South Church Papers – MS039

Provenance: The South Church Papers are owned by the South Church and came to the Portsmouth Athenaeum on deposit in 1990.

Citation: South Church Papers, MS039, Portsmouth Athenaeum deposit collection

Size: 17.5 linear feet, 35 Hollinger Boxes and one oversized box

Dates: 1714-1976

Access: No restrictions

Processed by: Susan Stowe Kindstedt in 2008. Processing was made possible through funds provided by Piscataqua Savings Bank and the South Church Charity Fund.

Scope and Content

In 1713 the Congregational Church in Portsmouth split into two parishes, the North and South. The South Parish remained in the original church building, The Old South Meeting House, while the North Church built a new building in what is now Market Square. Those that remained at the South Church adopted a new charter and over the century evolved a more liberal theology. The separation of the North and South parishes resulted in a controversy over town taxes as well as theological differences. The former was solved in 1716 when each church began to raise its own funds, while evidence of the later is still seen in the records of the nineteenth century.

This collection consists of records of the South Church following the split in 1713. Therefore for the earliest records of members of this congregation, the early records of the North Church should also be consulted. The earliest records in this collection include records of the ordination of John Emerson, the Parish’s first settled minister. Early records include vital records and pew or membership records, meeting records, church expenses including maintenance of the building and ultimately the construction of the new church building in 1826.

There are extensive records of the South Church Sabbath School, established in 1818 and the South Church Charity Fund, established in 1819. Materials belonging to individual pastors are fairly limited and include sporadic correspondence and published sermons.

A large section of this collection includes the records of Portsmouth’s Universalist Church. Although the first seeds for the Universalist Church were planted in 1773, the majority of the records in this collection begin when the church was under the leadership of Hosea Ballou, who came to Portsmouth in 1809. In 1945 the Universalist Church in Portsmouth merged with the Unitarian South Church.

Twentieth century records are limited primarily to financial records and records of Societies and Clubs.

Processing Note

Many of the materials in this collection were still in their original order when processing began, bound by string in packets by fiscal year or topic. Every effort was made to keep these items in order. This being said, many items in the collection had clearly been sorted or separated at some point and were in no logical order. These materials were placed in the most appropriate category while still attempting to maintain the original order of the other materials. The result is that many of the categories do in fact overlap. For example the Warden’s Reports often contain financial reports of the South Church Charity Fund, as the Fund delivered reports to the Wardens, which in turn became part of the Warden’s Records. There were several groups of materials that had no clear connection to other materials in the collection, for example some of the items in the miscellaneous category of correspondence. For this reason a careful review of the entire finding aid is advised for those looking for all possible materials on a certain subject.

Historical Note

The Unitarian-Universalist Church of Portsmouth, N.H. was formed on January 26, 1947, by a vote to merge the South Church (Unitarian) and the Church of Christ (Universalist) into one corporate body. Previous to this date, in May and June of 1945, the two parishes decided to federate, and on August 20, 1945, voted to call the Reverend William W. Lewis as minister of the federated church.

The South Parish was originally a part of the first church established in Portsmouth. The earlist settlement within the present limits of Portsmouth was made in 1623, and the first services held here were those of the Church of England, for which a chapel and parsonage was erected prior to 1636. It was located on Pleasant St., on the site of the former South Church parsonage. Rev. Richard Gibson was the first minister. He remained until 1642…

A new meeting-house (not a chapel) was built ca. 1658 at the South Mill Dam, and an effort made to settle a minister. Rev. Joshua Moodey began his ministry in that year, but was not ordained until 1671. A church of nine members was organized in 1671, called the Church of Christ in Portsmouth. It is from this church organization that the North and South Parishes are descended.

In 1711 the town voted to build a new meeting-house on the northeast corner of the Glebe Land (site of the present North Church). Residents of the South End, in the neighborhood of the old meeting-house, did not want to move so far north; and a division in the parish resulted. However, the new meeting-house was built in 1712; and in January of 1713 the minister, Rev. Nathaniel Rogers, was directed to preach in the new edifice. He did so, taking with his the church records and silver. The residents of the South End, led by Capt. John Pickering, took measures to maintain a church at the old meeting-house, and called the Reverend John Emerson of New Castle to be their minister. The dispute lasted for another year, and in 1714 the Provincial Assembly divided the town into the North and South Parishes, both being equally entitled to town taxes, the North Parish being adjusted the Glebe Land, being the majority.

In 1731 the South Parish built a new meeting-house ion Meeting House Hill. This was known as the Old South Church, and was used until the completion of the present Stone Church in 1826.

During the ministry of the Reverend Samuel Haven, 1752-1806, the roots of liberalism were felt in the South Church and were continued to their fulfillment under the Reverend Nathan Parker, 1808-1833. The South Church became Unitarian in 1820.

Seeds of Universalism were first planted in Portsmouth by John Murray in 1773; and in 1777 a group was organized, being the first liberal church, as such, to be established in Portsmouth. Their first meeting-house was built in 1784 on Vaughan St.; and in 1808 a beautiful new edifice was erected on Pleasant St. The Reverend Hosea Ballou was minister from 1809 to 1815, and while here wrote his famous “Treatise on the Atonement”, the first outline of Unitarian theology to be published in this country.

