his also, was closely identified with
him in the promotion of the general cause of ministerial
education. No one, probably, exerted a greater influence




140   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
upon the people of his own state in bringing about the coalition
of the Educational Society of Vermont with that of New
York, to which allusion has been made; and after the union
was perfected, and the project of a state institution abandoned,
he was particularly active and efficient in raising funds for
the Hamilton school, and directing young men called to the
ministry to seek its privileges. For many years the Green
Mountain State furnished a good proportion of students, and
was liberal in her benefactions to the school. In this supply
of men and means the influence of the Rev. Clark Kendrick
was marked and decisive. His eloquence was often employed
to advance the general interests of the Education Society,
and his removal in the year 1824 was no common loss to this
branch of Christian enterprise, as well as to Zion at large.
The other member of the board to whom we refer was
the Rev. Obed. Warren, intimately known to the brother
whose decease we have just noticed. For his tried excellence
and true-hearted devotion to every good work he deserves to
be had in lasting remembrance. In different offices he was
found faithful and efficient, and was very useful to the seminary as an agent in collecting funds.  The decease of these
brethren removed two reliable pillars from the institution.
Mr. Kendrick was called to present funeral discourses of
both these ministers, extracts from which have appeared; of
the former, in the American Baptist Magazine of July, 1824,
and of the latter in the biographical sketches of the History
of the New York Baptist Convention.
Another event must here be recorded, affecting more intimately the domestic circle of Mr. Kendrick. In the fall of
1824, he experienced a heavy family affliction in death of his
wife. It occurred on the eighth of November, its immediate
cause was consumption. The disease had fastened upon her
naturally frail constitution, and rapidly developed itself in the
last few months of her life. Her death was a triumph of
Christian faith, and left another bright attestation to the
mourning husband of that Scripture sentiment —" Precious




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   141
in the sight of the Lord is the death of the saints."  Thus
alike in his own family, and in the circle of Christian ministers
intimately associated with him in building up the seminary,
was he chastened of the Lord.
The current expenses of the school for the period now
under review, ranged from about three thousand three hunhundred to over four thousand four hundred dollars. The
collection  of funds to this amount from  year to year,
demanded unremitting vigilance. Being purely a religious
enterprise, it required not only financial ability in the
managers, but strong faith in God, and earnest piety to
follow  out the measures projected.  Recourse to annual
solicitations often in small sums, imposed the necessity of
agency work. This was often devolved upon the faculty of
instruction, when other instrumentalities failed.  The collection of these small offerings was subject to a heavy percentage, but an advantage was secured in the wider interest
thus awakened in the institution.
The projectors of the school, now began to receive more
substantial tokens of favor in permanent scholarships of one
thousand dollars each, the interest of which was sufficient to
maintain a student from year to year.
Besides these, temporary scholarships were constituted by
the payment of seventy dollars annually, for a term of three
years. About seventeen of these were procured in the City
of New York, with the hope that they would be renewed at
the close of the period. In securing these generous contributions, the general agent, Rev. J. W. Clark, was assisted
by Mr. Kendrick.  The very favorable reception of the cause
in that quarter, awakened lively gratitude, and prompted
glowing language in the report offered to the board. To
add to the gratification of the managers of the Seminary, a
loan was made from the society in Connecticut to the society
of New York State of six hundred dollars, and personal loans
were made of two hundred and fifty dollars, besides, subscriptions of over thirteen hundred dollars, and a bequest of




142   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D.
one thousand dollars. Another source of encouragement was
offered in the form of legacies, pledged to the institution.
The very seasonable donations to the institution, served
often to encourage its friends, especially those to whom the
responsibilty of its guidance and control was committed.
To be in pressing need and yet know not whence supplies
would be obtained, was calculated to make the managers
look with hopeful eyes towards every avenue through which
aid might possible flow. To be surprised with help from an
unexpected quarter was greeted as a manifest token of divine
favor. Occasions there were of this kind in this term of four
years. Near the commencement of the seminary year, 1825,
the treasury was empty.  From a distant city upon the
Atlantic coast, brethren Nathaniel R. Cobb and J. P. Jones
forwarded each a hundred dollars. It was a godsend. Since
the name of the former has become familiar as a household
word among the friends of benevolent enterprises, it may not
be amiss to say that he was first introduced to the general
agent in New York, by Dr. Sharp, and made a tender of
fifty dollars for his first donation, as the cause was well
endorsed by the Boston minister; and the gift had several
worthy successors.
The numerous tokens of approbation from abroad, and the
substantial evidence of support in the shape of "material
aid," left no room to doubt that the enterprise of ministerial
education as begun in Hamilton, must advance.  The
increasing membership of the school called for accommodations upon a larger scale. Impressed with these convictions
the board in August 17th, 1825, authorized the executive
committee to erect another building of much ampler dimensions to accommodate the students, provided they could do it
without interfering with the funds already obtained. This
measure was further justified by the promise of aid from a
source unlooked for, the particular occasion of which will be
subsequently noticed.
To show a little what the standing of the seminary was,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   143
we may here give an extract from a letter of Dr. Gano, of
Rhode Island, to Dr. Kendrick. It bears date June 28th,
1824, and was written soon after a visit made to Hamilton:
"The prospects of usefulness from the institution with
which you are connected, in the cause of the precious Redeemer, is greatly encouraging. I have seen no seminary of
the kind that appears to me so well calculated to fit young
men for the work of the ministry. May Heaven smile upon
it, and abundantly bless you in the work in which you are
engaged. "
The project of enlargement was not suddenly conceived,
nor was it hastily acted upon. Time was taken for frequent
and full deliberations, both with individuals and with the
sister body in the city of New York. The result was to
proceed to measures for the erection of a spacious edifice.
The society in the city adopted the most cordial and approving resolutions upon the subject. Despite all the care
and vexation of contracting for an edifice and overseeing its
construction, along with the discharge of duties of instruction, the Rev. Mr. Hascall assumed this double burden.
While these measures were maturing, a donation was made
to the Education Society which deserves special notice, alike
from the value of the gift itself, and the circumstances and
motives of the giver. We refer to the farm of Deacon
Samuel Payne, consisting of one hundred and twenty-three
acres, valued at $4000, and including the present site of the
university buildings. The whole was made over to the
society by a warrantee deed, allowing to the donor and his
wife the use of nearly one-half of the farm during their
lives.
An incident attending the settlement of the place, and the
part which Mr. Payne bore in it, deserves mention here.
Being one of the first to penetrate the unbroken wilderness,
he is said to have taken his axe in hand, and after having
struck the first blow into one of the trees of the standing
forest, he bowed the suppliant knee in the solitude of the




144   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
wilderness, and prayed that there might be a Baptist church
in the town. The period of his settlement was in the year
1794, and in 1796 the First Baptist Church of Hamilton was
organized. It is a pleasing reminiscence now, to learn, that
the chosen spot of his devotions at that time, was very near,
if not the identical site now occupied by one of the university buildings. Thus the very soil was consecrated by the
act of prayer, which was subsequently made over to the
cause of Christ, and the overshadowing trees were converted
into a natural sanctuary, and the hill then made vocal with
the breathings of earnest prayer, which has since become a
modern Carmel.
All who visit Hamilton, can entertain but one opinion of
its beauty. The hill upon which the university buildings
stand overlooks the village, and commands a charming prospect of a few miles around. The vale resembles somewhat
an amphitheatre, the university hill constituting the raised
platform, while the more elevated summit in the south forms
the back ground of the triangular or circular range of hills.
The selection of a new site, separated from the old one by
nearly a hundred rods, rendered it necessary to construct a
boarding hall in connection with the new building.  These
outlays demanded about $7,500.  Two thousand dollars were
invested by the New York Theological Society, in the form
of scholarships, bearing the worthy names of Withington
and Hunter, besides one thousand which they had previously
advanced. Another scholarship was invested in the boarding hall edifice. This large outlay of funds called for vigorous measures to raise the requisite amount.
In the course of olie year Dr. Kendrick made three tours,
one in the month of June, through the counties of Cortland,
Seneca and Cayuga.  He, and other agents, made large
collections in produce, where money could not be raised. In
the month of September, 1826, he made a tour to the city,
principally to obtain funds for the building.  This was a
highly successful one, resulting in a loan of a thousand dol



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   145
lars, from the New  York Baptist Theological Seminary,
towards the building, besides other sums for the school.
During the winter he took a tour through the western part
of Massachusetts, and the states of Connecticut and Vermont,
collecting over eleven hundred dollars.  Other members of
the faculty were also sent abroad upon collecting tours, and
but for their perseverance in their solicitations the scheme
must have failed.
During the period now sketched the faculty had been
increased only by the addition of a tutor. In this capacity
Beriah N. Leach was first called to serve, and afterwards
Chancellor Hartshorn, both brethren that had shared the
benefits of the school with credit to themselves and honor to
their instructors.
The seminary graduated at the rate of eleven per year, and
was receiving accessions at the rate of twenty.  Thus its
nmelmbership was increasing year by year. No marked change
was perceptible in the course of study, save that it was
gradally gaining in symmetry and in completeness.  An
important change was effected in the vacations of the school.
From the first opening of the seminary in May, 1820 to 1826,
the annual vacations amounted to eight weeks, but then they
were extended to fourteen, of which twelve were to occur in
the winter, beginning with the first of December. This was
done to facilitate the objects of the institution. Beneficiaries
could devote three months to school teaching and preaching
among the destitute churches. They could thus assist themselves in clothing, and were expected to bring the sum of
twenty dollars each into the general treasury.
The crowning event in the period which we have now
hastily surveyed was the completion of the new edifice, which
had been undertaken with so much anxiety, and carried forward under auspicious tokens of divine providence. Before
this consummation was reached, and while the friends were
struggling in the endeavor, Dr. Cone, of New York, than
13




146   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
whom a heartier supporter was rarely found, gave vent to
his anxiety in the following strain:" The enlargement of your premises is an important matter. Your troubles will be multiplied; your responsibilities
increased, and much ampler means of future support must
be provided than have heretofore been found necessary. And
will the doctrinal correctness of the institution be thereby
secured, and its evangelical usefulness enhanced? This, to
say the most, is but problematical. Under existing circumstances I feel deeply interested for Hamilton Theological
Seminary, but should other circumstances arise that feeling
would be gone entirely, and I might be left to regret the
efforts used to enlarge and render permanent an establishment
calculated to do rather harm than good.
" I leave this subject, however, for the present. We may,
not long hence, have an opportunity of talking it over more
at large, and the superior advantages of large theological institutions over smaller ones, may hereafter appear to a mind
which is at this time too obtuse to perceive them."
In the face of misgivings with some, the work advanced,
and the tenth annual meeting of the Education Society witnessed the completion of the new edifice, (now known as the
Western).
Accompanying the report of that year, is a notice to this
erect:
" On Tuesday preceding the annual meeting, the new seminary was opened by an appropriate sermon from Rev. Stephen Gano, of Providence, R. I., from Isa. 29: 11, 12,'And
the vision of all is become to you as the words of a book that
is sealed, which men deliver unto one that is learned, saying,
read this, I pray thee; and he saith, I cannot, for it is sealed.
And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying,
read this I pray thee: and he saith I-am not learned.'
"The meeting was held in the chapel, containing a part of
the third and fourth stories of the building. The assembly
was large, and deeply interested by the discourse; and an




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   147
address from Professor Hascall, embracing a view of the providence of God which had conducted the institution to its
present elevation; after which a collection was taken of one
hundred and eleven dollars.
" The annual meeting of the association of the alumni and
friends, was held in the afternoon of the same day, when a
number of able and interesting addresses were made to the
meeting. The day was closed by an exhibition of the middle
class.
" The day following was set apart to the public performances of the senior class, together with three from the middle
class. As far as Christians could judge, there appeared an
unction from the Holy One, which rendered the whole transactions interesting; and many could say, it is good to be
here. "
The executive committee gave utterance to the sentiment
which was generally and widely adopted by the friends of
ministerial education, in the following lines, which concluded
their report in June, 1827:
" The increasing favor of this institution, in the eyes of
God's people, manifested by their prayers and liberalities, and
the progress with which it has been built up under his providence, are regarded as a proof of divine approbation, and a
presage of its future usefulness to the cause of Christ."




148   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER XV.
FROM 1828-1833 INCLUSIVE.
Occupancy of New Edifice —Gradual Changes —Additional Teachers —
Course of Study Extended —Preparatory Department —Another Professor —Change and Reduction of Vacations —Beneficiaries-Manual
Labor —Current Expenses —Salaries-Raising Funds —Providential
Relief.
THE last chapter conducted us through an important stage
in the history of the seminary. Its more eligible site and
commodious structure, gave unmistakable signs of prosperity.
There was now provision for nearly one hundred students.
To this structure of liberal dimensions, the school was now
removed, consisting of about eighty students, of whom forty
were beneficiaries. Such was now the growing prosperity of
the seminary, as marked by the increase of its students, that
it required, at the end of six years, another enlargement of
its means of accommodation.  The least number entered
during any one of the six years, was nineteen, and the highest forty-nine.
In the large accessions from year to year, new demands
were made upon the managers to meet the exigences that
were arising in the transition period of the school.  The
wants of candidates for admission, were materially different.
Some were advanced to such a period of maturity both of
years and of practical experience, as not to justify their connection with the institution for more than two or three years,
while there were others, younger in age, or less experience,
whose term of pupilage might profitably be extended to six
years, and more.  With the influx of students whose ages,
capacities, circumstances and wants, were various, arose the
question of establishing a preparatory school as an auxiliary




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   149
to the institution, but to which pious young men of any religious denomination, might be admitted, and for which a forrmal approval or action of the church, should not be demanded. The matter, however, being submitted to the board of
the Education Societyof New York city, was regarded by them
as a hazardous experiment, and the plan was accordingly
abandoned.
It was with a jealous eye, that every change was scrutinized, that would seem to abridge the privileges of those for
whom the seminary was especially founded. The spirit of
conservation was a dominant one in the deliberations and
decisions of the board of trustees.  There were changes,
however, which they were compelled to make.  For the
most part, they were gradually made, and experience very
soon justified their adoption.
During the first year after entering the new building, the
school was in a measure organized, and additional studies
provided for those who wished to pursue a more extended
classical and biblical course.
This called for more help in instruction. Up to this time,
two professors and a tutor had sufficed. The list was now
increased by the election of Mr. Seth S. Whitman, who
entered upon the duties of his office about the first of March,
1828. In the following year it was necessary to add another
professor, and to make a new arrangement in the duties
assigned to the several teachers. The departments of instruction were thus distributed: to Prof. Hascall was assigned
Natural Philosophy and Sacred Rhetoric; to Dr. Kendrick,
Systematic and Pastoral Theology, and Moral Philosophy;
to Prof. Whitman, Hebrew and Biblical Criticism; and to
the newly elected Professor, Barnas Sears, the Chair of
Languages.
The last named professorship was first tendered to the
Rev. Daniel H. Barnes, of New York City, an eminent scholar
and a highly successful teacher of youth. He visited Hamilton, and spent a few days at the institution, and consulted
13*




150   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
freely with the executive committee upon the state and
prospects of the school. Sudden death prevented his acceptance of the appointment. On the public road, in attempting
to escape from the stage coach, from which the driver had
been thrown, he fell and injured his head so as to cause
almost immediate death. Thus one of whom high hopes
had been cherished, and who had many years before been
selected for the same chair in New York Theological Seminary, was unexpectedly removed.
At the same time with the accession of Prof. Sears, the
classical department was extended so that the whole course
in 1829 embraced four years. The theological department,
however, was equally open to those whose age and circumstances prohibited their taking anything more than a short
English course.
In 1831 a preparatory department was organized, and Mr.
Asahel C. Kendrick (son of Rev. Clark Kendrick, of Vermont,) was employed as teacher for one year.  At the
expiration of this term he was unanimously elected to a professorship of languages, and became a permanent teacher.
With this new addition to the course of study, the whole
period embraced six years. The candidates for admission
were still confined to those whom the churches recommended
as possessing gifts and graces which indicated their call to
the work of the ministry.
The board were still impressed with the conviction that
they had not made ample provision for instruction. There was
yet a call for a mathematical chair. To reap the benefits of a
higher mathematical course, five of the students, among those
of the first promise, had left to avail themselves of a regular
collegiate system, and the year after, ten made up their minds
to follow their example. This matter assumed so grave a
character, that a special committee was appointed to investigate thoroughly the internal state of the institution. They
met in March, 1832, and were unanimous in their opinion,
that in view of the amount of labor performed by the pro



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   151
fessors, and the rapid increase of students, another professor
was greatly needed.  The board could no longer hesitate
to meet the demand, and Rev. Joel S. Bacon, President of
Georgetown College, was called to the Professorship of
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy.
With the changes now indicated, others became necessary
as the fruit of experience.
After about six years' trial of the long vacation of twelve
weeks in the winter, the executive committee were fully
convinced that it was not the best arrangement. While it
facilitated measures for defraying the expenses of students,
it retarded their progress in study, by depriving them of the
best portion of the year'for study, and giving them  no
relaxation from study when they most required it, in the
heat of summer.  This sacrifice of time, on the part of a
hundred young men, eager to enter the harvest fields, could
not be regarded with indifference; besides, the list of beneficiaries was relatively reduced from what it was in the
incipient stages of the school. The committee accordingly
reduced the time given to vacations from fourteen weeks to
ten, making the longest vacation, of six weeks, to commence
on the third Monday in August.
This arrangement being made, the board no longer insisted
upon the payment of twenty dollars annually on the part of
each beneficiary, toward his expenses.  Mature convictions
determined the board to adopt the same plan which the
Northern Baptist, and the American Education Societies had
done, viz.: not to furnish gratuitous aid to indigent young
men, but to make the annual appropriation a loan, subject to
no interest until they left the institution.
This regulation did not affect those who were beneficiaries
of scholarships, or of auxiliary societies. There was a discretionary power also with the executive, to relinquish all
claims on those who became permanent missionaries, and to
cancel wholly or in part, the obligations of others who




152   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, 1. D.
remained indigent in their circumstances, and were unable to
repay the sums advanced.
The students, meantime, were encouraged to devote some
attention to manual labor, as a matter both of health and
economy. A society for the systematic performance of manual
labor was organized, called with reference to its object, the
Philoponian Society. Although the fruits of this labor pecuniarily, were small, yet for the physical as well as mental
benefits derived from it, the board earnestly recommended its
continuance. Indeed, in compliance with a unanimous petition originating with the students, the board required manual
labor of all the members of the institution, except in cases of
inability, or for other reasons which might apply more especially to those who defrayed their own expenses.
To render the adoption of this measure practicable, it
became necessary to introduce mechanical branches of industry, so that no interruptions should take place from change
of weather and seasons. In the spring of 1832, a workshop
was fitted up and furnished with the requisite stock, and
tools, for the manufacture of window-sash.  Providentially
one of their number, well acquainted with the business, was
ready to superintend the factory, in order thus to meet the
expenses of his education.
The current expenses of the school were increased in this
term of six years, so that in the closing one 1833, they
reached the sum of seven thousand five hundred. and seven
dollars and thirty-six cents. The membership of the seminary had increased, and in place of two professors and one
tutor, the faculty now consisted of six permanent professors,
and the sum originally fixed upon for their support, was no
longer adequate to their wants.  Up to the year 1830, no
one of the faculty received more than four hundred dollars
per year, as his stated salary; but at this time their salaries
were increased to five hundred dollars, per year. The board of
students, including lodging and washing, was furnished at
one dollar per week, so that the whole expense for board and




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   153
tuition, reached but the moderate sum of fifty-four dollars,
per year.  Thus the financial affairs of the school, were conducited with the most rigid economy.
To provide the means for current expenses, the chief
dependence was upon agencies. In the failure of the board
to obtain the services of one who could give his undivided
energies to the collection of funds, the professors were chosen
and sent among the churches for this object. To avoid as
far as possible a conflict of duties, the seasons of vacation
were devoted to this work. Local agents were also leaned
upon, to some extent, and here and there a layman was drafted out for a single tour of a few weeks. Special dependence, however, was still placed upon Dr. Kendrick, for the
raising of funds. During each year of this period, it devolved
upon him to go abroad for the purpose of soliciting aid
Each tour occupying sometimes nearly three months. In
one of these, commenced on the fifth of January, 1829,
embracing two months, he visited the counties of Duchess,
Berkshire, Bennington, Rutland, and Addison, on the west
of the Green Mountains, and crossed Lake Champlain, into
Clinton county, and went as far north as Plattsburgh.  In
the following year he made a tour occupying eleven weeks in
which he visited New York City, the counties of Duchess.
Rensselaer, Saratoga, and Washington, besides meeting some
unfinished business in the counties of Rutland, and Addison, in the State of Vermont.  One plan which he adopted
upon this solicitation tour, was to obtain an annual subscription, to be continued for five years, and where it was convenient receive the first installment, leaving the original subscription, in every place, with an efficient agent, to collect
and forward to the treasurer, as it should become due.  This
plan looked to the desirableness of dispensing with annual
agency work.
In the following year Mr. Kendrick's visit to New York
City, resulted in obtaining three scholarships of one thousand
dollars each, besides subscriptions to cancel a loan with




154   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
interest, amounting to nine hundred and eighty-nine dollars
and twelve cents, and subscriptions for present use, amounting
to five hundred and thirteen dollars.  The year succeeding
this, he made three tours, and was highly favored in his mission.
The state of Connecticut, from local considerations withdrew her support in 1829, still cherishing friendly dispositions. Vermont still continued her patronage of students
and " material aid."
In conducting the finances of this school, there were
numerous occasions to witness unexpected relief, when its
managers were oppressed with indebtedness. In 1830, there
was opportunity to mark a striking providence of this character. Reliance was made upon a pledge of five hundred
dollars, from the sister society in New York City. It was
greatly needed, and Prof. Sears was appointed special agent
to visit the board in New York, and obtain the money, but
the time for raising it was so unpropitious that it was judged
expedient to postpone its collection until six months later.
Just then a door of relief was opened in the following manner. The Hon. Heman Lincoln of Boston in his negotiations
with the Secretary of War, succeeded in procuring arrears
from the general government of the United States, due the
Education Society, amounting to six hundred and twentyseven dollars and fifty cents. This indebtedness was incurred
for the education of seven Indian youth, from the Carey Station, Michigan, who entered the institution in 1826, for the
term of four years, three of whom left before the term expired,
and four remained, a part of the year after. The patronage
obtained from the United States government, required considerable correspondence to be conducted by Mr. Kendrick,
as the organ of the Education Society; and amid the fluctuations and delays incident to affairs of this nature, would
not probably have been secured at all, but for the able and
persevering efforts of the men to whom the business was
intrusted.




REV. NATHANIEL KEN'DRICK, D.D.   155
CHAPTER XVI.
FROM 1828-1833 INCLUSIVE.
Influence of Revivals in the Seminary-In 1828 —In 1830-31, Embraced
in a letter of Rev. S. B. Page —Third Marriage of Dr. Kendrick.
IN this period we must not omit to notice the influence of
revivals of religion in promoting the prosperity of the seminary, and giving it favor in the eyes of the people. During
the winter of 1828, several of the students were highly
favored where they preached, with the special influences of
the Divine Spirit upon the Churches. The seasons of more
marked interest in the seminary, and through its agency in
sections near and remote from it, were still later in this term
of six years.
The writer acknowledges his indebtedness to the Rev. S.
B. Page, for the following sketch which embraces a valuable
and instructive history both for ministers and churches.
"During the summer and fall term of 1830, the state of
religious interest was very low in the institution, and also in
the churches generally throughout the state. Many churches
had been severely rent by the agitation and consequent
excitement upon the subject of " speculative Free Masonry."
The ways of Zion mourned; the Spirit of God was grieved
and appeared to have withdrawn from the churches. There
were doubless some in all the churches, whose steady piety
and zeal manifested themselves at all times, who sighed over
this sad condition.
"It was during this period of declension, that a dark
cloud came over the institution that threatened for a time the
most disastrous results.  The senior class in the theological
department was unusually large, and embraced a more than




156   REV. NATHIIANIEL KENDRIC, D.D.
ordinary amount of talent and scholarship.  They were
engaged in the investigation of questions in systematic
theology under Dr Kendrick.  When they came to the subject of the divinity of Christ, they resolved to make thorough
work of it, and endeavor if possible, to understand it and have
it clearly settled if possible upon a reasonable basis, so that in
publicly presenting the doctrine, they might be able to divest
it, at least of some of its obscurities, and remove some of the
formidable difficulties in which they fancied it was involved.
The impression made upon the junior members of the school
was, that they had determined to outstrip their predecessors
in study, in this department of theology, and that they would
not relinquish their investigations, until they had fathomed
this mystery of godliness. They gave the full strength of
their minds to the examination of the subject together, for
days, availed themselves of all the helps within their reach,
and being confident of success, they addressed themselves to
the work with no common zeal, with almost irrepressible
energy.
" One week' passed away without attaining the wished for
result; their minds were still befogged; another anxious
week they toiled, and thought they descried a few faint
gleams of light, but before the expiration of the third week
the startling announcement was made,'that they had discovered that the Lord Jesus Christ was not a divine
personage, that though evidently superior to man, he was
still less than God.' The whole school was petrified with
astonishment at this report. A clap of thunder in a cloudless
sky, or an earthquake in a serene and sunny day, could not
have produced a more alarming shock. Students might be
seen in larger and smaller groups upon the seminary grounds,
expressing their unfeigned surprise and profound grief at the
result of that prolonged investigation, which it was hoped
would disrobe the subject of its bewildering mysteries. But
alas! they met with a failure.  A majority of the class, it
was rumored, had called in question the divinity of Christ,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   157
and embraced the new view of his inferiority to the Father,
with great confidence that it could be vindicated and maintained.
" Their good and faithful instructor was overwhelmed with
inexpressible grief and agony of spirit.  He endeavored at
once to convince them  of their egregious error.  For days
together, scarcely any other topic was considered, for this
was the engrossing theme of conversation both with officers
and students.  The faculty, apprehensive that these novel
and dangerous views would be disastrous to the cause of
religion, and fearing that they would spread like leaven in
the minds of the students, took up the subject, and lectured
in course, on successive evenings, to the whole body of the
school.  As the class infected with these views was under
the immediate instruction of Dr. Kendrick, he gave the fir.st
lecture in the series. It was an able and thorough discussion
of the doctrine of Christ's divinity, and delivered in the
doctor's most solemn and impressive manner.  His treatment of the subject was satisfactory to all, except those who
had diverged from the line of truth, and plunged rashly into
the regions of error.
"Professor Hascall followed in a clear, scriptural view of
the doctrine. Then Professor Whitman unfolded the subject,
and enforced his arguments in support of the evangelical view,
with a soul full of emotion, and with eyes suffused with tears.
Last in order came Professor Sears, then the youngest member of the faculty, but possessing rare qualifications for the
task which he then performed.  His masterly discussion of
the theme, gave an earnest of his future eminence as a profound scholar, a writer of excellent taste, and an eloquent
speaker. I here recall one of his many thrilling expressions
in this memorable discourse.'He who denies the divinity
of Christ, will find no place to pause in his progress of error,
till he reaches the chilling atmosphere in the polar regions of
a dark and cheerless infidelity.'
"These lectures served a valuable purpose, as an antidote
14




158   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
against the further inroads of this heresy upon the great body
of the students.  Their influence was fortifying and conservative to all save those who had wandered from the beaten path
of scriptural doctrine.  With this number the discourses
seemed powerless. The faculty then sent for the Rev. N. N.
Whiting, of Vernon, who had a fair reputation as a biblical
scholar, to argue the subject, and, if possible, convince the
members of the class of their alarming error.  Accordingly
he came, and held an interview with the brethren.  He held
a protracted session with them, in which he prayed with them,
conversed freely, and brought to the task the ability which
long years of close investigation had imparted to him, besides
his native strength, which was great. But his reasoning failed
to convince them. The evening passed away, but their discussions were not terminated; these were continued through
the watches of the night, and when the morning dawned the
siege of labor had not ended.  They were still together, holding conflicting views upon this cardinal doctrine of the gospel.
"On retiring from this prolonged interview with the class,
the Rev Mr. Whiting was interrogated as to the result of his
effort. It was a question full of anxiety,'What success?'' None at all,' was the reply,'and unless God convinces them
of their error, all human effort will be in vain.'
"When Dr. Kendrick met the class on that day, and ascertained that they were in the condition of a ship that through
the force of wind, wave, and darkness, had been stranded, he
hoped that by a cessation of further efforts, a propitious tide
of heavenly influence might rise, and bear them once more
into the broad ocean of infinite truth, where their freighted
hopes could not be wrecked on perilous shoals. Accordingly
he advised them to suspend all investigation and discussion
of the mooted subject for the space of three weeks. To this,
all consented, and proceeded to consider other topics in the
theological course.  Never could an advice have been more
timely, and we cannot doubt but the human teacher, here
sought the wisdom of the Heavenly Teacher, and obtained what




REV. NATIANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  159
he sought.  For, within that brief period, a work of grace
commenced, which, if not without a parallel in modern revivals, has seldom had its equal in this country. The work
originated in the following manner.
"An organization known as the students' association, existed in the seminary, and held its meetings from time to time
for the purpose of transacting business.  It embraced the
entire membership of the school, and had the requisite officers
for the dispatch of business, who were chosen annually. At
the annual meeting held about the time in which the incidents
above related occurred, and nearly four weeks before the close
of the term, Mr. J. L. Moore was elected president of this
association. He was at that time an esteemed member of the
theological class, whose errant views had created so great a
sensation.
"In accepting the appointment, Mr. Moore offered a few
remarks on the duties of the office, and then proceeded to make
some reflections on the low state of religious feeling in the
institution. As he progressed in his remarks, he became
much affected, and wept. It was soon apparent that others
sympathized with him in his feelings.  Several followed,
making confession of their backslidden state, and expressed a
desire to seek the Lord anew. At the hour of nine, it was
resolved to adjourn, and invite all who were so disposed, to
meet after an interval of half an hour, for social prayer and
conference. A very large number assembled. The spirit of
God was manifestly there in power. Those who were present, can never forget that memorable night.  Confession,
supplication, and weeping characterized that meeting, which
was continued till three o'clock the next morning, when an
adjournment was made to half-past seven in the morning.
From this time until the close of the term, meetings were held
morning after morning. So deep and general was the feeling,
that for several days the recitation room was almost deserted,
and in some instances recitations were discontinued. Much
time was spent in serious self-examination and prayer. Stu



160   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
dents might be seen at all hours of the day and evening,
walking to and fro, engrossed in religious conversation, and
often retiring to the sequestered groves near by, for serious
meditation and prayer. The levity which had been indulged
and fostered for months betre, was discountenanced, and no
place was found for it. The change was so marked and
obvious, that no one could fail to notice it.
" Simultaneously with the commencement of the revival
among the students, it was ascertained that unconverted persons in the vicinity of the seminary were awakened and
under deep conviction for sin. Some were so powerfully
wrought upon by the Holy Spirit, that on that signal night
of special interest, in which many were constrained to continue in supplication until past midnight, they sent for persons in the seminary to come and pray with them, and in a
few days all connected with the family keeping the boarding
house for the accommodation of the students, embracing four
or five in number, became hopefully pious. The work spread
through the village and town, and in less than four weeks
there were forty or fifty cases of conversion. Professor
Sears, who at that time was officiating as pastor of the Baptist church in the village of Hamilton, baptized about thirty,
if memory serves me, within three weeks.  The work extended into adjoining towns, and through the state generally.
At the close of the fall term, the students were widely
dispersed, seeking employment, either in teaching school or
in supplying destitute churches, during the long winter vacation of twelve weeks that then ensued. Wherever they went
they were ambassadors for Christ, and the messengers of
glad tidings; for they went forth with warm hearts, and a
passion to be instrumental of great good to souls, and of
winning them to the Saviour. Nor were they disappointed;
for when they returned at the opening of the spring term,
nearly, if not all, were permitted to report, with joy, that
God had been with them and wrought by them, bearing witness to his own word in the revival of his work and in the




REV. NATHANIEL KEND RICK, D.D.   161
conversion of sinners  In  several instances those who
engaged in teaching school saw many of their scholars converted.  One of the brethren, Abner Webb, who afterwards
became a missionary to Maulmain, rejoiced over the hopeful
conversion of thirty of his pupils in the lapse of about three
weeks.
"It was during this revival that Mr. Kendrick was permeitted to rejoice over the conversion of the son whose
memoir is included in this volume. About six months before
this extensive work of grace, he had the pleasure of administering the ordinance of baptism at the same time to his own
eldest daughter, and the eldest daughter of the wife that
now survives him.
" That period, embracing the winter of 1831 and the following year, was remarkable for many powerful and extensive
revivals in this whole region of country. These refreshing
seasons of gracious visitation of the Holy Spirit were more
numerous at that time than they have been since, until the
year 1858, which stands without a parallel.
" Before the close of the term, the appointed time for the
postponement of further investigations upon the Divinity of
Christ expired. The task was resumed with emotions widely
different from those which possessed their minds when they
suspended their inquiries. A great change had transpired in
their own hearts, and one no less surprising all around them.
They were encompassed by a heavenly atmosphere. The
chilling winter had passed away, and the time of the singing
of birds had come. The revival season had visited them, and
the Holy Spirit, in the exercise of his sovereign prerogative,
had taken of the things of Christ, and shown them to their
wondering eyes. The all-important lesson had been engraven upon the tablet of their hearts, the one which they
needed so much to learn, viz., that without Christ as an allsufficient Saviour they could no nothing,
"The members of the class now met to renew their investigations, not with overweening confidence in themselves,
14*




162   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
leaning upon their own understanding, as those who are
wise above what is written, but with the humility and
docility of children, asking counsel of the Lord, and ready
to follow the plain teachings of his word. The writer vividly
recalls the solemn impression made on his own mind, as they
assembled in a room near him, and again entered upon their
examinations after a season of united and earnest prayer.
It was a scene never to be effaced from his memory.
" It demanded no elaborate arguments to convince them
of their error, nor was it long before they returned to the
old paths which they had followed in previous years. A few
days after this happy issue of their inquiries, the students
assembled in the same place where, a few weeks before, God
commenced the work of revival with such power. MAr. J.
L. Moore was the first to communicate to the body of students the joyful intelligence that the class had returned fully
to the old landmarks of evangelical doctrine, and were entirely
satisfied that the Divinity of our Saviour was the cornerstone of Christianity. To this he added the remark,'that he
thought God had left them to try their own strength, and
learn how little they could do without the aid of his Spirit.
Merited blindness had fallen upon them, because they had
departed from the Lord, and become remiss in the discharge
of duty.' Brethren Bailey, Chaffee, Bartlet, Newell, and
others of the class, followed in the same strain of remark.
It was a time of great rejoicing in the seminary. The words
of the RIev. N. N. Whiting had been signally verified,'that
unless God brought them back, no human power could avail.'
God brought them back, in his own time and way, and they
have all continued steadfast and faithful, so far as we know.
Of this number, some have fallen asleep in Jesus, and rest
from their labors.
" Nothing of the kind has occurred since in the history of
the school, and it is confidently believed that no theological
institution in the land, from that day to this, has been more
free from all tendencies to Socinianism, or maintained a




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   163
higher standard of piety, and been more frequently blessed
with revival influences."
The period which has now been described will be remembered by many who peruse these pages, as the auspicious
one in which they were brought into the fold of Christ.'Under this gracious effusion of the Holy Spirit, the accessions to the churches were numerous. A large' number of
young men, impelled by a sense of duty, renounced their
plans for a secular vocation, and entertained the purpose of
engaging in the work of the sacred ministry. During the
year 1832, fifty were added to the membership of the.school.
This great influx of students prompted the board. to devise
more ample means for the accommodation of the newly
admitted pupils. At the anniversary of the above named
year, the society passed the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the board.take immediate measures to
erect another stone building, one hundred feet in length, of
convenient width, and four stories high."
In this chapter, in which we are permitted to record many
pleasing changes affecting the welfare of Zion, we may notice
another, pertaining to Dr. Kendrick's private relations. We
refer to his marriage to Mrs. Mary Hascall, widow of Ralph
Hascall, Esq., of Essex. He alludes to this event appropriately in a note addressed to the eldest daughter of his
newly wedded wife, a few days after the consummation of
this union.
"The late communications from your affectionate mother
may render you more than ever desirous to hear from her
again, that you may know more fully what vicissitudes of
fortune are bearing her to that rest, into which your dear
father has no doubt already entered. My acquaintance with
her, and I have the pleasure to add, my present relation to
her, render the favorite objects of her affections very desirable to me. Our matured and mutual designs were legally
sanctioned by Rev. D. Hascall on the 20th inst., [November,
1828,] in the midst of a circle of friends at Pompey.




164   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
" Although she had extended the sphere of 4ier usefulness
to a small number of children, which for four years have been,
but now cease to be motherless, yet we cherish the hope that
her usefulness will not on this account, be diminished
towards those whom she has nourished from infancy. I have
the pleasure to tender you the offer of a father's house, with
assurances that it will afford your mother and myself, mutual
pleasure to be favored with your company in our family
circle."
After years abundantly sustained the high hopes expressed in this epistle, as appears from successive correspondence
to the close of his life, and this union was not soon ruptured
by death as the former ones had been. The devoted wife
and mother, continued to serve him, discharging the household duties of his home for about a score of years, and was
with him to the last, closing his tranquil eyes in death, and
still survives though with many infirmities of body.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   165
CHAPTER XVII.
FROM 1834-1839.
Moneys Expended and Invested-Enlargement-Additional Teachers
— New Building —Boarding Hall —Manual Labor —Annual Expenditures —Debt —Expedients to remove the same —Providential FavorKaren Scholarships —Tour of Townshend and Bright-The Three
Departments fully developed —Change of Plan in the Seminary —
Dr. Kendrick's views thereon —Testimony of Mr. Edmunds —Remark
of Father Bennet —Co-operation of New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
AT the close of the last period, about fifty thousand dollars
had been obtained, and applied to the expenses of the school;
besides upwards of twenty thousand, laid out in a farm, factory buildings, furniture, and library. In addition to this,
there were several available scholarships, and others that
were expected to be available at a future day.
The chapter to which we now introduce our readers, will
acquaint them with successive steps of enlargement, of great
pecuniary embarrassment, and in several respects of severe
trial.
Several changes occurred in the faculty of instruction.
Although Professor Bacon, whose election has already been
noticed, took the mathematical chair, yet it was understood
that his appropriate professorship was intellectual and moral
philosophy, and that the engrossing duties of this department would soon demand his whole time. In December
1833, the board made choice of Prof. George W. Eaton, of
Georgetown College, Kentucky, to fill the chair of mathenmatics and natural philosophy, who soon after entered upon his
official duties. Subsequently he was called to the professorship of ecclesiastical and civil history, which he filled for
many years; still later he was elected to the professorship of
biblical theology and last of all, has become the popular pre



166   REV. NATIIANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
sident of the university.  In the year 1834, Prof. Stephen
VW. Taylor was called to take the charge of the preparatory department.  In the following year, the professorship
in Hebrew and Biblical criticism, made vacant by the resignation of Prof. Whitman, was filled by the election of Prof.
T. J. Conant. The enlargement of the Academic department required an additional teacher, and the board made
choice of Mr. John F. Richardson, for the term of three
years, at the expiration of which, he was made professor of
the Latin language and literature.  The extension of the
literary course so as to embrace eight years, prevented the
formation of a class in theology, for two years in succession. This interval of release from official duty, suggested
to Prof. Sears, the propriety of spending two years abroad,
in some of the universities of Germany. With the approbation
of the board, he accordingly devoted two years to study in
the best schools of Germany; upon his return, he spent only
about six months in the seminary, when he felt it his duty to
accept the offer of ihe theological chair tendered him in a
kindred  institution, at Newton, Massachusetts.   Having
resigned, he left about the first of May, 1836.  After various
unsuccessful efforts to secure a successor, in. which application was made to the Rev. William R. Williams of New
York, Rev. Mr. Crawley of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Prof.
H. B. Hackett of Brown University, the choice of the board
at last fell upon the Rev. John S. Maginnis, who signfied his
acceptance on the sixth of November, 1838, and immediately
entered upon the duties of his professorship. In the year
1836, Prof. Hascall, the first teacher in the seminary, an indefatigable laborer for its prosperity, resigned his office. Another temporary change was made by the absence of Prof.
A. C. Kendrick, for nearly two years, on account of illness,
during which time, his duties were shared by the other professors and assistants.
With the commencement of this term of six years the board
were able to point the friends to a new edifice. The success




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   167
attending this work was altogether beyond expectation.
Contrary to what usually happens, the cost was nearly two
thousand dollars less than was originally estimated, and it
was completed in about one-half the time fixed upon for its
construction.  The edifice itself surpassing in its accommodations the anticipations of the board, was nearly one-third
provided for in subscriptions in the village of Hamilton;
three hundred and fifty dollars were subscribed by the students,
and the whole expense was about six thousand dollars.
There was still another enlargement made in the summer
of 1838, in providing a boarding hall upon a more extensive
scale, involving an expense of three thousand dollars.
The results of manual labor from the students reached its
maximum point in this year, amounting to eight hundred and
seventy-four dollars and thirty-nine cents. Though considerable was done in the way of improvements upon the premises,
yet the opportunities for mechanical labor were diminished,
and the system began in a little time to decline very sensibly,
and at the close of 1839 it occupied but a small sphere in the
arrangements of the seminary.
The prosperity of the educational enterprise here may be
estimated somewhat by the annual expenditures. At the
close of 1833, as already noticed, these reached the sum of
seven thousand five hundred and seven dollars and thirty-six
cents, and in 1839 they were twenty-four thousand and
twenty-four dollars and eighty-one cents, while the receipts
from all sources were but eighteen thousand and eighty dollars and fifty-one cents. By a deficit, year after year, a debt
was constantly accumulating, until in 1839 it had reached the
sum of fourteen thousand dollars, and the entire property of the
Education Society was inventoried at one hundred and twelve
thousand eight hundred and sixty-five dollars and six cents.
To provide for the current expenses, and to meet the
indebtedness which had annually accumulated upon the society, required great financial skill. Among the expedients
which were devised we notice the following:



168   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
The charges against the students were regulated more in
accordance with actual expenses. The price of board, which
had been furnished for ninety cents per week, was raised to
one dollar, and the tuition in the academic department was
changed from four to six dollars a quarter, and in the collegiate
department from four to eight dollars a quarter. In the theological department tuition was rendered gratuitous. To enable
the board to do this a plan was conceived to raise, by subscription, the sum of fifteen hundred dollars annually for seven
years, to apply on the salaries of the theological professors.
The whole sum to be raised was ten thousand five hundred
dollars, which was to be divided into one hundred and fifty
shares, of seventy dollars each, requiring ten dollars to be
paid on a share annually, or five dollars semi-annually. This
was opened on the 16th of February, 1835, and in that and
the following year, was nearly subscribed.
About the same time an effort was made to raise a permanent fund of twenty thousand dollars, the interest only of
which should be applied to meet the salaries of professors.
It was proposed also to raise, by subscriptions, one thousand
dollars annually, for five years, to increase the library, towards
which liberal subscriptions were made, but without reaching
the amount.
At the commencement of the collegiate year of 1838, in
addition to the above mentioned efforts, it was proposed to
raise fifty thousand dollars, to be invested as a permanent
fund. The lowest subscription received for this object was
fifty dollars, and it was soon brought to fourteen thousand
dollars. At the close of 1839 the aggregate of permanent
subscriptions amounted to forty thousand one hundred and
fifty dollars.
The whole period which we now sketch was one of very
great embarrassment in the financial affairs of the institution.
No small part of each report was turned into an earnest and
fervid appeal for pecuniary relief. Paragraph after paragraph




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   169
was shaped for this object. The board was fortunate in
securing an efficient agent during this period, in the person
of James Edmunds, Jr., the whole of the time, and others for
a portion of the time; still there were wants unsupplied.
There were marked instances of favor during this interval,
showing that a watchful and kind providence presided over
this "school of the prophets."  It may not be inappropriate
here to mention, that within this period the late Rev. Justus
H. Vinton, a graduate of the seminary, and an honored and
successful missionary to the Karens, endowed a scholarship,
providing for the payment of the interest annually until he
paid the principal, which was done in a few years after the
pledge was given. The donor desired that this benefaction
should be known as the "Karen Scholarship," and that the
name of the former should not be known to the world. It
was to be used for the benefit of an indigent student preparing for an eastern mission, with a specific instruction that
the one selected to enjoy the fruits of this donation, should
be " a young man for present action," assigning as a reason,
"He who will not act to-day, will never act."
We may here insert also a cheering extract, all the more
welcome, from the shaded pages of despondency that surround it. It occurs in the Twenty-First Report, made in
1838, as follows:
" After the semi-annual meeting of the board in December, at which time an estimate was made of what would be
needed to sustain the institution through the year, two members of the board, brethren Townshend and Bright, left their
business and went, at their own charges, to the cities of
Albany, New York, and Brooklyn, and by special efforts
obtained, in about four weeks, the sum of four thousand two
hundred and eighty dollars for immediate assistance. At the
same time, the hand of Providence was also made visible for
relief at this crisis, by raising up another patron in the city
of New York, Stephen B. Munn, Esq., who was brought into
the kingdom after he was seventy years old, and who last
15




170   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
year made a donation of two hundred dollars to this society,
now gave fifteen hundred dollars more. These sums, together with the collections made by the general agent,
enabled the treasurer to meet many of the heavy and pressing demands upon the society, and at the same time to defray
most of the current expenses for the first half year. In view
of all this timely aid, your board had occasion to say,' Surely, the Lord's arm is not shortened that he cannot save,
nor his ear heavy that he cannot hear.' He can yet supply a
host in the wilderness; he can yet'cause streams to break out
in the desert,' and cause his people'to suck honey out of the
rock, and oil out of the flinty rock.' This fresh proof of God's
care for this institution, and of the hold which it has upon
the favor of his people, was like the breaking forth of light
in a dark place, and as cold water to a thirsty soul.  When
we contrast the present views of the denomination, on the
subject of educating the rising ministry, with what they were
twenty years ago, and compare the offerings which are now
made for this object with what were made then, we are constrained to say,'Hitherto the Lord hath helped us:''The
Lord hath done great things for us, whereof we are glad.'"
There are one or two further changes which deserve notice
before we close this chapter. The designation of the classes
was made in the year 1834, the same as in the colleges of
the land, and the season of the commencement exercises was
changed from the month of June to the month of August.
" In 1835 the first senior collegiate class completed its course
of studies. In 1837-8, for the first time, the three departments, viz., theological, collegiate and academic, were fully
developed, the complement of classes organized, the English
and scientific departments harmonized with the classical, two
distinct theological courses established, the one adapted to
the qualifications of students for the English and scientific
course, and the other to those who had completed the full
six years' course of regular classical studies."
In the last year of the period under examination, a change




REV. NAT HANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   171
of policy was adopted by the board. Up to this year none
had been permitted to share the benefits of the institution
save those who had the ministry in view. In the judgment
of the board, the timne had arrived to effect a change, and
their convictions were set forth in a resolution contained in
their report to the society, as follows:
" Resolved, That the great object which this society is
seeking to attain, will be promoted by allowing the faculty,
for the time being, to receive into the collegiate department
of the Hamilton Literary and Theological Institution, a limited number of young men, who have not the ministry in
view. "
The number was in no case to exceed the whole number of
those preparing for the ministry in the several departments
of the institution.
The rights and privileges of candidates for the ministry
were carefully guarded, so that in no way, could these be
abridged in the least by the change.
This was a measure which Mr. Kendrick did not advocate.
Indeed, he took strong and decided ground against it. His
favorite and long cherished idea was that of an institution
devoted exclusively to preparation for the ministry. From
the reports, it will be seen that the separation of young men
into a company by themselves, who were entertaining the same
aims, devising similar plans, and looking to the sacred calling
as their chosen vocation for life, was regarded as having a
benign and sanctifying influence upon their hearts. Great
stress was laid upon this, and the institution presented
unequalled claims upon the ground that its students from
the early stages to the completion of their course, were freed
from many temptations on this account, to which the members of a college community were constantly exposed.
To render justice to the views which Mr. Kendrick entertained, we may here give place to his report, in which he
dissents from  the ground taken by the members of the
committee associated with him.