The old church was destroyed by fire in 1896; and the brick church…was built the following year. This church was burned on January 11, 1947, almost two years following the federation of the two parishes. This prompted the immediate merger that forms the present church organization.

History quoted from: Chronology of the Unitarian-Universalist Church in Portsmouth, N.H. compiled by Lawrence R. Craig

Historical Timeline

1627 – First religious congregation gathered in Portsmouth
1636 – First chapel erected in Portsmouth
ca. 1658 – New “meeting house” built at South Mill Pond dam
1713 – Town church divided, amid controversy, into North Parish now North Church, and South Parish now South Church.
1731 – “Old South Church” built on Meetinghouse Hill, replaced by present Children’s Museum building in 1863
1752-1806 – Reverend Samuel Haven minister of South Church (“roots of liberalism” Craig History)
1773 – John Murray “plants seeds” of Universalism in Portsmouth (Craig History)
1777 – Universalist Church formed in Portsmouth
1784 – First Universalist meeting house built on Pleasant Street
1806-1833 – Reverend Nathan Parker (liberalism continued)
1808 – New Universalist Church building erected on Pleasant Street
1809-1815 – Reverend Hosea Ballou minister of Universalist Church
1819 – Dr. Nathan Parker leads South Parish into Unitarianism
1824-1826 – Construction of present South Church Building
1858 – Court Street end of South Church added. Current pews installed and interior modified
1896 – Universalist Church building destroyed by fire, and new “brick church” built
1925 – Interior of South Church renovated
1945 – Universalist Church and South Church become federated
1947 – Universalist “Brick church” burns, prompting full merger. Basement of South Church created
1953 – Organ, formerly in National Cathedral, installed and sanctuary remodeled
1973 – Dover Unitarian-Universalist Church merged into South Church
1987 – Complete restoration of sanctuary of South Church and renovation of parish hall

Source: http://www.southchurch-uu.org/

Biographical Notes of Select Ministers of South Church

Joshua Moodey – Minister in Portsmouth 1658-1697. Joshua Moodey was born in England about 1633 and was the son of a saddler who came from England to Ipswich, Massachusetts. He graduated from Harvard in 1653 and “began his ministerial labors” in Portsmouth in 1658. He officially became Portsmouth’s settled minister in 1660. In the nineteenth century Moodey was described: “He seems to have given himself wholly to his work, and to have had no other aim than the conversion of sinners and the edification of God’s heritage.” Moodey died in 1697. Moodey was married first to Martha Collins who died around 1674. He married for a second time to Ann Jacobs. He had four children who survived him, Samuel, Martha, Sarah, and Hannah. Source: Sibley’s Harvard Graduates Vol. 1 (page 367)

John Emerson – Minister in Portsouth 1714-1732. In 1703 Rev. Emerson was the first minister settled at Newcastle after it was separated from Portsmouth. According to his biography, “He was a man of fine countenance, and, in the full wig of the day, of very commanding appearance.” He was dismissed from New Castle in 1712 and went to Portsmouth to pastor the newly formed South Church. The South parish was made up of those individuals who chose not to move the new North Church in the center of Portsmouth. Emerson was installed in the church in 1715 and continued to preach there until 1731. In 1731 he preached his last public service, a prayer on the frame of the new South Church. Emerson died June 21, 1732. Emerson was married to Mary Barter of Salem and the two had five daughters: Mary was the wife of Francis Winkley, of Kittery; Ann, of Stephen Greenleaf of Portsmouth; Sarah, of Mr. Davis of Portsmouth ; Dorothy, of Elihu Gunnison of Kittery; and Martha, of Mr. Flint of Plaistow.

William Shurtleff – Minister in Portsmouth 1732-1747. Rev. William Shurtleff was ordained at Newcastle in 1712 following the dismissal of John Emerson. He was a son of William Shurtleff, of Plymouth, in Massachusetts. The Shurtleff married Mary Atkinson, sister of Theodore Atkinson, and did not have any children. Following the death of Emerson in 1732, he was installed at Portsmouth’s South Church in 1733. He preached in Portsmouth until his death on May 9, 1747. According to his biography, “He was eminent for piety aud pastoral fidelity. During his ministry in Portsmouth, he baptized more than seven hundred, and admitted one hundred and thirty communicants to the church.” Rev. Alden (a later pastor of the South Church) remarked, that “his name will long be mentioned with respect, for his uncommon meekness and patience under great trials, and for his distinguished piety, talents and pastoral fidelity.” His biographers also record troubles with his wife on one occasion she was said to have locked him in his office, preventing him from preaching on a Sunday and worrying the congregation.

Job Strong – Minister in Portsmouth 1749-1751. Rev. Strong was a native of Northampton, Massachusetts and came to the South Church in 1749. In 1750 Strong was married to Abigail Gilman, the daughter of Peter Gilman of Exeter. Their only child died as an infant in 1751. It is said that the next forenoon he preached: “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil.” It is then said that at noon he was seized with bilious colic, and on Monday died, at the age of twenty-seven. His widow remarried Rev. Rev. Woodbridge Odlin of Exeter in 1755 and had eight children.