172   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
"The subscriber being appointed on a committee to take
into consideration the propriety of opening the Collegiate
Department of the Hamilton Literary and Theological Instituion to young men not having the ministry in view, and
report to the board at their meeting in August, not being
able to conform his opinion to the views of the rest of the
committee on the subject has taken the liberty with deference
to the judgment of his brethren, to state in a separate report
some of the reasons which have weight in his own mind for
thinking it would be inexpedient to make the proposed
change.
"1st. The society in its organization contemplated no
such provision.. The exclusive object which it had in view,
was the education of young men for the ministry. All the
funds of the society amounting to upwards of eighty thousand dollars have been obtained upon the specified condition,
that the institution was to admit none but those who were
approved by the churches for the Christian ministry.
" 2d. If it can be extended to other young men without
jeopardizing the funds, there are other considerations, of more
vital importance to its character and prosperity, to be taken
into account.
" 1st. It will combine young men preparing for the ministry
in the same class with those, not only having different professions in view, but having no piety, nor respect for the
gospel of Christ.
"Can our ordinary young men, preparing for the ministry,
in the incipient state of their piety, before their religious
habits are formed, become companions of prayerless and
unbelieving youth, to room and study, and lodge with them
for a term of years, and not be retarded in the cultivation of
their Christian graces? Under special excitements, they may
for a time be more guarded and watchful, and keep their mouths
with a bridle, while the wicked are before them, but will this
be the uniform effects of such companionship? The facts of
the case speak a different language.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   173
"The circumstances and relations of students are of a
peculiar character. At this period, they are forming their
manners and modes of thinking and acting, and fixing their
habits for life. All this is done in a great measure by imitation. The youthful mind, with little experience, and great
ardor of feeling, feels the influence of its associations more
deeply than is realized at any other period of life. Will the
conversation, and spirit, and example of young men in a
state of sin, benefit those who have just entered upon a life
of religion, with all the infirmities that belong to the unsanctifled nature of a young disciple? It is presumed not.
" It must affect their religous devotions in their rooms,
morning and evening-it must affect the social spirit of their
classes. They are no longer of one heart and one mind,
striving together for the faith of the gospel-it must affect
the freedom of all their associations.
"2d. This change will render the government of the
institution more difficult and burdensome. It will be liable
to produce jealousies and collisions among the students; and
a few unprincipled young men may occasion a great deal of
discord and strife.  Unless they are dealt with in mildness
and patience, they will raise an evil report against the government, much pains should be taken with untoward young men
to reclaim them, before they are rejected as irreclaimable.
To carry out such a discipline in every case which would be
liable to occur, would require much time and labor.
" 3d. Some modification in the course of study on their
account, would be unavoidable. They would need to spend
more time in the mathematics, and less in the Hebrew than is
assigned to the students of the institution now.  They
should not be subjected to the expense of purchasing all the
Hebrew books used in our collegiate course, nor spend as
much time in the study of that language, as is necessary for
theological students.  These are some of the evils that might
naturally be expected to follow from the change imposed.
"It would be liable to impair the confidence of the churches,
15*




174   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
in the character of the institution, and in due time to withdraw their patronage. Its character now is simple, its object
is one, and easily understood.  As soon as it is opened for
young men having other objects in view than that of the ministry, its character is complex, and other objects are introduced,
although it may be said they are subordinate to the ultimate
object. If it should not be viewed in this light by the Christian community, they would regard it as another thing from
its original organization.
" If the change should be made to increase the revenue of
the institution, by bringing in a number of students who
should pay their expenses, it would induce the churches to
leave it to this source of support and they would be likely to
withhold a greater amount of patronage than could be obtained from this class of students.
" The number of pious young men preparing for the ministry would be likely to be less in the collegiate department,
if the proposed change should be made, as they would have
less inducements to come here from other states, for their
collegiate course, than they have now. While it stands out
before the world in its present character, consecrated in all
its departments to ministerial education, it has attractions for
this class of young men, that it could not have under any
other circumstances.
" The change proposed holds out the encouragement that
the teachers will receive much more of their salary from tuition than they would otherwise, and this will be urged~by
many as a reason against raising the sum proposed, for a
permanent fund.
" It has succeeded in its simple character in promoting its
undivided object beyond- any other theological institution
known in the denomination, and drawn together a greater
number of students, than is to be found of the same faith, at
any other institution on the face of the earth.
" The peculiar character and object and oneness of the
institution, have been regarded by its managers and patrons




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   175
as contributing in no small degree to its progress, in the
extension of its influence and benefits over the denomination
and over the world.
"We have much evidence of the controlling influence of
Providence, in raising up and moulding and maturing this
institution, and do we see anything in the indications of providence, requiring the change? Are the prospects of supporting the institution in its present form in any degree diminished from what they were at any former period? On the
other hand, have we not more ground for encouragement than
we have had in previous years? Are not the churches doing
more now to sustain it than they have done formerly, and
have we not a wider field open to us from which to secure
students for the ministry than ever before? Three institutions got up in New Jersey and Pennsylvania for ministerial
education, have been relinquished, and the churches in those
states have turned their attention to this.
" Will it hold out the same advantages to those states, if
we fill up the collegiate department with young men not preparing for the ministry?
" If the institution should be opened as proposed, and all
the rooms in the public buildings should be filled up in the
course of a little time; those not preparing for the ministry
could not be dismissed, nor turned out of their rooms, to
make way for others who are candidates for the ministry, and
might apply for admission. We would not be able for years
to erect another building, and to require them to room out
would subject them to no inconsiderable embarrassment.
"Candidates for the ministry are yearly increasing, and
few, now think of entering upon the work without an education, and if all of this class should be accommodated, who
would be likely to apply from this and the neighboring states,
but, few, at most, of other classes could be received; and,
while the institution should pretend to provide for the public
wants on this subject, it could do but a mere trifle towards it.
" The institution in its present character is of that import



176   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D.
ance to the cause of God that no change should be made in
it without important reasons, nor without satisfactory evidence that the legitimate tendency of the change will be to
improve it.
" Can it be shown that the institution will be improved by
the proposed measure? If the increase of the funds is the
only benefit anticipated by the measure will it be sound
policy to adopt it? If it should bring in a few hundred
dollars annually it might prevent a greater amount from
being given by the churches.
"NATH. KENDRICK.
"Aug. 20th, 1839."
We may here introduce the language of one who was, for
many years, a co-laborer with him, we refer to James
Edmunds, Jr.
"Dr. Kendrick was indefatigable in advocating what he
deemed to be right, but he always respected the voice of the
majority of his brethren when a decision was arrived at after
full discussion and prayer for divine guidance. His favorite
policy had been to have the Hamilton Seminary a sacred
retreat, where pious young men, far from the influences of
the ungodly, might prosecute their studies unmolested. But
after the course of study had been extended to a full collegiate term, the question of admitting others than candidates
for the ministry came to be entertained. The doctor opposed
it with all his powers.  A debate ensued when the final
question was brought before the board. For the first time I
found myself opposed to him, and that on a course of policy
which he deemed vital. We debated with great earnestness
till after midnight. He stood alone, but struggled like a
giant against us all. From his manner one would suppose
he would have left in despair, and given up the institution to
its fate if out-voted. The vote was taken. He, alone, voted
in the negative. He arose and said,'Brethren I have used
every means in my power to prevent this, but after hearing




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   177
all my arguments you have decided contrary to my judgment.
I shall now cordially do all I can with you to make this new
policy succeed. I fear it will not, but you shall have my
hearty co-operation in giving it a fair trial.'"
It is now apparent to any one who consults the reports
which were made during the years in which progressive
changes were made, that the allusions to them are in an
apologetic strain, pleading in justification of them, an imperative necessity which the wants of the churches distinctly
revealed.  Father Bennet said, upon one of the anniversary
occasions of the institution, "I was among those, in the
commencement of this institution, who honestly doubted the
propriety of the measure; and not until the fruit, by the
blessing of God, appeared, to give it character, did my heart
yield cordially to its support."
If such concessions were made by one so uniformly ready
to lend support to every good enterprise, it should not surprise us that Mr. Kendrick looked with serious misgivings
upon a change, so marked, in the policy of the seminary, as
to make it accessible to students not having the ministry in
view, and to those not professing godliness.
Before the termination of the period embraced in this
chapter, the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania had
turned their attention to Hamilton, as the most favorable
seat of learning for such of their young men as were looking
forward to the ministry. The churches in these states having
relinquished the Haddington, Holmesburg, and Burlington
institutions provided for ministerial education, could, with
greater convenience to themselves, patronize a school better
provided for, and well officered with teachers.




178   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER XVIII.
FROM 1840-1848.
Other Changes —Dr. Kendrick's views thereon-Popularity of the New
Measures — Library — Philosophical Apparatus —Aid from Female
Education Societies —Scholarships in Albany-Sum Total —Need of
Aid — Hindrances -- Floating Debt-Liquidation —Growing Field —
Changes in Faculty — Decease of Early Patrons-Revivals-Summary
of Labors —Closing Year of Dr. Kendrick's Labors —The Removal
Question-Concluding Remarks.
THE new measure which had been inaugurated in 1839
prepared the way for still other changes in the management
of the institution.  Since the school was now open for any
that aspired to a collegiate education, it was deemed proper
to seek legislative patronage. The first application, however, was unsuccessful, upon the ground that it was not yet
an incorporated college. The removal of this objection by
an act of incorporation was sought in the same year, (1840,)
but did not meet with success until March 26th, 1846.  Mr.
Kendrick, entertaining serious fears lest this might be the
procuring cause of less dependence upon the churches, was
personally opposed to the measure. He apprehended, no
doubt, that there would be less responsibility felt in sustaining the institution in future, and that it would not be the
same cherished instrumentality for preparing a sanctified and
qualified ministry, as in its earlier history. Here, as on a
former occasion, he found his own judgment overruled by
the views of the board; and in the supposed effects of such
incorporation, which we insert in this connection in his own
language, it is a mark of his foresight that he anticipated the
question of removal, which afterwards became so absorbing.
The effects of incorporation, in numerical order, bear the
date of 1841.  We here insert them in his own words:




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   179
"lst. The collegiate department must be separated from
the other two, and placed under a separate board.
" 2d. The course of study in the college can no longer be
modified with reference to the education of young men for
the ministry.
"3d. The college must have a president, and be placed
under a separate government.
"4th. The college must be rendered independent of the
Baptist Education Society; endowed with separate funds;
and placed under the supervision of the regents of the state.
" 5th. It would hold out no more inducements to candidates for the ministry from other states than other colleges
under the management of Baptist professors.
"6th. If the candidates for the ministry belonging to the
denomination throughout the state should resort to it for
their collegiate education, it would not be sufficient to accommodate all others connected with the denomination throughout the state, who ought to be liberally educated.
" 7th. If the collegiate department should thus be separated for a college for the denomination in the state, is
Hamilton the best location for it?
"8th. Would not such a measure jeopardize the institution, which was designed to provide for the entire course of
ministerial education; which has thus far been signalized by
the favor of Divine Providence, and in its present form
obtained the favor of the churches and the community far
beyond what was at first expected?
" 9th. Can we ask for more unequivocal evidence that this
provision for ministerial education is approved by the Great
htead of the Church? And have we any reason to doubt
the future success of the same system, strictly adhered to?
What is there to prevent the enlargement of the institution
for twenty years to come, if it should be conducted on the
original plan, in the same ratio that it has been enlarged for
the last twenty years?
" 10th. Is not Messiah's kingdom rapidly increasing, and




180   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
will not the ministry be proportionally increased? and shall
we ever want for members?"
The board, however, entertained the opinion that the
enlarged operations of the school would not render it less,
but rather more effective for the purposes of ministerial
education. While its growing expenditures demanded a corresponding increase of funds, it seemed necessary to obtain
new sources of patronage. Performing the functions of a
college, its friends regarded it equally deserving of state
patronage with those schools of the same grade that had
already enjoyed this boon.
The change which had taken place in the school, did not
diminish the interest which Mr. Kendrick had hitherto
cherished.  His daughter, in a playful allusion to the matter,
remarked to her brother, " you have probably learned that the
institution is chartered under the name of Madison University.
Father takes it with the spirit of a martyr, and prays none
the less fervently for its continued prosperity."
In the year 1844, an arrangement was made with the trustees of Columbian College, whereby, upon application, those
classical students who had completed a full course of collegiate
studies could, upon due recommendation from the faculty, receive the degree of Bachelor of Arts.
The public favor with which the change of 1839 was received, foreshadowed a career of prosperity to the seminary
beyond its former history.  Satisfactory data for this were
furnished by the increased number of students, by the liberality shown in endeavoring to liquidate its indebtedness, and
by the extending field of its patronage. The list of students
reached its maximum point in 1842, the published catalogue
showing the number two hundred and thirty-nine. In the
following year, the academic department was thrown open as
the collegiate was in 1839; and it received the largest accession of students in the next year that it ever had, reaching
eighty-four. During this whole period of eight years, the
admissions to the institutions were numerous, but the want




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   181
of funds compelled many, though with much reluctance, to
sever their connection with it.
The library, during the same period, received greater attention than ever before. It was materially improved by the
purchases made when Professor Sears was in Germany.
Another valuable addition was made during Professor Conant's residence in the same country in 1841 and'42. Through
the agency of the librarian, Professor A. C. Kendrick, quite
generous contributions were secured, so that the catalogue
of works was increased to between four and five thousand
volumes.
The philosophical apparatus, also, which had been for some
years used by the generosity of the Hon. John B. Yates, of
Chittenango, upon loan, was superseded by the purchase of
a new one. This was done under the direction of Professor
Taylor, then principal of the mathematical department, to
whose energy and perseverance the enterprise was due. The
work was accomplished during the years 1841-2. The subscriptions were raised in part in Hamilton and neighboring
villages, in the Pearl Street Baptist Church in Albany, in the
First Baptist Church in. Troy, and by some generous individuals in New York and Philadelphia.
In providing for the pecuniary wants of the school, while
much was due to the efficient aid of able and prudent men in
the capacity of agents, we must not omit to mention another
instrumentality of an organized and voluntary character. Reference is now made to female education societies. Prominent among this class of agencies, we may notice those formed
in New York and Brooklyn, which existed for many years,
and those in Philadelphia and New Brunswick, not to name
others of less notoriety, though perhaps of equal usefulness
in proportion to their resources. In the report of 1841, it is
noticed, that within five years not less than ten thousand
dollars were received from female benevolent associations
alone. The Young Men's Education Society in the cities of
New York and Brooklyn, deserves to be mentioned in this
16




182   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
connection, as they sustained large numbers of beneficiaries
in the advanced stages of their education.
In the year 1840, seven and a half scholarships were obtained in Pearl Street Baptist Church, Albany, through the
agency of the pastor, Dr. Welch, and the Rev. Jacob Knapp,
who was conducting a series of revival meetings in the above
named church.  The most of these pledges were secured
while the work of grace was in progress in the city. Tenmporary scholarships were also obtained during the year 1844, in
the city of Philadelphia, to the number of twenty-four. From
the Thirty-First Report, which was made but a few weeks before Mr. Kendrick's death, we learn that forty-six scholarships
of one thousand dollars each, had been obtained upon subscriptions, of which twenty-three had been paid and used by the
Education Society, two had been invested elsewhere, nine had
not been paid, but were available, six were not available, but
were supposed to be well secured, and six had totally failed;
leaving thirty-one capable of supporting beneficiaries.
But all the sources of supply were inadequate to the pressing demands of the institution. Had the scholarships been
quadrupled they would no more than have met the numerous
applications for deserving aid. The following paragraph from
one of Mr. Kendrick's letters, gives no fancy sketch, but a
picture that was of frequent occurrence.  The letter bears
date October 15th, 1845:
" Our school is to open to-morrow.  The students are flocking in. I have seen a number of new faces; they come with
hearts full of hope, that we have help in the treasury for them,
but, alas! we are in the midst of emptiness. We have no
funds to purchase provisions, nor to pay our faculty, nor to
discharge our notes in bank. Some of our agents are leaving
the field, and others are doing but little. We look to Him
who hears the cry of the ravens, and can give bread in the
wilderness.  The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof.
He demands prayer and effort of his people, and deals out his




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   183
mercies to them as his own wisdom dictates. We trust the
work will go on notwithstanding."
In addition to these hindrances to the work of the institution, it encountered to some extent opposition from various
causes. Sometimes on the ground of the alleged or fancied
conservatism of its faculty upon the exciting questions of the
day, and then again prejudices would arise from the imprudence of some of its pupils, who had either shared too sparingly the advantages of this school, or who had been furnished by the churches whence they came, with credentials
which they never merited. The cry of improvident expenditure was not without its influence in limiting the resources
of the treasury; in fine, nameless causes were at work to
retrench receipts.
To satisfy the patrons of the school, and those who might
be withholding from it the merited tribute of their benefactions, that the fiscal affairs of the Education Society were
conducted upon the strictest economy, a large, able, and discriminating committee was appointed in 1844, to ascertain
the best method of conducting and sustaining the institution.
The report of this committee fully justified the manner in
which the society's funds had been expended. This service
was discharged with the hope that the claims of the society
might be placed more distinctly before the churches than had
previously been done.
Notwithstanding the adoption of the most stringent measures in the outlay of means, yet for many years the receipts
into the treasury were constantly falling behind, until, in
1841, there was a floating debt of twenty thousand dollars.
To liquidate this indebtedness, a plan was proposed to raise
by subscription, within the limits of the State of New York,
the above sum in shares of not less than twenty-five dollars
each, and no subscription to be valid unless the whole amount
was subscribed. Agents were sent abroad to canvass the
whole field and make personal solicitations. In a little more
than a year's time the sum was secured in what was deemed




184   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
good and reliable pledges. But this expedient did not remove
the burden of debt entirely, since the current expenses of the
school were about fourteen thousand dollars per year. The
liberal expression, however, in behalf of the school, was
deemed of very great value, especially as it was made in a
time of great financial embarrassment in the country.
There was now a widely extended field for the operations
of the seminary.  In the autumn of 1841, the State Convention of Michigan resolved to become auxiliary to the New
York Baptist Education Society. New Jersey and Pennsylvania still continued to support the school, though after the
year 1846 the latter was, to some extent, necessarily withdrawn, by the establishment of its own institution at Lewisburg.
A few changes transpired in the faculty of instruction. In
1840 John H. Raymond was elected professor of rhetoric and
the English language.  In 1842 Rev. P. B. Spear was appointed adjunct professor of the Hebrew language.  In 1845
Professor Taylor resigned his seat in the institution. But
little of Mr. Kendrick's time in this period of eight years was
occupied in the direct duties of his professorship.  The labors
of this department having been thrown upon the theological
professor in the full course, his time was almost wholly engrossed in the duties of corresponding secretary.  These he
continued to discharge until declining strength induced him
to offer his resignation.  This occurred in the early part of
the summer of 1846.
To his letter to the board the following reply was made:"REV. N. KENDRICK, D.D.
" DEAR BROTHER:-The board have received your communication of this date, in which you tender a resignation of your
office as corresponding secretary.  Aofter giving the subject
our mature consideration, we are of the opinion that the
interests of the society would not warrant us in accepting
that resignation at the present time.  It is the unanimous




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 185
wish of the board that you should retain the relation which
you have hitherto held to them, and that you give to this important service as much (and no more) of your bodily and
mental energies, as may be perfectly compatible with the
state of your health.
"Permit us at the same time, dear brother, to express to
you our deep fraternal sympathies in the afflictions with
which it has pleased our Heavenly Father to visit you, and to
assure you of our earnest and united prayers, that (if consistent with His holy will,) it may be speedly removed, and,
at all events, may be made the means of promoting your own
spiritual prosperity, and the cause and kingdom of our Lord
Jesus Christ.
" In behalf of the Board,
"Your affectionate brother in Christ,
" S. B. BURCHARD, Prest.
"JOS. TREVOR, Rec'd Sect'ry.
" Hamilton, 11th June, 1846."
In the following year, the board re-appointed him, and also
appointed the Rev. Zenas Freeman, (who had served six
years in the agency of the Society,) an Assistant Secretary,
with the understanding, that he would be expected to perform
the chief labors of this department.
The interval over which we now glance imperfectly, was
marked as the harvest scene in which several of the early and
liberal patrons of the seminary were gathered home, each one
" in a filll age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season."
In this list of departed ones, whose works praise them, we
may mention the Paynes, both Samuel and Elisha, Deacons
Jonathan Olmsted and Jabez Burchard, all of Hamilton,
Deacons Joshua Gilbert of New York City, Barak Beckwith
of Cazenovia, Elder Jedediah Randall of Norwich Village,
and Major Amos Smith of Schuyler. Some of these gave
scholarships, and others their annual benefactions, and of all
it may be said, their "record is on high."
16*




186   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
No long period has been known since the origin of the
seminary, in which either it, or the Baptist Church in the
village has not been favored with a revival. If either one
enjoyed such a season, it was almost certain to be communicated to the other.  In the fall term of 1845, there was a
church organized in the seminary which contemplated the
direct spiritual welfare of the college community.  This was
done in accordance with a recommendation of the board. In
the winter ensuing, a work of grace commenced in the village
which extended to the seminary, and as the blessed fruits of
this visitation, nine of the students were admitted by baptism
to church fellowship. Again in the winter and spring of
1848, there was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, in which
both the citizens of the village, and the students shared
bountifully. In the lapse of five weeks, some seventy were
supposed in the judgment of charity to be converted, and
some eight or ten of the students were hopefully rejoicing in
the reception of a new life. In this and similar accounts of
revivals in this school, it must be borne in mind, that a large
majority have, since the change of 1839 been pious, so that
conversions to the number of a half a score, would be the
index of a powerful work of grace.
Were we to attempt to give a summary of labors of what
has been achieved by this educational enterprise, it would be
utterly impossible to arrive at any thing like a satisfactory
estimate.  As to the amount of good done, we cannot
approximately reach the results. In the last report, during
Mr. Kendrick's secretaryship, and when, from extreme feebleness, he was aided by his assistant, we have a statement
which, while it does not pretend to strict accuracy, yet
serves as a guiding index. " Over one thousand have gone
forth from its bosom, to publish the gospel with various
degrees of preparation."
In answer to a circular that was sent out in the year
1844 or 1845, requesting the Alumni to give an account of
their labors, twenty-two responded in a short time, embracing




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   187
in that number some among the earlier, and some among the
later graduates. In these few returns, there were accounts
of fifty-nine revivals of religion under their ministry, and
three thousand three hundred and fifty-four additions by
baptism, to the churches that had enjoyed their labors. If
these answers were to be taken as a sample of those which
would have been received had all responded to the circular,
then would the aggregate result have been over a hundred
and fifty thousand baptisms, and over twenty-seven hundred
revivals. It is farther noticed of the Alumni, " between five
and six hundred are pastors in our own country, and many
of them are successfully filling the most commanding posts
of usefulness in the denomination.  A large number have
gone to the Great West and not a few have become most
efficient pioneers in planting there churches among the destitute, and in seeking out and occupying important positions.
And nearly every American Baptist missionary station in
foreign lands, has now, or has had the representatives of this
institution."
The last year of Mr. Kendrick's connection with the university was one of intense anxiety. This was occasioned by
the agitation of the question of its removal to the city of
Rochester. It does not devolve upon us to enter upon these
pages the complete history of that movement, since only one
of the three years covered by the controversy transpired in
his closing days. Moreover, it has already been presented
to the public, in animated discussions in newspaper columns,
pamphlets, and reports of greater or less extent.  The immediate result of this protracted agitation was such as inevitably to cloud, for the time, the prospects of the school; nay
more, to threaten its destruction. The permanent effect, however, has been to create a much more salutary and widely
extended interest in the cause of collegiate and theological
education in the Baptist denomination, not only in the single
state in which the discussion originated, but throughout this




188   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
confederacy of states, and penetrating also the provinces of
Canada.
It is now  conceded that Madison University, with which
Mr. Kendrick was so long identified, is established upon a far
better basis than ever before; while, within a few years, in
the enterprising city of Rochester, another institution has
arisen, kindred in its character and object, of rapid growth,
and decided promise.
It came within the province of our venerated father to
labor only under the auspices of the first of the three compromise schemes, known as the " Removal Act," which passed
the legislature, April 3d, 1848. Those familiar with the
provisions of this compromise, will recollect that a prominent
feature embraced in it, was the raising of fifty thousand dollars as a condition of retaining the university at Hamilton.
In the effort made to secure this sum Mr. Kendrick took an
active and decided part. He wielded his pen up to the last
moment of the specified time in which it was to be raised.
Ihis anxiety was intense.
Writing to a friend about a week before the term had expired, he says:
" Our present position on the removal question is a very
precarious one. Our citizens met last evening, and found
we had about thirty thousand dollars subscribed. They resolved to make an effort to raise five thousand dollars by the
meeting of the board next Thursday, (August 10th,) and to
obtain fifty individuals to give bonds for the balance, fifteen
thousand dollars, to be raised hereafter. Never were we
called to so great an effort, to save an invaluable and loved
institution. May it please God to preserve it from the disastrous effects of a removal."
Referring to the action of the board deciding for removal,
he expresses alike his fears and his confidence in the final
issue:
" We, however, did not succeed in raising the sum required. Our time was short, and we had so many embar



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   189
rassments to encounter, that our subscription for endowment
hardly amounted to thirty thousand dollars. Our citizens
offered bonds for the balance, but it was too late for acceptance. The resolution was passed to remove the university
to the city of Rochester, provided there should be no legal
objection to prevent. A committee was appointed on that
subject, and there the matter stands.  I have my fears that
the education of our ministry will be greatly curtailed by the
movement, but I hope not.  God will overrule and make all
things subservient to his own glory.
"If it should be found that our institution cannot legally
be removed, it will remain here, and in that case it will devolve onus to complete the endowment. I think this movement is a great embarrassment on the institution, let the case
turn as it will. We have the consolation to think that the
devices of men cannot effect the stability of the Saviour's
kingdom, nor impede its progress, as a whole. It will be
consummated in due time, and the mystery of God will be
finished. "
We must here take leave of Mr. Kendrick's labors with
the seminary, to speak of him  in other aspects in which it
is befitting that we should survey his character.  Having devoted thirty years of his life, the matured and most valuable
part of his existence, to the prosperity of this seat of science
and sacred learning, it is not strange that he loved it with no
ordinary affection.  No marvel is it, that he took pleasure in
the stones of those venerable structures, whose walls, before
he departed, had echoed the prayers of more than a thousand
heralds of salvation, who were attracted thither to prepare
for their work.  It is not enigmatical to us, that in the event
of the removal of the institution from the long favored spot
of its nativity, he should have anticipated direful consequences. But even in this, as in all other momentous
measures, he was willing to hold his own judgment in abeyance until all the prospective advantages of the change had
been distinctly set before him. He sought counsel of many




190   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
and distinguished leaders in Zion. He prayed and toiled
long for light, and when at length the tendencies of many
brethren were leaning towards a new and western location,
and the action of the board was conditionally taken in favor
of the removal, it put his faith to a severe trial; yet he
could not doubt that God, who had cared for the child of so
many prayers, and whose ever watchful providence had nurtured it in the midst of many adversities, would still extend
his arm for its preservation. It was the Master's pleasure
to close the eyes of his venerable servant in the midst of
these darkening scenes, and welcome him to the beatific
visions of Heaven. The faith of this godly man is now
greatly enhanced in our estimation, because, Abraham like,
he trusted in the happy issue of the most dark and oppressive
providences,




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   191
CHAPTER XIX.
Doctrinal Views-Doctrines Modified-Causes of Corruption-Landmarks of Calvinism Defined by Edwards-Influences Adverse to
Sound Doctrine-Total Depravity-Infidelity in Yale College-Promoters of Revivals-Influence of Revivals upon Doctrines-Dr.
Kendrick's Partiality for the Strong Doctrines-Views of Dr. Emmons-Dr. Kendrick's Dissent-Total Depravity-RegenerationSovereignty of God-Election-God's Ultimate End-Atonement.
CALLED to chronicle the life of one who for about a quarter
of a century filled a professorship in divinity, it is due to our
readers, as well as to the departed, to indicate his theological
views. This task cannot now be done by writing a single
word, since changes and modifications in Christian doctrine
impeach the claims that are put forth to this or that name,
under which parties in theology often rally. It may have
been sufficient at some periods of the Christian church, to say
of this or that man, he was a Calvinist, or an Arminian, and
the description was definite, but now the term Calvinist would
still leave us in the dark.  Since the Pilgrim  Fathers disembarked from the Mayflower, various germs of doctrine have
been deposited in New England soil, which have brought to
maturity a many-colored harvest.
It is neither the time, nor the place, to enter into a minute
history of the changes of Christian doctrine, of the steps, or
events, that seem to have precipitated those changes, since
our shores became the refuge for the persecuted.  Suffice it
to say that causes were early at work which, in the process of
years, produced their effects, like the rivulets rising in the
mountain gorges, and receiving in their course successive
tributaries, until with swelling and resistless current they
make their pathway to the ocean, so, in the progress of




192   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Christian doctrine, one error receiving the support of another,
a tide of irreligion has swept over the land, and the churches
have more or less felt the disastrous consequences.
Wrong measures, though designed to protect the Christian
church, corrupted its doctrines, and weakened its power. The
restriction of the right of suffrage in the state to church members, the adoption of the half-way covenant, the toleration of
an unconverted ministry, the observance of the Lord's Supper,
as one of the appointed means of regeneration, may be mentioned as causes operating injuriously upon the doctrines of
the churches.  These were long continued in their working
before the powerful check introduced by the great awakening
in 1740.
The landmarks of decided Calvinism, were reared by Edwards about the middle of the eighteenth century, in his treaties on the "Freedom  of the Will," and in his work on
"Original Sin."  But these were insufficient to suppress the
tide of error that had overspread the land. They wrought
unquestionably a wholesome restraint, but could not extirpate
heresy.
Although there were many things favorable to the growth
of sound doctrine in the last half of the eighteenth century,
there were more that were unpropitious. Full one half of
that period was a consuming season, either of war or political
struggle. We need not pause to indicate how perilous is war
to the institutions of religion, though prosecuted on the ground
of self-defense, and a laudable thirst for liberty; yet, when
the tide of battle turned in favor of the American arms, it was
an hour of greater peril, religiously, than ever before. For,
in addition to that depravation of public morals which inevitably follows upon a long war, the leaven of French infidelity
cast into our bosom, the irregularities of public worship which
spring from vacating pulpits, turning churches into barracks,
and secularizing the ministry, we had to encounter the scarcely
inferior perils of victory's triumph. A people weak in reresources, and few in numbers, had coped successfully with




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   193
an enemy that in discipline, valor, and resources, stood among
the great powers of the world. To the other hindrances to
religious progress would be added the influence of national
pride. The people, who should have been dissolved in thanksgiving, too generally forgot the God of their fathers. "The
holy principles of the pilgrims were regarded as but the infant dress of the new republic, too tight and contracted for
their free descendants; and in the pride of their hearts, many
were ready to say of the religious system of their fathers,
their strictness, and purity, "It is time to put away childish
things. "
From various sources the evidence may be gathered that
there was a growing disbelief in the doctrines of total
depravity, and the divinity of Christ, and the Bible was discredited by leading minds through the prevalence of the
infidel philosophy of France. The state of things in one of
the oldest colleges of New England may be regarded as an
index of the spirit that was fostered to an alarming extent in
our country.  Several of the students of the senior class of
Yale College assumed the names of the principal English and
French infidels, and were more familiarly known by them
than by their own.
It is pleasing to know that God did not leave his cause
without friends. Near the close of the last century, and the
beginning of the present, he raised up noble champions for
the gospel, and promoters of revivals. We may mention the
names of Stillman, Baldwin and Gano, in our own denomination, and Dwight, Strong, Robbins, Griffin and the Hallocks,
amongst the Congregationalists, not to mention others no
less deserving. Then too occurred an extensive work of
grace, "When," in the language of Dr. Griffin, "that moral
change began which swept from so large a part of New
England its looseness of doctrine, and laxity of discipline,
and awakened an evangelical pulse in every vein of the
American church."  "In 1799 I could stand in my door
in New Hartford, Litchfield County, and number fifty or
17




194   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
sixty congregations laid down in one field of divine wonders."
This was a season of extensive refreshing through New
England, and a writer in one of the leading reviews of
our country has well said, "the dogmatic peculiarity of
that revival era was the doctrine of divine sovereignty."
It is a significant fact that Dr. Dwight, then president
of Yale College, who bore a distinguished part in that work
of grace, in which also the institution of his care and love
shared, devoted in his system of divinity over four hundred
and fifty pages to the discussion of the divine and mediatorial character of Christ?
This work of grace gave tone to the doctrines of the
churches, and the ministry were freshly annointed to defend
them. The limits of orthodoxy were rendered more distinct,
and the evangelical doctrines were emphatically asserted.
Ministers who were reared in the midst of these impressive
scenes would be likely to wear the seal of the doctrinal peculiarity of the times.
Converted in the year 1797 it was but reasonable to expect
that Dr. Kendrick's sympathies would be found decidedly
with the strong doctrines of grace, and particularly attached
to those gospel themes that God then honored for the salvation of men.  With no one doctrine was he then more
delighted than with that of divine sovereignty. He espoused
its advocacy from the first, and after cleaving to it with
undivided affection for more than fifty years, still reposed in
it with calmness and peace.
We shall. attempt, in this chapter, to exhibit somewhat
particularly the views which Dr. Kendrick entertained of the
gospel scheme, not, indeed, in all its detail, but so that the
points omitted may be readily inferred from the general
system.
One of the doctor's theological instructors was charged
with fellowshiping " New  Divinity."   We refer to Dr.
Emmons, a bold, original, and independent thinker, who particularly advised his students in their studies to think inde



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   195
pendently.  He claimed himself to be a very thorough and
consistent, Supralapsariaen Calvinist.
It is fair to hear his own words and those of his biographer:
"I was early and warmly attached to genuine Calvinism,
which I believed to be built upon the firm foundation of the
gospel itself. This system, I have thought, and still think,
is the very form of sound words, which the apostles and
their successors taught, long before Calvin was born; and
which has been constantly maintained by those who have
been justly called orthodox in distinction from Heterodox
Christians, ever since the propagation of the Christian religion. But Calvinism has lost much of its purity and simplicity by going through so many unskillful hands of its friends.
This has given great advantages to its enemies, who have
clearly discovered, and successfully attacked some of its
excrescences and protuberances.
" I know that some Calvinists maintain that the first sin of
Adam is imputed to his posterity; that the righteousness of
Christ is imputed to believers for their justification; that sinners are under natural inability to turn from sin to holiness;
and that Christ made atonement for the elect only. I grant,
these are gross absurdities, or mere wens and protuberances,
which must be pared off from true Calvinism, in order to
make it appear consistent with both reason and scripture.
Accordingly, modern Calvinists readily surrender their formerly untenable out-posts, and now find it more easy to
defend their citadal against all attacks of their most numerous adversaries."
His biographer, Dr. Ide, says farther: "If he was not the
first that discovered the truth that all sin and holiness consist
in action, or in voluntary exercises of the mind, he was the
first to make an extensive use of this principle in explaining
the doctrines of the gospel. He not only believed with others,
that much of the sin and holiness of men consists in their
voluntary affections, but that all of it does; and this principle he carried out in all its bearings upon the subject of




196   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
human depravity, the connection of Adam with his posterity
the doctrine of regeneration, the free agency and accountability of man, and the government of God. From this principle it follows that the depravity of mankind is not a corrupt nature inherent from Adam, but their own voluntary
opposition to God; that regeneration consists not in the
implantation of a new principle distinct from the affections
of the mind, but in a change in the affections themselves from
sin to holiness; that God does not require men to alter the
nature which he has given them, or to make themselves new
faculties or powers, but to exercise that holiness of heart, for
which he has given them the requisite capacity."
In the views expressed in the above paragraphs relative
to the moral condition of man, as a sinner, Dr. Kendrick did
not concur with his eminent teacher. His bearings were in
the direction of the old divinity, of the stern order; holding
with the advocates of " the taste scheme," that moral depravity is conveyed from Adam to his posterity; that our great
progenitor, was the federal representative of his race; that
prior to all action, there is in man a sinful disposition.  In
these points he could agree with his earlier instructor, Dr.
Burton, of Thetford, Vermont.
Holding that man possesses a corrupt nature by virtue of
his connection with the first Adam, he was equally persistent in his views of the necessity of regeneration by the Holy
Spirit. He was a decided advocate for the doctrine of imputation, both of the guilt of Adam to his posterity, and of the
righteousness of Christ to his people.
He not only believed in the divine sovereignty of God,
and in his unchangeable purposes, and electing grace, but
advocated them as a part of the gospel scheme; as great
principles underlying the whole, and yielding to his own
soul supplies of consolation.  These were none of them
themes of polemic discussion, or of dry metaphysical speculation, but doctines that gave comfort to a trusting heart



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   197
doctrines confiding in which, he could glorify God when passing through the fires of affliction.
With regard to God's ultimate end in all his operations, Dr.
Kendrick believed, contrary to some modern divines, that this
end was his own glory. He conceived no other end worthy
of the divine Being. To use his own language, " God can
no more act below the dignity of his character, than he can
deny himself." He believed that the Scriptures declared this
to be the end of God in creation, in redemption, and in all
that he does; and that the same oracles propose this to mankind as the ultimate end of all their actions.
To resume his words,-" God delights in seeing the perfections of his character portrayed upon the face of his system. The whole created system is not the power of God,
but the effect of his power. The created system is no further
valuable in the sight of God, than it makes his glory known.
The greatest sum of created happiness is no more to be identified with the perfections of God, than an effect is to be
identified with its cause. The good of the created system is
as distinct from God himself, as the creature is distinct from
the Creator. God's motive to action was and continues to be
in himself. If God has the greatest good of the created system for his ultimate end, he acts to an end infinitely inferior
to himself. To define that motive, which in no respect is
exterior to the mind, but exists in the very nature of the
being himself, is beyond the power of the human understanding. In this the Divine Being differs from all created beings.' For of him, and to him, and by him are all things, to whom
be glory forever and ever, amen.' A full expression of
God's essential glory, is the ultimate end of all his operations. "
Dr. Kendrick believed that the atonement was made on
covenant principles; that a contract existed between the persons of the Godhead, in virtue of which the Son was to
assume human nature, be subject to the law, suffer upon the
cross, and receive as his reward a kingdom. The subjects of
17*




193   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D
this kingdom were to consist of a certain number of the human family, which number should be pardoned, regenerated,
sanctified, and eternally saved, as the sure reward of his soulagony.  In the execution of this covenant, each person in
the Godhead had his assigned part, and the mutual engagements were based upon no uncertainty.
" The atonement was not necessary to dispose God to the
exercise of mercy, or to be merciful. He was necessarily
good, just and merciful, and required no motive to render him
more or less than he was in any attribute or perfection." " It
was not necessary to discharge the obligations under which
sinners are to God, for God will freely and fully forgive all
who are redeemed from condemnation and wrath."  " The
atonement was necessary in order to render it consistent for
God to forgive sin; for the same reason the punishment of
sinners would have been necessary without an atonement."
"If we can ascertain the end which would have been answered by the punishment of transgressors, then we can
ascertain, with much precision, the end which is answered by
the atonement of Christ, and why this was necessary that
God might forgive sins."
" What end would have been answered by the punishment
of every sinner according to his demerit?" " In the first
place it would have expressed God's hatred to sin. In this
the holiness and purity of God's nature would have been
clearly seen, and his infinite aversion to wickedness. In the
second place, the punishment of transgressors would have
maintained the honor of the divine law, and fully evinced
God's attachment to it, as a holy and good law. When a law
is transgressed with impunity, both the law and the lawgiver
fall into contempt, unless other measures are accepted which
secure the united honor of both."
" The atonement of Christ is necessary to secure and display the justice of God, while the sinner is pardoned and blest
with all heavenly blessings. It was necessary to show God's




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   199
sense of wickedness, and magnify the law and render it
honorable. "
" The atonement of Christ has made that display of justice
which the punishment of those who are redeemed would
have made, admitting it had been inflicted."
"Now God's displeasure to sin, as strongly appears in
saving sinners by Jesus Christ, as in damning them to all
eternity. "
" It is clearly in the light of a substitute, that the atonement is to be considered-a substitute, in the covenant of
redemption, for the punishment of the redeemed. It answers
the same end in the divine administration, to display the
justice of God, as their punishment would have answered, if
it had been inflicted."
Dr. Kendrick also held, that as the atonement of Christ
was of the nature of a substitution, or expiatory offering for
the sins of his people, and as such accepted of God, it must
effectually supersede the punishment of their sins. It is no
further a substitute, than it prevents the things for which it
was substituted.
This was th: ground of pardon, and on which regenerating
grace was bestowed.
Upon the question, In what did Christ's atonement for sin
consist? Dr. Kendrick did not coincide with those wxho place
it wholly in the sacrifice of Christ, or those who place it
exclusively in his obedience.  He saw no necessity for disconnecting the obedience of Christ, as entering into the
nature, virtue, and merits of the atonement; yet his sacrifice
was the principal thing. To express his view he adopted
the language of Prof. Stuart: "That all which he did and
said during his incarnate condition, had some bearing on the
great work which he came to accomplish, and did in some
way contribute to it, cannot be reasonably doubted; but his
expiatory sacrifice appears to be the great point on which
rests, in a peculiar manner, the hope of our restoration to
the divine favor."