Samuel Haven – Minister in Portsmouth 1752-1806. Rev. Haven came to the South Church in 1752 and remained there the rest of his life. Later in his ministry he was joined by Rev. Timothy Alden who served as assistant pastor from 1799 to 1805. Early in his life, Haven was influenced by the preaching of George Whitefield which inspired him to pursue the ministry at Harvard. His liberal views led to several parishioners charging him with heresy for not preaching Calvinistic predestination. However his view was ultimately upheld by a majority of the congregation. Thus, Haven was the first to bring a more liberal theology to the South Parish. In addition to preaching, Haven practiced medicine amongst the poor of Portsmouth. Haven was married twice and father seventeenth children. He died in Portsmouth in 1806. Source: Literary Lion’s Exhibit Catalog, Richard Candee

Timothy Alden – Minister in Portsmouth 1799-1805. Rev. Alden was the son of a minister, born in 1771 in Yarmouth, Massachusetts. He graduated from Harvard College in 1794. Following a brief teaching career he was called to the South Church in 1799 to minister along with the aging Rev. Haven. He was ordained in 1799 and in 1800 he also began a school for young ladies in Portsmouth. He discontinued preaching in 1805, devoting himself to his school. In 1806 he opened an Academy for boys and girls. In 1808 he left to teach in Boston. Later he taught at schools in New Jersey, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. The school he began in Pennsylvania became Allegheny College. Rev. Alden was married to Elizabeth Shephard Wormsted of Marblehead, Massachusetts. The two had five children. He died in 1839. Source: Sprague, William B., Annals of the American Pulpit, New York: Robert Carter and Brothers, 1857, pp. 449-454 and Allegheny Special Collections http://library.allegheny.edu/Special/BioAlden.htm

*Note: This collection of brief biographies is not an exhaustive list of ministers related to the South Church, but rather a selection of biographies for ministers who played a role in the early years of the church.

Timeline of Ministers of the South Church

Will Saunders and Marta Flanagan 1997-2005
Charles Reinhardt (Interim) 1995-1997
John Papandrew (Summer) (Min. Emeritus) 1988,92,7
Pat Bowen (Assist. & Assoc. Minister) 1993-1997
Robert Karnan 1983-1995
Dreon Repp (Interim) 1982-1983
James Brewer (Interim) 1982
Jay Abernathy 1979-1981
John Steward McPhee 1964-1978
Robert Lawson (Interim) 1964
John Papandrew 1961-1964
William Richardson Reid 1955-1961
William W. Lewis (min of newly fed. church) 1945-1955
William Safford Jones 1922-1945
Alfred Gooding 1884-1921
James deNormandie 1862-1883
Andrew Peabody 1833-1860
Nathan Parker 1808-1833
Timothy Alden 1798-1805
Samuel Haven 1752-1806
Job Strong 1748-1751
William Shurtleff 1731-1747
John Emerson 1713-1732
Joshua Moodey 1658-1697

Timeline of Ministers of the Universalist Church

Ernest A. Thorsell 1944-1945
William Cromie (died in “pulpit”) 1943-1944
Clarence Eaton 1943
Charles Telford Erickson 1941-1943
Myles W. Rhodeheaver 1939-1940
Frank B. Chatterton 1928-1939
Allen Brown (died in “pulpit”) 1926-1928
Alfred J. Cardall 1922-1925
F.A. Dillingham 1917-1920
Luther Weston Atwood 1914-1916
George Clyde Boolrn 1913-1914
Charles H. Emmons 1910-1912
George E. Leighton 1899-1910
Curtis Hoyt Dickins 1894-1898
Henry R. Rose 1890-1893
Lee H. Fisher 1886-1889
William E. Gaskin 1882-1884
Eugene M. Grant 1876-1881
S.S. Hubbard 1874-1876
Orson F. Van Cise 1872-1873
George W. Bicknell 1869-1871
Russell P. Ambler 1867-1869
Adoniram Judson Patterson 1855-1866
Lemuel Willis 1852-1855
W.A. P. Dillingham 1851
Silas S. Fletcher 1848-1850
George W. Montgomery 1843-1848
Moses Ballou (nephew) 1836-1843
Thomas F. King (father of T. Starr) 1828-1835
Edward Turner 1824-1828
Sabastian Streeter 1816-1824
Hosea Ballou (Architect of Univ.) 1809-1815
George Richards 1793-1809
Noah Parker, leader/min but not ordained 1777-1787
John Murray founded the church with visits 1773-1777

Series List

I. Early Records
II. Vital Records
III. Financial and Church Meetings

A. Bound Volumes
B. Bills and Receipts
C. Meeting and Warden’s Reports

IV. Ministers

A. Samuel Haven
B. Timothy Alden
C. Nathan Parker
D. Andrew Peabody
E. James DeNormandie
F. Alfred Gooding
G. William Safford Jones
H. John H. McPhee

V. Pew and Membership
VI. Charity Fund, Special Funds and Investments
VII. Societies and Clubs

A. Ladies Domestic Missionary Society
B. Unitarian’s Layman’s League
C. Alliance of Unitarian Women
D. Dorcas Society
E. Young People’s Group
F. Unity Group

VIII. Sabbath School

A. General
B. Building Purchase and Construction
C. Correspondence
D. Financial
E. Students
F. Miscellaneous

IX. Universalist Church

A. Ministers and correspondence
B. Pews and Membership
C. Financial
D. Financial
E. Meetings
F. Miscellaneous

X. Miscellaneous

A. Printed Material
B. Correspondence
C. General Church History
D. Miscellaneous

E. 20th Century Miscellaneous Additions

I. Early Records

This series includes records for the South Church beginning with the division of the Portsmouth Parish into the North and South. The records include meeting minutes, requirements for membership, and baptism records.

Box 1

Folder 1 Tax list 1714-1716

List of individuals and the amount of tax they were assessed for the years 1714-1716

Folder 2 Record Book, 1713-1768 [Book 1]

“The Records of the South Church of Christ in Portsmouth. Vol. 1”
Book begins with a confession of faith, “We believe God’s word or those holy scriptures to be adequate object and only ground of our faith as well as the Rule of Faith & Manners and therefore we believe in all things according to them…” Statement is followed by a list of beliefs (concerning communion, baptism, etc.) and bylaws of the congregation.

The following names appear after the bylaws: Thomas Cotton, Samuel Banfield, Solomon Cotton, John Hooker, Samuel Waterhouse, Ephraim Johnson, Sampson Babb, John Sherburne, Benjamin Maxwell, James Sherburne, William Cotton, Richard Waterhouse, James Leavitt, John Vrin, and Roger Swain.
Descriptions of church meetings, bylaws, etc. are found in the volume amongst records of baptism, marriage, communion and death. Vital records have been transcribed in a volume located in the Portsmouth Athenaeum research library.

The first half of the book is a chronological record of each pastor’s term. The rear of the book includes meeting minutes beginning in 1749 and continuing through 1766.
*See Vital Records for transcription of vital records found in this volume

1714/15 March 23 Description of the ordination of John Emerson
Statement refers to the South Church as “The Church belonging to the Old Meeting house in Portsmouth.” The reverends Christopher Toppan, Caleb Cushing, and Theophilus Cotton were present along with the congregation.
1732 Feb. 21 Announcement concerning the calling of William Shurtleff to replace John Emerson as minister.
1745 August 10 Vote concerning the suspension of Abigail Lobic[?] on account of her being convicted of stealing “several things” followed by a long discussion concerning the ordination of Joseph Adams in Startham, appears to be disagreement about church issues and voting
1749 June 28 Announcement concerning the replacement of William Shurtleff with a new pastor, Job Strong
1751 September Death of Rev. Job Strong, followed by the installation of Samuel Haven in 1752
1749 December 17 [rear of book] Vote concerning church issues:
“Voted that no person guilty of publick scandal shall be admitted to any church Privileges before publick satisfaction has been made.
“That infants born of fornication shall be denied Baptism until both or one of the Parents make publick acknowledgement of their sin; except in a case of Dangerous sickness. The minister may administer baptism to a sick child, upon a Parent’s solemnly promising before a Number of Brethren of the Church that they will make publick satisfaction according to X4 appointment as soon as possible.”
1751 June 20 Discussion concerning a donation made by Capt. George Walker
1751 August 9 Final vote of meeting authorized the purchase of a book for the purpose of keeping a record of the church
1753 July 5 Outcome of vote including that the Bible be read at every Sunday service; Richard Shortridge, James Clarkson, James Sherburne, Daniel Jackson, and Mark Langdon were discussed in respect the serving as deacons of the church
1753 August 13 Additional discussion about the gentlemen listed above serving as deacons
1753 August 31 Continued discussion concerning deacon positions; committee appointed to create list of members (list found in rear of book)
1753 November 22 List of members was read allowed including the “excuses” made by some for long absence from church meetings, a later meeting deemed some of the excuses acceptable and others insufficient
ca. 1755 List of members is followed by discussion of church laws including public confession of sin, church leadership
1757 October 18 Discussion of a letter sent by John Eliot, Abram Eliot, Perkins Ayers and “a number of women”
1759 May Letter sent to the church by Stephen Parker regarding Parker’s charge with “having attempted to offer violence to Mr. Leach.”

Folder 3 Record Book, 1769-1795 [Book 6]

Volume begins with a list of members in 1769. This is followed by records of church meetings. The book is divided into two sections, the first consists of membership lists and meeting minutes and the second of baptismal, marriage and funeral records. The contents of the second section has been thoroughly transcribed in volumes located in the reading room.

The first section consists of meeting records include selection of deacons, members being voted in, discipline of members, church belief and doctrine concerning baptism, forgiveness of sin, etc., new members (list at the beginning and them added in notes for each year as they are admitted).

1774 March “The Church were acquainted with some reports which reflected dishonor on the Christian character of Abigail Bass…”
1790 September Samuel Haven lists principles of church beliefs concerning sins amongst the members, forgiveness, baptism, etc.
1809 July Nathan Parker called to be pastor includes his statement of belief
1810-1821 Meeting minutes and membership information (see index)

Folder 4 Record Book, 1749-1833 [Book 4]

Pasted on the first page is a deed for land purchased by the South Parish from Jeremiah Wheelwright at Pickering’s Neck (possibly the burying ground on Pleasant Street).