200   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Dr. Kendrick believed that there was a design in the
atonement which will be carried out without the possibility
of failure. If the design of the atonement was to display
the honor of God's law, and the justice of his character-to
show that he is just when he forgives sins-then it must
extend to this object, or else its design is lost.
"As Christ finished the work which God gave him to do,
he has brought in an everlasting righteousness, magnified
the law and made it honorable, and opened a channel for
mercy to flow to the vilest sinner."
" Jesus Christ has done as much honor to the law of God,
by his obedience and death, as the punishment of all its
transgressors would have done, had they all suffered the
extent of its penalty."
" His atonement was made with special reference to sinners. It stands before God as an open door, for his mercy
to flow through to guilty creatures.'I ant the door,' saith
Christ. "' Was the door open for all the human race, or with a
special reference to a definite number?  Not for all the
human race, but with a special reference to a definite number. "
" God's design to save was the only reason why he provided the atonement. He designed to save a definite number, hence the atonement had an ultimate reference to them."
" Christ came into the world, and died to save sinners.
The number that should be saved was previously known and
determined. These were given to him, and he called them
his sheep. Christ died for them, that they might never die,
but that they might have life through him."... "If
Christ had an ultimate reference to the elect in making the
atonement, does it in any sense regard the non-elect? Answer, yes."
"Is it sufficiently extensive in its nature and merits for
the salvation of all mankind, provided God were now disposed to save all mankind by an atonement?  Answer. We
see not why the atonement is not sufficient for all mankind,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   201
were God disposed to save all. It has infinite merit, and
does infinite honor to God's law, and it is not easy to see
how it can be increased in worth, but only in design. Christ
is, before God, an open door, through which God can honorably receive sinners into his favor, and the number received
is determined by the will of God, and not by the straitness
of the door."
" What relation has the atonement to the non-elect? It
has the same relation to them as a rich entertainment, made
by a father for his children, has to strangers, whom he invites
to partake with them. In the first place, it contains an infinite fulness, capable of no increase. In the second place, it
was ultimately provided for the elected children of God. In
the third place, it was originally designed to be sincerely
offered to sinners indiscriminately, but applied to none but
those who were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the
world. "
This theory of the atonement of Christ, which Dr. Kendrick adopted, he was well aware was not disencumbered of
difficulties. The only question he had to ask in reference to
this or any other doctrine, was simply this, " do the holy
scriptures teach it?"  If this were decided affirmatively, it
mattered not what men thought, or how the world would receive it.
In addition to what we have now presented, derived from
a careful examination of his essays and lectures in manuscript,
we may quote the language of the late Dr. Maginnis, who
was for ten years associated with him as a theological teacher:
"Not long before his death, at a time when I was seated by
his bedside, our conversation turned upon the subject of the
atonement.  He directed a manuscript to be brought from his
desk, where he seemed to have long preserved it as a precious
jewel; he handed it to me, and commended it to my perusal,
stating that it contained a most interesting view of the atonement, and one which was highly satisfactory to his own mind.
It seemed to be old and much worn, for he said he had allowed




202   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
it to be copied a number of times. I found it to be a copy
of a lecture on the atonement, said to have been delivered to
his students by Rev. Dr. Alexander, the venerable professor
of theology in Princeton Theological Seminary, whose theological sentiments are well known to the public.
" Of the two works on the atonement, by Jenkyn and Symington, which have for some years been before the public,
he greatly preferred that of Symington."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   203
CHAPTER XX.
Kindness towards those who Dissented from him-Class of 1830Views as a Baptist-Divine Providence-Illustrations —Striking Instances of Interposing Providences.
VITAL as Dr. Kendrick considered his view of the atonement, he could yet extend his cordial ministerial fellowship to
those who held the less rigorous view; and he inculcated it
upon his class without assuming that his belief must necessarily be theirs. Even when views decidedly novel and, in his
judgment, erroneous were advanced, he still could receive
them with equanimity, and judge them with kindness and
candor. One particular instance of this deviation from his
views, it may be worth while to record, from its own intrinsic
importance.  When the essay which contained it was read
before the class,-an essay which provided an ingenuous expedient for getting rid of limited atonement,-he pleasantly
observed to the members of the class, that "they had found
out something new under the sun."
The instance here alluded to, occurred with the class of
1830, and the view consisted in following out closely the typical sacrifices as presented in the Mosaic economy, assuming
that the antitype must correspond in the main points with the
type. By adherence to this rule strictly, several difficulties
were avoided, the chief of which may be indicated by a glance
at the view itself.
The Rev. J. L. Moore, D. D., of Springfield, Ohio, a member of the class referred to, has kindly favored me with the
following outline.
"As the high priest under the Levitical economy, with
blood previously shed, made an atonement in the inner sanctuary, for those who had confessed their sins over the head of




204   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D, D.
the victim  slain; so Christ, our great high priest, having
shed his blood on the cross as a victim for sin, entered into
heaven itself, and there and now, with his own blood, he makes
atonement for every sinner who comes to him in penitence
and faith for pardon; and, as under the old dispensation,
atonement was always made for particular individuals, and
pardon invariably followed; so under the new dispensation,
Christ effects our atonement only for repenting, believing,
sinners, and pardon as invariably follows."
This view, we are credibly informed, originated with the
above class, and Rev. Dr. Moore supposed at first that he
should be able to lay his hand upon the original dissertations,
in which it was for the first time explained and defended. In
the absence of that, our readers are furnished with the above
epitome. If any have a curiosity to look at this, to say the
least, ingenious construction and interpretation of the doctrine, we refer them to the American Biblical Repository,
second series, tenth volume, pages 110-134, in which the
above view is set forth at length, by a member of the aforesaid class, Rev. Alonzo Wheelock, D. D., of New York.  We
may also state that the same view in its main features, though
less extended, is presented in the first volume of the Christian
Review, pages 337-348, which appeared in the year 1836,
and was prepared by the Rev. Isaac Merriam, now deceased.
In taking leave of this branch of scriptural doctrine, it is
proper to mention that no one topic is more thoroughly discussed in the manuscripts of Dr. Kendrick, than that of the
atonement.
The following quotation from the pen of Dr. Maginnis,
exhibits Dr. Kendrick's views as a Baptist:
" He cherished a very high sense of the importance of the
Christian ordinances. He held that it was essential to the
purity of Christian doctrine that these ordinances should be
preserved in their original simplicity. He disapproved of
baptizing persons who do not sufficiently understand their
duty to know what church they ought to unite with, -or




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   205
whether, indeed, they ought to connect themselves with anyIle also believed it to be contrary to the order of God's
house, that those should be admitted to the Lord's supper
who had never been properly baptized. But he advocated
the practice of receiving, without re-baptism, those presenting themselves for reception to a Baptist church, who have
been immersed, upon a profession of their faith, by Pedobaptist ministers.  He was, however, in favor of re-ordaining
ministers who are to be received into the Baptist connection
from Pedobaptist churches. His reasons for this latter practice I am unable to state, and any arguments of my own
would here be out of place. Yet it is obvious, that there is
no incongruity between this and the practice above mentioned; for in baptism, the intention, of the candidate to render sincere obedience to the divine command, is all that can
be essential to the validity of his act, where it is conformed
to the scriptural mode; while in ordination, it is well known
that the vows assumed by a Pedobaptist minister bind him
to the performance of a specific religious rite, which Baptists
regard as unscriptural, and subversive of one of the institutions of Christ."
We pass to a brief notice of Dr. Kendrick's views of
Divine Providence. He held no novel or singular view on
this point, but while he maintained that God presided over
the universe of matter and mind, and his plans took into
account alike the momentous and the trivial events, he confided in this doctrine, as one from which he might derive
comfort and instruction. He sought to turn it to high practical uses. He made its study a sort of criterion to ascertain
whether the God of Providence would have him go, what
course he had prescribed for him and for others; and when a
good degree of satisfaction was reached upon these points, he
had the highest pleasure in pursuing the path which was
thus marked out.
He never turned to the book of Divine Providence to bring
discredit upon the inspired volume, but rather the more to do
18




206   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
it honor.  He sought to accept the latter as the great source
and authority for the former; and so far from arraying one
against the other, he aimed rather to render them mutual interpreters. Seldom does the life of any one afford more
incidents than did his own, to confirm and illustrate his views
of Divine Providence.
There was in his own training and preparation for the
ministry, seemingly forced upon him by the stringent power
of circumstances, an intimate and direct bearing upon the
career of his riper years, which it was not possible for him to
forecast. In his discipline for the sacred office, he was the
child of providence; fortunate in his connection with able,
original, and master minds, he learned from them, living oracles in their way, what was not to be found in the schools.
Events conspired to put him in possession of that kind of
knowledge which would render him an intelligent adviser
and a practical worker in all the departments of the kingdom of Christ. He was initiated at the fountain head into
all the branches of our denominational benevolent enterprises, and familiar with those projected in every part of
Christendom.
Still further, in his intercourse with the friends of Zion, in
various parts of New England and New York, we now discern the germs of influence that afterwards ripened into a
harvest in favor of that seat of sacred learning, which it was
his privilege to aid in founding and directing. If the annals
of that school be opened and read, we can reach no other
conclusion, than that it is the foster child of Divine Providence.  Its projectors could not presage its history, could
not divine its success, nor its progressive changes.  It had
no prototype in this, nor in any other land. A providential
necessity gave it birth, and then for its nurture and development it was equally cast upon the Fatherhood of Providence.
It had no opulent founder first to give it a name, and then
permit it to draw from his purse. Poverty denied it for a
time a name, and for its support it craved the charities of the




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   207
poor; and from the hour of its feeble infancy to its present
sturdy manhood, has depended largely upon the prayers and
contributions of the pious poor.
There are marked instances of divine interposition that
exhibit the faith of the men engaged in this enterprise, and
show that it was regarded as a religious affair. The one
which we here narrate came from the lips of Dr. Kendrick
himself; the writer is indebted for it to the kindness of Rev.
B. N. Leach, D. D.
The meetings of the board, particularly in the early history of the seminary, often presented scenes of deep and
moving interest. They were not so much seasons for the
dry discussion of business as of prayer, inasmuch as from
their great extremity they were driven to ask counsel of
God, and implore deliverance from embarrassment through
his interposition. At one meeting of the board, which probably occurred in 1826, most of the time was spent in earnest
prayer, and strong crying to God for direction. The board
felt the need of a suitable edifice to accommodate the growing
school. The stone building which is now the Young Men's
Academy, was too limited in its arrangements; and besides,
the board was in a great measure destitute of funds to aid
those brethren whom they had received as beneficiaries. At
the meeting now referred to, the only vote passed was one
appointing a day of fasting and prayer some six weeks from
that session. It was a dark hour, but just the darkness that
precedes the cheerful light of day.
Before the time arrived for the adjourned meeting of the
board, the Rev. Dr. Gano, of Providence, R. I., made a visit
to Hamilton. His visit was a somewhat singular, though a
highly acceptable one. It was in this wise: a member of his
congregation, the late Nicholas Brown, Esq., came to him
one day and inquired whether he knew any thing definitely
about the affairs of Hamilton Institution, for said he, "I
cannot sleep; they are in trouble there. I dream about them
nightly." The pastor, able and intelligent as he confessedly




208   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
was, had to acknowledge his ignorance in this particular
instance.  Mr. Brown persisted in maintaining that they
were certainly in trouble at Hamilton, and nothing would
satisfy his mind but to have his pastor make a journey, at
his expense, to this seat of learning, and ascertain its financial
condition. Accordingly, Dr. Gano undertook the journey,
spending some ten days in the Village of Hamilton, and
thoroughly acquainting himself with the general policy,
plans, prospects, and necessities of the newly founded seminary. On his return he reported to his friend and parishioner, whose sleep had been intermitted through concern
for this feeble child of providence, all the facts in the case.
The earnest inquirer procuring information at the sacrifice of
a considerable amount of money, gave a noble testimony to
his deep interest in the institution by immediately sending
his pledge of one thousand dollars for a new building. This
was so obviously of the Lord, that it could be regarded in
no other light than one of his favoring providences. But for
such tokens that were greeting the friends and the immediate directors of this school, it would long since have died out.
One now who was an eye-witness of those struggles in
prayer, at the board meetings, and then saw also the answers
that were sent to their requests, occurring as they did, and
when they did, might well come to entertain a firm belief in
the doctrine of divine providence, were his mind shut up to
inferences drawn from  this sphere alone.  But, with Dr.
Kendrick, his life and labors were a tissue of providences.
By these, in a great measure, every removal and every
change was brought about. He did not dare to close his
labors in any field which he entered, however small it might
be, till he had unmistakable evidences that it was the will of
God that he should retire from it. Nor would he enter upon
a new one, till he saw with equal clearness and certainty,
that his Master said, "Go, for I have sent thee."  Personal
interest might be shown to lie in this or that direction, but
this was not a decisive argument. Rather was he inclined




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   209
to be suspicious of that which seemed to promise him
worldly advantage. He sought to know when and whither
moved the pillar and the cloud of divine providence.
We adduce an instance, which is one of many probably in
several respects similar. The case is one that incidentally
sheds light upon the character of the men concerned in the
transaction; and many friends in Zion will have a still deeper
interest in the persons by knowing who they were.
In the winter of 1841 or'42, Rev. T. G. Lamb, of the class
of 1842, observed one of his fellow students in one of the
classes below him, to be laboring under depression of spirits.
This continued for two or three weeks. For the purpose of
ascertaining the cause of his dejection, Mr. L. called at his
room, suspecting that it might be the "want of funds," which
was a stereotyped phrase among the students, and finding
the victim of depression not very communicative, he proceeded to give an account of his own trials in procuring the
necessary means for prosecuting his course of study. This
was a door of access to the other's heart, and he freely disclosed to him his situation. He said he was driven to the
necessity of leaving his studies for a time, to occupy a situation as a teacher in a school which had been tendered him,
and he was then penning his acceptance of the offer. Mr.
Lamb requested him to defer mailing his letter for a day, and
make known his straitened condition to Dr. Kendrick, supposing it probable that he might obtain help, and be spared
the painful necessity of absence from the institution, and
interruption in his course of study.  To this the reply of the
other was, that "he would much rather dig than beg."
"I then," says Mr. L., "left him, and muffled myself upfor it was an unpleasant winter evening-and made my way
to the residence of the venerable president of the institution.
I found him in his study, where I was received with his
usual paternal familiarity. I then stated the object of my
visit; when he immediately took from his secretary a letter,
and replied in the following language:" "I am happy to
18*




210   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK1, D.D.
meet with providential illustrations of the topic of my discourse upon last Lord's Day," which was the Special Providence of God.  "Here is a letter which I received this
morning from a friend and classmate in Vermont, who,
immediately upon having seen an appeal from my pen in
behalf of our indigent young men, has forwarded me forty
dollars, which he directs me to give to the most needy young
man in the institution. Do you not think our Father intends
it for this brother?" calling his name. "Please ask him to
call on me in the morning."
Mr. Lamb made his ascent to the seminary buildings with
nimble footsteps, and hastened to the room where he had, a
little while before, arrested the winged messenger, or rather
prevented its flight, and communicated the results of his
interview with the president.  The news drew tears of
gratitude from the eyes of him who was thus unexpectedly
favored of his Heavenly Father. In the morning he called
as desired, and became the recipient of the donation of forty
dollars, which came not from a professed disciple of Christ,
but from a personal friend of Dr. Kendrick. The indigent
student, thus aided, and permitted to go on uninterruptedly
in his course, was Rev. E. C. Lord, now of the China
mission.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   211
CHAPTER XXI.
Plan of Discourses-Choice of Texts-Their Suitableness-InstancesDoctrinal-Not a Favorite with the Masses-His mind DeliberateAnecdote-Appearance in the Pulpit-Occasionally Eloquent-Treatment of Controverted Suhjects-In'tance-Special Occasions-Valedictory Address-Sermons Scriptural-Counsel to Inquirers.
IF there was any thing in which Dr. Kendrick was particularly excellent as a sermonizer, we should unhesitatingly
say, it was in the plan of his discourses. Whatever defects
his sermons might exhibit, they presented usually this
commendable feature, viz.: a good plan, one that seemed to
grow naturally out of the subject, and while each part seemed
dependent upon all the other parts, preserved a high degree
of unity in the development of the theme. An examination
of the skeletons of his discourses justifies our statement, and
the testimony of those who often listened to him will corroborate our view.
Many of his discourses are now to be seen only in
skeletons; simply the main divisions and heads, and here
the verdict of praise, or censure must be passed upon the
plan only. Of most of his discourses, he wrote out only the
principal parts, leaving the outline to be filled at the time of
delivery.
The supplement would be readily suggested from the
leading.channels of thought, and from the animus of the
subject, so far drawn out upon paper. This appears to have
been the course adopted in the earlier stage of his ministry,
and followed up through many years of his pastoral labors.
He also wrote discourses in full, and occasionally one was
published, but the instances of publication are rare. -le
recommended to his pupils the habit of laying out the plan
of a sermon with great care, and disciplining themselves to




212   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
supply the matter under each division and head, extemporaneously. It was rather an extempore use of language, than
of matter. This he conceived on the whole to offer the
greatest freedom in delivery, and to approach the nearest to
the true idea of preaching the gospel.
Another praise-worthy quality was the taste displayed in
the choice of texts. A good text does not always communicate its virtues to the sermon, for we know instances in which
the main link of connection consists in the text being named
just before the sermon is delivered. In Dr. Kendrick's hands
a good text was the unfailing pledge of good matter, alike in
the warp and the woof of his discourse. He had no predilection for strange and curious texts. He invariably sought
for a passage that conveyed either in itself, or in its connectives, some distinct sentiment. Every auditor would feel
that if the sermon were indifferent, the text was still weighty
and instructive. The adoption of some scripture phrase for
a motto, to be echoed at the close of each high sounding
paragraph, had no place in his pulpit preparations; and the
verdict of his judgment was against all studied eccentricities.
By his uniform practice, he eschewed novelties and extravagances as involving a forfeiture of ministerial dignity.
Knowing, that in the very style in which the message is
conveyed, there may be a perversion of the spirit of the
gospel. Dr. Kendrick was conscientiously studious upon
this point. His language was in uniform keeping with the
nature of the truths which he delivered, and the object which
they proposed.
It would be no difficult task to point out specimens.of texts
chosen with singular appropriateness to time and circumstances. Indeed, we do not see that any more pertinent
passages could have been found in the whole range of the
Old and New Testament Scriptures.
We adduce a few in illustration of our statements.
A young lady had lost her parents by death in the far
west; the occasion was commemorated by a discourse




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.  213
founded upon Hosea, xiv., 3. "Neither will we say any
more to the work of our hands, ye are our gods: for in thee
the fatherless find mercy. "
A person had arrived in the town of Salisbury, and died
the day after his arrival.  Officiating at the funeral, Mr.
Kendrick selected the text: "Boast not thyself of to-morrow,
for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."
Another had died in an apoplectic fit; the following was
chosen for the funeral services: "What shall I do unto
thee, O thou preserver of men? Why hast thou set me as
a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?"
On the burial of' a wife, he chose this, " Lover and friend
hast thou put far from me."
He was present at the death-scene of a wife and mother
who was remarkably revived in strength a little prior to her
departure. In this return of strength she made confession of
sin, committed her soul to Jesus, her husband, children and
friends to the divine mercy; and after praying and conversing with a loud voice for nearly an hour, to the
astonishment of all present, she sank away in death. The
circumstance was thus noticed in Mr. Kendrick's Diary.
" This may be a case in which redeeming mercy was afforded
in the last moments of life; this scripture was the text for
the funeral discourse:' Wherefore he is able also to save
them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing
He ever liveth to make intercession for them."
These instances all occurred within the space of six months
perhaps, but we need not extend our comments upon this
point.
Dr. Kendrick was eminently a doctrinal preacher; he early
discovered predilections for a thorough study of the doctrines
of the gospel; he was also interested in familiar discussions of
them in social intercourse, and in addition to this his habits
as a theological instructor required him to dwell much upon
them. Besides, he valued them as essential to the complete
discharge of ministerial obligation.  In the words of an




214   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
associate teacher, from whom we have already quoted, "his
aim was so to present the doctrines of the Bible that they
might all be seen to centre in, and illustrate the great theme
of the cross.  He regarded a correct knowledge of scriptural
doctrine as essential to enlightened views of Christian duty,
and as supplying the most safe and wholesome stimulant to
right action. His instructions were, therefore, highly practical in their tendency. Those who sat under his ministry
were accustomed to hear the duties of religion urged upon
proper grounds, and by pure and elevating motives, and
could not fail to acquire just conceptions of the elements
which belong to a true and genuine Christian character."
The taste which Dr. Kendrick evinced in preaching would
not render him popular with the masses. He could scarcely
be a favorite with the multitude, for while he had some
capital points as a public speaker, he still lacked some of the
essential characteristics of a good pulpit orator. He could
seize upon the strong features of a subject, and present them
forcibly with argument, tact and real skill; but it did not
come within his province to give the nice and delicate lights
and shades of a picture at once striking and enchanting. In
any approach to the dramatic he would utterly fail; his mind
must always have time to work; it could not throw itself at
once upon an interesting train of thought and illustration,
and move rapidly along with unfaltering tread. Cautious
and deliberate, it must have opportunity to describe its course
with wary step. It was a manifest law of his mental constitution "to make haste slowly." The preliminaries of his
ordinary or extraordinary efforts would seldom strike an
audience favorably. In his introduction he was not emotional,
his soul could not be set on fire with his favorite themes in
the outset of his public addresses. He was himself sensible
of this, and it is illustrated by a slight anecdote which we
will take the liberty of relating.
During much of his ministry in Eaton he resided in Hamilton, for the more convenient discharge of his duties in the




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  215
seminary, and usually rode over to his place of worship on
Sunday morning. On one of these occasions, being accompanied by his little daughter, Cordelia, she, with the artlessness of a child, inquired, "Whether it would not be a good
plan for him to begin his discourse on the way, so that he
might get fairly agoing by the time the hour of service
arrived."  The father felt the force of the hint thus brought
out, and no doubt richly enjoyed the innocent joke; and he
was accustomed in after years to rehearse the incident to his
pupils, as revealing an infirmity of which he was sensible,
and which was also obvious to a child. Neither age nor
experience could remove this habit, it was inwrought with
the constitution of his mind.
Dr. Kendrick's appearance in the pulpit, though dignified
and commanding, from his physical proportions, and high
intellectual development, was also evincive of extreme modesty.
In his personal bearing he seemed as if desirous of shrinking
from the position he was compelled to assume. At first,
upon rising in the pulpit, he was inclined to stoop, and bow
the head; besides, he had a habit of changing his posture at
very brief intervals, as if the desk were too low for him, which
awakened for the moment the impression of awkwardness.
The implied criticism which Dr. Stillman made upon his
manner in his pulpit, when he occupied it in his youth, and
among his early attempts in addressing large assemblies,
would have been equally applicable after nearly half a century's experience. The suggestion of the Doctor was, "that
he should stand upright, not lean forward, nor have any
backward motion."
A very perceptible change would take place in his manner
when the preliminaries were disposed of, and his giant mind
began fully to grasp the subject before him. His stalwart
form would rise to its full altitude, his gesticulation would
become frequently graceful and dignified, his countenance
bright with animation; and there were occasions when he
would bear along his auditors upon a tide of genuine and




216   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
lofty eloquence, and when he rose to a perfect mastery over
the sublime themes which he was unfolding. Had his voice
possessed the compass which some gifted speakers have it
would have placed some of his happiest efforts in the front
ranks of pulpit oratory. But it lacked compass, and as he
advanced with the merits of his subject he usually suffered it
to rise too high, and thus put it out of his power to use the
mellifluous cadences of a finished orator. The transitions
from a high to a low key were too abruptly made to produce
the happiest effect.
To draw forth Dr. Kendrick's best pulpit efforts required
more than an ordinary occasion. Let a subject be assigned
to him, and though it might be environed with difficulties, he
would disentangle many an intricate fold, and where he could
not untie the gordian knot, he could discourse reasons for the
mystery, which if they did not satisfy the minds of his audience, went far to silence their objections. If appointed to
exhibit a particular doctrine, or defend any distinguishing
feature of the denomination to which he was attached, he left
no point unfortified, and went far toward exhausting all the
elements of the subject under discussion.
Soon after his removal to Eaton, he was called to preach
upon the covenants, on a special occasion.  A  revered
mother in Israel, who in after years had a son to enter the
ministry, was induced to review the grounds of her baptism,
and after a severe struggle, and an investigation prolonged
through more than a year, she and her daughter became converts to Baptist sentiments.  The then recent change of
views on the part of Judson and Rice, originated this examination. They resided in Hamilton, and were baptized by
Rev. Daniel Hascall, pastor of the church there. On the
occasion of their baptism, Dr. Kendrick preached the sermon,
above alluded to. One of the hearers observed, " It was a
masterly discussion on the covenants, founded upon 2 Samuel, 23: 5, and left neither nook nor corner for Pedobaptism
to hide itself in; it made a strong impression."




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.  217
The confidence reposed in Dr. Kendrick, as a sound and
able preacher naturally induced his brethren both among the
laymen and the ministry, to call him forward on important
occasions, and impose upon him the duty of instructing the
people. Being frequently required to preach on ordination
occasions, he was specially familiar with the whole range of
themes for such services, and could discuss with great force
and pertinence, the duties, privileges, and results of ministerial labor. He was also very happy on funeral occasions,
and there are in manuscript, sermons delivered upon the
decease of valued laborers in the ministry, which would take
a high rank in this department of Christian literature.  While
they pay a deserved tribute to departed worth, they are applied practically to the benefit of the living. They guard with
special care against allowing their portraitures of Christian
excellence to degenerate into indiscriminate and fulsome
eulogy, and against a failure to render the proper acknowledgment for distinguished excellencies to divine grace.
As the Corresponding Secretary of the New York Baptist
Education Society, he was frequently called to chronicle the
departure of its members, and to place in the annual report
a tribute to their memory. Those who have read these have
not failed to notice that they embody with admirable fitness,
what it is well for us to hold in remembrance, of those now
sanctified and made perfect, while the means whereby they
were made so, are magnified and commended to our adoption.
It often fell to Dr. Kendrick's lot to give the parting
address to students that had completed their course, and
these words of counsel now slumbering in the manuscript,
are as full of real sound, and wholesome advice, as many baccalaureate sermons that have found their way to the press.
They live still in the heart of many a servant of Jesus, who
has acted upon them through a long and successful ministry.
Many of these are touching in the fatherly regard which
they evince for the candidates of the sacred office, bidding
adieu to "the school of the prophets," only to assume the
19




218   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
responsibilities of teachers in the churches of Jesus. Many
a reader familiar with the deceased, will revive the tall form
in the chapel of the seminary, appealing in pathetic strains
to a band of youthful servants, and saying to them as a father
would to his children, dear to him as the apple of his eye,
" go forth with the benedictions of heaven upon you."
Before dismissing this topic, it is the part of justice to add
that we do not claim for his sermons a style of classical finish
and elegance, yet for one whose culture was carried on not
only without acquaintance with the Grecian and Latin masters, but also without any thorough early training in the
higher walks of general literature, his language was choice,
expressive, and well conceived, to convey what he thoroughly
understood himself. His sermons were more logical than
imaginative; his appeals were addressed to the reason and
the conscience. It was not his province to deal with the
emotional part of human nature, with equal success. He
was sparing of anecdotes and those that were adduced by
way of illustration, were well authenticated. His discourses
were eminently spiritual, and interspersed with frequent
quotations from the inspired record. He acknowledged no
better source whence to draw illustrations, than the book of
books. He drew from experience largely, and this has always
been a prized trait of good preaching. Cecil has gone so far
as to say, " no man has the moral right to preach beyond his
own religious experience." Without concurrence in his view,
we must admit that an experimental preacher will always be
edifying and comforting to believers, and the ministry of such
an one, is most frequently honored in the awakening and conversion of sinners.
In rendering counsel to inquirers, Dr. Kendrick's method
was, not to compromise the high views which he entertained of
the atonement, of the sovereignty and purposes of God. What
he believed, he thought was worthy to be inculcated, and he
scrupled not to enforce his views of gospel truth upon the
awakened sinner. He felt an entire confidence to abide the




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  219
result of a truthful presentation of the gospel. He believed
it was the prerogative of the Holy Spirit to employ the word
for the conviction and conversion of the sinner. A lady who
had sought his counsel when under pungent conviction, said,
in referring to this method of Mr. Kendrick. " that in the
hour of her deepest anxiety and despondence he said to her,
he did not think the Lord ever had heard, or ever would
hear and answer the prayer of an impenitent sinner." " I
have never," said she, " repeated this suggestion to approving ears, yet I trust it was blest to me; that it drove me
from myself to the one all sufficient Refuge."




220   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER  XXII.
Congeniality-Frankness - Caution-Conversational Gift-Christian
Gentleman - Pacificator - Bearing his own Trials - IllustrationGaining the Confidence of others-A Case in Point-Home —Hospitality-Correspondence-Letters of Rev. A. Ten Brook and James
Edmonds.
IN social and domestic life, Dr. Kendrick was always at
home. He was eminently adapted to meet the views and
feelings of those with whom he had intercourse, in a manner
at once pleasing and instructive, whether he perfectly coincided with them, or widely differed in opinion. Never forward to assume the labor of entertaining the circle into which
he might be casually thrown, or which he had voluntarily
and designedly joined, he was yet ever ready to contribute
his share to the pleasure and profit of the occasion. Nor did
the emergency, however sudden, find him disconcerted and
devoid of the means of social entertainment. It required no
forced drafts upon him to meet the exigences of the case,
ordinary or extraordinary; for his conversational gift was
exuberant, and his fund of information ample, and his native
store of wit never wanting, though he drew but cautiously
from the last named resource, lest it might detract from his
ministerial character. While he was the last to pride himself in the possession of any gifts, he still called them into
service, as opportunity revealed to him the befitting moment
of their use.
These traits of character, qualifying him for social life,
rendered him a favorite in the families where he was a well
known and frequent guest. The children of the household
were ever delighted to see him, and equally with the adult
members seemed to share in the common joy which the
presence of the guest created.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   221
A keen sense of propriety ever dominant in him, kept him
from excessive freedom in his frankness, on the one hand, and
equally removed, on the other, from that bondage of secrecy
that locks up the sympathies of men. His choice was the
happy medium which prudence ever suggests, and which long
acquaintance justifies. His frankness never betrayed him
into weaknesses, nor did his reserve lay him open to the
charge of coldness and selfishness. Thus cautious in his
social habit, he was rarely mistaken in the attachments which
he formed. They were enduring; and the only change they
knew, was the agreeable one of growing with years, and
ripening with intercourse.
It was no aim of his, to render himself agreeable that he
might minister to his love of approbation, but to make all
moments and opportunities minister to some good end. He
never felt himself at liberty either to neglect or abuse his
conversational gifts.
In the character which we are delineating, there was presented an admirable specimen of a Christian gentleman. He
not only knew what was truly courteous, but it was a law of
his cultivated nature to practice it. The ease and grace with
which he carried out this feature of a finished man, impressed
others with its value, and commended its culture, without
any honeyed words. If he ever suffered from the incivility
of others, few would ever know any thing of its occurrence
from him; and where many would be moved with indignation, and resolve upon having satisfaction, he would quietly
bear and forbear, and await the merited recompense from
higher than human hands. He knew but one rule by which
to square his conduct with men, and that was derived from
the pen of inspiration.  While some seem  to forget the
blessed injunctions of the Heavenly Master when under the
heat of animated discussion, and amid the asperities growing
out of differences of judgment, he never lost sight of the
apostolic requirement, " Love as brethren, be pitiful, be
courteous. "
19*




222   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Hence in the storm, however raised, he was the pacificator
rather than the partisan. He sought to assuage the fury of
the waves, and bring in the tranquillizing spirit of peace and
love. This bent of mind pointed him out as a competent
umpire in cases of division and difficulty; and entailed upon
him the unwelcome, and often thankless task of administering
advice where the peace of churches had been broken. By
the exercise of such traits of character as these, his counsels
were sought, even after he was laid aside and suffering excruciatingly upon his bed. It was not unusual for him to listen
patiently to the narration of difficulties, even when his friends
deemed it far beyond his strength. Nevertheless, his interest in the peace and prosperity of the churches led him to
forget self, to forego rest, when an opportunity was thus
presented of doing good to others. It was not his habit to
disclose his own trials, even to near friends, while any possible hope remained of their favorable issue. His strong
hold upon an unseen arm in those seasons, was known to but
very few.
An instance occurs that will illustrate the point before us:
During the season already described, in which the leaven
of Unitarianism infected a portion of the students in the
seminary, Dr. Kendrick was observed to be thoughtful, and
deeply intent upon some weighty subject. None could know
for a time what it was that oppressed his mind, not even the
members of his own family; so habituated was he to bear
his own burdens. But it did not escape the notice of some
in the family, that during the watches of the night his voice
was heard in under tones from one of the secret apartments
of his dwelling. The object of those repeated and weary
vigils may be readily imagined.  They remind us of the
passage, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh
in the morning." We have only to remind our readers of
the happy issue to that discussion, followed as it was by the
effusions of the Holy Spirit, and the ingathering of precious
souls into the kingdom of Christ.




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   223
Dr. Kendrick had a happy faculty for winning upon the
confidence and affections alike of brethren and of those who
made no pretensions to personal religion. It was no rare
thing with him to enlist strongly the sympathies of worldly
men in support of the institution with which he was so long
connected,'and with the prosperity of which his very life
was identified.
A single instance will show the power of his courteous
demeanor. A gentleman from a distant city, at the special
invitation of Dr. Kendrick paid a visit to Hamilton, and
shared the generous hospitality of his home.  The seat of
learning was opened to his inspection, its noble objects
explained and advocated; not with the obtrusive officiousness
which might prejudice an unconverted mind against the
cherished object, but with the collectedness of fixed faith in
the enterprise, heaven-born and ordained to live.
The favorable result of the visit was, that the gentleman
gave, upon his departure, a pledge of one thousand dollars,
as a donation to the seminary. This gentleness of bearing,
this calmness and self-possession when meeting minds that
had been ruffled by passion, or biased by unfounded prejudice, quenched many a fiery dart, and turned away many a
fiercely hurled weapon from this beloved institution during
its infancy, childhood, and riper years. Nor did Christian
courtesy forsake Dr. Kendrick as he forsook the outer world,.
and entered the precincts of his quiet home. It was not a
mere outer garment, there to be laid aside. It was interwoven with the texture of the soul, and he could cast it off
only when he cast away himself. In his own family he was:
free, affectionate, and playful.  He loved home, and was
passionately fond of his children. It was a pleasure to render them happy, and to pour the sunlight of his countenance
upon all who clustered around the welcome board.  The
inmates of his home were many, but all knew the generosity
of his heart, and his liberal hospitality.
For many years the anniversary occasions called together




224   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
a throng of visitors from various sections of the land.  This
annual concourse of guests is likely to weary some, dwelling
in close proximity to seats of learning. The novelty wears
away, and at length, though the heart is cheered by the
presence of distinguished personages, yet the large crowds
that gather, frequently impose tasks, by no means easy to be
borne.
In the support of these burdens the home of Dr. Kendrick had its full share.  So far, however, from  weighing
them, the privilege of doing it was the chief consideration.
It was turned into a gala season of Christian intercourse
and cordial greeting of friends.  The apartments of the
whole dwelling were turned into dormitories by night, and
dining halls by day. A hundred dollars expended in hospitality was deemed a cheap method of doing good to a needy
cause, which was second to none in the list of benevolent
objects. The annual expense of hospitality on these occasions might not vary much from the above sum, but it was
accounted as trivial compared with the satisfaction it yielded.
Home would have lost one of its most significant meanings
to Dr. Kendrick, had it not been the centre of large hospitality.
There is still another sphere in which the Christian gentleman is displayed in a cheering light. Dr. Kendrick's correspondence was very extensive. This was rendered necessary
alike from the official relation to the seminary, which he long
sustained as its corresponding secretary, and from his wide
personal acquaintance, which both duty and inclination
prompted him to maintain. These duties as a correspondent
were performed with the most scrupulous fidelity, and the
perusal of his letters is eminently instructive.  Time has
turned the sheets into a yellow hue, and the letters long since
traced by the hand that is now quiet in the grave, have faded
somewhat, but the well formed characters are there, the punctuation is not omitted, and every letter that is entitled to a
cross, or dot, has it. It was characteristic of the man to do




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  225
his work well, and he would not send these winged messengers abroad until they were full fledged.
The style and spirit of his correspondence were also in admirable keeping with his character. It was never slovenly
and slipshod, never even careless, but always in a form which
fitted it for the press. In spirit, it ever rose to the height of
the subject, and preserved throughout a noble dignity, evincing in its author respect alike for himself, and for those whom
he addressed.
It is perhaps proper to say, that the age in which Dr. Kendrick's character was matured, and much of his career spent,
was one more observant than our own of the usages of civility. Letter writers generally observed a more dignified and
courteous address than is deemed befitting our more active
and bustling age. Exemplifiations of our statement could
be found through the life which we are now sketching.
The following letter, from the Rev. Andrew Ten Brook,
now a minister under the United States Government to Bavaria, serves to illustrate still further the social qualities, and
accurate business habits of the man.
"Allow me to say that I think Dr. Kendrick eminently
showed one characteristic which I should like to see brought
out in its full force in his memoir. le had found, more exactly than any person I ever knew, that happy medium
between too much engrossment with the cares of this life,
and that transcendental character which either incapacitates a
man for minute attention to sublunary things, or leads him to
despise them. His minute attention to domestic and social
duties, and business matters, was not at the expense of time
taken from the culture of piety, but was both the result of,
and the tributary to his uniform fervor of religious feeling.
There are very few religious men engaged in business for
themselves, or as business agents for religious objects, who
would not allow their minds to become secularized by it. Dr.
Kendrick was an exception; he never lost sight of the end
in the means. His business and devotion were one.




226   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
" I was not a little interested and amused with an incident
which occurred in transactions between him, as a business
agent of the Education Society, and myself, showing the accuracy of his recollection, and the delicacy of his feelings.  I
had sent him a draft for somewhere near the amount I owed
the society, and asked him to notify me of the amount still
due. He sent me a minute of the notes, in which he mentioned one of one hundred and sixty-three dollars. I wrote
him immediately that there was some mistake, that the other
notes mentioned amounted to nearly what was due. He replied that the note was but one dollar and sixty-three cents.
More than a year afterward, I visited Hamilton, on an anniversary occasion. Dr. Kendrick was supposed to be near his
death. His house thronged with those who supposed they
were calling upon him for the last time. I could not allow
myself to add much to the fatiguing effect of the throng, and
called only for a few minutes, promising a longer visit in the
ensuing vacation. After the mutual inquiries on meeting, he
turned his head from the rest of the company to me, as I sat
at the back-side of his bed, and said,' Brother Ten Brook, I
was very much mortified at that little mistake.' I had to ask' what mistake?' upon which he went on to give the circumstances, and the exact amount involved.
"Those who knew Dr. Kendrick only in the pulpit, have
failed to see him in his most interesting positions. He was a
sound preacher, there was weight in his sermons, but they did
not show the man in that interesting light reflected from his
conversations and letters. I had but little opportunity of
knowing him, until about the time of my leaving Hamilton,
or rather, after I left. His son in Detroit wrote him to send
a pastor to that place. I was to graduate in about three
months. To my supprise, he applied to me, and, much to my
satisfaction, was with me the first Sabbath I spent in Detroit,
in September of 1841. Two weeks from that time, I met him
in the extreme west of Michigan, at the Baptist State Convention, and had his company back.  Some incidents occurred




REV..NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  227
which would illustrate his character. I will mention one.
We had at one time, for a long stage, a drunken driver. He
took upon the box with him an associate of the same character,
and noise and profanity increased as they drank. While the
stage stood at a post office, the driver passed near the door of
the coach, and the Doctor spoke to him, as nearly as I can
recollect, as follows:'Young man, if any pious man should as
often use the name of God, reverently, as you do profanely,
you would think him a great fanatic.' The young man looked
up, having caught only a part of the remark, and stammered
out an inquiry as to what was said, upon which the Doctor
repeated the remark. His very appearance doubled the impression, and the two young men took their seats, and maintained, for the rest of the way, a propriety of behavior which
showed the influence of exalted religious character.
"Some three weeks after the anniversary to which I
alluded above, I was passing through Hamilton with my
family on Saturday afternoon. I called to see Dr. Kendrick,
and was easily prevailed upon to stay over the Sabbath, and
I should be at a loss to select the two days of my life which
ever left so deep an impression upon my mind. I mention
not now the rich vein of piety which pervaded his conversation, as that was much the same whatever subject was up,
but the opening of his large views on education. The conversation was somewhat personal, as he commenced with the
reason which had induced him to wish my settlement in Detroit; passed from that to the State University; then to other
institutions of the same kind, showing that he had taken a
full survey of the field of education throughout the country;
that he knew its condition, the dangers which threatened it, and
the hopes which might be entertained in regard to it. This
picture had affected his mind, and directed and stimulated his
exertions even in matters in which no one suspected such a
motive.  So far as he had influence in settling the students
who went forth from Hamilton, this motive had never been
entirely without effect, and he knew, too, where nearly every




228   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
student had gone, and with the intensest interest had followed
them to their fields of labor, and had the most accurate recollection of nearly all that he had ever known or heard in relation to them."
Substantially the same thing has been particularly observed by others. In the winter of 1846 a brother of the
writer called upon Dr. Kendrick in his illness. This brother
had journeyed somewhat extensively in the states of Illinois
and Wisconsin, in the course of which travels it was his fortune to meet with several of the alumni of Madison University. In allusion to these he found invariably that the recollections of Dr. Kendrick were vivid, and that he could, from
his memory, relate incidents of their lives, and point out
peculiarities of their character, with an aptness both striking
and discriminating. When the name of any person, especially
in the ministry, was mentioned, the whole character of that
individual seemed to rise up in his mind as if the true lineaments of that character, in their minutest lights and shades,
had been set in his memory by a daguerreotype. This habit
of estimating men had acquired great strength with him, by
being, for about thirty years, brought in constant intercourse
with youthful candidates for the ministry, in whose culture,
discipline, and maturity, he cherished the greatest possible
interest.
The following is from the pen of Mr. James Edmunds:"My first intimate acquaintance with the late Dr. N. Kendrick was in spending two days with him in visiting a church,
of which I was a member in Western New York. When I
was leaving him he followed me to my horse, and said,'We
have been praying for such a man as you fourteen years; I
have now found you; you must leave your farm, go to Hamilton, and assist us in sustaining that institution.' I replied:' It is impossible, I must attend to my farm, I leave such
labor to ministers.' He replied:' We want laymen for such
work, it is not the work for ministers. The Lord will not
let you rest on your farm, you must do all you can for him,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   229
you will soon meet Jesus, who died for you, in the judgment.'
No argument could have moved me to relinquish my settled
plans of life but the solemnity of this appeal. I could not
resist it. It carried me at last to Hamilton, and has never
allowed me, with a satisfied conscience, to pursue my private
business for twenty-six years. The view of the judgment
that he impressed on my mind, in five minutes, has ever
since made human praise or censure appear of little account.
I was intimately associated with him for twelve years. tWe
traveled much together, we were often in deep waters.  He
was characterized by a spirit of earnest prayer and unyielding
faith. There was no guile in his lips-no sort of trickery
in his management.  He would not flatter a man to get his
money, when he needed that money ever so much. When
the covetousness of men shut up all hope of success, and it
seemed as if our young brethren must be driven from their
studies for want of funds-at many such times have we
retired to our room, and there in the deep silence of the night
and at the early dawn of the morning, would he pour out his
full soul, and pray for his beloved institution, with a holy
earnestness and a subdued zeal which I have never seen
equalled elsewhere. In no case do I remember passing
through such a struggle without soon finding a way out of
our difficulties."
20




230   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, I).D.
CHAPTER  XXIII.
Person-Family Characteristics-Counsellor —" Chatauque Council""' Speculative Free Masonry"-Reproof-Corresponding SecretarySolicitor-Titles-A Conservative-Leading Questions-Anniversaries-Tour to Michigan-Indian Missions —Extracts fromhis Journal
-Family Bereavement.
BEFORE we pass to the last providential dealings of God
with the man whose life we have thus far traced, we will
group together a few more features of his character, and
events of his life, to render the portraiture complete.
From incidental allusions in the preceding pages the
stranger might infer something as to his personal appearance.
To use the language of one from whom we have already
quoted, "he was one of nature's and of grace's noblemen,
formed alike physically, intellectually and morally on a large
and generous scale. In person he was tall and commanding,
his form and face eminently fitted to inspire respect and
veneration. His ample forehead indicated large mental capacities; his mild, deep, blue eye spoke at once the benevolence
of his heart, and the depth and acuteness of his intellect.
His intellectual powers were of the noblest order." He was
a fair sample of the numerous family whence he sprang, and
exhibited its usual characteristics for several generations. It
is the current and well-sustained testimony that " the Kendricks are a tall race of people, with fair complexion and blue
eyes, noted for truth, probity and a high sense of honor;
having always an open hand for' the needy, with this for their
motto inscribed upon their family escutcheon, Virtue is
hlonor."
Such favorable antecedents always awaken high hopes,
and in the instance before us a long and useful life fully
justified their indulgence.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   231
The cast of Mr. Kendrick's mind was such as to qualify
him pre-eminently for a counsellor. He was accustomed to
take broad and liberal views of all matters that came under
his notice.  He could not be one-sided, and yield to the bias
of prejudice, or the claims of party.  His nature repelled the
thought of being governed or swayed by any thing save
truth, and the loftiest motives that deserve a paramount place
in determining every one's course. His mind was ever open
to conviction, and ready to appreciate the smallest beam of
light, from whatever source it might be derived. HIe had
the patience to bear with the infirmities of the weak, and to
hear and weigh the reasons which aggrieved brethren might
have to offer. The forbearance which he showed towards
the errors of brethren or their differences of opinion, and the
solidity, integrity and inflexibility of his judgment imparted
great weight to his decisions with all parties.
One who was conversant with the life and character of Dr.
Kendrick for more than thirty years, and who sat with him
in many councils, says, "that, possessing a comprehensive
and deliberate mind, and on difficult and intricate questions
being always the last to speak, this language might be applied
to his advice,' Unto him men gave ear, and waited, and kept
silence at his counsel. After his words they spake not again;
and his speech dropped upon them.' He had the peculiar
faculty of wielding the wisdom of a whole council to the best
advantage, to secure a decision in his own style of thought.
His decisions evinced wisdom and close scrutiny."
There are to be found among his papers the records of the
proceedings of several councils, some of which pertained to
difficult cases of discipline, and others to doctrinal points, a
denial of which involved the peace and welfare of many
churches. In the earlier part of his ministry he was frequently called to serve as scribe in these ecclesiastical bodies,
and thus it happens that copies of their proceedings are in
his own handwriting, and preserved with his other papers.
From these we are furnished with palpable evidence of the




232   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
intricate difficulties that were, from time to time, brought
before him, and also of the prudence and judgment that he
evinced in situations at once the most responsible, delicate
and trying.
During the excitement upon " Speculative Free Masonry"
that began in the autumn of 1826, and continued for several
years, extending into many states of the Union, but affecting
more especially the state of New York, this man so highly
prized for his sage counsel, was often called upon to render
the fruits of his wisdom. The subject was neither to be
ruled out of politics nor religion. Party issues grew out of
it at the ballot-box, and churches were more or less distracted.
The wisdom of the greatest leaders in Israel could not prevent divisions. Under the meridian of western New York,
discussions in church and state reached an intense heat.
In the winter of 1831, in the month of February, Mr.
Kendrick was called to the " Chatauque Council" held at
Fredonia. It was deemed necessary to pass out of the
infected district to obtain persons that commanded the confidence of churches and associations, and whose decisions
would be impartial and sanctioned by divine truth. For this
purpose, brethren were called at the distance of two hundred
and fifty miles, embracing the now sainted Peck, Bennett,
Leonard and Galusha, and others that still survive. The
troubles which they were invited to consider were serious,
and had divided every church in the association. Mr. Kendrick was appointed moderator of the body, and it is no
disparagement to the excellent brethren associated with him,
to say, he was the presiding genius and ruling spirit of the
council.  Those familiar with its tedious investigations,
prolonged through nine days and evenings, need only to be
reminded, that the matters presented were environed with no
ordinary difficulties.  Suffice it to say, the brethren fixed
upon the "Whitesboro Resolutions," as the basis of reconciliation and harmony.  It was deemed by some the most
important decision ever made in the state by our denomi



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   233
nation.  Many years have passed since these breaches in
Zion were healed, yet aged brethren in the region of Fredonia
now bear testimony that the peace of the churches and the
association, was due, rather to the wise, gentle and fatherly
counsels, together with the personal influence of Mr. Kendrick, than to the above named platform; several times but for
him, the council itself would have been broken into fragments,
and the desired result would thus have been totally defeated.
As he was at one period of his life somewhat identified
with the Masonic Order, it is but justice to state, that he was
one of the delegates to the conference in which ten or eleven
associations were represented, held at Whitesboro, October
22-23, in 1829.  This conference framed the resolutions
referred to above. It may be inferred however, that no new
opinions were entertained upon the general subject, none at
least strikingly different from what he had for many years
cherished. For we' find that a council held at Addison, Vt.,
February 20th 1815, of which he was clerk, and the Rev.
Aaron Leland, moderator, incorporated substantially the same
principle in its decision as that which was made the basis of
action at Whitesboro fourteen years later.
It-was not in matters affecting the peace and prosperity of
churches alone, that our departed father was appealed to for
counsel, but individuals falling under Christian censure, or
becoming involved in personal difficulties sought the benefit
of his advice. Few if any, could administer rebuke with
greater plainness and fidelity without exciting displeasure.
This arose, either from the confidence reposed in the purity
of his motives, or from the affection cherished for him, which
effectually robbed reproof of its sting; illustrating most
happily the words of the Psalmist, " Let the righteous smite
me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall
be an excellent oil which shall not break my head."
It would surprise many to know how great the number
that consulted him  when placed in doubtful and trying
positions, and how wide the range of interests upon which
20*




234   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
his merits as a counsellor were admitted. Lengthy epistles
now among his papers, are sure testimonials to his widely
conceded capacity as an able adviser.
In discharging the duties of corresponding secretary, he was
required to put in the possession of the several agents the
nlost explicit and direct information, that they might work to
the best advantage. This devolved upon Mr. Kendrick the
necessity of very extensive correspondence. He sought to
afford the agents in the society's employ every facility for the
prosecution of their work, by apprising them of every item
of interest connected with the school, and furnishing them
data from its past history, which would aid them in the furtherance of their work. Nor was his labor ended with giving
to this and that agent a statistical view of the resources and
wants of the seminary. He gave directions what to do, and
how to do it. He knew men far and near, and his advice in
the manner of approaching them, was never out of place.
One constant habit with him reveals to us the ground of his
unshaken confidence. It was this, the inculcation of a prayerful spirit in the minds of the agents as they executed their
work. Some -might suppose, that engrossed as he necessarily
was with the routine of business, that when he had made mention of secular items, he would have neither time nor inclination to observe any thing further. But so habitual was his own
dependence upon God, and so constant his resort to him in
prayer, for his blessing to rest upon every branch of the
enterprise, that it was in perfect keeping with his character
and daily practice, to urge upon them all, to act by their
prayers. These letters were not written for the public eye,
yet in them, we have the indisputable evidence that he was
actuated by a deep sense of his reliance upon an unseen One.
When men seemed to lack sympathy for the cause in which
he had embarked, he turned unto God and seemed ever to
feel that he would raise up friends for the support of the
institution.
The labor in this department was exacting and severe,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   235
because it required such constant study, and the greatest
promptness to meet the duties imposed at the proper time;
for otherwise there was an irreparable loss sustained. The
failure to send by the first departing mail, would occasion
detention and involve the agents in very great embarrassments, hence his work had to be done with dispatch.
Moreover, the correspondence soliciting the patronage of
able brethren, was very extensive. This delicate business
was ever conducted upon principles of candor, Christian
courtesy, and at the same time with great fidelity. He certainly did not fail to make an impression that the institution
had just claims upon the benevolent; and he presented the
whole subject in such a light, that only strong reasons would
allow the person to decline his invitation to patronize the
object. He was not always successful in securing the object
for which he wrote, but the work itself was just as faithfully
done as though thousands of dollars were to be the immediate fruit of the effort. To perform tasks of this nature required great patience and faith.
As a personal solicitor of patronage to the institution, he
was every thing that could be desired. He often found it
necessary to meet objections. He did not look with disdain
upon those who raised them, but condescended to take up and
answer their difficulties, one by one; and although it might
be a thankless task, yet he parted with those who refused to
give, in good feeling, and was careful not to place any weapon
at their command which might be turned to the injury of the
cause. Thufs he never created enemies to the object which
he advocated, and thus so far from rearing barriers to a second visit, he paved the way for a cordial welcome. His
candor won from others the belief that he was honest. His
coolness, self possession, and enlightened views, elicited confidence. His enthusiasm was regulated by prudence, and
controlled by judgment. He made no extravagant representations, and was therefore never embarrassed by the result




236   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
of his plans, neither involving himself nor his friends in the
meshes of his own manufacture.
From the sphere of Dr. Kendrick's labors, the discipline
which he acquired, and the habits of study which he fostered,
it will be seen, that while he was not learned, in the strict
sense of the term, he was still well read in his profession, and
possessed a large share of general intelligence.  He was
well versed in the knowledge of men generally, as well as in
books pertaining to his line of investigations. As a merited
tribute to his attainments as a self-educated man, he was complimented with an honorary degree of Master of Arts, in
1819, from Brown University; and his standing as a theologian was indicated by having the degree of Doctor of Divinity conferred upon him from the same source four years
afterwards.
From the admirable symmetry of his character, he was
effectually fortified against the danger of selecting any fanatical hobby. He was yet in favor of every true reform, and he
believed that to ensure success, the gospel must be the basis
of every improving change. No apostles of progress, however enthusiastic or sanguine, could inspire him with confidence in their measures unless they were believing advocates
of the Christian religion. As already hinted, his nature was
highly conservative, and his course upon the leading questions of the day savored of this character.  A sense of duty
often constrained him to repress the indiscreet zeal of some,
whom he saw to be defeating rather than obtaining the objects proposed to themselves. He was occasionally compelled to witness things that were painful to him. Cherishing
a strong love for sound doctrine, he deplored departures from
it as calamitous to the church, and particularly unfortunate
to the ministry.  In addition to the threatening invasions of
error, which excited so much alarm at one period, and which
has already been noticed in the preceding pages, there was at
a later day the leaven of modern perfectionism in the seminary.  Although its influence was limited, yet it gave Dr.




REV. NATH ANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   237
Kendrick great trouble. Wherever the heresy was accepted,
it was adhered to with pertinacious tenacity. This, or any
other departure from sound faith in those who had once enjoyed the advantages of his own instruction, was particularly
distressing to him, and he sought if possible to recover the
victims from the mistaken views which they had too unguardedly adopted.
He seemed to apprehend in every case the evils resulting
therefrom. Too often had he been solicited to impart his
counsel and lend his influence for the purpose of healing divisions in churches caused by the dissemination of false doctrines, to be indifferent to their propagation.  He took pains
to manifest a kind and forbearing spirit towards the advocates
of error, and sought their reclamation to " the form of sound
words," and "the old paths" of orthodoxy.
Dr. Kendrick took high ground upon the observance of the
Lord's Day, and advocated the repeal of the law by Congress
that requires the transportation of the mail, and the opening
of the post-office on that day.  These are his words"No Christian nation can trample, with impunity, upon
the laws of God. God has ordained a Sabbath, and commanded that no work shall be done on that day; but our
nation has a law against it. This people refuse, by their
legislative enactments, to recognize the law of the Sabbath,
and send out their servants with the mail every Sabbath day,
over the whole length and breadth of the land."
Upon the great leading questions of public interest his
influence was cast into the right scale, and his heart and hand
were ready to patronize every branch of benevolent labor.
He took a deep interest in the anniversaries of our public
bodies. He was a member of the old Triennial Convention,
not one of its originators, but meeting with it for the first
time in 1826, when it convened with the Oliver Street Baptist Church, New York City, and was present at each subsequent anniversary save two, so long as it remained unchanged.
The occasions excepted were in 1829 and 1844, when the




238   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Convention met in Philadelphia. After this body was transformed into the American Baptist Missionary Union, being
made a life member by the courtesy of the First Baptist
Church in Hamilton, his interest in the cause of foreign
missions continued unabated.
His position in the formation of the American and Foreign
Bible Society was a decided one. He approved the principle
upon which it was organized, and defended its operations.
He was also early identified with the Baptist Missionary
Convention of the State of New York, being made one of its
directors immediately after the Hamilton Baptist Missionary
Society was merged in that body.
Dr. Kendrick's interest in all missionary and benevolent
organizations was abundantly testified by his efforts to be
present at their anniversaries, and still more by the sacrifices
made to secure their highest efficiency in carrying out the
purposes of their creation. He made a tour to Michigan in
the autumn of 1836 to aid in the organization of a State Convention, and to visit the Ottaw Mission, at Grand Rapids.
In this tour he was accompanied by a fellow laborer in the
cause of ministerial education, the Rev. Elon Galusha.
These lengthy journeys over land and lake were only in
keeping with the habits of earlier life to promote the cause
of the Redeemer.
When the initiatory steps were taken for the establishment
of a mission, both among the Oneida Indians, and the Tuscaroras of New York State, under the auspices of the Hamilton
Baptist Missionary Society, Dr. Kendrick was one of the
committee to whose care that responsible duty was entrusted.
Living but a short distance from the Onedia tribe, it involved
no great sacrifice of time, to determine upon the course
requisite to inaugurate a mission school, and preaching
services, which continued with flattering prospects until the
mission was removed to Tonawanda.  But the effort to plant
Christianity among the western tribes of the state, was a
task, not so easily accqmplished. In September, 1819, Mr.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  239
Kendrick, accompanied by Deacon Olmsted, of Hamilton, set
out to meet with an Indian Council at Buffalo, for the purpose of paving the way for permanent missionary labor
amongst these sons of the forest. This successful embassy
engrossed about three weeks, requiring the performance of a
journey of five hundred miles, with the usual fatigues incident to private travel.
It may present to the reader a just idea of the man's
habitual self-depreciation, and the spirit of his uniform piety,
if we here furnish two or three specimens from his journal
entered upon his birth days.
"MIDDLEBURY, April 22d, 1816.-" This day I am thirtynine years old. The last year I have preached one hundred
and thirty-one sermons, besides being able to attend church
meetings and conferences. I have not been kept from the
house of God by ill-health a single Sabbath during the year.
I have been able to preach and have preached from two to
three sermons every Sabbath, excepting two, when  I
preached only one in a day. I have taught a school of about
fifty scholars six months of the time. I have attended the
ordination of Brother Fisher in Brandon, and three councils to
settle difficulties in churches, one in Hubbardton, one in
Thetford in a Congregational Church, and one in Swanton. I
went one journey to Lansingburgh in July with my declining
companion. I was up much during the nights with her until
October 11th, when it pleased God to remove her by death.
I spent four weeks with the Legislature of this state.-The
past year has been marked with some of the severest trials of
my life, chiefly on account of being deprived of my partner,
who left me with two little children.  I have thought God
was with me at times and sustained me by his mercy. But
alas! my heart has been far from God much of the time. I
have been unfruitful, and my labors have been apparently of
but little use. O that it may please God to revive in me the
good work of his grace, and afford me more of his divine
presence in the closet, in the study and in the pulpit. If I am




240   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
permitted to live another year, O that I may live more to God
than I have the past year, and may it please God to visit
his people here with his Spirit and quicken and add to them
of such as shall be saved."
"EATON, N. Y., April, 22d, 1817.-" A pleasant mornto-day I am forty years old: few and evil have been my days.
Alas! how little have I done for God, and how little have I
a prospect of doing. May it please God to glorify the riches
of his grace in the pardon of such a sinful worm. I have
been permitted to see much of his goodness and grace the
last year. Twenty-five have been added by baptism to the
small church at Middlebury, with which I labor, and I have
baptized about twelve that have joined with other churches.
" I have seen more extensive revivals the past year than I
ever saw before in my life. I have thought sometimes I
have been a partaker of the blessing myself. But oh! how
I have failed of rendering suitable returns to God. My poor
performances have appeared in some instances to be a means
of awakening sinners; but this to me is astonishing.
" May it please God to take the possession and control of
my heart, and possess it with life and love. I fail much in
prayer, and especially in the closet. O that God would
afford his presence there. I am now two hundred miles
from my dear people at M., and do not know but God will
call me to this part of his vineyard. May he let me know
his will. I have heard a sweet sermon this afternoon from
Bro. John Peck, on the gospel's joyful sound."
After over twenty years added to the above period, he is
still far from entertaining exalted views of himself. The
extract which follows is from a letter to his children in Detroit.
" I have but a few days more to finish my earthly pilgrimage, and if I can be of any use to the Saviour's cause, I wish
to spare no pains. To-day I am sixty-two years old. Alas!
how frail and short my life has been. It seems more like a
vapor than a substance. I am daily more indebted to grace,
and much remains to be done to subdue the -depravity of my




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   24t
heart and fit me for the enjoyment of God in his heavenly
kingdom.  I have never obtained the victory over my doubts,
nor do I altogether lose my hope."
In concluding this chapter, it will be proper and instructive
to refer to his resignation to the divine will under severe
family affliction. His bereavements as they have occurred in
the removal of two endeared partners and a child, have already
been noticed. In the winter of 1841, Mr. Kendrick suffered
the loss of his son Cotton Mather, a youth of about nineteen
years, and of decided talent.  This stroke of divine providence would have been heavy to bear under any circumstances.  It was doubly severe, because sudden and
unexpected.  Besides, the disease which prostrated its
victim, obscured the sufferer's reason, and removed him
while he was mostly if not entirely unconscious of his last
change. Nor was this the sorest of the trial.  The son had
once given, it was thought, bright evidence of conversion, but
had subsequently declined in religious emotion, and relapsed
into indifference.  The clouded intellect debarred the father
from communion with his son in that anxious hour, and he
was compelled to commit him, whom he had so often
counseled into the hands of God, and find his only refuge in
prayer.  It was in accordance with the wishes of the
bereaved parent that the facts above noted were stated by
Professor Maginnis, who conducted the funeral services, and
the affecting circumstances of the sudden decease left to bear
home their own admonition to the living. The sanctuary
was on that occasion a Bochim, and the solemn providence
seemed to be owned at once of God, as the direct means of a
revival of religion in the college of which the deceased was a
member, and of which a large number were present to mingle
their unfeigned sorrow with the mourning circle.
These impressive services were held upon the Lord's Day;
and in the faculty's usual method of conducting daily chapel
exercises in the seminary by rotation, it always devolved
upon Dr. Kendrick to lead them on Monday evening. He
21




242   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
was present and officiated the day after his son's burial.
Whether by design or by accident we cannot say, he read the
portion of Scripture in which stood the text which had been
used upon the recent funeral occasion. It was as follows:
" I know, 0 Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that
thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.
" Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort,
according to thy word unto thy servant."
The strong man was overcome, and his deep emotion interrupted his reading, while many tears freely shed by the
students, gave evidence that their hearts were sympathizing
with their venerated instructor in his weighty affliction.
It is wonderful to discover the fullness of his consolation
even here as appears from his own expression. He said " he
felt reconciled to Mather's death when he reflected that God
loved him more than he could."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   243
CHAPTER XXIV.
Cause of his Illness-Confined to his Room-Journey to New York
City-Surgical Examination-Affecting Scene-Interview with Religious Friends-Return-Difficulties Increased-Last Visit to the Institution-Letter from Dr. (hurch-IHis own Letters-Letter from
Professor Bliss-His own Letters.
TIIE long and painful illness of Dr. Kendrick began with
an accidental fall, which happened in December, 1844. While
on his way from the residence of Professor Eaton to his own
home, in descending the hill, the surface of which was covered
with ice, he was precipitated to the ground with great violence.  The fall was so severe as to unman him for awhile,
and so unexpected, that his back and hips received its full
force. No serious consequences, however, were anticipated
from this accident. But, about six weeks afterwards, he began
to suffer slight pains in the lower part of his back, which increased until their intensity interrupted his sleep.  His labors,
however, were not suspended by these sufferings through the
winter, yet in the spring he was compelled to discontinue them
abroad. Other symptoms appeared of a serious character.
Local inflammation set in, so great as to render the slightest
covering painful. He resorted to medical treatment, but with
no perceptible benefit. The case was one of great obscurity
to able and skillful physicians, and left his attending surgeon,
though a man of eminence in his profession, in doubt whether
the disease was confined to the nerves and muscles, or extended to the bones. Desirous of doing all that could be
done to remove the difficulty, about a year after the injury,
he had a seton inserted in his back, which occasioned additional inflammation in the affected parts.  He was now compelled to take his bed, and the only respite which he had was
to walk occasionally about his room.  The suffering from his




244-   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
back was attended with other difficulties of a complicated
character, which put him in extreme agony, so as to allow
him but little sleep. Up to this time his case was not looked
upon as hopeless. At this period many of his friends strongly
recommended the hydropathic treatment.  His own mind was
inclined to make trial of the system, but not without proper
advisers. In June following, he consulted with his brother,
Thomas Kendrick, M. D., as to the probable effect of the
water treatment. The opinion of his brother was, that if
the bones of the back were not diseased, the hydropathic practice would probably benefit him; if they were, he frankly told
him he would not be cured. The patient inquired, "How
shall I ascertain this point?" " Go with me," was the reply,
"to New York, and let Professor Parker examine your back
by cutting through the integuments down to the bone, and he
can tell you all about it."
To this proposed measure, another brother present, who
was possessed of strong sympathetic feeling and nervous excitability, remarked, " it is inhuman to advise such a journey."
But the patient resolved at once to carry out the advice, believing that it could be done without any additional suffering.
His own mind devised the method of reaching New York
City, with the least possible fatigue and suffering to himself.
It was this; to be borne on his bed by canal to Utica, by railroad to Troy, and thence to New York by steamboat, and he
wished to start in three days, provided the brother who suggested the journey, would accompany him there and back.
Arrangements were made to set out at the proposed time;
not, however, without making this movement a subject of
prayer, and asking the blessing of God upon the step.  His
friends gathered around him, moved to tears at the thought
of the painful errand for which he left his home, yet he took
his departure with his usual cheerfulness, calmly resigned to
the will of God, and trustfully awaiting the issue of this
journey, so wholly unlike his former numerous visits to New
York.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   245
The journey was made in due time, and his boarding house
selected in Broadway, where every want could be promptly
met. On the day after his arrival, the attending brother
called upon Professor Parker, who came and examined him,
and made an engagement to operate upon the injured part
on the following day, attended by Professor Watts. Accordingly, at the appointed time, the operation was performed by
cutting through the integuments of the back down to the
vertebrae. On exposing the bones, they were found to be
much decayed, porous, like a honey comb, and destitute of
vitality. The operation, we hardly need say, was extremely
painful, yet not a groan escaped the lips of the agonized
patient.
After dressing the wound the surgeons retired into an
adjoining room for the purpose of washing their instruments,
and also to apprise the friends fully of the condition and
prospects of the patient. Dr. Parker, addressing the brother
that had suggested the examination, remarked, " You have
seen the condition of the vertebrae; they are dead, and there
is no possibility of cure.  Tell your brother the facts, for I
cannot do it." To this he at once replied, " My brother will
ask a full development of the case from you, sir, and would
be unwilling to have you leave until you have disclosed the
worst features to him." He assured him that he would find
his patient perfectly tranquil in apprehension of death; and
suggested that a few moments' conversation with him, upon
the themes of life and death, would readily prepare the way
for what he felt it necessary to communicate to the sufferer.
Dr. Parker then consented to break the matter to him.
It demands an eye-witness to sketch the scene that ensued.
There were a dozen or more relatives and interested friends
present, watching with breathless anxiety the emotions with
which the medical opinions would be received. All were in
tears, and none in that moment had perfect control of his
feelings save the man of God now placed in the near and
certain prospect of the eternal world. He received the
21*




246   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
tidings without the slightest alarm.  The announcement of
a fatal result did not even break the serenity of his mind, so
profound was that peace which lie enjoyed in the Saviour, so
unshaken was his confidence in him in whom he had believed. The scene ended; and the errand upon which he
came now disposed of, he gave direction to have his bills
incurred in the city discharged, and every thing in readiness
to return to Troy, on his homeward way, in the evening boat.
Ie also desired, if it accorded with the wishes of the landlady, that a short season of prayer might be held in his room
at three o'clock that afternoon, and to have her recently
widowed daughter present, and such other friends as might
be willing to spend a little time in devotion before he returned to his home. At the appointed time, the room was
filled with dear friends, who came, not to see a stranger, but
one long known and well known to them. After religious
conversation with several individuals, he led the devotions
on the occasion in a touching and melting prayer.  Says one
who joined in that solemn and affecting service,-" When I
call to mind that prayer, I regard it as the prayer of a
righteous man; and to see his manly form prostrated upon
a bed of sickness, suffcring under a fatal disease, his angelic
countenance beaming with peculiar lustre, and his sparkling
eyes radiant with the light of revelation, and with a glorious
hope of soon being a partaker of that heavenly inheritance
which every righteous man so much desires, was enough to
render me submissive to the will of God."
The result of this examination by surgeons of such eminence, forbade further resort to curative remedies; and the
recourse to water treatment was therefore not attempted.
The journey homeward was immediately entered upon, and
completed after an absence of two weeks. Before a man of
naturally robust habits, and unusually vigorous constitution,
was now placed the probable certainty that he must waste
away by a gradual and painful dissolution.
From the first of May, 1846, the suffering patient was corn



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   217
pelled to lie the whole time on his left side, for his right limb
had become so much affected as to forbid reclining upon it,
and during the entire summer he was barely able to walk
short distances, but could not sit in a chair or bear the
slightest pressure against the back.  His right limb continued to fail, and at length it became contracted, so that in
October following he could bear no weight upon it whatever.
Through the winter he lay helpless, wholly confined to his
bed and compelled to recline upon his left side. In this condition he continued gradually and almost imperceptibly to
decline; indeed, as his constitution was sound, aside from
the injury occasioned by the fall, it rendered the struggle
with the great foe the more prolonged and severe. It was
like a long siege against the most strongly fortified city,
where the ample means of defense serve only to protract
and intensify the sufferings of the beleaguered town, since
it must inevitably surrender at last. It was a case in which
one member suffered, and all the members suffered with it,
until amid dissolving agony the very throne of life became
the seat of death.
Once more during this long and painful season of suffering
he was permitted to visit, on a memorable occasion, the institution he so much loved. It was on an occasion referred to
by Rev. George W. Anderson, one of the Alumni, in a letter
under date of August 16,1846, to one of our religious journals.
Many others will remember the scene, at the close of a session
which had been marked by a memorable outpouring of the
Holy Spirit.
" During the winter fears were entertained that he would
soon be removed; but towards the end of the winter session,
his health seemed to be improving. I shall never forget the
solemn effect of his appearance in the chapel of the institution, on occasion of the administering of the Lord's Supper,
the last Lord's Day of the winter term. I would almost as
soon have expected to see a visitant from the graveyard
come in our midst.  The last time I had seen him was some




248   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
weeks before on his bed of suffering. I had watched during
the night with him, and never then expected to see him out
of his home again. He, however, was once more permitted
to leave his bed and home; yet it was only a temporary relief
that he obtained.
"On my visit to-day, I found that his disease has been
making constant progress.  He is now able to sit up only for
a short time; and is compelled to lie wholly on one side. lie
suffers much pain; but his mind is clear and vigorous, and
his spirit rests with calm composure on the promises of Him
whoim he has so long served. * * * The cause of ministerial education in our denomination, and the cause of Christ
at large, owe much to his long and zealous labors. His
influence on the ministers that have gone out from Hamilton
to labor in different parts of the world can never be known
upon earth."
When it became generally known that he was suffering
greatly, Dr. Kendrick received many letters expressive of the
deepest sympathy in his affliction, and also of the warmest
solicitude about the issue of his sickness. The following is
from Dr. Church, then of Rochester and now of New York
City. It bears date Jan. 12, 1846:
"MY DEAR DOCTOR KENDRICK:
"I have just learned, with the deepest solicitude, that
you are suffering under a severe indisposition, the issue of
which human foresight cannot determine.  Had I never enjoyed the intimacy of your personal acquaintance and friendship, such intelligence could not fail to affect me deeply, in
view of the highly important relations which you sustain to
the interests of religion in the world. But when to these
are added the recollection of my great indebtedness to your
teaching and your influence at an interesting period of my
life, and the truly parental and filial regard which has long
subsisted between us, I confess your sickness touches my
tenderest sensibilities, and makes me involuntarily exclaim,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   249
O! that I could do something, though it were the merest
trifle, to smooth your pathway to the grave. You have this
to comfort you, that however low the estimate you place upon
your own services, there are hundreds who, like myself, feel
that they owe more to you, under God, than to almost any
other living man. You have put them upon a track of men-,
tal improvement, and of theological learning, which, but for
your agency, they might never have reached.  I name these
things as causes of gratitude to him from whom all good
has come, that Christ has been, so far, honored by your life,
and we trust he will be by your death, whenever that event
shall arrive."
The copious extracts which are inserted in the remaining
part of this, and the following chapters, are mostly selected
from letters addressed to his children in Detroit; the remainder have been chosen from those written to intimate
friends.  The biographer has deemed this method the best to
give his readers a just idea of Dr. Kendrick's physical condition, and the tone of that remarkable Christian experience
which he enjoyed during his years of confinement.
August 22d, 1846, he thus writes to his children:
"I make another attempt at writing you a few lines,
although under more afflicting circumstances than when I
wrote you last.  I have been suffering more pain in my
back, where the bone is decaying, than I have been before.
It is more difficult for me to walk, and yet I attempt it a
number of times a day, as the only relief to my left side, to
which I am confined in bed, not being able to lie on the
other.  I think I am gradually wasting away, and yet I may
have months of affliction allotted me before I. am released
from the body. There is a foundation for hope in the gospel,
permanent as the promises and the oath of God, and I cherish the hope, that through matchless. grace in the Saviour,
I may be found on that rock at last. I know it will be
marvelous mercy if so vile a sinner is saved, but the grace
of God is all-sufficient.  I feel calm and confiding in the




250   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
Lamb that was slain, the most of my time, and yet have
great hardness of heart, which the Spirit alone can remove.
I will keep you advised of my condition, from time to time,
and shall be pleased to see you again, if God will, before
leaving the world."
To the same he writes, September 11th, 1846:
"VERY DEAR SILAS AND FANNY:
" I am yet this side the grave, in the care of a kind God
and Saviour, who, I hope, after my enduring all that infinite
wisdom and goodness may appoint unto me in this life, may
be pleased, through infinite grace, to grant me an inheritance among all them that are sanctified. I ask not to be in
any other hands, but to be submissive in all things.  My
sufferings are somewhat increased from three weeks ago. I
am still confined to my left side, with more pain in my back
and right limb, the latter of which has hardly strength to
sustain my weight.  I attempt to walk my room daily with
help. I may linger yet for months, or may be called in
much less time to relinquish my connection with this life.
With reference to your visiting me once more, I can only
say, as I said before, make it convenient to yourselves while
sailing is good, or even beyond that, if no material alteration
in my case should occur, and it would best accommodate
you."
The contemplated visit he received in the ensuing month.
We here insert an extract from a letter addressed to the
Rev. James J. Woolsey, Norwalk, Connecticut, dated September 12th, 1846. The paragraphs, like many in his extensive correspondence, evince the unflagging interest which he
cherished in the university, and also the elevated tone of
piety which he habitually cultivated.
"Our watchword is'onward,' and yet the burden of sustaining the interest is increasing. The reflex influence of the
alumni, which is increasing, is truly cheering. The fruits of




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  251
your ministry which you have directed here, are among our
choicest young men.
"I would gladly respond to the whole of your letter, so
full of interest, but my condition compels me to be brief.
Your sympathies for my afflictions is gratefully acknowledged,
but your desires for my restoration, I apprehend, can never
be realized. I have been confined to my bed since December,
unable to sit up, and now unable to walk. My sufferings are
severe, from an injury in the lower part of the back, occasioned by a fall a year ago last December, and from nervous
affections, which have obliged me to lie on my left side for
the last four months, and allow me very little sleep. I may
hold out for months longer, but the case forbids all hope of
recovery.  Your happy allusion to the fountains of mercy
opened in the gospel, afforded me a fresh spring of joy, and
I think I can say my hope is in the precious Saviour. His
gospel never appeared more rich and glorious, or more worthy
of all acceptation, than it does now. What a precious theme
to preach I It must be published in all the world; aside from
this there is no salvation. I hope you will long be spared
for this glorious work. I would gladly say more, but my
strength fails. Help me with your prayers.  Be faithful
unto death, and you will receive a crown of life. Farewell!
my dear brother in Christ, I hope ere long to meet you
among the redeemed, around the throne of the Lamb.
"Your affectionate brother,
"NATHL. KENDRICK."
The following, about three weeks later, addressed to Mrs.
H. E. Thompson, shows no material change:" It gives me pleasure to hear of the continued mercies of
our covenant-keeping God to your infirm and afflicted family.
Give my love to that dear doctor, and tell him I have him in
grateful and prayerful remembrance. I hope, beyond this
life, to see him freed from the nature and effects of sin, beautified with robes of righteousness, in the full fruition of God




202   REV. iNATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
and the Lamb. In the end you will see both the wisdom
and goodness of God, in making you a ministering spirit to
that dear man and his family. I can write but few words; I
am much worse than when you were here. I have lost the
use of my right limb, and have become helpless. The work
of dissolution is painfully progressing, and I know not how
long I am to remain in the flesh. My hope, and help, and
rejoicing, are all in God and the Lamb."
The state of Dr. Kendrick's mind is further reflected in the
following extract from a letter, bearing date November 17th,
1846, and written by one of the alumni, Professor George
R. Bliss, Lewisburg University, at that time pastor of the
Baptist church, New Brunswick, New Jersey. After an allusion to his anticipated death, the letter proceeds thus:
"I speak thus freely of your departure from the earth, because I have heard from various sources, not only that this
event is sadly anticipated by your friends, but that you yourself are awaiting its approach. Without any intimations of
the state of your mind in these circumstances, I should have
been quite confident that the Father of mercies and God of
all comfort would comfort his servant in this tribulation, and
prove his grace sufficient for him. My short ministry, however uneventful otherwise, has brought me often to the deathbed of the saints, and there I have seen some of the finest
illustrations of the grace of God, and the most encouraging fulfillment of his promises. Though passing through the valley
and shadow of death, they have feared no evil, because Jesus
has been with them every one, and led them safely by his
kind hand. With them most truly at evening time it was
light. Those who had been most timid, were enabled now
to ask in triumph,'O death where is thy sting?' But
while I might reasonably have calculated on your enjoying
similar supports, I have been extremely glad to hear that
such was actually the fact. I have heard that in the furnace
of your trial, you have had a glorious presence with you,
such as is only vouchsafed in the furnace, to protect you from




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   253
all harm. I have even been told that you seemed, through
God's mercy, to have come into the land of Beulah, where
the sun shineth night and day. Blessed be the Lord who
hath showed you his marvellous kindness."
The extract, which is given below, affords a clue to the
indefatigable labors which he performed, notwithstanding his
enfeebled and suffering state. The letter is addressed to his
son, dated Hamilton, December 9th, 1846.
" Very little perceivable change in my case has occurred
since you left, except an abatement of the nervous pains and
some part of the time less pain in the back. I am now suffering in the back as much as at any time. I have had more
sleep for the past two weeks than usual. On the whole I do
not perceive that I have lost ground since you were here, and
in some respects a little improved. It will be a year the
fifteenth of this month since I have been confined to my bed,
and I may have as much longer to finish my workl: but I am
happy that all my changes and my appointed time, are with
God, and not revealed to us. God is good-the Saviour is
precious-the Holy Spirit is a comforter. I think I love the
gospel, and if by remaining in the furnace, I can in any way
promote the gospel, I am happy to do so. I have addressed
about forty individuals by letter, to obtain their assistance in
paying our bank loan, due the 17th instant, and have received
one hundred and thirty-five dollars, with promises of some
two hundred more, besides I am looking for more from those
who have not yet responded to the call.  I have also prepared an article for the New York Recorder, to call the attention of the churches in that section of the state to the wants
of the institution. I think I shall send a copy of it to the
Register, although it is a feeble production.  The institution
has gone on remarkably pleasant this session.  There is a
healthy religious state of feeling, and quite a spirit of
prayer among the students. I have one to watch with me
every night, and when I cannot sleep, I have a season of
prayer with him. The theological classes, and the senior
22




2b4   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
collegiate class, have each held a prayer meeting in my room,
and the next class has a meeting appointed."
To the same, he writes on December 15th:
" I wrote you on the ninth, and gave you an account of my
condition, which was a little more favorable than it had been.
Since that I have experienced no material change, except an
increase of pain in the back. It was so intense last night,
that I got no sleep, and yet, having a watcher from the institution, of much piety, I spent the night with him in conversation, prayer and reading Payson's memoir, very happily.
"We conversed largely on the importance of moral culture, as well as intellectual, for the ministry-the provision
God made for the former, as well as the latter-that due
attention to the scriptures, prayer, secret and social meditation and other religious duties, would do as much to develop
and mature the gracious affections of the heart, as a proper
attention to study, would cultivate the powers of the understanding-that students on completing their course of education for the ministry, should be prepared to sustain as good
an examination on their religious as literary improvements.
"I had made a communication to the faculty on the
subject of recommending to the students who hold a prayer
meeting every Wednesday evening, by classes, that they
appropriate one of these meetings every month, to pray for
the Spirit to be poured out upon the churches and the impenitent; and once a quarter, let all the classes come together for
such a meeting, when the faculty and the church connected
with the institution should meet with them.  This might
have a good influence on the institution, and serve to commend it to the churches, that are contributing to its support.
The faculty communicated the suggestion to the students,
Sabbath evening, and it appeared to meet with a cordial
reception. We conversed on the pleasant and prosperous
state of the institution-the very interesting prayer meetings
they have with the church, Sabbath evenings.
" Arrangements are made to supply me with watchers, so




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   255
that every student may in his turn have the privilege, for so
they regard it. The two theological, and senior collegiate
classes have had their turns, and the junior collegiate is now
supplying me in alphabetical order, which course is to be
carried out through the lower classes. I have the sympathies of all the friends of the Saviour around me. How multiform are the mercies of God our Saviour! who would
wish to dictate to infinite wisdom and goodness? but would
rather say " Let him do what seemeth him good."
The following also discloses the depth of love which, in
the midst of failing strength, he cherished in the institution,
and how much he labored to promote the spirituality of the
students"Hamilton, Dec. 24th, 1846.
" VERY DEAR SON,
"Yours of the 15th came to hand this morning. Your
care and kindness and sympathies, and lovely letters, are
entitled to a prompt and hearty response. I have you and
your affectionate Fanny much in mind; remembering you
daily at the mercy seat. I cannot estimate the mercy God
has conferred upon me in giving me two children so much
to my liking, and who contribute so much consolation to me,
in the days of my affliction. My condition, although not less
helpless, is nevertheless not as painfill, with the exception of
now and then a day, as when you were here. I am writing
a little more than I should have done. I obtained from individuals, on direct application, towards paying our bank debt,
a little over four hundred dollars. I expect to hear from
some others, who did not respond in season. The sophomore
class held an interesting prayer meeting with me last evening.
The classes will hold a prayer meeting the first Wednesday
evening in January, to pray for the outpouring of the Spirit
of God upon the churches and the community at large, which
they propose to do monthly.
"I am looking upon my time as narrowing away to a




256   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
hand's breadth, and yet I may have longer to stay than I
supposed some months ago. The longer I live the more I
am indebted to grace, and my returns to the Father of
Mercies are quite unsatisfactory to myself, and must be highly
so to him.  I have but a faint idea of the "exceeding riches"
of God's grace, which reaches the chief of sinners. I should
greatly dishonor the Captain of our Salvation to doubt of its
sufficiency, even in my case.  I have had some seasons of
consolation since you left.  I have no righteousness; no
plans; no hope out of Christ; but in him I think there is
fullness of joy."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   257
CHAPTER XXV.
Illness-Continued-Letters-Letter to the Students-Letter from Dr
Comstock-Reply-Other Letters —To Rev. A. Ten Brook-To his
Children.
A PORTION of a letter dated January 8th, 1847, indicates
the progress of his disease, yet an entire submission to the
divine will:
"I have been more afflicted during the last week than I
have been before since you left me. A deranged state of the
bowels, which lasted about four days, greatly increased my
nervous sufferings, and deprived me of sleep for several
nights. I am now much relieved, excepting the left side is
failing. I have much pain in my hip, and the nerves in the
left limb are becoming affected, but not as painful as they are
in the right limb-the pain and lameness in the back have
somewhat increased; but these are capable of being modified
and reduced by the same kind hand that deals out all our
mercies. I have had some dark as well as painful hours, but
as a whole I cannot say I think the mercies of God have been
dealt out to me, the last week, with a more sparing hand.
If God is not good I know not where to look for goodnessif the Saviour is not lovely and gracious, I know not where
those traits of character can be found. I think that I have
no chastening that I do not need. If I can have clearer views
of the form of the fourth in the furnace I prefer enduring the
heat. I find I have a great deal of dross yet to purge away.
AMy prayer is that my heart may be under daily and efficient
discipline, and that I may learn obedience by the things
which I suffer. I think, at times, my hope gathers strength,
and I look to the holy city as my celestial home. I have no
date by which I can number my days; I know not when my
22*




208   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
change will come. You will not derange your business, nor
make unreasonable sacrifices of health and means on my
account. I am looked after with a great deal of care and
kindness, and every thing done for my comfort that can be
desired. "
We perceive from a few lines in the same letter that the
measures recommended for prayer for the outpouring of the
Holy Spirit were adopted, and the effect was happy and
encouraging.
"Things seem to be shaping around us favorable for
inviting the King of Zion to make another visit in this part
of his garden.  Some fresh breezes of the spirit of prayer
begin to be heard among the tops of the mulberry trees in
Mount Libanus."
The allusion here is to the adjoining town of Lebanon,
where his son-in-law, the Rev. Linus M. Peck, was preaching.
" There seems to be more of a spirit among the students,
for looking to the cross, and rallying around it. They had an
interesting concert of prayer yesterday, and they meet again
to-morrow evening, to pray for the outpouring of the Spirit
of God upon Zion, and upon the impenitent. May the Lord
appear in his glory in the midst of his people."
The manner in which Dr. Kendrick's sufferings were estimated by others, and the influence which was imparted by
his patience under them, may be seen from a few lines which
his daughter, Mrs. Peck, subjoined to the foregoing letter:
"MY DEAR BROTHER,
" It seems useless, and indeed presuming, for me to attempt
to add anything to father's interesting communication; as it
is his request, however, it may be well for me to taper it off.
Father has suffered intensely the last week, and you are
well aware how painful it is to witness. The assurance that
it is right, and that in faithfulness we are afflicted, has, I
think, afforded me more consolation than ever before, and I
have felt, I trust, thankful for the privilege of being with him.