Book includes calls to meeting, financial records including income and expenses (paying sexton, purchasing supplies for repairs to the church building, bell rope (1754), etc.), and meeting minutes. The minutes occasionally shed light on projects and individuals within the church leadership, however most entries concerning approving routine expenses, choosing a moderator, choosing Wardens, and pew regulations and taxes. In the early 1800s expenses for the singing school and the Sabbath school begin.

1749 Expenses for the ordination of Rev. Job Strong
1751 Regarding the funeral of the parish minister Job Strong including mourning clothes for his widow, money for his widow, digging the grave, a pair of gloves for Madam Shurtleff, etc.
1752 Calling Samuel Haven to be minister
1760 Committee for building and steeple repair report presented
1767 Improvements to the building, pews, and pulpit
1799 Vote concerning settling Timothy Alden as junior pastor along side Samuel Haven
1805 Transcribed letter from Timothy Alden concerning resignation. Alden discusses his positions as school teacher and minister. He discusses the financial challenges of living in Portsmouth and his desire to have only one position of employment, rather than the two he currently had. Letter is followed by a request from the Wardens for the salary needed by Alden. Alden replies with his needs and the Wardens vote that because of the “present state of the Parish” they will have to “dissolve the ties which at present unite us to our Pastor.”
1807 Announcement that the members of the Episcopal Church in Portsmouth be invited to worship at the South Church, following the destruction of the church by fire
1808 Calling Nathan Parker to be minister after having been “for a long time…destitute of a settled pastor.”
1817 Parish contributed funds to help the town pave the section of road from Water Street to Pleasant Street
1823 Discussion begins about the construction of a new meeting house including the type of materials to be used, “The meeting house shall be of brick or stone and significantly large at the least to accommodate all the present members of the Parish…” At this point a site had not been chosen
1825 Completion and dedication of the new meeting house
1827 The Third Independent Congregational Society on Pitt Street gave the South Church all of its property in exchange for the South Church’s old meeting house, the Society to keep their bell however
1827 The South Church held the town responsible for the bell being broken, the town was investigating the cost of repair
1828 The South Church denies a request by the North Church to purchase the old South Meeting House (Marcy Street)
1828 Voted to sell the parsonage land “on the South Road adjoining the Cotton’s burying ground, containing about 15 acres.” Proceeds of the sale were to be used to pay off parish debt
1830 Committee formed to look into purchasing a bell without needing to impose a tax on the parish
1830 Voted to sell land in Rochester donated by the late Joseph Haven
1830 Payment for Washington Sweetser directing singing at the church
1831 Payment to W. Ladd for lamps, selling the old bell to pay for a new one, and exterior blinds for the eastern windows
1832 Committee appointed to examine “selling the old meeting house, or of taking it down and selling the materials; and that they consult with those persons who are interested in the Tombs under said house…”
1833 Discussion of hiring an assistant pastor due to apparent failing health of Nathan Parker

II. Vital Record

See also Annual Meeting Records 1808-1887 (Bound Volume) which contains a record of members and baptisms from 1758 to 1945 (not complete). Transcriptions of Vital Records can also be found in the Reference Room stacks at the Portsmouth Athenaeum.

Box 2

Folder 1 Vital Records, 1714-1895 [Typed transcription, bound volume] [Book 2]

Typed compilation of all vital records found in church record books. Organized alphabetically according the minister. Includes baptism, marriage and death information as well as communion (membership) for earlier years. The amount of details provided for entries varies, some list cause of death and names of parents.

Folder 2 Vital Records, 1714-1920 [Excerpt from Journal of the New England Historic Genealogical Society] (2 copies)
Information is the same as the volume above, appears to have been excerpted from several volumes of the New England Historic Genealogical Society’s journal.

Folder 3 List of Marriages and Funerals performed by Rev. Andrew Peabody 1833-1860
Handwritten manuscript including name and birthplace of bride and groom

Folder 4 Vital Records, 1884-1921 [Typed transcription]
“A List of Baptisms, Marriages, and Funerals conducted by Rev. Alfred Gooding during his Ministry over the South Parish, Portsmouth, N.H. from Oct. 15 1884 to Dec. 31 1921.”

Folder 5 Marriages and Baptisms performed by the Reverend William Safford Jones 1922-1945

Folder 6 Vital Records, 1947-1963
Marriages, funerals and christenings performed by William W. Simes. Entries include details about birthplace of individual, occupation, current residence, and age for marriages; name of individual, birthplace, age, and cause of death for funerals; name of individual, birth date and names of parents for baptisms.