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   259
to prepare for worship in the chapel, which will commence at
I can never forget the teachings of this providence, and hope
to be better for my father's influence to the end of life:"
For a long time during Dr. Kendrick's illness, the faculty,
and a few other friends, were in the habit of holding a prayer
meeting in his room, on Lord's Day evening. These were to
him seasons of heavenly enjoyment. He counted upon them
as rich feasts of Christian communion.
NMrs. Peck alludes to one of these seasons in a letter to her
brother, dated January 15th, 1847:
"TWe had a very interesting prayer meeting last Sunday
evening.  Most of the professors were in. Father seemed
to enjoy it exceedingly; he said, in remarking upon the institution, that his last breath should be spent in encouraging his
brethren to go on."
The following communication is entirely in harmony with
the above expression, and exhibits to us the strength of his
love for the institution, and for those who were candidates for
the sacred office. While it evinces a measure of piety, to
which comparatively few can lay claim.
" To the students of the Madison University professing
godliness, and preparing for the Christian ministry.
" DEAR BRETHREN,
" You have been considering the preparations you need for
your sacred calling, and the best means for obtaining it. Much
labor has been bestowed on the arrangement for your intellectual course, and all the maturity has been given to it that
time and circumstances would allow.
"As the moral cultivation of the mind is not less important than the intellectual, it has its appropriate claims, and
the best provisions should be made to secure its accomplishment.  There should be a scriptural recognition of its nature
and importance, and of the means which God has provided
to purify all the affections of our moral nature, and fit them
for the service and enjoyment of God.  The apostle Paul has




260   REV. NATHAN IEL KENDRICK, D.D.
churches of Galatia, and has presented it in all the advantages
of its antithetical form.'Now, the works of the flesh are
manifest, which are these: adultery, fornication, uncleanness,
lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulation, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders,
drunkenness, revellings, and such like, of the which I tell you
before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which
do such things, shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But
the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such
there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified
the flesh, with the affections and lusts thereof. If we live in
the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.' Gal. 5; 19-26.
" To crucify the old man with his affections and lusts, and
to give efficacy to the new man, which, after God is created
in righteousness and in true holiness, is the great object of
the Christian warfare, so abundantly taught in the scriptures,
and so essential to a life of godliness, and a due preparation
for the work of the ministry. You have proposed to appropriate, in connection with your intellectual improvements,
two hours in twenty-four, to be devoted entirely to this work.
During this time the disciple is to be in intercommunication
with his Master, on all the interests of his soul, the affairs of
Christ's militant kingdom, the recovery of a lost world, and
the daily services he is required to render to the Saviour's
cause.
" That no portion of those consecrated hours should be
wasted, but employed in a manner becoming the nature and
importance of the objects of their designation, they should be
specified, and uninterrupted by any other employments. Let
the morning hour for devotion precede any other business.
Let the bell ring at five A. M.  Let the hour for prayer commence twenty minutes after five, and continue twenty minutes
after six o'clock. Let the bell then ring to notify the students




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   261
given great prominence to this subject, in his letter to the
half after six. Let the evening hour for prayer be from eight
and a half to nine and a half o'clock, at which time students
will do well to retire for sleep.
"No student should be interrupted during the hours for
prayer. These devotional duties of a private character should
not be enforced by any enactments of the faculty, but performed under the conviction that they are required by the
author of our holy religion, an dcannot be neglected with impunity. They should have a specified period of time given
for their performance, to prevent their being hurried over in
a manner which destroys the devotions of the heart.
"This work of cultivating our moral nature should be
regarded as identified with our religion, to be given up only
as we give up our hope in God, and our allegiance to his
government. The conscience of every student will keep his
monitor's bill, to show with what punctuality, and with
what spirit he has performed this duty, and the report is to
be made at the judgment seat of Christ. The more you
advance in the education of your moral powers, the greater
will be your progress in your intellectual improvements.
"The last labors of a worn-out and unprofitable servant, in
token of the interest he cherishes in the preparation of the
young men of this University for the Christian ministry.
"NATHL. KENDRICK.
" January 19th, 1847."
The following epistle is one of many received that gave
Dr. Kendrick an assurance that he was not forgotten, and
the answer is characteristic of the man:
" COLDWATER, January 9th, 1847.
" REV AND DEAR SIR:
"I have all along been advised of your extreme indisposition, and particularly so, by letters from your endeared
children at Detroit. When I met them in Michigan I was




262   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK),  D.D.
reminded of what a Quaker said to a Jew, "I love thee for
father Abraham's sake."   I loved them  for their own
intrinsic merit, and for all the sentiments of respect and
kindness which I have ever cherished for their beloved and
revered father. Be assured, you have shared my tenderest
sympathies-my most fervent prayers.  Great, amiable and
eminently useful qualities of character are accorded to you
by universal suffrage. Yet in the righteous and inscrutable
providence of God, you are called, in all the vigor of your
mind, and in the full tide of usefulness, to inactivity and
excruciating suffering. Well! apostles, martyrs, and confessors have trod the rugged path before you. The inequality
of things in this world infer a future state, and one too of
holy retribution. O what a glorious contrast awaits the
afflicted saint: one moment in the dungeon of the body,
racked with rending pain, and the next with Christ, amid all
the raptures of the New Jerusalem: What we do not know
now we may know hereafter. It would seem that the laws
of God are independent of each other. The same causes
that impair the health, and destroy the life of a sinner, will,
other things being equal, produce the same results with the
most exalted Christian.
" It affords me the highest gratification to know, what I
might have anticipated, that you exercise, in your several
trials, sweet submission to the will of God, and derive
heavenly consolation from  his grace. While these things
furnish an additional test to you, of your high calling of God
in Christ Jesus, they reflect fresh honor upon the divine
efficacy of religion, and commend it to all who are conversant
with your past and present history. The good man is
enabled to look back from the verge of eternity on a wellspent life, with the approbation of his own conscience, and with
some sustaining evidences, that, through mercy, he pleases
God. The promises, mental constitution, the laws of thought
and moral susceptibilities, are, under the combined influences
of the truth and spirit, all concerned in this sacred delight.




REV. NATHANIEL KEND RICK, D.D.  263
But he knows that it is God who has made him to differ from
the vilest of sinners, and hence, his boast and exultation are
alone in the cross of Christ. The Lord, we trust, has inspired
us with virtuous and pious sentiments, with a love for his
truth and church. He has inspired our hearts with a holy
concern for the salvation of lost men. He has given us
delight in his work, and in the fellowship of all holy beings.
Man is here, developing and forming his character: he is
embracing principles, cherishing tempers, procuring food for
thought, electing employments and company for everlasting
ages. God influences the righteous man in his ultimate choice.
God will not deny himself, nor war against his own works.
He will never do violence to those moral feelings, which he
himself has in various ways induced in the breast of a
Christian. He will not doom a good and faithful servant
at death to mingle with society and scenes similar to those
which even in this life are abhorrent to every feeling of
his heart.  Blessed be God that we are enabled to look
by faith into eternity, with lively interest and triumphant
hope, as a world of progression in every thing that is
desirable and glorious.    *    *    *
" With very high regard, I am Rev. Sir,
"Your most affect'ate brother in a precious Redeemer,
"'O. C. COMSTOCK."
"' anmilton, Feb. 11th, 1847.
" VERY DEAR BROTHER COMSTOCK:
" I have been waiting for days to get a little more strength,
to acknowledge your very affectionate and sympathetic letter
of January 9th, which was a cordial to my heart.  I have
mingled emotions under the receipt of many expressions of
Christian favor from my old friends. While I have not language to express the gratitude I feel for the interest they
manifest in my afflictions, I feel not a little embarrassed with
the overestimates of any poor, frail, and sinful services which
I have endeavored to render to the Saviour's cause. In view




264   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
of his glorious character, the stupendous work of redemption, which he has wrought out in the gospel, and the incentives which he has furnished his disciples to a life of godliness, I am constrained to look back upon my unprofitable life
in his service with pain and deep regret.  The little I have
done has been so polluted by sin, that it appears to me more
in the light of a hindrance than a help to his glorious cause.
"The grace of the gospel has never appeared more conspicuous, nor more glorious to me, than it has while in
this furnace of affliction; mourning over my unmeasured
depravity, and pleading for pardon and eternal life, in the
name, and through the merits and mediation of the precious
Redeemer.  At times, my dear brother, it seems to me, I
have a hope of heaven; but sure I am, that nothing but grace
can render this hope availing. It admits of no righteousness
but what is found alone in Jesus Christ. The mercy and
goodness and glory of God have sometimes appeared inexpressible, and the present, notwithstanding my afflictions, has
seemed to be the most desirable period of my life. I have
great cause of thankfulness that I am allowed my reason, and
notwithstanding I am confined to my bed, and obliged to lie
the whole time on my left side, yet I can read some, and
write a little, and am permitted to hear from many of my
brethren in different parts of the militant kingdom.
" Our theological institution is yet prosperous. We have
about two hundred students, all but fifteen or twenty have
the ministry in view. I am acting as corresponding secretary of our society, and although I can do but little, yet it
affords me great pleasure to contribute my feeble services to
this cause. I cherish the hope that the day will come when the
church will afford us a more ample support. We have many
needy students of much promise, but poorly provided with
means of support, and some of them, I fear, will be obliged
to leave without finishing their course. The session this
winter is peculiarly pleasant. A good degree of the spirit of
prayer, and Christian kindness, is apparent among the stu



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  265
dents, and we have some of rare promise, for our own, and
foreign lands.
"We have but few revivals among the churches in this
region; it would give me great pleasure to see another day
of the outpouring of the Spirit of God, such as we have seen
in years past. I think more glorious times are in reserve for
the people of God, and for the consummation of his kingdom, than have yet been witnessed in the history of the
church. I regard the movements of the Jews in Germany
and other parts-the commotions among the Catholics in
Germany-the agitations in Switzerland, and all the revolutionary events occurring at this eventful period, as ominous
of good, under the government of God our Saviour.
" I can rejoice that your labors in Zion are continued. You
have witnessed the joys of many who have listened to the
message of mercy from your lips.  May you see greater
things than have yet been developed by your ministry. I
hope, my dear brother, when the Saviour shall cease to make
any farther use of us in this world, lie may glorify the exceeding riches of his grace, in presenting us pardoned and
purified before the throne of his Father's glory.
"I have no means by which I can make any calculation
how long I may continue. I have exlpected a more rapid
progress of my diseased state of body than I have had; and
during most of the last year I did not expect to take any
part of the present year into the account of my connection
with time. But having obtained help of God, I am sustained yet. If I should remain a few months, I shall be
happy to receive another of your letters of love, and if able
to answer it will do so.
"I feel grateful that my children at Detroit have such a
share in your Christian regards; they have been much
profited by it. They always give me the latest account of
you, when they write, which I receive with joy. My children are desirous to remove me to Detroit if I should live
through the spring, but I know not that the Master would'A3




266   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
approve of it. He will not only determine the length of my
stay on the earth, but the place and circumstances. I am
trying daily to pray this prayer,'Thy will be done.' Please
to help me with your prayers.  Your brother in Christ,
"NATHANIEL  KENDRICK."
Mr. Peck writes, January 22, 1847, as follows:
" Since we last wrote there has been no very marked change
in father's situation; he has, as usual, suffered much, and slept
but little, while disease has been steadily doing its work. He
suffers much from an affection of the sciatic nerve in his right
limb. It seems to be affected very much as the other, last
winter, and lying on it so constantly, must, of course, much
aggravate it. He is not able now to lie at all on his right
side. It is no wonder, therefore, that his left hip and limb
are becoming diseased. He is just now having no appetite,
and his stomach loathes food. Last night he rested much
more than usual. We hope, from indications, that he may
to-night also have some quiet rest. In appearance, to one
entering his room, he is about as when you were here."
Mrs. Peck writes to her brother, February 1st, 1847:
" The junior collegians have just sent in a request, that
they might hold their weekly prayer meeting with father, on
Wednesday evening. He has addressed two or three communications to the students this winter, which I doubt not
have contributed to raise the standard of moral feeling in the
institution; indeed, it is said to be the case. He is as diligent as ever in the use of his pen. He wrote Dr. Babcock,
of New Hartford, a few weeks since, in behalf of the Education
Society, and soon after received from him fifty dollars; this
morning he received another letter from him, containing fifty
dollars more, and saying that he did not know whether the
amount should be credited to him or to John Harris, author
of' Mammon.' I have not seen father so delighted in a long
time."




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   267
His own account of his condition, both in body and mind,
is here given, in a letter to his son:
" My pains are rendering me more helpless than they have
done, and seem to be as sure an index to the terminating
event as they have been at any time: and yet they do not
measure the intervening period.  This may be longer or
shorter, according to the good pleasure of our Heavenly
Father.
" I feel the need of great grace, to be submissive to all
that I am called to suffer, and my hope is sustained, thus far,
that all needed grace will be granted. I have been looking
over the life of Henry Martyn, an English missionary to
India, during the last week, with much satisfaction, and
found myself assisted by his remarkable spirit of prayer.
But there is no example so full of teaching as that of Christ.
Here is truth and grace, and in Him is all the aid we need.
I love to commend myself, my family and friends, to his compassion. May his word and Spirit, be your guide to mansions which he has gone to prepare.
"Your feeble, affectionate father,         N. K.,"
The following, addressed to Rev. A. Ten Brook, and bearing date, Hamilton, February 8th, 1847, illustrates a remarkable Christian experience, and gives us some just idea of the
nature and extent of his labors during his illness, and how
eminently useful one may be, when laid aside from intercourse
with the world at large.
"The now diseased parts of my system  are still giving
way, and I am more helpless than I have been. I have not
attempted to bear my weight for the last five weeks-my
sufferings at times are not less than they were months ago.
I am often having sleepless nights, and at no time can sleep
but by the aid of the elixir of opium.  My stomach and my
bowels are greatly debilitated, and my a2petite Focr. I see




268   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
no symptoms of improvement in my case, but a gradual wasting. I am looking for the summons to remove me from
time, but have no means of knowing when it will come. I
am greviously borne down with a body of death-a heart too
hard for human power to penetrate, and distressed with pollutions, which only the blood of Christ can wash away.  In
this condition, I am looking to the Lamb in the midst of the
throne, and cherishing a hope through the exceeding riches of
His grace. I am sure my redemption must greatly magnify
his mercies, and in view of the freeness and fullness of his
love, I am taking courage to think I shall be permitted to
praise him amidst the blood-washed throng that surround the
throne of his glory.  I think I love his services, his saints,
his gospel, and his glory. I have such assurances of his wisdom and goodness in all his dealings with me, that I feel no
desire to make any choice for myself, but wish to resolve all
my will and ways into his good pleasure.
" I am favored with a social season of prayer every night,
with one of the students from the institution, from which I
have watchers, and every Sabbath evening, a number come
in for a prayer meeting. Some of these meetings seem to
me like heavenly places in Christ Jesus. I have never before
been placed where I have had hours of devotion, and conversation with every student in the institution, as I have had
the last year.  At the commencement of this session in
October, the senior theological class, began to supply me with
watchers, in alphabetical order, passing down from one class
to another, after each individual in the same class had taken
his turn. I am now having supplies from the higher academic, I have had two from this class, without hope. The first
had never been awakened on the subject of religion, yet, he
conversed freely, and somewhat feelingly. When he left, he
appeared grateful for the opportunity, and requested that I
would remember him in prayer."  The other student was one
that at a former period, had been awakened, and had began




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   269
to cherish a hope in Christ, but who through strong opposition, and a concurrence of adverse influences, had been dissuaded from further attention to the subject, save as it was
unavoidably thrust upon him. In this interview the youth
made a free disclosure of his mind, and offered prayer for
himself, leaving the hopeful impression upon Dr. Kendrick's
mind, that he was not "far from the kingdom of God." The
letter thus proceeds:
"M Ay mind has been more impressed of late, with the
importance of elevating the piety of the ministry.  Truth
coming ever so lucidly from cold hearts, will have but little
effect, either to awaken sinners or edify saints.   I have
thought our theological institution to be very deficient in its
provisions for cultivating the moral powers of the students.
These, you know, are capable of as high cultivation as are the
intellectual powers, and equally require the use of means.
The gracious afflictions are improved, by bringing them in
contact with their appropriate objects of delight.  The whole
range of religious duties is adapted to cultivate and sanctify
the heart. The education we give our students is more intellectual than moral, little regard has been paid to those means
requisite to bring the moral powers of the mind into daily
and vigorous exercise. Devotional seasons are demanded to
do this; prayer, reading the scriptures devotionally, meditation, and self examination, require a systematical arrangement, to be performed daily by the student preparing for the
ministry, as well as what is demanded for his classical
improvement. The scriptures embody an amount of private
duties in religion, which require time for their performance,
and unless this is allowed in the arrangement for intellectual
improvement, they will be greatly neglected, or performed in
a way to afford but little profit.  It would please me to see
the first hour after rising in the morning, and a suitable hour
in the evening, set apart in this institution, for private devotion, not to be interrupted by any other services."
23*




270   REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.
February 20th, he writes, as follows:
" My sufferings do not denote the length of time I have to
remain in the body. This is a secret not revealed to us. I
can hardly expect any better days, unless they are rendered
so by greater measures of grace, which I greatly need, and
for which I try to pray. I have hours of great pain on account of sin; my body of death was never more distressing
to me. I sometimes take courage, and am ready to say,'Why
art thou cast down, O my soul, hope thou in God, for I shall
yet praise him.' I think the opening of the spring will give
us some more light on the crisis to which I am approaching.
O for grace to commit myself, my companion, and children,
and the cause of God, and a perishing world, to the compassion of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I hope we may
daily meet at the mercy-seat. Be faithful unto death, and
the Lord will give a crown of life.
"Your affectionate father,
"NATHL. KENDRICK."
March 4th, 1847, indicates a gradual wasting of his strength.
"I am wearing out my last days in pain and gradual decay,
under the good hand of God, in whose mercy, through the
sacrifice of his dear Son, I hope to be saved. Some days and
nights I suffer more than I do others. As a whole, the variations from one week to another are not very considerable.
My left hip, on which I am obliged to lie the whole time, is
wearing out and becoming sore, and is an additional source
of pain. My appetite is poor, and my rest very much broken.'I know, O Lord, thy judgments are right, and that in
faithfulness thou hast afflicted me.' I desire to wait all the
days of my appointed time till my change comes."
On the 27th of the same month, Mr. Peck writes as
follows:
" Since we last wrote you, father has remained very much
as usual. He has I think in the meantime had one poor turn,




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  271
but on the whole has been as comfortable as during the same
length of time for several weeks. To-day he is suffering
considerably, and last night obtained no sleep; indeed, it is
unusual for him to get much quiet rest. The dealings of
Providence with him seem very mysterious; he has long
been a great sufferer, and yet there is a great deal of vital
energy remaining. Unless there is some new development
in his disease, his sufferings must be very much protracted,
and with little or no prospect of an abatement. He diverts
himself by reading, visiting, and writing or dictating letters.
His mind continues as vigorous and composed as ever."




272   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
CHAPTER XXVI.
Prevailing state of Mind-Raptures-Correspondence-Testimony of
an Eye-witness-Attack of Dysentery-Closing Scene-Funeral Services-Report entered upon the Minutes of the Madison Association
— Notice in the Annual Report of the Education Society-Brief
Survey.
THE state of mind which our departed father exhibited as
his disease advanced, was for the most part a deep tranquillity.
In the earlier stages of his illness his enjoyment approached
to raptures, insomuch that language was inadequate to describe his emotions. These were to him sweet foretastes of
the bliss of heaven.
On one occasion he remarked to the student watching with
him, " I have been thinking about the future inheritance of
the saints, and such a world of resplendent glory has opened
to my view, as almost to stagger my belief. I asked myself,
-Is it possible that a poor sinner is to enjoy all this?  Yes,"
he replied, "it is all this, or nothing."
Again, when suffering severely, he remarked, " I would not
have a single pang removed. My heavenly Father knows
best what I require, and I would not have his will in the least
degree frustrated."
No very perceptible difference appeared in his case for
many months, save during the summer of 1847. In the
month of June his brother, Adin Kendrick, of Vermont, spent
several days with him, and discovered, as he thought, encouraging symptoms in his case. The brother, Samuel Kendrick,
Esq., of Troy, thus writes to the son in Detroit:" I embrace this opportunity to apprise you of the latest
information I have received of your father. Your uncle Adin
has just returned from Hamilton. He stayed a week with
your father, and he says he is much more comfortable, if not




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   273
better.  There is a new bone forming in his hip, though he
has little use of his limb yet; he has much less pain, and has
a good appetite, and rests well at night, and says he cannot
but hope he may yet recover. We hope it may be so, but it
seems almost too much to ask for or think of."
The correspondence between the father and the son was
now, for several weeks, taken up with business matters, or
relative to the settlement of a pastor, and we have only here
and there a letter that reveals any new development in his
disease, or state of mind.
One addressed to Mrs. H. E. Thompson, of New London,
Ct., a liberal patron of the institution, indicates a kind remembrance of his friends, and his deep sympathy with them in
their afflictions. It also shows that his mind dwelt with
intense earnestness upon the progress of the Redeemer's
kingdom in the earth.  We give an extract.  The letter
bears date August 23d, 184 —
"It gives me pleasure to hear that the doctor remains
comfortable. I hope his last days may be rendered joyful,
through the kind attentions of his companion, the affectionate
regards of his friends, and the consolations of the Holy Spirit.
I hope, through the unspeakable mercy of our God and
Saviour, to meet him in a little time, in mansions of rest,
where we may rejoice together with all the blood-washed
throng, around the throne of the Lamb.
"I think the fruits of your scholarship will be manifest in
the cultivation of choice spirits for the sacred ministry.
"I am yet lingering on the borders of the grave. How
long I have to remain I know not. I think I prefer God's
will to my own, and would wait all the days of my appointed
time, until my change comes. We are hastening through the
changes of life with great rapidity. What astonishing progress society is making in new inventions I What speed is
given to the traveler I What aid to the mechanic I What
light is dawning on the sciences! What an accumulation of
means for propagating error! And can the march of Zion




274   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
be tardy in such an age as this?' Will not God cut short his
work in righteousness?''Will he not make a short work in
the earth?' How vast will be the winding up of all human
affairs? How overwhelming the thought that we are subjects of God's moral government, formed for an endless existence in weal or woe? How infinitely important to our well
being is the gospel of Christ? How much we need the
Spirit of God to prepare us for his coming and kingdom!
These are topics which occupy my thoughts more or less,
and I hope through grace to understand the way of life, and
be found in Christ at last."
It may well excite our surprise that this great sufferer
should have been able to direct and control his mind under
such protracted pain to indulge in meditations like those just
expressed. For, seemingly, his physical anguish was sufficent
to absorb all his energies, both of body and mind.
One who often entered that sick room speaks as an eyewitness: " For nearly two years he was unable either to sit in
a chair or stand upon his feet, or even turn himself in bed
without assistance.  Yet, while his limbs became utterly
helpless, and were gradually perishing, they were the most
keenly sensitive to pain, and were often the seat of the most
excruciating agony.  Yet, throughout, he manifested  a
patience and fortitude the most exemplary. Although sometimes while writhing under severe paroxysms of pain, his
system paid its tribute to nature in involuntary groans, yet
even these were generally suppressed, and never, we believe,
in a single instance, did a murmuring word escape from his
lips. Nay, what is still more remarkable, it would seem that
a murmuring thought scarcely ever arose within his breast.
So completely had that powerful spirit been subdued, so long
and vigorously had it been disciplined in the school of grace,
that it never evinced the first symptom of rebellion against
the chastenings of God's mysterious hand. To the often
expressed regret of sympathizing friends that they could not
share with him in his sufferings, his reply was that he had




REV. NATIANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   275
not a pang to spare, and he has repeatedly stated that he was
not aware of having had, from the first of his illness, an
impatient hour."
The writer called upon the deceased in the month of May,
1848, and during the interview he made the remark, "that
the period of his sickness he regarded as the happiest of his
life, and that he felt no anxiety as to the result, nor any
desire to have his condition otherwise."  Such a perfect
resignation to the will of God, can be accounted for only on
the principle that grace had triumphed in his soul.
To a mind thus freighted with divine blessings, death
could be no surprise. He who had been borne in ecstacies
of bliss almost to the pearly gates of the celestial city, could
have no misgivings when actually summoned to enter the
New Jerusalem.  In the last letter that his feeble hand
penned, he adverts to the prevailing sickness in the town,
and moralizes thus:
"It is quite sickly in our village. The dysentery prevails, and in many instances has proved mortal with children,
and some grown persons.  It is prevailing in Eaton and
other places in this region.
"We are, amidst the spoliations of this world, and the
ruin of our race by sin, making our way to the grave. But
the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which brings life and
immortality to light, presents us a remedy for all the evils
that have come upon us. How precious the hope that enters
within the vail, where Christ, our forerunner, hath entered.
" How consoling to contemplate this world in the light of
God's government. His kingdom rules over all, and he will
conduct all things to a glorious issue.  Without a hope in
his mercy I should be most miserable. I am striving to get
the victory over my depraved heart, and to be more subdued
in spirit to the Saviour. I must rely solely on the power of
his grace, to do this."
About a week after this communication left his study, the
disease then raging in the village selected him for one of its




276   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
victims. The final struggle of suffering, and the burial services, are thus described by Professor Kendrick:
" It pleased God at length to dismiss him from this scene
of suffering, and take him to his rest. A dysentery set in
which baffled all attempts to check it, and after raging nearly
two weeks, terminated fatally. He died on Monday, September 11th, 1848, aged seventy-one years.  The closing
scene was peaceful.  His mind, though feeble, was clear
almost to the last. For a few hours before his dissolution,
he was unable to articulate even in a whisper, yet so long as
he could speak, his uniform expressions were those of an
unshaken trust in his Saviour. He was too weak, he whispered at one time, to pursue a connected train of thought,
but he felt the foundation firm beneath him, and death had
no terrors. Among his last faintly whispered, yet distinct
expressions, was the request that if any public notice was
taken of his decease, all eulogizing language might be forborne, and nothing said of him but what was befitting a
pardoned sinner. He made the necessary arrangements for
his funeral, selecting the preacher, the text, and one of the
hymns to be sung on the occasion.  The selections were
characteristic of the peculiar type of his piety.  The text
was a part of the fifth verse of the forty-third Psalm:'Hope
in God; for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my
countenance, and my God.' The hymn chosen was that
commencing,
"' I'11 praise my Maker with my breath.'
"The preacher (in the absence of several of the officers of
the institution) was Rev. Alfred Bennet, a long-known and
much-loved fellow-laborer in the gospel. His spirit passed
away without a struggle, and on the face of the dead lay
that placid smile which seemed to speak of joy that the long
agonized body had at length sunk to repose, and the disenthralled spirit winged its way to the bosom of its God.
"On the Wednesday following, the funeral services were




REV. NATHANIEL  KENDRICK, D.D.   277
attended in the Baptist church in the village. The discourse
was appropriate and eloquent, rich in the exhibition of those
precious and glorious truths of the gospel, which, in connection with the death of the believer, it is peculiarly fitting to
contemplate. The remains of the deceased were deposited
in the cemetery of the institution. "
On the second day after his decease the Madison Association convened at Georgetown, and as he had been an active
member of the body for upwards of thirty years, the delegates, with becoming fitness, placed upon their minutes the
following tribute to his memory:
" The death of Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick, D. D., being announced to the association, the moderator, Rev. William
Clarke, on motion, led in prayer, that the bereavement might
be sactified to the good of mourning friends, and the members
of this body.
" It was further Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare an expression of their feelings on this subject,
with a notice of his decease, to be printed in the minutes, and
Daniel Hascall, John Peck, and Isaac Bevan, were appointed
as such committee.
"Their report is as follows:
" Your committee appointed to prepare a brief notice of
the death of our venerable brother, Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick,
D. D., suitable to be published in your minutes, report' That
in the very limited time for preparing, and space for publishing, allowed to us, it cannot be expected that we shall present
such an extended notice of this beloved and extraordinary
man, as will fully satisfy his friends, and as the cause of truth
and righteousness requires; but.would express the hope that
a fuller account of his life and death, from some source, will
be given to the public.
"He died in Hamilton, Monday, the 11th inst., aged seventy-one years.  His last request to the First Baptist Church
in Hamilton, was,' I desire the prayers of my brethren of
this church, that I may be submissive to the will of God,
24




278   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
and wait his appointed time; that I may be supported in my
severe distress, and not be left to murmur.  I feel that my
confidence and hope are in God.  I have sweet peace and joy
through our Lord Jesus Christ.'
" Our brother has been known to some of us, as an able
and faithful minister of Christ, for more than forty years. He
came to this association on a visit, from Middlebury, Vt., in
1816, and preached an instructive and impressive sermon, calculated to call forth the contributions and prayers of God's
people in behalf of missions. Sometime the following year,
he became pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Eaton.
In that church, and the church in Sherburne, and the First
Church in Eaton, now Morrisville, he continued to labor in
the ministry, until in the judgment of his brethren, and his
own, it became his duty to give up the pastoral charge that
he might devote his time and talents more fully to the interests of the literary and theological institution at Hamilton.
But, although this became his principal field of labor, he had
still in some measure the care of all the churches resting
upon him. He was engaged in the cause of missions, domestic and foreign, in Bible and tract distribution, and in other
benevolent enterprises for the promotion of morality, peace,
and the prosperity of the human family.
"His counsels were sought and freely given, in matters of
difficulty affecting the welfare of the churches.
" He was one of the most efficient founders and supporters
of the institution in Hamilton.  His instructions and advice
imparted to the hundreds of students, are now influencing the
ministry and the churches throughout these United States, the
neighboring provinces, and in many portions of the heathen
world. A large, if not the largest portion of our foreign
missionaries, were influenced by his instructions, his example,
and his prayers. Notwithstanding the remains of depravity
over which he mourned through life, he left a character unspotted by any foul stain, and as free from blemish as falls to




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   279
the lot of the most eminent Christian minister in this age of
the world.
"For nearly three years he was confined to his bed, and
needed watchers. Hundreds of the young brethren of the
institution have been benefited by. his prayers and discourse
in the night watches. His bodily pains were for a long time
exquisite, yet he was resigned. No one that we know of,
heard a murmur from his lips. He said to one of us,' I feel
like a child in the arms of a kind parent.' Being asked' Does death appear nearer than it has done?''Yes,' he replied,' death is near, and I welcome its approach.' He selected a text, and a preacher for his funeral. The text was,
Ps., 43d, last clause of the 5th verse,'Hope in God, for
I shall yet praise him who is the health of my countenance,
and my God.' On Monday, the 11th inst., he sweetly breathed
his life out without a struggle or a groan, at seven P. M.
On Wednesday, at ten A. M., Bro. Alfred Bennett preached
an impressive discourse in the Baptist house in the village,
from the passage selected, and the body of our deceased brother was carried to the burying ground on Seminary Hill, followed by the faculty, and such members of the boards, and
students of the university, as were able to be present, and
there interred.'Being dead, he yet speaketh.'"
"D. HASCALL, Chairman."
The New York Baptist Education Society also made an
appropriate notice of his departure, in the Annual Report of
1849, which is here subjoined.
" It becomes our painful duty to record, on the opening
page of our report, the decease of one, who, from the infancy
of this society, has been looked to as one of its firmest
friends, and most substantial, active and efficient supporters;
one, in short, who, so far as that term could be applied to any
man, has been the life and soul of our educational enterprise,
Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick, D. D., one of the very founders of
the society and the institution; holding in the institution,




280   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
through a long series of years, its highest chair, that of Systematic Theology, and having served the society through the
whole period as occasional agent, and for many years past
having given, as Corresponding Secretary, his whole time and
energies to the prosecution of its interests, until, in September last, a few weeks after the annual -meeting of the society,
lie was released by death from his earthly labors and sufferings. The trying, and most interesting circumstances
attending his decease, are too well known to need here any
particular enumeration. Suffice it to say, that, up to about
the last hour of his agonized existence, while lingering on a
bed of intense, and scarcely intermitted pain, his head, and
heart, and mind, were all enlisted with unflagging energy in
the great work of this society; and, to the last, he labored
with ever-deepening interest for its prosperity.
" The appeals to the churches, which he sent forth from
his death-bed, must still dwell in the remembrance of our
brethren, and we cannot doubt that the seed which he then
scattered with his pen and his prayers, will yield a rich harvest while he is slumbering in the tomb. Although this is
not the occasion for attempting to raise a fitting monument
to his talent and virtues, yet his long and intimate connection with the society, not only justifies, but requires at least
a passing tribute to his many excellencies. The qualities of
his mind and heart, rendered him eminently conspicuous
among the greatest and the best of men in our state and denomination.
"Never could we approach him but with reverence, nor
associate with him without becoming most profoundly impressed with his great intellectual and moral worth. He was
a profound theologian, and ardently attached to the great
distinguishing features of evangelical truth.  A  devoted
Christian, consecrating his life to the great work of building
up the cause of Christ. He was a wise man; an excellent
judge of men and things; studious of the things that make
for peace, and fertile in resources to meet any exigencies that




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   281
might arise. He had devoted, as is well known, all his noble
energies, in a special manner, to the building up and fostering of our educational interests.  In his decease, therefore,
this society feels a special bereavement.
" In his death, divine grace achieved a signal triumph.
His sick room seemed as the gate of Heaven; and his own
soul was the seat of unfaltering faith in Christ, and of holy
resignation to his Master's will.
"The death of this distinguished man, naturally directs
our eyes to the progress which he witnessed in our educational operations, and to the great contrast between the feeble
infancy of our society and its present matured and manly
vigor. At the time when a single, untaught plough-boy
sought the benefaction of the society, and its annual receipts
and expenditures were, at most, but two or three hundred
dollars, who could have anticipated that thirty years would
witness so great an enlargement of its scale of operations?
Who could have dreamed, that the humble embryo of an institution that was feebly struggling into being, would, within
that time, be eminently contested, as a prize, an ornament,
and a blessing, by different sections of the state; and that
the Baptist denomination, then looking with deep suspicion
upon ministerial education, which, in a neighboring section
of the country, they had seen made a substitute for a Divine
call, and for spiritual qualifications, (and we would never
wish them to be less suspicious of so fearful a perversion,)
would then, almost in the entire body, become deeply impressed with the value of learning and discipline, as an aid
to the ministerial work, and ready to pay their thousands,
annually, to secure to themselves the benefit of a well trained
ministry. Surely, we may exclaim, what hath God wrought!
And the lesson which we should learn, from this retrospect,
is one of gratitude, encouragement, and zeal. Let us thank
God and take courage. Let us rise above the difficulties that
beset us, and remember that they are temporary, and will
soon yield to zeal and united effort; and let us press forward,
24*




282   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, DD.
with united hearts, in the great work of giving an educated,
as well as pious ministry, to our churches, and to the world."
To the sentiments just expressed, many will assent, as
strikingly in harmony with their conceptions of the man.
We now invite our readers to pass from the solemnities of
the scenes which have just been portrayed, to survey him,
whose memory we would perpetuate, from two or three
stand-points, and see how his character impresses them as he
is made to pass through the successive changes of his eventful life. Born in the midst of the stirring scenes of the
American revolution, he was cast upon the theatre of existence at the most important epoch in our nation's history.
While he was rocked in the cradle of infancy, the clarion
notes of war were pealing through the land. As he was
passing through his childhood and youth, the now giant republic was just casting off its swaddling bands. Warriors
had contended for its existence, and not a few had sacrificed
their lives in its defense; but it needed, in the second stage
of its development, not so much the warrior to fight its battles, as statesmen to mould its government, and men of moral
bravery to plant and nurture its religious as well as civil institutions. It demands a generation of worthies, fresh from
the baptism of a revived Christianity, to preserve our national heritage free from danger. To commit it thus early to
the guardianship of infidels, would jeopardize its welfare,
and place at the mercy of another revolution the hardearned laurels of a splendid victory. In the event of peace,
there was a demand for men, who had the patience to work
on in their quiet and virtuous employments, developing the
integrity of their principles, and their inflexible love of free
institutions, while no standards were floating over their
heads, nor martial airs resounding in their ears. Imperative
was the call for men, who should inaugurate a reign of intelligence, industry, and piety. That was no irresponsible life
that must bloom under the newly risen sun of civil and religious freedom. To live at that hour, was a privilege of no




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.  283
mean order, since it contained a patrimony that had the
power of a blessing or a curse. Under auspices of such extraordinary character, the man whose history we have imperfectly traced, had his birth and early days. How benign the
influences of his home, and of his youthful culture, the foregoing chapters set forth. It was the glory of our land, and
especially of New England, to be the birth place of not a
few sons of this noble stamp. The impress of their character was given to our republic; and to their honor be it said,
they were among the best bulwarks of Christian patriotism.
Whatever the subject of these chapters achieved in a quiet
unostentatious way for the good of a Christian commonwealth, it was yet his more immediate province to serve in
the ministry of reconciliation, and especially, to guide and aid
candidates in preparation for this work. In a country that
was yielding up its forests to the advancing march of civilization, and rapidly exchanging its far-stretching wilds for
fields of golden grain, the spirit of progress could not be
confined to material changes. It must impart its genius to
every institution affecting the welfare of man. Its influence
was communicated to every branch of business and to every
profession; and men in the ministry, including the sainted
Kendrick in the list, who were endowed with great sagacity,
as they took forecasting glances of the future, felt that it was
devolved upon them to anticipate the wants of a growing
population, which had already began in their day, to push its
tide of emigration westward, and gave early signs that it
could be stayed only by the Rocky Mountains, or the Pacific
coast. They could not endure the thought that the teeming
millions that were destined to people our soil, should be without a trained ministry. The schemes which these fathers projected have not passed away like dreams. The foundations
which they laid were permanent and the structures which
have risen upon them, have grown into gigantic systems for
good; and they now stand forth as the proudest monuments
of their originators.  In them we are furnished with a com



284   REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.
mentary upon the wisdom of departed minds, and the schools
which they established, and the benevolent organizations
which they devised, are in their legitimate operations, now
gathering garlands to their graves.
A life extending over three score years and ten, nearly fifty
of which fall within the nineteenth century, must have witnessed vast improvements in commerce, in governments, in
the arts, and sciences, in benevolent charities, and in Christian progress. The personage that has filled our minds so
long, was not an idle spectator, but one in the front rank of
progressive changes, leading on and challenging many to
follow. He was both a pioneer and a wise master-builder.
But while the active relations which Dr. Kendrick sustained for a long period, gave a fair opportunity to develop
his character, and prove to the world the purity of his ruling
motives, still upon his bed of illness we apprehend the excellence of his character was even more fully set forth. It is
scarcely possible for any man whose name and services are
identified with a seminary of learning for thirty years, to
escape the breath of criticism and censure. The inauspiciousness of some of its movements, must expose its guardians, and especially its senior officer, to the charge of blame,
however innocent. Some would find fault that his theology
was so thoroughly seasoned with high-toned Calvinism; and
that he was not warm enough in the advocacy of modern
revivals; that he was not sufficiently progressive in his uniform policy. But the language of complaint was superseded
by that of admiration, when it was manifest to all that during
his years of confinement, God was with him in no ordinary
measure. On his bed of languishing he gave a practical illustration of his long cherished doctrines. It was there that he
delivered lectures upon Christian experience, and Christian
culture, that were listened to with more interest and profit, than
the ablest disquisitions from the chairs of theology, because
they came from lips just touched with hallowed fire, and from a
soul rapt in communion with God. Language was too feeble




REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D.   285
to express his desires for the holiness of the ministry, and the
conversion of sinners. Seen through the medium of human
speculation, it was a mystery beyond solution, that he should
be held so long in the crucible of suffering; but in the light
of divine glory it was simply "to fill up that which was behind
of the afflictions of Christ in his flesh for his body's sake,
which is the church. "  His work was unfinished until his sufferings were ended. These were prolonged that many a servant now installed in the ministry might know the benefit of
heavenly communion, and from the stand-point of death in
near prospect, obtain such views of his sacred vocation as
would constrain him ever to magnify his office.












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Bell........................
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in I......................................




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
CHAPTER I.
THE FIRST AND THE SECOND BIRTHDAY.
THE interest with which a very wide circle of friends
regarded the subject of the following sketch, as the last and
worthy representative of a family that has filled an important
place in the religious world, might call for some memorial of
his life, but it is not to gratify such a desire that this sketch
is undertaken. There are other and higher ends to be served
by the recorded lives of the faithful, than the gratification of
friendship, and there was much in the loving life of our
friend, the memory of which we cannot willingly let die. It
was not, indeed, filled up with deeds which may be gathered
from the public annals of his time; nor did he leave literary
remains to be embodied in a biography; nor is there any
diary from which his spiritual history may be collected. There
are but the impressions of a life of singular utility and beauty
to be gathered from the hearts and memories in which they
are embalmed, with what aid may be derived from hints
scattered through a miscellaneous collection of letters written
for the most part amid the pressure of business, and many of
them written mainly on buisness occasions. Those who will
consider what the task must be to gather up the materials of
biography from such sources, will be prepared to make due




288      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
allowances for the defects of this labor of love. Those who
are predisposed to find fault may easily charge such sketches
of life with partiality. It is unnecessary to say to the candid,
that we would by no means represent the character of our
friend as faultless; but, then, ours is not the thankless office
of searching out and recording his faults, but the more
fruitful one of endeavoring to place the example of his piety
and virtue before those who may be influenced to the imitation of them or encouraged in the conflict of life by the view
of what he endured and obtained. Those who knew him
best, will not by any means think that our sketch gives too
exalted an impression of his excellencies.
The memoir which precedes this, renders it unnecessary
that any thing should be said here of his parentage or of the
family history. Silas N., was the eldest son of Dr. Kendrick,
and was born at Middlebury, Ct., January 19th, 1814. His
mother died on October 11th, 1815, and the infant she left
behind her found a home with his grandparents, until his
father's second marriage, three years afterwards, when he
joined the family in Eaton, N. Y. His boyhood we may
suppose was in no way remarkable, as few reminiscences of
it survive. He is spoken of by those who then knew the
family as an affectionate boy, guileless and sincere; and a
certain simple courage, which showed that the thought of
fear had never occurred to him, is spoken of as being
remarkably united with unusual gentleness and modesty.
The connection of his father with the Theological Institution
at Hamilton, and the efforts that were made to establish
schools of a high order in that village, afforded him the best
advantages of education. He displayed, however, no literary
tastes, and was disinclined to pursue any studies beyond
what might fit him for a respectable position as a business
man. His inclination towards active industry, and the settled
wish to earn his own living, were early developed. The
earliest notice we have found of him is contained in the
Annual Report of the Seminary for the year 1828, which con



LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.              289
tains the treasurer's entries of payments made to Silas N.
Kendrick for labor performed, and we trace him thus alternating periods of labor and study, until he left his father's
house to prepare for the more serious business of life.
The first event that claims a more deliberate notice, is that
upon which the interests, not of temporal but of eternal wellbeing turns-his second birthday.  Neither the recollections
of friends, nor the remains of his own correspondence, furnish
us with accurate details of the circumstances of this great
change. We may perhaps on this account be the more
readily permitted to indulge in some general remarks on the
subject of conversion, though they detain the reader from
what they more particularly seek in a biographical notice.
The purpose of redemption is the key to the riddle of mortal existence.  It explains the mystery of God's forbearance
with a guilty world. Nay, since creation itself had redemption in view, it explains the reason of the world's existence.
In case of an individual of the human race, it may therefore
most emphatically be said that conversion is the grand crisis
of his existence up to this point, all has been merely preliminary.  To relate his previous history is but to trace the
path by which this point was reached, a path frequently
indeed concealed from the closest scrutiny of man. Frequently all influence, so far as we can judge, seem unfavorable
to such a result. The heart may appear to be receding from
it; those who looked for it may have begun to despond; those
who sought it may be dead or distant; and ungodly associates
may have taken the place of those who warned and entreated;
and just then, when it was least expected, the poor prodigal
may have come to himself, and returning to his father, found
pardon, peace and immortal security. The pardoned sinner
is constrained to acknowledge that God's promise is fulfilled.
" I will bring the blind in a way that they know not. I will
lead them in paths that they have not known. I will make
darkness light before them, and crooked things straight."
25




290     LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
In one way or another God vindicates his sovereignty, and
secures his glory in the salvation of his children.
The conversion of a sinner is as joyful as it is momentous.
To himself, it is a change from death to life, from the gloom
of prospective wrath to the glory of a heavenly hope.  To
the loving hearts who labored and prayed for him, it is a
change from agonizing solicitude to the untold satisfaction
of receiving the object of such solicitude into hallowed relations, and an eternal union of love and destiny. The joy of
the event is shared by all who are in sympathy with Him
who sees in it of the travail of his soul and is satisfied.
" There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one
sinner that repenteth," and beside this announcement, how
insipid is the most rapturous enthusiasm with which earthly
history records its most brilliant events!
The conversion of a sinner does not derive all its consequence from the individual transformation of character and
destiny therein effected. The divine life imparted to the soul
is not only in itself a blessing, it is a source of blessings
which in their interminable diffusion, bring an unreckoned
revenue of glory to God. We are therefore disposed to
linger around the day of a beloved brother's espousals with
the thought in our hearts of his after-life of sanctified
beneficence-the consolation and godly edifying which he
ministered to many of the children of God-the children of
wrath who were won to Christ by his instrumentality, and
who shall be to him a crown of joy and rejoicing in the day
of the Lord Jesus.
If ever a capacious heart overflowed with gratitude on
the conversion of a child, it was the heart of the father
whose ardent and exalted affection, gaining ardor and exaltation through advancing years, lends a principal charm to the
life-records from which we transcribe these pages.  The
preceding memoir of Dr. Kendrick renders it unnecessary to
say that the gratitude awakened by the conversion of Silas
was not a shallow emotion, satisfied with superficial evidence




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.              291
and exhausted in a flippant utterance. The salvation of his
child had been the burden of his parental solicitude, from
the hour that the first fervent prayer was poured out for
the infant which was placed in the arms of a manly but
tender affection. The development of his child's disposition
and character had been sedulously watched with this end in
view, and all influences and associations which could affect
the formation of character, had been judged by their bearing
upon this object.  The accomplishment of such an object
was of too great importance to be readily taken for granted,
and accordingly a progress from prudent and delicate encouragement to a full and unhesitating confidence, may be
traced in the father's letters, extending through years of
patient watching for the fruits by which, says the Lord, "ye
shall know them."
This is a matter of great delicacy with Christian parents,
and all who have the care of souls. On the one hand, they
are not to add to the trials of the young convert by distrust,
and by withholding the cordial sympathy for which the
renewed heart yearns. On the other hand, they must not
encourage the tendency of susceptible minds to rest in the
endorsement of their profession by experienced Christians,
instead of the testimony of the Spirit. Many true converts
have their peace and progress hindered by the former mistake, which not only deprives them of the aids of fraternal
communion, but fosters the too common vacillation between
hope and fear —a vacillation so common, that doubt of personal acceptance seems to be considered a mark of grace, and
the full assurance of faith, but another name for presumption. Under the influence of the latter mistake, daily dishonor is done to the name of Christ. Many have been sent
down to the grave with a lie in their right hand, by the
hearty endorsement, by ministers and churches, of the emotions of an awakened sinner, as the experience of a child of
God.
On many accounts, we regret that we have failed to pro



292      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
cure detailed accounts of Silas's conversion, but there are
some considerations which reconcile us to the failure. There
is a disposition to demand that the mental exercises of all
who pass from death to life should be conformed to some
recognized model, and to look upon a conversion with suspicion, if it does not correspond with this standard. And such
is the tendency to imitation, that, in different regions and at
different times, we do find a singular uniformity in such exercises. The very peculiar exercises of Bunyan are transcribed and stereotyped in the escape of Christian from the
City, of Destruction; and such is the influence of the
transcript, that the Slough of Despond has come to be regarded, if not as a gospel institution, at least as lying so
unavoidably in the way to the cross, that a conversion would
scarcely be regarded as genuine, unless it included an experience of the horrors of that miry pit.  Such an experience
remains, indeed, among the most painful recollections of
many; but it should be referred to as a warning, not as an
example to the awakened sinner.  We gratefully recall the
reply of an eminent saint, when recounting the Lord's dealings with her soul, to one who asked, "And were you long
in the Slough of Despond?" "I was never there at all, sir;
I went straight to the cross of Christ." The reply suggests
the occasion of our sufferings, and points the inquirer to the
evangelical path of escape from guilt and wrath.
More disastrous than the disposition of Christians to set
up a model of conversion, is the disposition of the awakened
themselves to fix upon some accounts of conversion which
they have read or heard, and to labor or wait for a conformity
of their own exercises to these. Unbelief and self-righteousness, with all their fruits of woe, thus become objects of
their imitation. They are persuaded that they may not lay
hold of Christ until they have passed through the same conflict. This error holds multitudes long in terrible bondage,
and even continues to cast its shadow over their whole
Christian course; and it leads multitudes into the fatal




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               293
delusion of saying peace to themselves, because they can
trace a correspondence between their tumultuous emotions
and those out of which peace was first won for some eminent
saint. These victims of delusion are greatly multiplied at
times of religious awakening, under the influence of men
who devote themselves to the promotion of excitement.
The faithful minister of Christ will be humbled when he
remembers the numerous instances in which applicants for
admission into the church, instead of professing faith in the
Lord Jesus, relate their own feelings and resolutions as the
ground of their hope. Frequently it is impossible to detect
the slightest reference to the only name given under heaven
or among men whereby they can be saved. It need therefore occasion no surprise, though it must awaken the deepest
sorrow, that the whole field of professing Christianity should
be strewed with the ruin of promising hopes which were built
upon the sand.
Such considerations reconcile us to the failure of all attempts to collect the particulars of our brother's conversion,
since the scanty accounts we have to give cannot minister to
the prevailing delusions. It occurred when he was about
sixteen or seventeen years old, in the course of a revival in
the village of Hamilton, which is noticed in the preceding
memoirs.  We quote a brief statement of the manner in
which Silas first declared himself on the Lord's side, from the
pen of one who listened to the declaration:"He was under conviction, according to my recollection,
three or four weeks. I had interviews and seasons of prayer
with him during that period. A large number of young
men about his own age were in a similar state of mind. At
a prayer meeting on the evening of the day he obtained a
hope in Christ, he rose to speak, with a heart overflowing
with joy, and told us he had discovered why he had so long
been kept from the embraces of his Saviour. He said he
found he was making conditions in his applications for mercy;
he wanted to make a kind of bargain with God. When he
25*




294      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
prayed he promised to surrender himself to Christ, and serve
him if he would save him.'But,' said he,'this morning I
saw so clearly the wickedness of my heart and life, that I
resolved to turn to God, and serve him the remnant of my
days, whether he saved me or not. The moment I came to
this decision, my burden was all gone. I felt as if I could
fly, I was so happy, and all the world would be no inducement to me to live in sin as I have done.' Then turning to
seventeen or eighteen of his companions by his side, all in
tears,-the room was full of weeping,-he said,'My young
friends, when you pray for pardon, do not say you will give
up all if -. Do not try to make a bargain with the Lord,
as I did, but surrender yourselves to him without an if. It
is wrong to continue in sin; it is right to obey and serve
God, whether you are saved or lost, whether he sends you to
heaven or hell; and the moment you make an unconditional
surrender, you will find peace to your soul.'
" All felt then that Silas had made an unconditional surrender to Christ, and that he was accepted of him. The correctness of that judgment has been evinced by his subsequent
life."
This account, it must be remembered, is written from
recollection, after the lapse of nearly thirty years, and may
be very incomplete. We may suppose also that a young
convert, speaking under the agitation of such an occasion,
made a very imperfect expression of his own experience.
How otherwise can we account for the absence of even a
remote reference to the only grounds of a sinner's acceptance,
and for the apparent contradiction of the great truth of an
evangelical faith.  "Knowing that a man is not justified by
the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we
have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by
the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law."  The
gospel indeed summons the sinner to repentance; it finds
him estranged from God, and beseeches him to be reconciled
to God; but it does not call him to surrender himself to God




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               295
in ignorance or indifference as to whether he shall be saved
or lost. On the contrary, the very burden of the gospel message, and the grand argument by which its call is enforced,
is, that God "hath made him to be sin for us who knew no
sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in
him." The gospel assuredly does not call us to serve God
as the condition or purchase of salvation, but neither does it
call upon us to serve God without regard to our salvation;
for we cannot serve him under this bondage of fear. It, first
of all, brings us the assurance of salvation in the name of
Christ-" Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt
be saved." Then, in the enjoyment of a free salvation, the
love of Christ constrains us to live, not unto ourselves, "but
unto him who died for us, and rose again." There can be no
true peace to the soul, no true surrender of the heart to God,
no true service, except in the knowledge and belief of the
love God hath to us.  " We love him because he first loved
us," is the brief history of every holy affection, and every
God-ward desire in the heart of the believer. The office
of the Christian minister is to set before the awakened sinner
the testimony of God's love in the propitiation for our sins;
and the language of faith, beholding that propitiation, is,
"He loved me, and gave himself for me." When this
blessed security is attained, and we perceive Christ as made
of God to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification,
and redemption, we will surrender ourselves to God without
an if-that is, without a doubt or fear regarding our safety;
inasmuch as our salvation depends not on what we are to do,
but on what Christ has done for us. Our hope rests, not on
our surrender or service, but on the righteousness of Christ
as its ground, and the word of God as its warrant. For the
rest "we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto
good works, which God hath before ordained that we should
walk in them."  The law, as it has been expressed, says,
"Do these things, and thou shalt live." But the gospel




296      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
comes to men dead in trespasses and sins, and says, " Live,
and do these things."
Defective as the statement quoted may be, either in its
original utterance or in the report of it, we may well believe
that one who had received his religious instruction from
Nathaniel Kendrick was not left to say peace to himself, on
the grounds there expressed, nor to build his house on such
loose and shifting sands. We have no means of determining
whether he was made savingly acquainted with the foundation which God hath laid in Zion at the time referred to in
the quotation, but we have abundant evidence in his later
life, and the most emphatic testimony of his dying hour, that
his only desire, at last, was to be found in Christ; not having
his own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is
of the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by
faith.
We meet with the following allusion to this period of his
life in a letter to his father, dated Poultney, Vt., March 21st,
1836, "I look back to the time when I first felt my sins forgiven. I was happy, and thought I could never sin again,
but how little I knew my own weakness I I rather felt my
profession of religion, and my connection with the church,
were sufficient to keep me from the sins of which I had formerly been guilty.  I neglected to keep the heart in communion with prayer and sacred things. I forgot my obligations
to God and the church, and I have received the chastisement
of a disobedient child."
Without an explicit avowal of any remarkable change in
his spiritual condition, about the period at which this letter
was written, it is very noticeable in such letters as have been
preserved that subsequent to this time divine things occupied
a much more prominent place in his regard; the tone of his
correspondence was greatly elevated, and his views of the
ample provision of divine grace for all the exigencies of
the Christian life were wonderfully advanced in clearness and
scriptural correctness.




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               297
Looking back from the attractiveness and spiritual power
of Silas Kendrick's maturity, to these beginnings of divine
life in his soul, we may well learn to be tender and cautious
in our treatment of young converts, and to remember Him, of
whom it is said, " The bruised reed he will not break and the
smoking flax he will not quench." At the same time we
plead for a more simple exhibition of the true object of faith
in all religious instruction, and for an unsparing correction of
that false teaching which encourages the natural disposition
to rest in duties and feelings —in outward acts and relations
-in a public profession and church connection. A style of
preaching has become unhappily prevalent among the most
earnest and popular ministers of this country, which appears
to have this tendency; and as its results most of us are only
too familiar with the relation of doubts and fears, good resolutions and fair promises, self-complacent reports of activity,
mingled with confessions of derelictions of duty as making up
what is called a Christian experience.  The fruits most
lamentably attest that modern progress has not improved
upon the practice of the first preachers, who, in the language
of a friend, " Wherever they went and in whatever assembly
they stood, unhesitatingly and fearlessly proclaimed salvation, through Christ, freely and indiscriminately to all. Their
uniform practice was to state the great facts relating to Him
as the substance of their message-that Jesus is the Christ
-that he had died according to the scriptures, and was risen
again.  This was the burden of their message-the good
news which they every where announced on the authority of
God. And then, on the ground of this, lifting their voice
like a trumpet, they proclaimed the full remission of sin, and
the gift of eternal life to all, without distinction, who would
receive these blessings as they were offered, even freely,
without money and without price.'Be it known unto you,
therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is
preached'-proclaimed as by the voice of a public crier-'preached unto you the forgiveness of sins, and by him al'




298      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
that believe are justified from all things from which they
could not be justified by the law of Moses.' This was the
uniform practice of the first apostles. Would that it were
more and more the practice of those who now occupy their
place as preachers! Surely there should be no fear to do
what they did. The gospel is unchanged. It is the same
message now as then. It should be the ambition of all who
are entrusted with it to preach it as fearlessly, as freely, and
as fully as it was proclaimed in primitive times. Were this
done a measure of the same success would assuredly follow.
Many would believe and be saved, and those who believe
would, as in former times,'be filled with joy and with the
Holy Ghost.''




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               299
CHAPTER II.
THE PREPARATION FOR THE BUSINESS OF LIFE.
WE are now to trace our friend through that stage of life
when a being, hitherto dependent, though cared for by the
most powerful affection which God enkindles in the heart,
aside from that which binds us to himself, is launched upon
the troubled and treacherous sea of mortal interests as in
some sense independent and distinct. With what ardor has
the inexperienced heart of youth anticipated that hour of
individualization? With what shrinking solicitude has the
experienced heart of a parent anticipated it? A parent may
send forth a son warned and guarded by counsels which have
been reaped in bitterness from experience; but, happily, the
ardor and buoyancy of youth render it impossible to convey
to it the experience itself, and a full impression of the realities which are to be encountered in the world which shines
so attractively in the light of hope. Could all the losses and
crosses, pains and perils, hollowness and mockery which that
rosy light conceals, be distinctly unveiled beforehand, despondency would paralyze the energies of youth, and it would
sit down in darkness to pine away in the paternal home,
which itself would be robbed of all its charms. The mercy
and wisdom of God conceal the future by a curtain which we
cannot lift up, if we would; and, if wise, we would not if we
could. But happy is that father who has reason to trust
that his boy does not go forth to the battle in mere creature
strength.
Silas Kendrick was singularly free from the vices of youth,
and from the follies which ripen into the vices of manhood.
A natural delicacy and refinement, which are usually regarded
as the most attractive traces of the gentler sex, were seen in




300      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
his character to be perfectly compatible with an almost premature manliness. Those who had loved his mother saw
all that won their admiration yet living in her son; while
the friends of his father would often exclaim, when they saw
the stronger points of Silas's character brought out-" That
is the doctor over again "-and the union of the two was not
unharmonious nor incongruous.  It is not necessary to be
weak in order to be refined, nor to be effeminate in order to
be gentle. The noblest oak is not that which is snarled and
leafless, thrusting its distorted nakedness against the sky.
Perhaps it surprised those who looked upon his slight figure,
and heard his musical voice, and observed his gentleness, and
knew his opportunities, to learn that the settled purpose of
his mind led him away from the college and the countingroom; from learned professions and the pursuit of commerce
to the workshop.
In the spring of 1833, he left his father's house, followed
by many prayers, to carry his purpose into execution; and
made his first effort to obtain employment at Troy, N. Y., in
a machine shop and foundry. He had one offer, regarding
the terms of which he writes to his father, "I did not quite
conclude to sell myself at that price." He first found employment in a foundry at Poultney, Vt., and again writes to his
father: " Mr. L-, for whom I am at work, is a very pious
man, and very pleasant in his manner. As for the business,
it never presented the least novelty to me. I knew something of it before; I am not at all sick of it or disappointed.
I have begun with the resolution to be steady and prudent.
I am to have the privilege of attending the meetings of the
church, and should like to have my letter from the church in
Hamilton if they can give me one."
Two months after the date of the letter from which this
extract is made, we find his father writing to him: " The
facility with which you are becoming master of your business, the satisfaction the business affords you, as well as the




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDIRICK.              301
approbation and good will of your employer, were considerations of no small importance to me.
" I was also gratified with your resolution to allow your
name to appear on no day-book, and that you have managed
so long with your limited means, without calling for your
wages.  A little endurance of this sort will enable you to
judge between the necessaries of life and its superfluities, and
to understand how little the latter compensate for the embarrassment and even poverty which they often bring upon
those who indulge in them. There is not only a manliness
and dignity of feeling occasioned by having funds at control
which have been acquired by industry and prudence, but
there is an accumulation of powver to fill a larger sphere of
usefulness.
"If you are becoming more useful to your employer tllhan
he anticipated, let that occasion you no discontent.  If he
will fix upon the amount of labor for a day's work, and pav
you for all you do beyond that, it will be honorable on his
part, and profitable to you, provided it should not prove a
temptation to go beyond your strength and injure your health,
nor induce you to place a less value on this part of your gains
than on the rest, so as to detract from your economy.  In
either case you would be a loser."
The common sense of Dr. Kendrick's counsels may prove
of use to some readers of these extracts, which are made
chiefly to give a distinct impression of the manner in which
Silas entered upon the business of life, and of the influences
that directed him in a course of prudence, which early won
for him universal confidence and respect. A voluminous
family correspondence lies before us, commencing from this
period and extending to the close of the father's life, in its
general character and subjects commonplace perhaps, but yet
in itself remarkable and instructive. To none of his family
or friends does Silas write so cordially and confidentially, as
to his father. All his plans and aspirations, even what might
be regarded as his day dreams, are written with the freedom
26




302       LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
of an intimate associate, and yet with the most marked respect, which never loses sight of the father's dignity and
claims. Through all his plans of life, from first to last, runs
the hope, which was not abandoned till death blotted it out,
that the revered head of his father should find a last shelter
in his home.  In his first letter from  Poultney, in 1833, he
says. " I shall not attempt to accumulate a large fortune, but
I hope to accomplish enough to settle myself on a good farm,
and to do something for my parents in their old age." In
1847, he writes to his sister, when their venerable parent was
approaching the close of life, " That father should come to
live with us, has been my favorite plan, my great desire, and
it is not easy for me to give it up."
The cordiality, frankness, and affection of the son's letters,
are encouraged by the overflowing kindness of the father's.
Occupied with the cares of his responsible position, amid the
labors of his class, on his frequent journeys to promote the
interests of the theological institution, and pressed by the
claims of a very extensive correspondence, Dr. Kendrick
found time to answer every letter of his son, and to return
him measure for measure. His letters are dated sometimes
from his study, or on board a steamboat, or at a hotel where
the stage had stopped to change horses, or at the house of a
friend.  Wherever his son's letter reached him, he finds an
opportunity to reply.  The answers abound not only with
judicious counsels and admonitions, but with such expressions
of opinion, and relations of experience, as one would write
to a Christian brother. Domestic and local news, especially
intelligence concerning the seminary and the churches, are
minutely rehearsed-probably to none of his most intimate
friends and brethren, did he write so fully as to his son, regarding all that interested, perplexed, or pleased him. They
had no concealments from one another; and, probably, the son
never took an important step even in his business, without
laying it particularly before the father.
Silas gave early promise of success in the business he had




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              303
chosen. About two years after, he went to Poultney he wrote
to one of his younger brothers-" I have taken a job from
my employer, which yields me a little more than two dollars a day.  I hope to be able to buy a farm in a year
or two. I shall send father fifty dollars this week." At
this early age he begins to manifest a disposition which led
to much of the usefulness of his later years-a disposition to
surround the young who came within his reach with an affectionate sympathy, and to aim at their elevation.  His younger
brothers were his first care; and in his letters to them, he
endeavors with no little tact to draw out their thoughts on
important subjects, and to urge divine truth on their attention. The judicious counsel which he scatters throughout
them, strikingly reminds us of the sound judgment of his
father. In the letter just quoted from, he says: "you must
not yet feel home sick, my dear brother, make yourself at
home where you are. If you do well, and are kind and affectionate to those around you, you will always find good friends.
Be true to the best interest of your employer, and you will
best promote your own interest.  I know by experience, my
dear Covell, that an honest, steady, straightforward course is
the very best for a young man. A good reputation is worth
every thing, and it may be lost much easier than acquired."
The father of a youth who died in Poultney, about the time
when this letter was written, thus expressed himself in a letter to Dr. Kendrick: " I shall always feel under great obligation to your son for his kindness in taking care of my
lamented Carlos, during his last days. Silas and I took care
of him night and day. He was unwilling that we should
both leave him at the same time."
Ere long, he entertained the desire to aid his family
more efficiently, and to lighten the cares and the expenditure
of his father, which were both overtaxed by the claims of
the institution to which Dr. Kendrick gave himself with such
devotedness, and which remains a monument of his zeal and
wisdom. Silas proposed that his young brother should come




304      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
to Poultney, to attend the academy there, and offered to
defray all expenses, and exercise a watchful care over the
boy; and, when this proposal was declined, we find him writing concerning an older brother, who like himself, preferred a
trade to a profession: " I have a better contract with my
employer than I had last year; I employ three hands. I
should like to have brother Covell, come and work with meI will give him as much as lie can earn anywhere, and pay
his travelling expenses.  I should be glad to have him with
me; and it would be no disadvantage to his habits of industry to be here.  If he does not wish to learn the art of moulding, I will teach him some other branch of the business.  I
will have him room with me, and will do all I can for his
good.  Should father be willing to have him  come, I will
send the money as soon as I hear from you."
As the result of this proposal, he writes at an early subsequent date: " Brother is well, and likes his business.  He
is not so quick to learn as some boys, but he is steady, obedient, and kind-hearted.  I spend my evenings in my room
with him, and a young friend. We study, for two or three
hours, arithmetic, book-keeping, and Euclid. Covell does not
seem inclined to idle away his leisure hours. I am confident I can have an influence over him, and earnestly desire
it may be for good."
These extracts render it unnecessary to say any thing
regarding the character of the associates Silas chose, or the
manner in which he spent his own leisure hours.  From the
time that he left his father's house, we find constant evidence of his resolute endeavors to improve himself in all that
promised to advance his usefulness and success.  "I have
been studying surveying," he writes to one of his brothers:
" I have received instructions from a gentleman who has made
a handsome fortune by surveying western lands.  He has an
excellent set of instruments, and charges me nothing for the
use of them, or for the instruction he gives me."  Of his
associates, he says:  " My companions are very different




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              305
from a part of my society in Hamilton."  The expression
must not be understood as intimating that he had ever mingled in the society of the vicious or worthless-a young man
should aim at a much higher standard than merely to shun
the society and habits of the profligate. Frivolity and the
company of those who devote themselves to what are regarded as the harmless gaieties and recreations of life, present
far more imminent perils to those who go out from a Christian family into the world. Every Christian minister will
acknowledge, that the most common source of anxiety
regarding the young of his flock, is not the influence of the
openly wicked or dissipated, but of those who occupy the
intermediate ground of levity and folly.
It can never be sufficiently lamented that of late years
churches have frequently endeavored to promote their popularity and worldly success, by the direct sanction of the trifling, which is the bane of worldly society, in gatherings held
under a variety of names and pretexts, which are not otherwise distinguished from parties of pleasure-seekers than that
the evening's folly is opened and concluded by the forms of
prayer.
This is not the place to reply to the arguments by which
such practices are defended. But it must be felt by all who
have witnessed their operation, that in all such unions the
church goes down to the world, she cannot bring the world
up to her place.  She strips herself of spiritual power, while
she flatters herself that she is bringing the world within her
influence; and exposes the inexperienced of the flock to the
worst influences of worldliness, under the plea of removing
the temptation to seek the same kind of recreation elsewhere.
How many solemn impressions and convictions have received
their death-blow in such scenes? How many who did run
well, if asked what did hinder them, will point to the same
associations? And what mockery and scorn of the profession
of Christians have been there awakened, eternity only will
reveal.
26*




306      LLFE OF SILAS N. KENrDRICK.
Cheerfulness and the most animated intercourse of society
may, indeed, be the aids alike of intellectual and spiritual
development, but the line between these and levity and
frivolity is very distinctly marked, though it demands constant watchfulness lest the one should degenerate into the
other.  The line between levity and ungodliness, between
frivolity and dissipation, is by no means so distinct; and the
experience of thousands will attest that the latter is the natural termination of the former.  In the first instance, and in
the majority of cases, it is not dissipation, but the habits
against which we plead, that effectually bars the way of selfimprovement to the young, and that chills the religious ardor
of young Christians. Frequently the religious interest, and
the effort at self-improvement, which have resisted and triumphed over all open opposition, yield at last to the mere
levity of some one whose companionship had been sought
because he bore the Christian name.  We are constantly
taught that we cannot put an old head upon young shoulders.
Nor, indeed, would we desire to extinguish the vivacity of
the youthful mind. But the young themselves will remember that, when all the palliations of folly have been most
plausibly urged, it is by a course of sobriety, self-denial,
earnestness, and self-control, that they are to advance in all
that lends dignity to the character of a man, that is becoming
to the character of a Christian, and that promise either usefulness or honorable success in life. We have not far to
travel in the path of what is termed harmless gaiety and
amusement, to learn how little akin it is to the path of happiness, how deteriorating its prosecution is when taken at
the best, and how frequently and easily it issues in all the
degradation of profligacy. It is the very path by which the
most degraded victims of vice reached the brink of ruin.
We should do great injustice if we left these extracts from
the letters of Silas N. Kendrick, and these notices of his exemplary youth, without claiming that he is not to be regarded as a morose and gloomy anchorite. The very reverse




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               307
of this. No one entered with keener zest into the enjoyments of cultivated society.  He was more than cheerful in
his disposition. The word "joyous" would better express it.
And while he shrank, with taste and principles alike wounded,
from buffoonery and boisterous mirth, be had a fine appreciation of wit and humor. His letters overflow with genial good
humor, and sparkle with playfulness; and the friends of his
later life can well imagine that no one was more cordially
welcomed in the social circle than he was, at the period of
which we now write. Iec was eminently social, strong in
his attachments, and constant in his friendship. Those young
men who are mentioned among his associates, and the companions of his studies and pleasures in Poultney, were the
friends of his latest days, and are the foremost among those
who lament his death. This might well be inferred from
what we have said of his attachment to his father, and the
family, and from the character of the correspondence from
which we have already quoted. Nothing could be more beautiful and noble than the love with which he clung to these
relations of nature. His affection for his sisters were invested
with a most attractive tenderness; and this is the proper
connection to mention the first great grief which fell upon
him in the death of a sister older than himself. "Oh, my
dear father," he writes, "the sad intelligence crushes our
hearts. How can we be reconciled to it-how can we endure the thought that we are never to see our dear sister
again? It is too much for the weakness of nature; yet I
would not murmur. I loved her well. She was all that a
fond mother and an affectionate sister could be to me.  She
always told me my faults, and reproved me when I was
wrong, which none other but my father has done. But she
is gone. This world contains but one other so dear to us as
she was-the kindest and best of fathers. May we not
murmur because God has taken her home, but rather be
grateful that she was spared to us so long.
"Last night was a sleepless, but not a prayerless night




308      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
with us. Brother is a good boy. He is very steady and
regular in all his habits, has abandoned the use of tobacco,
attends meeting with me every Sabbath, and is all I could
wish except a Christian."
Although it does not belong to this period of our history,
we may mention here, as another illustration of the characteristic depth and endurance of his affection, that this brother
ultimately went upon a long voyage, in a whaling ship, and
has never since been seen by any one that knew him, or that
could communicate any information of his fate to an afflicted
family. It would be difficult to decide whether the letters of
the father or the son express the more tender anguish and
anxiety about the lost one. From the time of his departure
it is the ever-recurring theme of their mutual condolence.
Silas, from time to time, wrote hundreds of letters of inquiry
to consuls at foreign ports, and to missionaries in all parts of
the world, and every friend going abroad was entreated to
interest himself in the useless search. He never abandoned
the expectation of Covell's return, and the last letter which
he addressed to his father renews the expression of his hope
and desire.
A brief period of energetic application sufficed to give him
a competent knowledge of the trade he had selected, and his
habits of economy had enabled him to accumulate a small
capital. He had, moreover, secured the confidence of men
whose confidence was capital. We find him, therefore, preparing to establish himself in business, and looking out for
an eligible opening in the providence of God. But this
belongs more properly to another chapter of his life; and,
since we have in this dwelt upon his attachments and his
demeanor in the private relations of life, it may neither be
inappropriate nor useless to conclude with the reply of Dr.
Kendrick to a letter in which Silas had mentioned, with
wonted frankness, another tender attachment, and had consulted his father regarding the propriety of looking forward
to a union with the object of it.




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               309
"The step you are contemplating, my son, is one of great
importance, and one which, if wisely taken, will, by the
blessing of God, greatly promote your happiness. In looking
forward to this, two things must be carefully considered.
One is that you make the right choice of a person, and the
other is that you can make adequate provision for the increased
expense incident to that condition in life. A wise choice is
the first thing. In this you must prayerfully seek the direction of God, and carefully regard his providence. The judgment, as well as the fancy, should be consulted. Reference
should be had to the qualities of the mind, as well as to the
form and features of the earthly mould. The ornaments of
her spirit are the most precious and unfading, and, with a
gentle disposition, have more than mortal charms. These
are not all that a man of moderate fortune needs in a wife.
The connection is only for this life, which is a state of toil
and trial. A knowledge of business, fixed business habits,
with prudence and economy, and a tolerable constitution, are
needful for a life of usefulness. If the latter is wanting a
person with a good degree of all the others, must embarrass
a man of limited means, and almost ensure him a life of
poverty.
" You think of a distant period to redeem a present pledge.
The question seems to be, is it wise to give a pledge of such
moment to be redeemed two years hence? Although this
seems to you a long time, yet how much will it, probably,
accomplish for you towards procuring a permanent residence?
And without that, such a change in your relations would
embarrass rather than benefit either party.  Few have been
called more frequently than myself to consider this subject
with solemn and personal interest; and, in looking to the
result, I have always preferred to suspend the ultimate decision upon the providence of God, the strength and constancy
of affection, and what should seem best when these have
arrived. Under these circumstances, after expectation had
been excited by a series of attentions which were sufficient to




310      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
justify it, I never felt at liberty to occasion disappointment
without full and satisfactory reasons. We should ever avoid,
if possible, being the occasion of suffering to another.  It is
more easy for you to hold yourself disengaged while you
have any hesitancy on the subject, than to retrace a premature step. You will at least make it a subject of prayer.
Ask your heavenly Father to direct you, who is ever ready
and infinitely able to do it. I feel a pleasure in having the
opportunity to contribute any thing to assist your decision.
After you get all the light you can upon the subject you
must act upon your own judgment."




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.                311
CHAPTER III.
THE SEARCH FOR A HOME AND A FIELD OF LABOR.
IMPERFECT and fragmentary though the history of a life
necessarily is, in a brief sketch like the present, derived from
such materials as are preserved to us, the reader has probably
gained a correct impression from the last chapter of the rapid
progress of its subject to maturity of character.  The facility
with which he mastered the trade he had selected was extraordinary. The industrious improvement of his leisure hours
promised to render him an intelligent man, as well as an
accomplished machinist.  His general demeanor secured him
the affections of his friends, the respect and confidence of all
who knew him, and sent him forward on the next stage of
life with a high and untarnished reputation. His principles
were becoming well established, and on the solid basis of a
renewed nature, he was accumulating an experience which
eminently fitted him for the sphere of action and toil to which
the providence of God was soon to point his way.
He had, from time to time, entertained the purpose of
leaving Poultney, with a view to establish himself in business. Filial affection and the attractions of first friendships
turned his thoughts first to Hamilton, but the judgment of
his father decided against the practicability of following his
business with success in that village, at a time when its trade
was unusually depressed. His thoughts were first turned to
the west by the proposal of one of his uncles, who held a
public office in Ohio, and who, appreciating the sterling worth
and integrity of his nephew, offered him liberal terms if he
would accept a position of trust in the office. Mature deliberation, however, overruled the first inclination to seek
escape from the drudgery by which success as a machinist




312      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
was to be secured, and with the approval of his father, the
offer was declined. The state of Michigan, fast emerging from
its condition of pupilage as a territory, was attracting the attention to which its position and resources entitle it; and a number of circumstances conspired to point Silas' attention to that
region. IIis own inclinations were providentially confirmed
by a visit which his father paid to the west in the autumn of
1836, for the purpose of aiding in the organization of the
Baptist Convention of that state, and visiting the mission to
the Indians at Grand Rapids, under the care of the Baptist
Board of Foreign Missions. Dr. Kendrick wrote very favorably of the country and its prospects, and enclosed a formal
offer from Judge Dexter, of Ionia, on Grand River, of a lot
of land with water power, for the purpose of establishing a
furnace in that village.
Silas' decision was reserved till the following spring;
meanwhile, all his arrangements were made with a view to
a journey westward as early as the season might permit.
"Perhaps," he says in a letter to his father, Dec. 27, 1836, "I
had better continue at my business here as long as I can without interfering with my western enterprise. I shall be able
to raise about three hundred dollars, besides a good set of
patterns and tools. What time had I better start from here?
I shall be alone in the business, and must rely on my own
exertions, judgment and skill, with God's direction and
blessing. I mean to begin small and proceed safely." In
all the correspondence on this important step, there is a pervading reference of every thing to the Divine will, and one
anxious desire on the part of father and son, to mark and follow the leadings of God's providence. A year or two previous to the point which we have now reached, his father
wrote to him: " You should, my son, study well the ways of
of Providence. Enter upon no enterprise without asking
counsel of God Remember, that his providence presides over
all things, and holds a rod over his children when they live
unmindful of him. Wicked men may prosper in this world




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              313
in sin, and meet their punishment in the word to come. But
not so with the people of God;' If my children forsake my
law, and walk not in my commandments, I will visit their
iniquities with stripes, and their transgressions with a rod.'
Remember the counsel of Solomon:' Trust in the Lord with
all thy heart and lean not upon thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy
paths.' Amid all the callings of this life, never forget the
high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
We might multiply similar quotations from the earnest
counsels which accompany the information and suggestions
which Dr. Kendrick addressed to his son, on the eve of
setting out for the west; and those who are intimately
acquainted with him, know how well such counsels were
appreciated and improved. There are few who regard the
God of the Bible, who do not profess to hold the doctrine
involved in these counsels; but it is not censorious to say
that there are comparatively few who habitually and practically recognize the guidance of the providence and Spirit of
God. In some overwhelming calamity the thought occurs,
but as it is an unfamiliar one, the recognition of God's hand
is, for the most part, formal and uninfluential. At least it
fails to give the comfort, and produce the sweet submission
of spirit, which it would do, were our hearts trained to mark
that hand in the events of every day. From what perplexities about the path of duty and the issue of events would it
relieve us, if we were accustomed to act as though we knew
that God presides and directs! He watches closely every
turn of our course, and has his helps always at hand. A
young lady, who was obliged by the state of her health to
seek a southern climate, was on board a steamboat on the
Ohio river, with no friend near except a brother, like herself
estranged from God. A train of reflections, one morning,
left her deeply convinced of her lost condition; and when
the boat stopped to land a passenger, she stood by a centre
table, in profound thought, with her hand resting uncon27




314      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
sciously upon a Bible. A minister of the gospel stepped on
board, and was arrested by her appearance. Apologizing
for the intrusion, he asked a question, the answer to which
was, in effect, "What shall I do to be saved?" He opened
the Bible, pointed to a passage in it, and, on the instant, the
signal to sail obliged him to rush on shore without speaking
a word.  She read the verse indicated, and Christ was
revealed in her the hope of glory.  "Could I have seen
God's interposition more distinctly, had an angel from heaven
brought the message?" she asks, in relating the circumstances.
And so every day, if our eyes were anointed, we might
see a hand beckoning; if our ears were unstopped, we might
hear a voice going before us saying, "This is the way."
Not only on great occasions, but in all life's commonplaces,
it is our privilege to seek and find this guidance.  "In
every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving,
let your requests be made known unto God; and the peace
of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your
hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
These thoughts are forced upon us when we look back
upon the course by which God was about to lead our friend,
through years of toil and hope, temporary success and frequent disappointment, to find, at the close of twenty-five
years of strenuous and well-directed industry, not an ample
fortune and an old age of worldly honor, but the wreck of
fortune and health, an early grave; yet along with these,
high spiritual attainments, and a crown of glory that fadeth
not away. The eventful spring came, and prayerfully and
submissively he went forth whither the providence of God
seemed to point. The proposal to settle at Ionia was still
held in reserve, and formed in some sense a basis of his
investigations. Every where, the introduction of his father's
name, his own good reputation, and the charm of a frank and
cordial manner, found him friends. The transparent integrity of his character, his sound principles and judicious views




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              315
of business, gained him confidence, so that at almost every
stopping place he had offers of partnership, or opportunities
of entering into business on favorable terms.
A proposal from Dr. McQueston, of Brockport, that he
should take an interest in a furnace which that gentleman
had established at Hamilton, Canada West, led him to take
the route for Detroit through that province; and here he
made his first experience of the trials and hardships of
western adventure.  "My journey through Canada," he
writes to his father, "was exceedingly hard. I was twelve
days in the province traveling by stage, double and single
wagons, on horseback and on foot. I was sick three days at
a poor log tavern kept by French people, who could scarcely
understand a word of English, and the only medicine they
had was sweet flag tea. Oh, if ever I thought of home and
my dear friends, it was then."
The prospects of business at Hamilton seemed preferable
to any he had seen, but before making a permanent location,
he thought it due to his father's judgment to visit Michigan
The letter last quoted from was accordingly written from Detroit, where he was welcomed by Mr. Palmer, Mr. Movey,
and other friends of his father's family, through whom several promising offers of engaging in business again reached
him. The Ionia proposal was at length set aside, on account
of the failure of those sources from which he looked for an
adequate capital. While he waited for some indication of the
path of duty, an appointment was procured for him from the
Board of Commissioners of Internal Improvements, to accompany a party to survey the Grand River Railroad.  He
here began to reap the fruits of the improvement of leisure
hours at Poultney.  "My appointment," he writes, " is honorable, next to the engineer's, and is two grades higher than
beginners usually obtain. I think I had better accept the
offer, and go out till the fall, and then commence preparations
for business next spring. "
Shortly after this, we hear from him in the depths of the




316      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRIGCK.
wilderness, with a party of fourteen men, accompanied by
two pack horses to carry tents, blankets, and four weeks' provisions. In a long letter to his father, he gives a graphic
account of their adventures, and speaks with animation of the
enjoyment of "life in the bush," "where," he says, " we were
beyond the clamor of politics, and the cry of'hard times,' and
saw no human misery save where we saw a party of Indians.
My heart bleeds for the poor, ignorant, injured red man.  I
have never before so sensibly felt my dependence on Him who
never slumbers nor sleeps; nor so distinctly realized his
watchful care, as during those days of toil, and nights of exposure, in that solitude where there was no trace of man.
Nothing even to remind us of men, and every thing speaking
of God.  I felt my heart glow with gratitude.  My faith
waxed stronger; and it is a cheerful faith which sees all things
full of blessings, that such scenes cherish.'A sojourn in the vernal woods,
May teach us more of man,
Of moral evil, and of good,
Than all the sages can.'
"It is often said that nature is rude; but it is our want of
a knowledge of nature that makes us rude. I do not think
that I have grown wild, as I thought I should, by living in
the wilderness. On the contrary, I have learned new lessons
of love; my heart was brought nearer to God, and I saw, as
I never saw before, how good all good things are, and how
good all things might be, were it not for the evil which we do. "
The whole letter is a proof of the correctness of his estimate of the influence of that deep retirement. Probably he
never wrote a letter so full of tenderness, of melting remembrance of the departed, overflowing love for father, family,
and friends, and joyful gratitude in view of all the circumstances of his lot. The train of sentiment is marked by a
singular beauty and purity, and the style is elevated sometimes to the very verge of poetry.