III. Financial and Meetings

This category includes materials and records kept by the Wardens of the church. Some materials in this section overlap with other sections. For example reports made by the Charity Fund to the Wardens are found in this section. Most loose materials in this collection were found groups in packets. These packets were left intact in folders. For this reason there are correspondence related to church businesses mixed in with financial information.
Bound Notebooks

A. Bound Volumes

Box 3

Folder 1 1753-1758 Collections and Disbursements

Small bound volume titled “Account Book for the South Church in Portsmouth” possibly kept by Daniel Jackson (name on front cover). Book contains records of collections and expenses. Expenses include wine, bread, and payment to “Mr. Jackson” (possibly the church sexton). Below are entries for items other than the usual:

1753 a gift from Gideon Walker made on his behalf by Henry Sherburne in the amount of 100 pounds

1754 “bad money returned”

The rear of the booklet contains a list of individuals that received support from the church including: Widow Pittman, Widow Divas, Widow Horkrin, Widow Mehitable Sentor, Sarah Widow Mary Daniel, Widow Susannah Meeds, Widow Hardison, Stephen Noble, Widow Mary Cotton, Deacon Langdon, Simon Livret, Hannah Duly (or Hannah Dule or Hannah Duley), Widow Sarah Tucker, “Old Mr. Dow,” Ann Webber, Widow Mary Long, Widow Sarah Pittman, Widow Elizabeth Fernald, Solome Wood, Mrs. Elizabeth Emerson, Widow Roe, Sarah Priest, Widow Mary Hall, Widow Abigail Henderson, George Jackson, and Widow Sarah Crockett.

Folder 2 1756 Collections and Disbursements

1756 Note: “At a Meeting of the South Church of Christ in Portsmouth voted that Ten Pounds old Tenr of the Charity Money in the Hand of the Deacons be laid out in practical Books for the use of the Poor of the Parish.” Signed Samuel Haven, Moderator

1756 list of individuals receiving support from the church (individuals listed in above entry)

Folder 3 1757-1773 Collections and Disbursements

Tall bound booklet containing records of income and expenditures. Expenses include bread, wine, and funds for the “poor.” Entries of interest include:

1760 note concerning a special collection for “the Inhabitants of Boston whom suffered by the Late fire.” The collection of 568 pounds was delivered to the Treasury in Portsmouth to be sent to the victims of the Boston Fire of 1760.

1759 Gift of one hundred pounds from George Walker

Individuals that received support from the church include: Widow Drout, Mrs. Dockham, Widow Liveritt, Deacon Langdon, Widow Mary Tucker, Francis Garmon, Widow Crockett, Widow Sarah Noris, Widow Sarah Priest, Widow Sarah Long, Mrs. Seavey wife of Noah Seavey, Widow Sweret, Margery Anderus, Widow Elizabeth Wilkinson, Hannah Palmer, Elizabeth Emerson, Widow Hannah Hull, Solome Wood, Abigail Henderson, Widow Sarah Harris, Widow Quick, Mrs. Damerel wife of John Damerel, Mrs. Tarlton, Widow Abigail Adams, Widow Mary Adams, Sarah Finney, Widow Melcher, Thomas Beck, Katrine Lang, Elizabeth Barnes, Margery Walker, Esther Melcher, Mary Gail, Ann Yeaton, Joanna Jackson, and Sarah Seward.

Folder 4 1757 Collections and Disbursements

1757 list of individuals receiving support from the church (individuals listed in above entry)

Folder 5 1774-1781 Collections and Disbursements

1774 Fragment with calculations “Church Account 1774 April”

1775 Letter from Rachel Shores to Deacon John Marshall: “I have sent to see if there was any Collection yesterday for the poor as usual as I stand in great need and if there is any for the poor that you please to send me a little and you will much oblige you Humble Servant.”

1775 July 9 Record of contributions primarily “Stranger Contributions” three individually listed: David Call, David Griffith, and Nathaniel Furbur.

1775 Small bound booklet with minimal writing. One entry records funds given to “Mrs. Holmes for her use of her Ancient Mother.”

1775-1779 Record of expenditures primarily wine and bread, also income from the estate of Daniel Jackson and money given to the Widow Seavey.

1781 Expenditures including wine and bread and contributions including money from the estate of John Marshall

Folder 6 1775-1782 Disbursements

Lists of poor receiving funds from the church

Folder 7 1753-1784 Undated Fragments

Two lists addressed to “To Deacon John Marshall” including the names of individuals receiving support from the church.

Folder 8 1784-1827 Collections and Disbursements

Bound volume containing a record of “Collections and Disbursements” for the South Church. Expenses are most often for communion (wine and bread). Income is listed as cash amounts and the date. Beginning in 1806 there are entries of money being given out to individuals including widows, names listed include: Mr. Bowler, Mrs. Ball, Mrs. Jackson, Tilly Clarkson, Widow Colson, Widow W. Lord, Widow Ham, Widow Snell, Widow Holmes, Widow Palmer, Widow Sewell, Widow Ann Evens, Widow Walls, Widow Batson, Mrs. Wendell, Widow Leighton, Widow Cotter, Thomas Prowess, Widow Bowler, Mrs. Chandler, William Blunt, Widow Muchemore, Widow Blunt, Sarah Ayers, and the wife of Amos Beck.