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               317
On his return he says, "we shall now be employed in the
office about six weeks making a map of the work, and calculating the amount of cutting and embankment. I am highly
pleased with the business of engineering. I have the credit
of having made good proficiency, and having kept the best
field-book of the party.  My duty has been to keep the level,
the course, face of the country, soil, &c., and a part of the
time to use the compass."
To his younger brother he writes from Detroit, September
26, " I have spent two months engineering on the Michigan
Northern Railroad. We were four weeks in the woods without seeing a house or a white man, and two days of the time
we had no food except boiled rice and hemlock tea. I injured
my health by sleeping on the damp ground, with only an Indian
blanket for a bed. Since my return to the city, I have been
very sick of a bilious fever. My good friend Eastman, took
the best possible care of me, and the family where I board
was very kind. I was confined to my bed three months. I
was advised to abandon engineering; and shall probably remain where I am during the winter months."
This sickness was the circumstance that was to determine
the field of his future exertions. Dtained in Detroit for the
winter, he gladly accepted the offer of a clerkship in the Detroit Iron Company's office, where he obtained an experience
in the transaction of business which developed new faculties,
and proved of great service in his subsequent career. The
partner who acted as agent, and the only one who had any
knowledge of the business, was taken sick, and the entire
charge of the concern fell upon Silas. He speedily established
himself in the perfect confidence of his employers; and in a
month or two we find him, from keeping the books and making
sales, transacting the whole business, collecting, purchasing
stock, making contracts, and taking a general supervision of
the works. From this, as our readers will anticipate, it was
an easy step to a partnership, and the question regarding his
settlement in life was, in the providence of God, determined
27*




318      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
apart from the proposals and projects which he or his friends
had entertained.
The letter in which he intimates to his father, his first
engagement as clerk with the company, contains the following passages: "Saturday evening-The labors of the week
are over, and I have had a good evening's work paying the
men and taking their receipts. This hour, between nine and
ten o'clock, is an hour of peculiar interest to me. It always
brings recollections of our dear Eliza." (The sister whose
death has been noticed in a previous chapter).  "When I
parted with her, to go to Vermont, we promised to read two
chapters of the Bible, and meet each other at a throne of
grace, every Saturday evening, at this hour. I never forgot
the pledge, and those were happy and profitable hours. We
read the New Testament once through. The chapters for
this evening, are Luke 21st and 22d." There could scarcely
be a more touching and interesting illustration of the relations maintained between Dr. Kendrick and his son, than
is furnished in the reply to this note: "I was much interested in the account you gave of the agreement into which
you entered with your late and much beloved sister, to
meet at the mercy seat, to read the word of God, and call
upon his name together every Saturday evening, between
the hours of nine and ten. Her prayers are ended, and if you
wish to have her place supplied in this weekly service, you
may, if you please, consider her father as taking it."
Little wonder that the first thoughts of such a son, when
he obtains a prospect of settling in life, should be of finding a
home and resting place for such a father. " I continue to
like Michigan, he writes about this time, to his step-mother,
" and do earnestly hope it may be best for you and father to
come here and live before long. I fear that father will not
be able to bear the burden of that institution, much longer;
though I know he will never leave it while it seems to be his
duty to remain there.  The institution gains favor whereever it is known, and the account of the last anniversary




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.               319
was very flattering. I am glad that father lives to see
his labor blessed, and that he already sees that his strength
has not been spent in vain."
It can scarcely be necessary to say,. that so soon as there
was any approach to a settled residence, Silas identified himself with the church in Detroit. The fact that the Baptist
church then was a feeble body, without a pastor, and in every
outward circumstance depressed, was but an additional reason to him to lay hold of its interests with zeal and devotion.
Through long years of trial and discouragement, the few
faithful ones of that body, found a rallying point of their interest and efforts in the Sunday-school.  In one of his earliest letters, after entering the employment of the Detroit
Iron Company, he says: " I have taken a class in the Sabbath-school; my class consists of seven little boys, to whom
I feel much attached." This was the small beginning of
labor in a favorite field of usefulness, in which he was afterwards heartily blessed. Hundreds live to-day to bless the
memory of one whose fidelity and affection, as a teacher,
won all their hearts. Many of them learned to call him " brother."  Not a few occupy places in the church and the school
where his place is left empty, and not a few doubtless will be
to him for a crown of joy at last.
But as may well be concluded from what has been recorded
of his life, and quoted from his correspondence; his religion
was not confined to the church and the Sunday-school; it
pervaded all the relations of life. All who knew him, knew
him as a Christian. In a state of society which demanded
boldness as well as firmness, on the part of the followers of
Christ, he took his stand with a quiet resolution, which forbade all approaches of profanity and irreligion. And not
only in the social circle, but amongst irreligious employers,
lie made it understood from the first that nothing was to be
expected of him, that was unworthy of the Christian name.
And young, as lie was, that consistency did more than secure
their respect; it touched their consciences and was the means




320      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
of awakening at least one of them. His religious influence
was at once felt in the workshops, also-" Furnace men," he
remarks to his brother, " are not as respectable here, as they
are at the east.  They are dissipated and profane."  And it
was amongst them, that the first decided fruits of his Christian fidelity were seen, contrary to all human probabilities.
We cannot possibly close this chapter more impressively, nor
give a better view of his character and position at the time,
then by inserting a kind letter to Mrs. Kendrick, from the venerable and devoted pastor of the first Presbyterian church in
Detroit, the Rev. Dr. Duffield.
" Detroit, Jan. 26, 1860.
"MRS. S. N. KENDRICK:
" MY DEAR FRIEND-Truly and deeply have I sympathized
with you in the death of your excellent husband. Your loss
is not yours only, but one that is felt by a large circle of
friends, and society at large. For more than twenty years
have I been acquainted with him, and happy to discover the
development of that meek, loving, ardent piety which characterized him. My acquaintance with him commenced soon
after my removal to this city, and the commencement of my
ministerial labors here. He was at that time in the family,
and clerk in the foundry, of our worthy friend Mr. T. Stetson, then an enterprising and diligent conductor of a manufacturing establishment, which employed numerous operatives,
and was one of the first attempts in our city for the construction of machinery to be driven by steam and other mechanical
power. The influence of religion was neither known nor
sought in that establishment in the early period of its history.
The Lord's Day was not sanctified; and though it was not
appropriated regularly as other days, for working purposes,
yet neither the fear of God, nor regard for man, closed the
door against urgent applications for labor on that sacred day.
" Mr. Kendrick was a young man at that time, who revered
the Lord's Day, and loved its Author. It was with him a




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              321
day to be prized and conscientiously appropriated to the ends
designed in its appointment. He loved the house of God and
the place of prayer; and felt it to be both his duty and his
privilege to spend it in the exercises of divine worship, the
acquisition of religious knowledge, and in benevolent efforts
for the instruction of the young and ignorant, and in whatever
might advance men's highest and best interests as candidates
for eternity. Upon entering the establishment of Mr. Stetson, he stipulated to be exempt from secular occupation on
the Lord's Day, claiming the privilege and owning the obligation diligently and conscientiously to observe public worship. With becoming meekness and firmness, he maintained
the example of the Christian in this respect, and with gentle
words of exhortation and remonstrance, as opportunities offered, sought to lead those with whom he was associated in
business to think of other than mortal interest.
" The stand he took arrested the attention of his employer,
and his prudent counsel and demeanor became the means of
introducing a religious influence, that wrought eventually a
great reformation in that establishment. The change which
took place in the feelings and conduct of its principal manager, who, from having lived regardless of the great interests
of religion, became zealously attached to them, was quickly
manifest in the order of his household and the demeanor of
its members. I remember with pleasure the visit I once made,
when partaking with forty or fifty hands of the evening meal,
and witnessing the effects which religion had accomplished.
Before partaking of the provisions upon the table, there was
not only a blessing asked from God, but other exercises of religion appropriate to the evening family devotions were had,
and participated in by all the boarders. The head of the
house, seated at the head of his table, opened the Bible which
lay before him, and which was as regularly deposited in its
place there as any other furniture of the table, and having
read a chapter, as usual, engaged in prayer with the numerous hands in his employment. Not a few of them became




322     LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
pious, and the order of the establishment formed a perfect
contrast with what had once been witnessed. The temperance pledge was adopted by many of the hands, after the example of Mr. Kendrick and Mr. Stetson, and the good then
wrought there has outlasted the machines produced, and has
left to this day the savor of its memory.
" It rejoiced your husband's heart to see the manner in which
God had answered his prayers and honored his consistent
example as a follower of the blessed Redeemer in the conversions and general reformation that occurred in the foundery.
I doubt not that you have in your sad and solitary moments,
often thought of the reminiscences which Mr. Kendrick bore
with him in after-life from his relations and influence in that
establishment. Would that we had more of his spirit, and
of the moral and religious influence which prevailed in that
foundery, to render similar establishments now in our city
instruments of spiritual and religious, as well as temporal
food to the hands employed in them. That which is wanted,
is a care for such things on the part of the owners or conductors, and the example of that consistent piety which seeks
the higher interests of men and makes religion and business
subserve the legitimate and proper end of both, the present
and lasting welfare of man. It is a pleasant thought with
which the memory of our departed friend is associated,
that he never lost sight of the best interests of his fellow
men or neglected to improve opportunities afforded in the
providence of God to commend the Saviour whom he loved
and sought to serve.
" The very last interview which it was my pleasure to
have with Mr. Kendrick was in keeping with others which
often impressed me with this feature of his piety. It was
but a short time before the Master removed him from this
life. He had attended the afternoon service in my church.
I had not observed him during the service, * * * but at
the close of the services, I found him waiting in the vestibule
for an interview with me —you also were present and can




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               323
remember with what deep and earnest interest he related to
me some scenes he recently witnessed, and some facts he had
learned relative to the good effects of labors in a Sundayschool in this city, in which he had been associated with the
late excellent and eminently devoted Christian, Mrs. Cass,
and other members of my church. During a visit to the
interior of our state, he had been permitted to witness the
happy influence of religion upon the father and mother and
other members through the instrumentality of a child that
had been taught in that school.  When she removed with
her parents to a part of our state where no access could be
had to a place of public worship, or means of religious
instruction, she persisted in the practice of what she had
learned and maintained, an attachment to divine things
which, by the blessing of God, had rendered her father's house
a Bethel. His whole heart seemed to be moved in the recital,
and the loving animation and beaming of grateful recollection
that marked his countenance in that last interview I had with
him on earth, have embalmed his memory in my thoughts.
As I now look back upon it, it seems to me to have been
what I did not then suspect, the last and mellow light which
his setting sun was pouring forth before it sank, and was
shrouded in the rest that remaineth for the people of God.
" May our kind heavenly Father give us grace, that we be
not slothful but followers of them, who, through faith and
patience inherit the promises.
" With much sympathy, and in the bonds of Christian
affection,
"I remain yours truly,
" GEO. DUFFIELD."




32:4    LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
CHAPTER IV.
THE CHRISTIAN MAN OF BUSINESS.
THESE notices of the trials, adventures, and anxieties of a
young man, aiming at a settlement in a permanent sphere
of industry and usefulness, under the guidance of religious
principle, and with an eye to the guiding providence of God,
may not be without their use, both in the way of example
and encouragement, to those who are setting out for the same
destination. The fact that the circumstances through which
his path lay are invested with no unusual or romantic interest, though it may detract from the interest of our narrative, only increases its practical value. We have spoken of
his place in life being providentially determined, from the
time that a severe sickness put a stop to his wanderings and
led him into the employment of the Detroit Iron Company.
It is not unimportant to notice, that the religious influence he
was enabled to exert in the establishment, bore the blessed
fruits, already mentioned, while he was only their clerk, and
before he became a partner. A partnership, on very advantageous terms, was soon offered to him when his value and
worth were so clearly demonstrated, but it was not till after
months of prayerful consideration that he ultimately determined to accept it. His father was still his confidant and
counsellor; and as this sketch aims at being useful to others,
rather than to eulogize its subject, one or two extracts from
Dr. Kendrick's letters may be inserted here, with profit to
those who have no godly father to counsel them in the perilous outset of life:
" I am glad to hear," he remarks, " that Providence is opening to you a door for usefulness, and that you are engaged in
a Sabbath-school. The more intently you have your eye on




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               325
the indications of Providence, the less you will be liable to
err from the path of duty.  In deciding amongst various
prospects, you will consult not only sound business men, but,
above all, the will of God. Endeavor not to extend your
responsibilities beyond your means. The safe side is generally the best. By a simple act of indiscretion some have
ruined themselves for life. Never jeopardize your reputation
by lending your name to others.'Be not thou one of them
that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.  If
thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed
from under thee?' God has often frowned upon his children
for disregarding his counsel in this matter, and left them to
feel the smart."
Again, he says:
" Thousands of dollars may be sacrificed by premature enterprise, and the sufferer left in deep waters for a long time.'Better is a little, with the fear of the Lord, than great
measure, and trouble therewith.' The instruction of the
Saviour, to count the cost before we begin to build, is of
great importance in temporal, as well as spiritual affairs.
Small means, well managed, will provide us with the comforts of life, when God is pleased to bless them. We often
defeat our usefulness and happiness by avaricious desires;
and often part with our substance for baubles, and lose them
after all.  You know, my son, that a life of self-denial,
prayer and perseverance, is essential to our enjoyment of
daily peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. I
hope you will not be weary and faint in the conflict with sin,
but wait on God, and so renew your strength."
Such extracts might be multiplied, did the space allotted
permit. Enough has already been quoted to show the counsels and considerations under which Silas arrived at the conclusion, announced to his father in July, 1838,-" I am
permanently located here, and shall probably make this my
sphere of action for life." An account of the anxieties and
toils through which that life lay, would perhaps contribute
28




326      LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
little either to the usefulness or interest of this chapter. It
may well be imagined, that while the moral and religious influence which he had exerted as a clerk, was more than confirmed when he took his place as a partner, his energy and
industry were speedily felt, in the advancement of the business, and the position which the firm was enabled to take.
To him, however, upon whom the responsibility chiefly and
naturally devolved, it was a position rather of toil than profit.
The wonder to all his friends, was, that through years of perplexity and care, and ceaseless application, he still found
calmness of spirit, and abundant opportunity for the claims
of religion and benevolence. Want of time was never urged
as the excuse of neglected duty, nor business cares as the
justification of coldness or languor in the discharge of duty.
It may be remembered that, at the close of the second
chapter, a tender attachment was alluded to, and the judicious counsel of his father was recorded. That counsel was
followed, but his true heart at once returned to the subject,
when there was a prospect of such advancement in his worldly
circumstances, as would render an engagement honorable and
marriage prudent. A proper regard to the feelings of her
who, now in widowhood, patiently awaits the time of an eternal union, compels us reluctantly to withhold from our youthful readers, the noble example of the steps which, as a Christian and a true man, he took towards an earthly union. With
accustomed confidence he consults his father, and, after having spoken frankly and fervently of his attachment and its
object, he says: " I should be happy to present my father and
mother with a daughter well worthy of their parental regard
one whom  our dear Eliza would have loved as a sister. I
think too highly of my dear father's love, to form a union
which he would not sanction. Should he deem it imprudent
for the present, I would even now forbear to commit myself
to any engagement."  The reply to this may be inferred from
what is already known of his father's sentiments and character. A letter addressed to the parents of his intended lies




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              327
before us, a model of candor, manliness, and delicacy. But
perhaps it is as much as we ought to say on this subject, that,
in the issue, Dr. Kendrick gladly accompanied his son to
Vermont, and on September 12th, 1838, united him in marriage to Fanny, the youngest daughter of Captain William
CNf ey, of East Randolph, in that state.
Now settled in life, and united with the object of his early
and tried affection, who, we may be permitted to say, was not
only eminently qualified to make home happy for such a husband, but to be his fellow-laborer in every good work, Mr.
Kendrick at length fairly entered upon the course of Christian
usefulness, which will long be remembered in the community
which he blessed. The circumstances of the Baptist church
now assumed a more promising aspect. After being long
destitute of any but occasional supply in their pulpit, Dr. O.
C. Comstock accepted their call to the pastoral office, and
shortly after the commencement of his labors, Silas wrote, —
" The church is in a lively state. Dr. Comstock has baptized
twenty-five since the first of May. The church is small and
poor, but is, I trust, united in love. Since I came here there
has been an increase of one hundred and twenty in the number of scholars in the Sabbath-school." Dr. Comstock's connection with the church, was the commencement of one of
Silas' most cherished friendships, which continued till the
hour of his death. And as that aged servant of God has
now also been gathered to his fathers, it may be permitted to
one who knew and loved him, to embrace this opportunity
of paying an humble tribute of respect to his fragrant
memory. "I thank you," says Dr. Kendrick, in a letter to
Silas, " for the interesting mention you made of my old friend
Dr. Comstock. I hope you will do all you can to hold up
his hands. It will be an honor to you to be among his right
hand friends and supporters." Dr. Comstock was not the
last pastor of that church who has reaped the benefit of this
paternal counsel, in the son's true-hearted and disinterested
support, amid the trials of their position. Unhappily for the




328      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
cause, Dr. Comstock's connection with the church was soon
terminated.  Since his removal there has been a number of
successors in the office. The other members of the church
will not regard it as disrespectful or invidious, to say that
among those who have occupied the position of pastor there,
there is but one sentiment as to the pre-eminent comfort and
aid which the love and labor of Silas Kendrick uniformly
afforded them. Dr. Colver, one of the number, writing to
Mirs. Kendrick after her husband fell asleep, says: " I do not
know how to speak of him.  There are none with whom I
can compare him. Others may have been as good, but they
were not like him, so utterly unselfish; and there was a kind
of maidenly delicacy in his affectionate attentions, which lent
them an indescribable charm. He was one of the few, the
very few indeed, who never failed in all our social intercourse
to command both my respect and love. He magnified his
office in the church of God, and holds a place in my recollection of him as a deacon, distinct from all others, more nearly
than any other answering the description of the martyr-deacon,-' a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost.' "  Mr. Hascall, another of the number, writes: " There was a most considerate, unassuming, and persevering endeavor on his part,
to encourage and aid a young pastor in the difficult and embarrassing labors which he must encounter.  His time,
thought, and money, though subject to pressing demands in
his business, could always be relied upon when our Christian
work had need of them; and the language of hope and good
cheer seemed his Christian vernacular."
As has already been intimated, he carried his Christianity
every where. In all the relations of his life it was felt, and
without waiting for extraordinary occasions, every passing
hour seemed to bring with it an opportunity of doing good.
In the workshops, in the counting room, in the transaction of
business, in the social circle, in a casual meeting upon the
street, he would still be readily known as a Christian. There
was, perhaps, an opportunity of speaking a word of encour



LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.             329
agement to the young and timid, of counseling those for
whom no man cared, of rebuking sin, or affectionately pressing
the consideration of eternity upon the thoughtless, and it was
all accompanied with additional power because it came at a
time or in circumstances when it was most unusual to hear
such words. The manner in which truth is spoken is only
second in importance to the truth spoken; and he had a
special gift of manner.  His quiet, affectionate look, his
musical and expressive voice, and the gentleness of his bearing, coupled with a peculiar tact in approaching the subject,
enabled him to address those who seemed most unapproachable, on the subject of religion, not only without giving
offence, but in such a way as to excite their gratitude. But
what had special influence upon this result was the consideration that what he said was so much in keeping with the whole
tone of his life. A gentleman who spent some years in his
employment, and who is now pastor of a Congregational
church, says:
"Once, when I was sick, he would come up to my room
every morning, noon and night, and if any thing of interest
had happened in the city, he would sit down and tell it to
me, in hopes of relieving the weariness of my confinement.
He never wounded my feelings by an impatient word during
my whole stay with him. I do not recollect of his urging
me to become a Christian, and yet if I am a Christian, next
to my faithful father, I owe it to Silas Kendrick. I did not
want him to talk to me formally. I knew that he wished
me to be a Christian; his whole life was an entreaty to me,
and I understand now what the Lord meant when he said:' Let your light so shine before men that they may see your
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.'"
Among other qualities which greatly aided his power to
influence others, and to do good, was his complete self-possession, joined to a promptitude of action which occasionally
assumed the appearance of impulsiveness. Of his extraordinary self-control a friend mentions the following example:
28*




3380     LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
"While working at his trade at Poultney, in Vermont, one
afternoon, he was casting a thin stove-plate, and his iron
required to be very hot when taken into the ladle, and to be
poured in haste before cooling, he had just filled his ladle
when a'shot' of the metal struck his limb, and burning
through the clothing, finally lodged in the heel of his boot.
He could not stop to attend to himself till his casting was
made, and then he found that the iron had burned into his
heel to the depth of one-third of an inch. His extraordinary
control of his feeling was often manifested during his later
years of suffering. When in leisure moments during business
hours, with none but his clerks present, the deep lines upon
his countenance, his pale and languid look, would indicate
what he endured from a severe chronic disease-if a friendly
or business visitor came into the office his animation was
instantly restored, and his usual reply to the salutation,
" Mr. Kendrick, I am glad to see you looking so well to-day,"
was, " I am better, I thank you," and he entered with spirit
upon some subject of interest. As an example of his selfpossession and practical promptitude, it is mentioned that on
one occasion, when a party of men were lowering a steam
engine from the second story of the machine shop, to load it
on a dray, just as the engine swung out from the upper door
Mr. Kendrick saw the rope by which it was suspended
" stranding," as it called, that is one strand after another was
breaking and unwinding, he instantly grasped the rope with
both hands, and arrested its destruction till the dray men
could jump aside, saved from being crushed by the ponderous
mass which, the next instant, came down, crushing the axle
of the dray, and burying itself in the ground. Mr. Kendrick
found the flesh hanging in shreds from his bleeding hands,
but thought himself amply repaid for some days of intense
suffering by the consciousness of having saved a human
life.
These qualities were closely allied to courage. And there
were few braver men than he; while his gentleness of man



LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              331
ner, and the slenderness of his frame, often made the display
of courage more impressive. The influence of such calm
resolution over the most violent natures is unbounded. "At
one time," says a friend, "Mr. Kendrick, in company with
another member of the Young Men's Benevolent Society,
visited a man who, crazed by alcohol, had driven his family
into the street, and guarded the door of his dwelling on the
inside with a drawn broadsword. Mr. K.'s companion
thought "discretion the better part of valor," but Mr. K.
at once seized the collar of the belligerent with one hand,
and the sword with the other, and with a determined look
and tone, ordered him to surrender. He did not think it best
to dispute the authority, and the family were soon reinstated
in their home.
Upon another occasion he learned that one of his workmen, a rigid Catholic, had become insane, and for two days
had kept his family kneeling at a table, while he stood with
an axe ready to kill the first one who should attempt to rise.
The Roman Catholic Bishop and the man's physician, as well
as all the neighbors, had retreated before the glancing steel.
Mr. Kendrick, on hearing of it, hastened to relieve the terrified family. On arriving at the house, he instantly entered
the room, calmly looked at the uplifted axe, and to the
maniac's exclamation, "Take care, Mr. Kendrick; I shall
kill you," he replied, "No, you will not kill me. Give me
that axe;" and the demand was immediately complied with.
Although the following incident, which is related by the
same friend, belongs to a much more advanced period of this
sketch, we introduce it here, as an illustration of the character which was expanding in usefulness through all these
years of benevolent effort:-In the summer of 1849, a
poor Englishman died of cholera in a small house in
Detroit.  As the family had no friends, and a general
fear of that disease prevailed among the inhabitants, no one
could be found to perform the last rites for the dead, or offer
comfort and assistance to the widow with her three little




332      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
children. The case came to the knowledge of Mr. Kendrick,
and he at once set out for the desolate house. On reaching
it, he first dismissed the idle crowd who had assembled to
gratify their curiosity, but had not courage to take a nearer
view than from the outside of the doors and windows; he
then washed the corpse, and procured grave clothes and a
suitable coffin. Some of his apprentice boys volunteered to
act as bearers, and, having ordered carriages, he accompanied
the family to the last resting-place of their head and support.
He returned with the family to their home of poverty, where
the first question to be answered was, "Where can bread be
found for these little ones?" Temporary relief was furnished
by the first friend they had found in a strange land, and he
soon after found employment for the mother, who was a
strong, healthy woman, able and willing to work. She was
enabled to clothe and educate her children, and accumulated
about one thousand dollars in six years, by the judicious
investment of her little savings, in accordance with Mr.
Kendrick's advice. Then she too died, leaving her children
with the assurance that " Mr. Kendrick would advise them
in every thing." Some Roman Catholics among their neighbors, when they found that there was some property left,
succeeded in obtaining an influence over the oldest child, a
girl of some seventeen years, and the children were withdrawn from their best earthly friend, who soon lost all
knowledge of them.
It will readily be understood, that such a mind necessarily
acquired a powerful influence for good among a large body
of workmen. His intercourse with them was always pleasant.
One of the most prominent of them has often remarked, that
" Mr. Kendrick's refusal to comply with a request was more
acceptable than the reluctant consent of others. Much of his
time that could be spared from business, was spent in intercourse with them, in aiding and counseling all, assisting the
older to provide homes for their families, and encouraging
the younger to persevere in acquiring their trades perfectly,




'LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              333
and to prosecute a course of virtue and self-improvement.
The men on their part were not slow to return his kindly
feelings, some of them remained in the establishment through
the greater part of the period of his connection with it. He
lost none of their good will by being a strict disciplinarian.
No drunkenness, nor profanity was tolerated about the shop,
and ultimately, its reputation for order and good morals
rendered parents anxious to place their sons under his care.
The friend from whom we have already quoted, says: "He
was flooded with applications for apprenticeships. Even
men of wealth and standing were desirous to place their sons
in his shop. An eminent lawyer in Detroit had two sons
there, an ex-governor sent his son to him; a wealthy shipowner in'New York City had a son there; clergymen had
sons there; young men came from Vermont and other New
England states to work for him. While I was with him,
the shop contained a number of intelligent and refined young
men, some of them masters of two or three languages."
Incidents illustrative of his active and wise benevolence
might be collected to fill volumes, but the object of this sketch
is served, when we have selected a few which may show the
man as he was, and leave a distinct impression of his example
upon the minds of those who enjoy similar opportunities of
serving God and man in love. We conclude this chapter
with a letter from a much esteemed friend of Mr. Kendrick,
than whom none knew him better, the Rev. Andrew TenBrook, formerly pastor of the Baptist church in Detroit:
" The character of Mr. Kendrick's mind was that of activity,
quickness, clearness of conception, with taste for the beautiful
in nature and art, but without a great amount of either taste
or patience for long and laborious investigation, or for the
detailed results of such processes when presented by others.
For that kind of wit, and such is all genuine wit, which is
nothing more or less than a striking conclusion condensed
into a pair of words, he had an extraordinary readiness, both
in appreciation and use; and the round-about processes he




334      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KEN'DRICK.
was not fond of. Mr. Kendrick's wit, however, was under
the control of a conscience as nearly as possible faultless, and
a tender regard for the feelings of those addressed. It was
used to amuse and instruct, never to injure and wound. It
was employed, perhaps, more than for any other purpose, to
express, with brief and striking force, his view of the person
or subject under consideration. There have been very few
persons who could make better use of this power to introduce
the subject of religion, or any question in business or social
life which might be supposed, for any reason, to be a little
unpleasant. He would make a person addressed half smile
at the happy turn of thought, and then yield without opposition and even with good will to what he might be disposed
to say.
"In illustration of his sensitiveness to the honor of religion, it may ho mentioned that, in the winter of 1846, he
was so embarrassed that he saw no way but that his creditors
must suffer by him. Lest his prominence should bring a reproach to religion, he declined acting in his official character
as a deacon of the church, until his embarrassment should
have passed by; but he allowed no diminution of his sense
of responsibility as a Christian man. During the time here
referred to, he, with yourself, visited us in Ann Arbor, and
remained about a week. He nearly broke down in body, and,
occasionally, in the intervals of his cheerfulness, showed a
sadness which did not belong to his nature. Immediately on
his return to Detroit, a little advice, and perhaps a little aid
from his friends there, brought about an arrangement by
which he could go on with his business, and from this time
on he prospered. I ought here to add, that the visit just
mentioned was quite an exception, growing out of his suspension of business. His visits were generally but the vacant moments, or half-hours of business life.
"The last remark suggests one characteristic, in which
your late husband was, in my opinion, quite unrivalled. I
refer to the skill with which he could contrive to slip in by




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              335
the side of his business, without injury, perhaps even with
advantage to it, some social or religious object. Although
he traveled much on business, it would not be too much to
say that he never did so, and scarcely walked a rood through
the streets of Detroit, without bringing some such object to
concur with his business. An interval of a few minutes before the departure of a train of cars, or a stage-coach, or a
half hour in the evening, when his business had been done
up in some city or village from home, where he must spend
the night, was put to the best use, in taking the hand of some
old or new friend or acquaintance.
" Those who lived in Detroit, in 1844, will not fail to remember the explosion of the boiler of the small steamer,' General Vance,' in the summer of that year, attended with
the loss of somewhere between half-a-dozen and a dozen human lives. Captain Woodworth, who owned and ran this
boat, had, in connection with other members of the same
family, owned and kept Woodworth's Hotel, in Detroit; and
not liking his business very well, had sold out his share of the
hotel, and invested the avails in the purchase and repair of
this old boat, with a view of running it between Detroit and
Monroe. The boat being ready for service, Captain W. invited Mr. Kendrick on board to see how it was fitted up and
furnished. Having surveyed the whole, they returned to the
cabin and sat down, when Mr. Kendrick took occasion to suggest to the captain, the responsibility of his undertaking, the
demands of religion in general, and the sanctity of the Lord's
Day in particular. He had the satisfaction of finding that he
was addressing himself to a conscience already exercised on
the same subject, and that this had been a main reason for
getting out of the hotel.
" To tell a part of the story which has less connection with
your husband-a careful engineer, a member of the Baptist
church in Detroit, was employed to run the engine. He had
just given up a good place, because he would not work on
the Lord's Day, and it was hoped that his known carefulness




336     LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
would be a compensation for the insecurity of the old engine.
The boat, however, was destined not long to run. A few
trips were made in safety; but the captain, inexperienced in
his new business, started one morning from the American
side of the river, without informing the engineer of his design to stop on the opposite shore. The boiler was too
nearly empty, and the steam was making too fast to admit
of this stop, which the engineer had not expected, and for
which he had not therefore provided; and, as soon as possible, he threw open his valve, and sprang upon the railing to
call to the captain, and say to him that it was not safe to
stop. Precisely at this moment the explosion, which many
of us distinctly heard in our houses, occurred. The captain
was thrown many feet into the air, and fell mangled and lifeless into the river. Several others were killed, while Mr.
Gaylord, the engineer, was thrown with but slight injury
upon the deck of a vessel lying along side. The occurrence
of this disaster led Mr. Kendrick to narrate to me the substance of his conversation with the unfortunate captain in
the cabin of the steamer; and this he did for the purpose of
showing the tenderness of Captain Woodworth's religious
impressions. But for the disaster, this incident, in common
with hundreds of others, tending to show the religious influence which he was ever shedding along the pathway of his
business life, might have remained unknown, for he was not
the man to proclaim them.
" As a social and religious man, it was a principle with him,
to make the interest of business and those of social and religious life all lie in one direction, that he might serve them
all at once; in other words, instead of dividing his time systematically so as to give to business, society, and religion,
each its part, he gave to each the whole. He gave himself
less time to the mere formalities of religion than most religious men, but he gave much more to the subject itself, since
he never for a moment lost sight of it in his business. What




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               337
his hands found to do, he did with his might, the instant the
opportunity occurred.
" Mr. Kendrick's character was not pre-eminently that of a
public man, and he never seemed to seek that kind of notority which is too often the motive for pressing one's way
before the public; yet, several public enterprises have been
indebted to him for a quiet kind of service, which I trust,
will not be overlooked in a memoir of him. The Baptist Convention of Michigan, and some of the particular movements
connected with it, such as starting the Michigan Christian
Herald, with which he had much to do, next to his own
church and Sunday-school, are most prominent among them.
" Your husband was not a public speaker, and for a reason so complimentary to himself that I am tempted to state
it. There is an anecdote to the effect, that a military officer
in one of the colonies of Great Britain, was once, in the days
of Lord Mansfield, appointed to the bench; and doubtful
how he might be able to acquit himself in this position, he
wrote to the great English jurist for advice. The latter
replied, assuring him that he had no reason for hesitation in
accepting the place, for-his decisions would always be right,
but he advised him not to attempt to give the reasons for
them for the reasons would always be wrong. Strange as
this opinion may seem, it is beyond all doubt, in innumerable
instances correct. The officer had been accustomed to comnmand and to act, and never to state in words his reasons for
a command or an act, and any attempt to recall and state the
steps of the logical process, would have ended in a failure,
the reasons would have been so imperfectly or incorrectly
expressed, as to be unsatisfactory to himself and every one
else.  So it was with Mr. K., he was a man of action.
What he said was all conclusions, not arguments.  It
was only in mathematics of which his business of building
engines, gave frequent occasion for the application, that he
was accustomed to state even to his own mind, all the successive steps in the process of argument, which supported
29




338     LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
his conclusions. In all moral questions he stated merely
those conclusions which stand in most immediate connection
with action, and generally so clearly, forcibly, wittily, and
stirringly, that any argument which he could have offered
would have blunted their point.




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.                339
CHAPTER V.
MATURE MANHOOD IN ITS TOILS AND TRIALS.
THE steady and vigorous influence for good in the more
public relations of a man of God, will be found concentrated
and more intense in the private relations of life, so far as
these can be examined. There is, indeed, a fictitious piety and
philanthropy which requires the stimulus of notoriety; and
there is a hazard of encouraging these counterfeits by every
effort to preserve the memory of those who have distinguished
themselves in the walks of Christian usefulness. Imperfect
as is the sketch here preserved of the life of Silas N. Kendrick, the impression has, we trust, already been made, that
although his profession of the faith was public, and the manifestation of the grace of God in his life clear as a light in the
midst of darkness, it was still of a kind which did nothing to
be seen of men, which was carried into the walks of everyday life, but which shrank sensitively from notice and applause. But if we could in our narrative follow him from
the church, the Sunday-school, the general intercourse of
society, and the peculiar sphere of usefulness he found in a
large workshop, into the domestic circle and the closet, we
should see that the nearer we approached to the sanctuary of
his own spirit, we were evidently nearer to the centre of that
influence which diffused itself, in ever-widening circles, to all
the relations of earth. And it would be found that those who
had the best opportunity of close observation in the more
intimate relations of life, are those who retain the highest
admiration of his Christian excellence, and who cherish his
memory with the most sacred tenderness.
One who was for years a member of his happy family
circle, writes to Mrs. Kendrick on the occasion of her be



340      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
reavement:  "Words cannot tell what Silas was, or record
his daily deeds of love, unselfish acts of kindness, with generous words and whole-souled sympathy, scattered like sand
through his whole life. Gone, gone to his reward; setting
aside all the great goodness of his life as nothing, and resting in the merits of his Saviour. My heart is full when I
think of the long, pleasant acquaintance I have had with him.
Few knew him better than I did, few have penetrated further
into the great depths of his heart than I have. To me he
was the kindest of brothers, and my recollection of himhis sympathy, kindness and friendly intercourse, are among
the pleasantest of my life. We shall know him no more
here, but how much better our lives may be for having
known him."
Mr. Kendrick had no children, but his own disposition,
seconded in its impulses by his partner in life, gathered
around their fireside a circle to whom he really was the
wisest and best of fathers. They were never without some
young friends or relatives, who made their house a home;
and not a few of them look back to that home as their spiritual birth-place. One fact will tell more to the reader, of his
domestic piety, and the exaltation and consistency of his
every-day deportment, than whole volumes of panegyric. Of
the youthful friends who, for a succession of years, enjoyed
the privilege of residing beneath his roof, scarcely one left it
without having made a credible profession of the faith, and
without tracing their conversion under God to his fidelityand the impressive testimony of his life, more than to any
other human instrumentality.
The year 1845, was a year of great spiritual blessing to
the church of which he was a member, and in that he not
only largely shared, but was also a prominent instrument
used by God in the communication of that blessing. There
were monthly additions to the church, till at the close of the
year over seventy persons were baptized, besides those who
were otherwise received. The first who found the Saviour




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               341
at that season, was a member of his family. Among the
earliest, were the foreman and two machinists employed in
the foundery; and to them, others were constantly added
from beneath his more immediate influence. In the commencement of 1846, he writes to his father: "We have never
before seen the church so generally engaged in the work, or
the interest so general and extended among impenitent persons, old and young. I wish I could tell all the particular
cases of interest. Some date their first religious impressions
from Sunday-school instruction, some from the faithful preaching of our pastor, some from witnessing the ordinance of baptism, and one, a Roman Catholic, from hearing Mr. Dean and
Ko-a-Bak, whom curiosity led her out to see." The rapid
increase of youthful and inexperienced members brought with
it a great weight of responsibility of the most delicate character, and it was here that the peculiar gifts of our friend found
their most congenial field of exercise. His gentleness and
his loving sympathy at once found access to their hearts; his
wisdom and judicious counsel secured their confidence; his
matured experience and scriptural attainments rendered him
an able teacher; while his frank, cheerful and attractive manners rendered his presence always welcome among the more
youthful, who most needed his aid, and whom yet it was
most difficult to reach. In the fluctuations of western society
comparatively few remain upon the spot after a lapse of fourteen years, but there are many scattered over the land who
carry with them the influence of his example, and the grateful remembrance of his services at that important period in
the formation of their religious characters.
How frequently in the providence of God, spiritual blessings and temporal losses, come linked together in the life of
the believer; and the one as much as the other, are seen to
be expressions of a father's love I Mr. Kendrick had been
laboring with diligence in his worldly calling. The business
of the company had fallen almost entirely into his hands, and
by industry and integrity he was gradually rising above the
29*




342      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
embarrassments that surrounded its early history. In the
close of the year 1844, we find him writing to his father more
hopefully than ever, of its prospects. He speaks of business
pressing, and in December le says, " the winter will be a
busy one to me, if life and health are spared." All these
prospects vanished in an hour; but we shall let his own pen
tell the story.
In a letter to his father, dated March 18, 1845, he says:" It is not with a sad heart, or the least disposition to complain,
or even feel that it is hard, that I tell you that our old temple
of industry lies low, and is smouldering a little yet. Last
Saturday morning, at two o'clock, fire broke out in the middle
of the buildings; the wind was blowing freshly from the west,
and in about thirty minutes, all was gone, except the pattern
loft, the wareroom, barn, and a part of the furnace building.
I reached the office in time to save all our books and papers.
Nothing was removed from the engine shop, smith's shop,
boiler shop, pattern shop, machine room, or turning room.
These contained about seventeen thousand five hundred dollars worth of machinery. We have about six thousand dollars
worth of stuff left. I cannot speak confidently of our future
course, but shall try to pay all our debts first, and then rebuild
if we can. I do not wear a long face about it, or feel that I
need pity, for I deem it the least calamity that could have
befallen us. I was getting too fast a hold of the world. I
had just made a bargain for the most desirable vacant property in the city, where I thought I should make a home for
both our little families, during the years that remain to us;
and I still hope that it may be so, though I have learned to
calculate with less certainty than before the fire. We do not
bewail the loss,'Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him."'
The cheerful resignation with which he contemplated the
destruction of years of enterprise and industry, and the fairest
promise of worldly success, was not a mere matter of words.
The undiminished cheerfulness and alacrity of his devotion
to his place in the church and society, were a practical ex



LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.              343
pression of it, not to be mistaken.  The letter from which we
have quoted the announcement of the fire to his father, is filled
up with accounts of the progress of the work of grace to
which we have above alluded. The principal influence of the
calamity, so far as it could be discovered by his friends, was
a most manifest advancement in his spirituality and devotedness. His letters for the next few months, especially those
to his unfailing confidant and counselor, at Hamilton, contain many expressions of solicitude about the fulfillment of
contracts, and the payment of debts; and they show that he
is in deep and prayerful earnestness about the path of future
duty; but beyond this, there is not a word that intimates regret, far less repining, at the dispensation of God's providence, which had stripped him of every worldly possession.
Misfortunes, it is said, never come singly, and following close
upon this calamity, his own health began to fail, the health of
his beloved companion showed the effects of her over-exertions to aid in retrieving their fortunes, the death of Mrs.
Manning, a Christian friend, beloved as a sister, and an inmate of his family, and the accident which laid the foundation
of his revered father's prolonged and intense bodily sufferings, seemed to heap sorrow upon sorrow; but at the close of
a few months, we find him thus summing up the results:" God's dealings with me for the last year, are the subject of
much of my thoughts. He has come near to me by sickness,
by death, and the ravage of the elements; and, I trust also,
by his own Spirit. The scenes of the past year have been
more checkered and varied, than the whole of my life before.
I feel more weaned from the world, and place a lower estimate upon its enjoyments than ever before. I love my dear
friends more than I can tell; my dear wife is worth more than
all the world besides; and I feel, more than ever, the claims
of Christ upon me. As to my business, it absorbs my time
and care considerably, because of my obligations to others.
We are in straitened circumstances, and shall be for a year;
but business is good, and if we get through, our property will