The first page of the volume contains several records of christening including:

1806 Mrs. Beck’s [?sp] child Mary Hunter (father at sea) christened by Mr. Lowel
1806 Capt. Henry Tredick’s child Ann Tredick christened by Mr. Litchfield
1807 Capt. Luke M. Leighton’s child Alexander Leighton christen by Mr. Mittemore
1808 Joshua Jones had two children baptized Linnerd Jones and Joshua Jones by Mr. Chandler
1808 Capt. Henry Tredick’s child William Tredick by Mr. Chandler

Folder 9 1796-1827 Fast and Thanksgiving Collections

Individual sheets were bound in paper with title on paper: “Fast and Thanksgiving Collections South Parish from 1796 to 1827.” Each entry begins with the amount collected followed by the “Poor” that received a portion of the offering. Names are divided into two columns, one being “those of the church” who received slightly more. Names for 1796 include: the Widows Leaverit, McCoy, Lewis, Casey, Weels, Seawards, Pitman, Huntress, Haslet, Chandler, Muchemore, Prowess, Jackson, Cotter, Bowler, Sentor, Woods, Hutchins, the wife of James Holmes, Temperance Hurley, John Beck, and the wife of John Williams.

Folder 10 1826-1845 Account Book (Bound Volume)

Folder 11 1826-1845 Account Book (Bound Volume)

Account book and corresponding daybook recording expense amounts and the names of individuals receiving money from the church and donating to the church.

Folder 12 1842-1859 Cashbook (Bound Volume)

Account book with record of income and expenses, including lists of member names and the amount of pew tax paid by each member.

Folder 13 1859-1909 Treasurer’s Book (Bound Volume)

Account book with record of income and expenses, including lists of member names and the amount of pew tax paid by each member. Expenses include individuals paid for singing, minister’s salary, etc.

Folder 14 1859-1862 Account book with John Sise (Bound Volume)

Box 4

Folder 1 1845-1894 Cashbook (Bound Volume)

Cashbook containing summary of expenses and outstanding debts owed to the church. Includes collection of taxes and expenses related to building maintenance, pastor’s salary, etc.

Folder 2 1845-1878 Daybook (Bound Volume)

Daybook containing daily expenses and income of the church.

Folder 3 1879-1892 Account Book (Bound Volume)

Book listing income and expenses for various funds, salaries, etc. (few records in book, most is blank)

Box 5

Folder 1 1910-1944 Cashbook (Bound Volume)

Contains records of various fund balances and cash on hand for church, societies and clubs.

Folder 2 1917-1946 Receipts and Expenditures (Bound Volume)

Folder 3 1950-1954 Income and Expenses (Bound Volume)

Folder 4 1952-1954 Record of Donations

Record of members, member address and amount donated.

B. Bills and Receipts

Many receipts deal with improvements to the building as well as general maintenance and operation such as heating (wood), lighting (oil and the Portsmouth Gas Light Company), cleaning furnace (1854), hemming blinds (1854), painting walls (1854), shoveling snow, building fires in the Sunday School, etc. The receipts show the building of a new stage and other remodeling including new curtains in 1854. Some years such as 1854 have considerably more receipts than others.

Note that the list below does not include a description all receipts, rather descriptions for several years to provide an idea of what materials are present in later years as well. Receipts were kept in original order (not chronological) as found in small packets for each year, this kept similar receipts or multiple receipts for the same project in order. Some bills were written in one year and then paid several years later, they are filed by when they were paid (original organization).

In the second half of the nineteenth century the format of record keeping changes to summary sheets called Warden’s Reports. These reports were left in the order in which they were received with notes accompanying the reports.

Folder 5 1796, 1800, 1844, 1846 Bills and Receipts

Folder 6 1852 Bills and Receipts

Folder 7 1853 Bills and Receipts

1853 Apr 30 Tax assessed to heirs of S. Pray
1853 Sept 1 Loan with the Piscataqua Exchange Bank for proposed alterations in heating, lighting and ventilating

Folder 8 1854 Bills and Receipts

1854 Services performed by Ebenezer Wyatt as church sexton including maintenance of building, building fires, etc.
1854 April Leonard Cotton for wood
1854 May 24 Ebenezer Wyatt church sexton cleaning windows
1854 May 24 Barker Adams for lumber
1854 May 31 John Knowlton for hemming blinds
1854 May – June various individuals for work on the church: John Rand, Andrew Anderson, Charles Anderson, Wiley Coleman, and Nathaniel Hanscom
1854 June 7 J. H. Bailey for hardware (nails and screws)
1854 July 3 Insurance receipt
1854 July – Sept. Portsmouth Gas Light Company
1854 Aug 1-7 Lewis A Bruce for painting blinds
1854 Aug 15 William R. Preston “toward appropriation for music”
1854 Aug 30 Payment of interest on note held by Richard Jenness
1854-1855 Record of Disbursements including pastor’s salary, insurance, repairs and upkeep of church (repairing blinds), fuel, and music.

Folder 9 1855 Bills and Receipts

1855 April 16 Receipt from the Portsmouth Athenaeum for Proprietor shar assessment
1855-6 Disbursements, list of individuals and merchants paid, including $7 for the church’s Athenaeum assessment, sexton’s salary, pastor’s salary and life insurance for the pastor
1855 December Leonard Cotton for cord wood
1855 December 24 insurance receipt from Aetna Insurance
1855 Invoice for winter snow custodial services performed by Ebenezer Wyatt, including clearing ice, shoveling snow, building fires, and applying granite chips to walkways.