344      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
be valuable. I feel anxious that you should come to live
with us, that our days may be spent together. I read the
twenty-third chapter of Isaiah to-night."
It will be gathered from this quotation that, after much anxiety, he was once more engaged in business. His reputation
was a capital to him, and many warm friends were ready to
aid him. Dr. Kendrick placed a considerable sum in his hands,
and something was saved from the wreck of his former business. With these he was enabled to form a partnership, and
the new firm commenced operations on a comparatively small
scale, in the establishment which, before the lapse of another
decade of years, had expanded to the ample dimensions of
the Detroit Locomotive Works, one of the best equipped
manufacturing establishments in the west, and which, after
many trials, and great labor, seemed on the point of achieving
a most triumphant success, when the commercial crisis of
1857 arrested its progress, and left it under the prostration
beneath which its founder's enfeebled frame also gave way.
During the period of suspense after the destruction of the
foundery, in 1845, a visit to Detroit by one who, till the day
of Silas' death, occupied a foremost place in the ranks of
his most cherished friends, promised at one time to give an
altogether new direction to his life. To speak df the Rev.
William Dean, D.D., in the terms which affection and judgment alike dictate, would be offensive to him, and is unnecessary to introduce him to the Christian love and esteem of
those who will read this sketch. Few of them, if their
memory reaches back fifteen years, need to be reminded of
the interest awakened by his return from China with his
motherless child, accompanied by Ko-a-Bak, a youthful Chinese, who had been brought to a knowledge of the Saviour
by his instrumentality. There may have been returned missionaries, or other advocates of the missionary cause, whose
fervid eloquence and impassioned declamation produced more
violent emotion and greater immediate results, but the impression of thousands will sustain the remark, that no man




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               345
of late years has been the means of awakening a deeper and
more lasting interest in the cause of foreign missions, or of
enkindling more genuine enthusiasm on the basis of current
conviction.
At the urgent solicitation of Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick, Dr.
Dean, accompanied by Ko-a-Bak, came to Michigan to attend
the meeting of the Baptist State Convention, in the autumn
of 1845. No one who was present at that convention, can
ever lose the impression of their visit. Dr. Dean was in
very feeble health, and, it might have been supposed, was in
no condition to address any assembly with effect; but when
he came to plead that cause in his devotion to which his early
vigor had been exhausted, that very feebleness, and his prematurely grey locks, were themselves eloquent.  His statement of facts was clear as a sunbeam. There was no more
of himself or his adventures in the statement than was absolutely demanded, and the incidents were selected with taste
and related with delicacy. There were occasional touches of
eloquence in his addresses, and usually a peroration full of
the deepest pathos, which carried every thing before it, without the slightest apparent effort or consciousness of power.
The secret of its power, indeed, was not in the mere words
uttered, but in the spirit which pervaded them. The words
were manifestly but the imperfect vehicle of thoughts and
affections originating and sustained in a habitual fellowship
of the spirit of holiness. The elevation of sentiment and
the expansion of views expressed in his addresses, were in
strict keeping with the whole tenor of his character. Ko-aBak, his companion, was not naturally either an attractive or
brilliant specimen of his race. He was ignorant of the English language, and had not been many years under the influence of the gospel. Yet there was something that enabled
Christians to realize the sympathy of a brother. His appearance by the side of his teacher, in the costume of his country,
was in itself an eloquent missionary address; and now and
then, in the brief addresses which Dr. Dean interpreted lite



346      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
rally, there was a freshness in the Asiatic style of thought,
and a happiness in the illustration, which reached every heart.
For example, when Dr. Dean intimated to him that some
friends had contributed money to constitute him a life member of the missionary society, he replied on the instant:
"' Fathers and brethren: I could not understand your kindness to me, a poor, unworthy stranger, did I not know your
elder brother, who paid the price of his blood that I, who was
his enemy, might be a life member of heaven."
They arrived in Detroit while the deep religious interest
mentioned in Mr. Kendrick's letters was at its height, and
their visit, doubtless, was one means of its perpetuation and
extension. That case mentioned above, was not the only
instance in which their visit was blessed to salvation. The
manifestation of God's grace in a heathen man, his appearance
as a Christian in assemblies of the impenitent, who had
abused their own precious privileges, was frequently the most
impressive rebuke of their ingratitude and wilfulness. Dr.
Dean, also, accustomed to preach the gospel among the heathen, presented it in aspects which were fresh and striking
in a land of Gospel light. The members of the church, and,
to some extent, Christians generally in the city, received an
impulse in their religious zeal, which, while it reached out in
liberal contributions to the perishing heathen, did not overlook the perishing around them.
Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick not only shared the common enthusiasm, but were deeply exercised by a question of personal
duty, which is thus referred to in a letter to Dr. Kendrick,
dated November 13, 1845: " I have just had a letter from
cousin S. K. Everett, in answer to one which I wrote to him
on the subject of business in China. My matters here would
not prevent my leaving if an opening should present itself.
I was desirous to get information in regard to China, thinking I might possibly serve a double purpose there. My dear
F. is very anxious to go and do good. What thinks my
father of it?"  It is to be regretted that the correspondence




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               347
relating to this question has not been preserved, not merely
for the light it would have thrown upon an important step
in our friend's history; but, still more, because it would have
enabled us to present an important practical question before
the Christian public. Dr. Dean had urged upon Mr. K. the
important service that might be rendered to the work of
evangelization by missionary merchants and mechanics.
That beloved missionary might do a great service to the
cause in which his energies have been exhausted, if, from the
retirement into which that exhaustion has forced him, he
would, by the use of his still vigorous pen, bring this question fairly before the churches.
We have no record before us of the considerations which
led Mr. Kendrick to abandon a project in which all his own
sympathies, and those of Mrs. K., were warmly enlisted.
We know that amongst these, was the almost insuperable
objection to his removal from this country in the failing
health of his venerable father. Silas was now an only son.
His sister Cordelia, who alone was left to share the tender
care of that father's declining years, was engaged to be married to Mr. Peck, who, at the time of which we speak, had
just completed a course of theological studies, and with the
highest promise of usefulness was about to go forth as a
preacher of the gospel. At the time that Silas was weighing
the claims of China upon his services as a Christian man of
business, Mr. Peck was in earnest consultation with his
parents and other friends as to the propriety of devoting
himself to missionary labor in the same field.
We find a letter from Cordelia to Silas in the midst of
these deliberations, in which she says: "Mr. Peck received
a communication from the Corresponding Secretary of the
Foreign Missionary Board, inviting him to visit Boston, to
meet with the board. He will go home next week to consult
his parents, and at that time the final decision will probably
be made; after which, if it be in the affirmative, he will proceed to Boston.  God only knows what may be the issue.




348      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
May it be for his honor and glory. In regard to myself,
Silas, ought I to leave my afflicted father in his present condition? I am conscious of such an entire want of adaptedness, and of the ardent piety indispensable to missionary life;
I am afraid to open my lips lest I may influence Mr. Peck.
I know you will feel for me and pray for me."
In all the circumstances of the case, Silas arrived at a clear
and decided conviction that duty bound him to his native
land, and God in his providence opened up his way to the
establishment in business at Detroit, which has already been
mentioned.  Mr. Peck subsequently abandoned the thought
of going to China, for reasons given in another part of this
volume; reasons in which the Board of the Missionary Union
fully acquiesced.
During his last illness, Dr. Kendrick performed the marriage ceremony on two occasions of great interest to himself.
Thle first is announced in a letter to Silas, dated June 6th,
1846: "I made an extra effort on Tuesday and walked over
to Mr. Chubbuck's, and solemnized the marriage of Dr. Judson to Miss Emily Chubbuck."  The other was the marriage
of Mr. Linus M. Peck to his own devoted daughter, on
September 17th, 1846. This marriage, instead of withdrawing a daughter from her place of attendance on a suffering
father, made a most welcome addition of an affectionate son
to share the labor of love; for they continued to reside
beneath the paternal roof, while Mr. Peck supplied the pulpit
of a neighboring church.
The affection which bound Silas to his sister was of great
strength and tenderness. It borrowed new tenderness from
her position near the sick bed of their father; and while
it may be said that her devotion to the venerable sufferer
presents one of the most exalted pictures of filial piety on
record, it may also be said that the relation of brother and
sister has rarely been exhibited in a more attractive light
than in the correspondence of these two, when the letters of
Silas were written amidst the clangor of machinery and the




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.                349
cares of an extensive business, and the letters of his sister
during her night watches by the bedside of the father they
both loved so well.  Her union with Mr. Peck was an
occasion of much happiness to Silas. They were already
brothers; and the union which gave an outward form to the
reality was an occasion of mutual congratulation.  How
soon and how sadly so many fair hopes were blighted by Mr.
Peck's death, is elsewhere related.  The gushing tenderness
which from that hour of premature widowhood appears in
the correspondence of brother and sister, is not for the eye
of strangers.  Nay, it is not for the eye of friends; and no
loving heart will complain that it is left in sacred silence.
An affecting correspondence between Silas and his father,
extending through all these years of suffering, remains. But
multiplied extracts from it would only be a reiteration of
expressions of that mutual affection and confidence which
appears prominently through all the relations of a lifetime,
only gaining tenderness from anticipated separation, and
assuming a tone of heavenliness as it approaches the confines of mortality. " You have not been out of my thoughts
an hour," Silas writes, " or scarcely a moment while waking,
and in my sleep I dream of being at your bedside." Again
he says, " We feel truly grateful for the great favor God is
showing us in sparing you so long; and we rejoice that you
are able to say that it is wise and good that your sufferings
should not end yet, though your spirit would say,'It is
better to depart and be with Christ.'"  And again: "I cannot forget your sufferings, nor lay me down to sleep without
thinking of your sleepless nights. Yet amid all, God is better to you than all your friends; and instead of murmuring,
I stop to ask, would man be more merciful than the God and
father of our Lord Jesus Christ? It is enough for us to
know that the leading attribute revealed in all his dealings
with his children is LOVE. May I know it in the day of trial
and suffering, as you seem to know it now!"
30




350     LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
CHAPTER  VI.
THE CLOSING SCENES OF LIFE.
THE school in which Silas N. Kendrick was trained, was
eminently calculated to prepare him for a life of earnest,
practical activity in the service of the Master. The temper
of the times; the spirit of enterprise which had been fostered among Baptists, called in the providence of God to
take a prominent place in the work of evangelizing the
heathen, and aroused to strenuous effort to promote theological education in the ranks of their own ministry; and the
multiplied agencies of Christian benevolence which were
called into energetic life about the commencement of this
century-all these were telling upon the rising generation at
the period of his boyhood. The memoir of Dr. Kendrick,
which shows the part which he acted in these various
movements, will serve to prove that in his family, all these
influences must have operated in their most concentrated
force. We may judge of the instructions given to such a
family, by the counsels which pervade his letters to his son,
from the day he left the paternal roof; and we find, everywhere, accompanying his common-sense views of the business
relations of life, faithful admonitions, not only to devote some
portion of the fruits of his labors to the promotion of religious and benevolent objects, but to make these exalted
interests the aim and incentive of a life of industry-" to do
all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Nor was it alone by
counsels and instructions, regarding the duty of a Christian,
that Dr. Kendrick sought to direct the course and stimulate
the zeal of his son.  The letters of the good man, frequently
long and painstaking, though addressed to a youth, and
written amid the i ressing cares of his responsible office,




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.              351
contain minute accounts of the condition of the institution
at Hamilton, and of the results of its operation; and from
his extensive correspondence with missionaries, and with
those who were at the head of these great enterprises, he
gathers such particulars as would be most likely to interest
a young man, and impress him with a sense of their importance.  These letters could scarcely have been more
painstaking, had they been addressed to the wealthy and
influential, with a view to secure their co-operation. The
effects of this training were abundantly manifest in the future
course of the son.
During the years which are covered by the incidents recorded in the last chapter, Silas had been called to the office
of a deacon by the unanimous voice of the church.  He
wrote to his father: " I wrote to you the day previous to the
ordination of deacons in our church. I was permitted to go
forward, feeling a deep sense of my own unworthiness, but a
good degree of calmness and submission, trusting in Him
whose grace alone can fit me to bear such a part in his own
work. Mr. Dean came in from Jackson, with Fanny, and
spent one night, and has gone west again. I was glad to
have him present at the ordination." We have already quoted
the estimate of his character as a deacon by one of his pastors,
and all who have held that relation would subscribe it. He
filled the office well and " purchased to himself a good degree
and great boldness in the faith."  His influence in the church
was always of the most salutary character. In times of trial
and perplexity his calm judgment often pointed to the correct
decision; and especially when harmony was disturbed and
peace threatened, his loving spirit and conciliatory address
poured oil on the troubled waters. The poor and friendless,
the widow and orphan, always found in him a considerate,
judicious and generous friend. A gentleman who was for
some years in his employment writes, "I used to ride with
him frequently to the various boats and saw mills lying for a
mile or two along the river at Detroit, and I can remember




352      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
his stopping before little poor-looking houses, and, while I
held the reins, going in to see some sick man, or some poor
girl wasting with disease, when I knew he was pressed with
business, and weighed down with cares. I remember how
Mrs. --'s little girl used to come into the office every
week, to have Mr. Kendrick make out a bill of the washing
her mother had done for the boat; and, though the office
might be full of men, he never spoke an impatient word, but
whatever business might be on hand one of us was directed
to attend to her."
We have already spoken of his activity among the clergy,
and in this connection we may introduce the remarks of a late
pastor of the church, " A Sunday-school or a bible class could
scarcely fail to prosper in his hands, such were the love and
tact that he brought to the work, joined with a very liberal
degree of the intelligence requisite.  Nor could he wait to
have such work made ready to his hand; his delight was to
sally forth upon new territory, and summon around him both
the work and the co-workers. He had the rare faculty of
enlisting, interesting and retaining others as joint laborers
with himself in a Christian undertaking.  He could put himself out of sight and yet remain the principal spring of those
activities in which others seemed to be the leaders."
Decided in his own convictions of Christian truth, he was
not restrained in his Christian sympathies, and was a hearty
co-operator in all proper plans for the relief either of temporal
or spiritual wants in the community. The Orphan Asylum
was especially an institution which enlisted all his interest.
But it is not permitted to us to enlarge upon these activities.
There is one little incident, however, which we relate, as it
seems due to the parties in it, who, widely separated as they
were in many particulars, were one in the faith of the gospel.
In the letter of Dr. Duffield, given in a previous chapter, he
speaks of " a Sunday-school in which Mr. Kendrick had been
associated with the late excellent and eminently devoted
Christian, Mrs. Cass."  That lady, the wife of General Cass,




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.              353
was indeed a model of pious, humble and unostentatious
Christian activity. One of those who do good by stealth, and
not merely by the easy charity of contributing money, but by
devoting time and personal labor to every good work. Such
a course and character were not sacred from the impertinence
of political partisanship. During an exciting political agitation, when her husband's name was before the public, as a
candidate for the presidency, an editor of an opposition paper
seized upon an announcement by the secretary of the Orphan
Asylum of a meeting of the directors of that institution at
her house, to make the basest insinuations regarding the
motives of her benevolent activities, as designed to gain
political capital for her husband. Though Mr. Kendrick's
political sympathies were all with the party of which the
paper was the organ, he departed from his usual course of
abstinence from all public interference in such matters, and
wrote a cordial vindication of the Christian lady, and an
indignant rebuke of the petty malice of the attack. The
following is an extract from his letter to the proprietors
of the paper in question: " I was pained to see the enclosed
paragraph in your paper of yesterday. I am aware that it
was called out by the fact having been communicated to you
that Mrs. Cass attended a small missionary Sunday-school,
in a remote and long-neglected part of the city, where her
interest has been enlisted since its organization, more than a
year ago. And when she was too feeble to attend in person
she sent ten dollars to purchase books for the same school.
It is also known that her house has been open for the meetings of the Orphan Association ever since her return from
France, and, mainly, because her health would not admit of
her going out to meet the association elsewhere.
"I find no fault with you for calling Sunday-schools and
Orphan associations' little matters,' for I fear that you are
at so great a moral distance from them, as scarcely to discern
them. But if you can descend to things so vile as to impugn
the motives of a pious Sunday-school teacher, and follow
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354     LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
with your political poison the charitable and truly philanthropic acts of a Christian lady, who seeks only, as she has
ever done, to benefit the orphans and ignorant children of our
city, you will not leave such corrupt effusions at my door.
Send your bill to-morrow morning, and allow me to say, that
it is my happiness to believe, that more good will result to
the world from these' little matters,' than from your whole
political career."
The remaining years of Mr. Kendrick's life, during which
he pursued the business career, indicated in the former
chapter, were filled up with active service, the character of
which may be judged by what has already been related. The
narrow limits to which this sketch is confined forbids no
attempt to follow them out in detail. His earnestness in his
business life was prompted, not by the desire to accumulate
wealth, but to obtain the command of money to advance the
great objects of Christian benevolence. The sums of money
lie expended when his business was prosperous, in relieving
the needy and aiding the deserving, can never be known by
mortals. His contribution to the more public enterprises of
religion were on the most liberal scale, and the opportunity
of making them was obtained by reducing his private
expenses far below what men in his position usually consider necessary, although there was no more hospitable home
than his. The disposal which he made of his property by
will, at a time when he was considered a wealthy man, also
showed with what views he had been toiling through so many
years of sickness and infirmity. One who knew him well
says, " If I had seen him refuse to give to a really charitable
object, I should have been as much startled as if I had heard
him break out in an oath."
The labors of his father, and his own disposition to aid and
encourage the young and friendless, made it an object of
special interest with him to assist poor students, and promote the views of promising young men who were looking
forward to the Christian ministry.  He had scarcely got




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               355
fairly embarked in business, until we find him corresponding
with his father regarding the expenses of a young protege at
the institution at Hamilton: and there are several promising
ministers, who are indebted to him, under God, for the education which fitted them for the places of usefulness they occupy.
One of them writes to Mr. Kendrick, " God is widening my
influence steadily, and I trust for good and not for evil. I
do hope the expenditure and care of Mr. Kendrick on my
behalf, will return to him in a life of usefulness and the conversion of many men."  While he supplied their temporal
wants, he maintained a friendly correspondence with them.
Some of his letters to these young men lie before us, full of
fatherly wisdom  and tenderness.  He wrote to one, for
example, whose mind had been disturbed by doctrinal discussions and speculations. " Perhaps the Spirit is leaving
you in the dark because you have been trying to fathom
unrevealed truth. Be patient, my dear brother, God will
reveal all to you in his own good time, but it may be not in
this world. If he has called you to be a teacher of righteousness, he will try your faith, and teach you to take his word
as it is. You may be tempted a good deal too, for Satan may
want to sift you. Did you think he could not find you out
in your secret retreat, and even while you were studying
God's word, try to make you doubt what seemed hard to
understand. "
Again he writes "I am doing only my duty. The gold
and silver are the Lord's. He will not allow me to stow it
away in a napkin, nor use it for self-gratification.  I once
wanted to be rich and the fire burned up the whole, and now
I am trying to keep it out of the fire. I am pleased to have
you tell me when you need money. While I have it, it is
yours as much as mine."
Again, in 1853, he writes: " My treasures are in heaven,
and far richer and better than when I had them here. I
have been strongly tempted to buy a house this spring; but
I want to give five thousand dollars to Hamilton, and two




356      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
thousand dollars to Kalamazoo, before I put any thing to the
score of comfort.  I am afraid, and have little desire to use
means for selfish ends. I am too near the account of my
stewardship. "
The materials are not within our reach for a full statement
of his important services to the public interest of the Baptist
denomination. Nor, if they were, would we regard it as
either agreable to his character, or serviceable to others, to
parade them here. We have sought to relate not what will
constitute a funeral panegyric, but what will constitute a becoming memorial of departed excellence, which may declare
the glory of him to wholn all the praise is due, and stimulate and encourage the diligence of his people.
The following extract from a letter of the Rev. Geo. W.
Harris, editor of the Michigan Christian Herald, expresses
his views of Mr. Kendrick's public services to the Baptist
denomination. After referring to his liberal support of missionary and educational movements, and his connection with
the paper which Mr. Harris has long and ably edited, that
gentleman continues: "I have occasionally met him at the
meetings of the convention and board; more frequently at the
meetings of the executive committees. On such occasions
his advice, which was always sought, always had weight.
One thing which contributed to this was the fact, that his
education and habits had made him eminently a practical
man, rather than a man of mere abstractions. Ihis familiarity
with practical life, combined with a strong and ready sense
of duty, which neither left him long at a loss for an object
on which to exercise his benevolence, or for a suitable method
in which to make it applicable, made his position on the committee one of great advantage to the cause it had in charge.
With a ruling passion for doing good, and with a practical,
straight-forward, business man's education, his views and
remarks tended to the accomplishment of ends by direct,
open and unexceptionable means. By the balances of a practical wisdom, and sound Christian morality, he could usually




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.                357
pronounce the best judgment as to what was the fitting
course to pursue on new and difficult occasions of inquiry.
There was in him little tendency to extravagance, or speculation, but in the spirit of tolerance and conciliation toward
men in whom this spirit was manifiest, he was firm in maintaining his convictions. I regarded him as one of our wisest
counsellors, and look upon his death as a loss which will be
long felt far beyond the limits of the city and church of his
adoption. "
After three and a half years of intense bodily anguish, and
remarkable spiritual peace, the venerable father, whose love
formed so important an element in the formation of the admirable character we are imperfectly depicting, fell asleep in
Jesus.  Long as it had been looked for, the event came to
his afflicted family in all the fresh force of a sudden bereavement. No length of sickness can prepare the heart to part,
without a pang, with those we love; and nothing but an
actual experience of it, can enable us to realize what the
world will be when they are removed from it. But if ever
mourners could bring home to their hearts all the blessed
consolations of Christian hope, they could who stood around
the grave of Nathaniel Kendrick. Those very considerations
which rendered his life most precious to them, furnished the
fullness of comfort in his death. We should vainly attempt
to express in words, the holy endearment which thence forward bound Silas to his young, widowed sister, left with himself the only representative of a once large and happy family
circle.  In addition to the peculiar tenderness of her own
claims upon his affection, she now occupied also his father's
place in his care and correspondence, and no sister could
have been more worthy of the love of such a brother.
The notice of her life and character in another part of this
volume, renders it unnecessary to dwell upon either in this
place. Her brief career on earth was terminated by a few
happy years of eminent usefulness in Cleveland, where her
memory is fondly cherished.  Silas was hastily summoned




358      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
to her death-bed, but arrived too late to exchange the last
farewell. Two days after her death he wrote: "I am indeed
an orphan. Alone, alone; the unworthy representative of a
once large and happy family. I feel like a traveler left behind of all his companions —a wanderer alone. But I trust
the gates will soon open to me also, and I, through Christ,
shall be admitted where'my best friends and kindred dwell.'
I am glad that this world is not always to be my home."
The shades of night seem to be closing in upon the day of
life, whose activities and trials are hastily recorded in these
chapters.  Father and sister, whose affections constituted
strong ties to the realities of a passing life, were removed, and
now constituted additional attractions heavenward. The feeble health of his beloved wife constantly threatened the severance of the strongest of them all. Though success promised,
at last, to crown his worldly enterprises, it had in itself now
few attractions.  Successive changes by death, removal of
residence, or change of condition, were passing over the
society with which his earthly joys and hopes had been
linked.  There was, indeed, no relaxation of his zeal and affectionate earnestness in the service to which his life was consecrated.  If affliction and trial had imparted a mellower
tone to his character, the light still shone only purer and
more heavenly in its lustre. But still the shades of evening
were settling down upon the day, and while he realized that,
in his own words, he was drawing near to the account of his
stewardship, his Christian friends realized that he was drawing nearer to Christ, in close communion and an advancing
conformity to his likeness.
We have purposely kept it, for the most part, out of sight,
as he himself carefully did throughout the years of his more
active service, but it remains to be told, that during all these
years he had been an invalid and so severe a sufferer from
bodily pain, that nothing save the greatest resoluteness of
spirit, sustained by the grace of God, could have enabled him
to suppress the murmuring of impatience, and resist the pros



LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               359
tration of disease. Perhaps we cannot better present this
aspect of the history of his life, than by inserting here, a letter from the faithful physician who ministered relief to him,
through weary years of suffering, and who, when his office
as a physician ceased, remained by the side of his friend
through the long hours of his dying, and counted the last
throb of his heart. He says: " You wish me to make a statement of any incident illustrative of our late friend, Mr. Kendrick's character, which, in course of my acquaintance with
him, may have come to my knowledge. This is an easy and
yet, in one sense, a difficult task. I have not time nor ability to write a book, and to say all that I know of his extraordinary virtues would fill very many pages, indeed, it would
make a book. I must confine myself to generalities.
"I have, as his physician, seen him suffer more I think than
any other man I ever attended. You are perhaps not aware,
that for years our friend labored under the influence of a disease of the most painful and harassing nature, calculated
more than almost any other of the ills to which man is subject, to sour the temper and engender a gloomy, nervous,
and perverse disposition. I say perhaps you are not aware
of this fact, because I know that from his manner, no one
even of his most intimate acquaintances, would ever have
suspected it. Always sweet, gentle, kind, in deportment
towards all about him, even when suffering to a degree that
would have confined almost any man to his chamber, and his
bed. Mr. Kendrick was out among the sick, ministering to
their necessities of both body and soul. I have often seen
him at the bedside of the sick, when I knew him to be the
greater sufferer of the two.
"He had a peculiar way of aiding the sick and poor.
He generally succeeded in making them feel that they were
conferring a benefit upon him, instead of receiving it from
him.  Many instances have occurred where families have
needed medical aid, in which he has induced them to feel that
in permitting his family physician to attend them, they were




360      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
heaping a load of obligation upon him, though it was done at
Mr. Kendrick's expense.
" In all his sufferings, he never, in my presence, manifested
the slightest impatience, except after I told him he must
soon die; and then he exhibited such a desire to be released,
that I felt it my duty to suggest the propriety of waiting
patiently, and permitting God's will in relation to him to be
fully accomplished. That death-bed scene will scarcely be
forgotten by any one who witnessed it, certainly not by me.
His kindly feelings for others were as manifest on that occasion as on any other, I believe, during his life. I could not
repeat all he said to me, from time to time, as I sat by him.
Indeed, it would not be proper to do so.  Suffice it to say
that till his heart was still, or to the very last moment of
consciousness, he was laboring for the well-being of others.
" I should have complied with your request sooner in sending you this brief statement, but could not make up my mind
what to say.  So much might be said of so good a man, that
it seems wrong to say so little, and yet I have neither time
nor ability to say the thousandth part of what my heart
prompts to relate.
"Yours truly,
" G. M. CLARKE."
The habitual endurance of severe pain always marks
itself in the countenance, voice, and manner of the sufferer,
in accordance with its effects upon the character, and the
spirit in which it is endured.  When received in an unsanctifled spirit, and when it arouses a rebellious heart, there are
few countenances more repulsive than that in which it writes
its deep lines. The voice becomes querulous and discordant,
and the whole manner is overbearing and misanthropical.
On the other hand, when it is received in meekness, and,
through the grace of God, accomplishes its purifying and
ennobling design, though the countenance may still painfully
excite our sympathy, it is yet attractive; suffering there




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.              361
leaves its traces in that cast of countenance which we recognize as saintly; and, while the tones of the voice are subdued, they are full of pathos and tenderness.  It is such a
voice that can best convey the assurance of sympathy, and
can best become the vehicle of consolation to the sorrowing.
The friend from whose observations, during the period he
spent in his employments, we have already drawn, remarked
thus of Mr. Kendrick: "The look of benevolence in his
bright, dark eye, the lines of exhaustion and suffering in his
worn face, and the whole-souled earnestness of his manner,
mad4- his advice, entreaties, and admonitions, wonderfully
effective. Pain was sanctified to him in this respect, also; it
removed from his face, voice, and manner every vestige of
flippancy, pride, vanity, heartlessness, and added new power
to his words. His men never wanted him to speak twice
when giving orders. A word from him was final; it meant
something, and that something they went about doing."
Mr. Ten Brook has remarked in his letter, that Mr. Kendrick was not a public speaker, and the remark is most true
in the ordinary use of the term. But those who have heard
him speak in a social, religious gathering, or address a Sunday-school, would yet say that he was an eloquent speaker.
The childlike ingenuousness, the simple earnestness of his
manner, the general happiness of his remarks, and the musical pathos of his voice, arrested the attention of old and
young alike, and rarely failed to move even the most callous
heart. No one could recite a touching incident with greater
effect, nor utter more impressively a solemn warning than he.
There is one attractive feature of his social intercourse, to
which justice has not been done in previous remarks and
quotations,-the chastened gaiety, the Christian cheerfulness,
which' never degenerated into levity, and a certain refined
playfulness, which even his later sufferings did not extinguish,
and which never seemed inconsistent with his Christian dignity. If space permitted more extended quotations from his
letters, as fine specimens of playful humor, may be culled from
3.




362      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
them, as are to be found in the more celebrated epistolary
literature in our language; though above all other characteristics, these letters excel in the skillful but artless expression
of ardent affection.
These letters in the latter years of his life, show the rapid
progress of his Christian character to maturity. An exalted
spiritual-mindedness, a deep abasement of self, and a desire
to magnify the grace and the perfection of Immanuel.  We
have spoken of his clear views of the ground of a sinner's
acceptance, in the perfect and everlasting righteousness of
Christ; but he had also learned that in this also is the ground
of the believer's abiding comfort, strength, and progress.
We must not only believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, that we
may be justified by the faith of Christ, nor by the works of
the law, but we must hold the beginning of our confidence
steadfast unto the end. The life which we live in the flesh
must be a life of faith in the Son of God, who loved us and
gave himself for us. Reposing here, amid increasing sufferings and multiplying perplexities, Mr. Kendrick enjoyed uninterrupted, nay, ever-increasing comfort; and, in the full
assurance of faith, approached the last conflict, when the
same confidence marvelously sustained his soul.
From the year 1852, when he was brought very near to
the gates of death, the painful and hopeless disease of which
his physician speaks was slowly but steadily accomplishing
its work. Its progress was perhaps accelerated by the harassing cares which the approach of the commercial crisis of
1857 brought upon him, in his relation to such an enterprise
as the Detroit Locomotive Works.  We may pause in our
narrative to trace the progress of that enterprise.  After the
fire, in which the establishment of the Detroit Iron Company
perished, Mr. Kendrick proceeded with the erection of a machine shop and foundery, in which he commenced business in
May, 1847. During that month he employed four hands, but
the number was gradually increased to thirty-eight in December following.  Under the firm of Degraff & Kendrick, a




LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.                363
prosperous business was conducted, and additional buildings
were erected, at a cost of from twenty to thirty thousand
dollars. The interest of the firm was merged in the Detroit
Locomotive Company in 1854. This joint-stock company,
with an ample capital, extended the buildings, and equipped
them  with the most perfect machinery for executing the
largest contracts.  The extent to which the business expanded, may be judged from the fact, that, at one time, they
employed two hundred and fifty hands. The progress was,
as we have mentioned, temporarily arrested, and about the
same time the state of Mr. Kendrick's health was such that
his physicians urged him to exchange the severities of the
northern winter for the more genial climate of South Carolina.
Accompanied by Mrs. Kendrick, he spent a few months at
Charleston, where the fraternal attentions of his cousin, the
Rev. Ryland Kendrick, left nothing undone that could promote his comfort or recovery. After his return to Detroit,
an appointment to superintend the erection of a light-house
led him to a pleasant island in Lake Erie for the summer
months, where he seemed rapidly to regain much of his
former elasticity and energy. The improvement was however of short duration. Returning infirmities warned him
to escape on the approach of winter, and in December, 1858,
he set out for the west and south, in the vain pursuit of
health.  In the last letter he wrote to his beloved wife, he
thus speaks of the objects of his last journey, though, beyond what is there expressed, he probably had an eye in his
journeyings to the openings which might be providentially
presented for a new business career, should his health be preserved, and the business in Detroit not speedily recover from
its prostration.  " Now, dearest," he says, " I must tell you
my plans, and get your full concurrence by return mail, if
you can give it. I propose to go to Milwaukie to-morrow,
and spend the Sabbath; then to go to Wakesha on Monday,
and spend one night with A. to get full advice and medicine,




364      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
and return here on Tuesday, to go on to St. Louis, Memphis,
Natchez, probably as far as Texas and the Gulf, and be absent six, or, it may be, eight weeks. I am confident my
health will be improved by it. You know I grow better
every day I travel. MAy only grief is, to be so long absent
from you and my sweet home, and the loving friends who
almost break my heart with their kind sympathy."
His travels and his expectations were arrested at Milwaukie, the first stage of his projected tour.  His sickness
assumed a new and startling aspect. He seemed to understand the warning, and his first strong impulse was to reach
home. Had his friends at Milwaukie known the actual state
of his health, they would never have consented to his attempt to travel. With his long practised self-control, and
with a resolution which probably had at its foundation a conviction that he was hastening home to die, he undertook and
persevered in the journey.  He reached Detroit in a state of
complete prostration, and his alarming symptoms at first
left but one conclusion open to the stricken family circle, into
the bosom of which he was received with greater tenderness
than ever. The calm tranquillity of his soul, his indomitable
spirit, anti the singular tenacity of life which his apparently
slender and exhausted constitution had often manifested, presented to his physician a ground of hope, where, with a man
of a different character and temperament, the case would
have been considered desperate. All that medical skill and
tender nursing could do, ministered to the hopeful side, and
alternate hopes and fears agitated the loving hearts around
him, while his own heart was unruffled by either, but placidly
awaited the will of the Sovereign Disposer. In their hearts,
hope was rather strengthened by the lapse of time, but,
though he avoided any expression which might discourage
those who loved him, it is evident to them, on a review of
all that transpired, that he expected a speedy release from
all his sufferings.
The condition in which he lay rendered it necessary to




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KIENDRICK.               365
protect him from the distraction and exhaustion of company
and conversation.  And from the earlier portion of his sickness, we have little information regarding the exercises of
his mind, except as these were manifested in the unexampled peace, patience, and affection of his deportment.  If, in
what remains, the record of his last hours is chiefly confined
to his intercourse with one visitor, it is because the intense
feeling of those who occupied the inner circle of his attendance upon his death-bed, renders it impossible for them
either to recall or relate minutely what passed.  There was
one who had years before been united to him by the tenderest
ties of mutual affection and Christian relationship, who for
years had been, not estranged, but separated from him, for
whom he sent towards the close of his sickness, and in whose
mind the impression of two visits to his sick bed, and of his
death-bed scene will remain among the most permanent of
his recollections.
When this friend approached his bed side, his eye kindled
with its wonted fire, and his languid countenance was suffused with the old glow of affection. After brief greetings,
in which all the past relations were revived and restored, in
the fillness of fraternal confidence, he at once spoke of his
own spiritual condition.  "I have longed to see you and to
tell you of all I have discovered and experienced of the love
of my Saviour.  MIy Saviour," he repeated with emphasis;
" This has been a time of more oppressive sickness than I
ever before endured, and my thoughts have often been feeble
and obscured; I have been unable to think continuously, but
with all this, I have never enjoyed such satisfactory views of
the love of God in Christ." His remarks, it will be understood, were interrupted and suggested by questions and
observations on the part of his friend, which need not be
repeated.  He spoke with earnestness and remarkable clearness, of the perfect peace and security of being "in Christ."
"It is not merely," he said, "through Christ, but in Christ.
How much I have lost by not learning that distinction
31*




366      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
sooner!' I do not know what may be the issue of this sickness, but I know that my Father's will must be done, and that
is enough for one who has known his love." A sense
of what was due to his state, rendered it obligatory to bring
a delightful interview to a close, while he was yet reluctant to
stop speaking with ardor on that theme.  "We must, at all
events," he said, " enjoy the privilege once more, of pouring
out our hearts together at a throne of grace. What seasons
of heavenly communion the sound of your familiar voice
recalls! Will our voices retain any thing of their present
tones when we join in the everlasting song?"
At another interview he reverted to the scenes of their
former intercourse and spoke of mutual friends. To some
who yet live he sent messages of kind remembrance.  IIe
spoke of some who had fallen asleep, who were dear to both,
and then dwelt with great fervor upon the indissoluble oneness of those who are in Christ. " I have thought with
great pleasure," he said, "not that we were one, but that
we are one. Death cannot dissolve it; we are one company,
one family;" and then he repeated, as though to himself, and
forgetful of the presence of others, with a clear voice and
with such inimitable grace, that it was impossible to interrupt him, though the efforts seemed beyond his power, or at
least beyond what was proper in his condition, the whole of
the hymn" Come let us join our friends above
Who have obtained the prize,
And on the eagle wings of love
To joy celestial rise."
In reply to some remark regarding the wisdom and love of
God manifested in the kind and the measure of trial he
metes out to his children, he replied: " You remind me of a
saying of father's, when I last visited him. One night when I
watched alone by his bed of suffering, he had a night of
greater pain and restlessness than usual. I looked upon his




LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.               367
exhausted frame, still tossed about with anguish, and his
meek, patient look, which was more touching because not a
word of complaint escaped his lips, and I could scarcely
endure the sight. The night was far spent, and still there
was no respite.  I laid my head upon his pillow, and my
hand upon his aching brow, and said,' O my father, I love
you as I never loved you before. How I wish I could take
your pain upon me, that you might find an hour's rest!' and
he answered-you know how father would speak then,' No
my son, no, not if it were possible. I could not spare a single pang or ache. I know you love me, but he who is doing
this loves me infinitely better than you do, and if it could
be spared he would not let his poor child suffer an instant.
It is not an enemy that is afflicting me.  This is love's doing,
infinite love, and I cannot spare the blessing such love is
bestowing.' "  He paused, and listened to some remark, in
harmony with the sentiment, and then resumed the subject,
" I have been filled with such unutterable peace and wonder
as I have lain here, and thought of the love of God to me,
me of all others.  With such objects of love in his countless
holy ones, that he should love me. And while he is reigning in everlasting glory, over the wide universe, and filling
so many hearts with love, and listening to all their praises,
and sustaining and guiding all that universe of worlds, and
watching over all his creatures, the very least as well as the
very greatest, and directing all events, and carrying on his
vast designs, that he should still be watching over me as I lie
here, a poor, worthless man, with a love as full and a care as
perfect as though I were the only one he had to love or care
for.  O  his love-his love, and to think that I was
redeemed with the precious blood of Christ; that Christ upon
that throne is mine; that he has sent his Spirit to take
possession of my heart, as his; that I am his.  How easy
it is to lie in his hands, and leave all to him I What everlasting security in Christ."  And so at intervals of conversation, with an eloquence and power which cannot be trans



368      LIFE  OF SILAS  N. KENDRICK.
ferred to paper, and which can never be heard, save by the
death-bed of saints.  He continued to speak of that theme
which will fill up eternity with praises.  There was another
precious season of prayer, and then the renewed expression
of love and joy and gratitude. He perhaps realized that if
these were not the words of final parting, at least the time
for these words was at hand. He reluctantly acquiesced in
the propriety of bringing the interview to a close, and to
Mrs. Kendrick's expression of solicitude, he replied: "Oh
not fatigued but refreshed."
Thirty hours later his friends were hastily summoned to
the closing scene. It was about ten o'clock at night-death
was stamped upon his countenance, which was still lit up
with intelligence and affection, and which brightened with a
fresh glow of love as one after another they gathered around
his bed. They were not common acquaintances, but all of
them were bound to him by special ties of love or gratitude.
The remembering fellowships of many years was collected
there.  How many deeds of kindness, hours of sweet communion, scenes of hallowed delight, relations of heavenly
tenderness were there recalled.  His wife, sustained by
amazing grace, sat on one side listening, ever and anon, to
whispered syllables of love and comfort. His physician sat,
bowed down with the sorrow of a friend, touching his pulse;
kind hands attempted to minister relief to weary limbs; and
the friends regarded it as a privilege to take a place by his
pillow in succession, and hold for a few moments the hand
whose cordial grasp was now relaxed.  It seemed as though
a few minutes must close the scene, but the minutes
lengthened into hours, and still the patient spirit lingered.
There was not the appearance of acute pain, but the struggle
of dissolving nature and a sense of insupportable fatigue,
which occasionally prompted the prayer for "rest," "rest."
He was the calmest of all: not one word of impatience or
complaint; and occasionally he feebly essayed to be the comforter of the sorrowing.  "Let us pray once more," he




LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.               369
whispered to the friend and former pastor, whose interviews
are above related; and the company knelt together, and
poured forth fervent prayers to that God whose love triumphed even then. A feeble pressure of the offered hand
at the close of the prayver, intimated the sufferer's fellowship
in it. "Bless you," he said, " I love you," and, then to the
whispered question,-" Can I do any thing for you on earth?"
-he whispered feebly-" No, comfort Fanny, all is well"perhaps among his last distinguishable utterances. On the
repetition of some precious promises, from time to time, he
nodded assent and smiled satisfaction; but he was fast
receding from consciousness.
It would be indelicate and useless to extend the description
of the scene of pity which was prolonged until three o'clock
of the afternoon of January 14th, 1859. The friends still
gathered around, unable to tear themselves from the scene of
sufferings which they could not alleviate. All was silence,
save the gasped breathing of him to whom their affections
clung, and, occasionally, a sob which could not be repressed.
The parting breath came at longer and longer intervals —a
sigh-a sudden change flitted across the altered conntenance,
and a look of meaning from the physician told that the great
heart of Silas N. Kendrick had ceased to beat. The first
voice by which the silence was broken was the voice of
prayer, and soon in the unbroken silence of the chamber of
death lay all that was mortal of one of the noblest of men.
The longed-for rest was reached.
It were vain to tell of all the grief the event awakened.
The whole community showed it, and probably few funerals
in Detroit have called forth a greater number of all classesnone have been accompanied by more true mourners-a
multitude of those who had been in his employment at
different times, and a multitude of the young who had
enjoyed his care and instructions in the Sunday-school were
among the most afflicted. Those who were best acquainted
with his history could recognize in the crowd widows and




370      LIFE  OF SILAS N. KENDRICK.
orphans whom  he had succoured, the poor whom he had
relieved, and the erring he had reclaimed. Letters of condolence with Mrs. Kendrick, which of themselves would fill a
volume, attest the esteem in which he was held by those
whose esteem is most valuable.
Our task is done. Alas! how poorly done I But it will
be accepted as the expression of a love which is the foremost
to recognize the defectiveness of the portrait.
On the green sloping bank of a little ravine in Elmwood
Cemetery, Detroit, stands a simple obelisk, the base of which
bears this inscription:
IN PEACE.
SI L f S _/. K:E\T(gZIC K,
BORN, JANUARY 19, 1814;
FELL ASLEEP IN JESUS,
JANUARY 14, 1859.