Folder 10 1856 Bills and Receipts

1856 November Leonard Cotton for cord wood
1856 Invoice from Charles E. Laighton for supplies including Shaker brooms
1856 Invoice for “incidentals” from James F. Shores including tuning and moving the organ at the South Parish Sunday School
1856 August 16 Invoice from E. G. Merrill for “work for lightning rod”
1856 September 17 to Phineas Drake for “Composition casting”
1856 August 26 H. N. Hooper for work on church bell (replacement?)
1856 July List of individuals paid for their “service in the choir of the South Church. Names include: Wingate N. Ilsley, Susan E. Miller, Mary E. B. Miller, Alice E. Laighton, and Charles W. Brown.
1856 October 31 List of individuals paid for being the choir. Names include: L. D. Bartlett, W. W. Ilsley, L. E. Miller, M. E. B. Miller, Alice E. Laighton, Thomas J. Goodwin

Box 6

Folder 1 1857 Bills and Receipts

1857 October Repairing window sashes from William Tucker
1857 April to June Portsmouth Gas Light Company
1857 January Receipt from Samuel F. Cobb for repairs to organ
1857 May 24 Howard Fire Insurance Company receipt for policy
1857 November 15 Invoice from Benjamin F. Webster for construction of the South Parish Sabbath School Vestry, includes a detailed list of work completed, painting roof, outside blinds, gas fixtures, fencing, ventilation, furnace, etc.
1857 December 4 Invoice from Preston and Emerson for architectural plans and specifications for the new Sabbath School building.
1857 February 7 Expenses associated with moving items from the old vestry, including trucking the library, moving the organ, and “advertising Old Vestry”

Folder 2 1858 Bills and Receipts

Folder 3 1859 Bills and Receipts

Folder 3b 1859-1860 Bills and Receipts related to the installation of gas pipes, etc.

Folder 4 1860 Bills and Receipts

Folder 5 1861 Bills and Receipts

Folder 6 1862 Bills and Receipts

Folder 7 1863 Bills and Receipts

Folder 8 1864 Bills and Receipts

Folder 9 1865 Bills and Receipts

Folder 10 1866 Bills and Receipts

Folder 11 1867 Bills and Receipts

Folder 12 1868 Bills and Receipts

Folder 13 1868 Bills and Receipts Anniversary Celebration

Folder 14 1869 Bills and Receipts

Folder 15 1870 Bills and Receipts

Folder 16 1871 Bills and Receipts

Folder 17 1872-1873 Bills and Receipts

Folder 18 1873-1874 Bills and Receipts

Folder 19 1874-1880 Bills and Receipts

Folder 20 1891-1892 Bills and Receipts

C. Meeting and Warden’s Reports

This section begins with six bound volumes containing meeting records, minutes, votes, etc. The loose manuscript materials in the second half of this section were found bound in groups of papers containing correspondence regarding transfer of pew shares, notes to the wardens including suggestions regarding the upkeep of the church building, South Parish Charity Fund records and treasurer’s reports. It was decided to keep the loose manuscript materials in this section in their original order, as although in different forms, many of the materials relate to one another.

Much of the Meeting and Warden’s materials include information about church maintenance and upkeep, clearing snow, exterior repairs, etc. Materials also include correspondence sent to the Wardens regarding burials, pew transfers, and general church building.

Earlier meeting records (1820-1830) contain evidence of the social problems faced by the church, such as temperance. There are also several examples of individuals leaving the church during this time period due to differing theological views (1820-1830).

Later records follow a more structured pattern of financial reports and general reports (Warden’s reports) as well as reports from the Charity Fund.

Folder 1 Annual Meeting Records 1808-1887 (Bound Volume)

Volume begins with the calling and voting in of Pastor Nathan Parker. In 1821 there is a report regarding committee findings that had set out to “investigate the causes which have led to the separation of the connexion which has so long subsisted between the North Church in this town, and this Church…” This discussion goes on for the first section of the volume, citing examples of interaction between the pastors of the two churches. The discussion continues at other times in the volume as well.

In 1822 there is a Report by “The committee appointed by the brethren of the South Church to inquire into the causes which may have operated to prevent larger addition to their number…and whether any measures should be taken by the Church to promote a greater attention to religion and its ordinance…” The report goes on to outline probable causes for slowed church growth, as well as possible changes to encourage growth.

The volume then continues with a pattern of meeting notices, committee and quarterly meeting reports, and votes. There are also notes about members transferring their membership to other churches and the method of collecting funs for the Charity Fund is discussed (1851).

In 1887 there are several letters pasted in the pages the relate to the Thomas A. Adams Fund.

The rear of the book contains a record of members and baptisms from 1758 to 1945.

Folder 2 Annual Meeting Records 1833-1876 (Bound Volume)

Includes notice of meeting, election of officers, votes, summary of parish financial state (debt, expenses and income), committee reports, and general church business.

Folder 3 Meeting Records 1842-1871 (Bound Volume)

A Record of the Proceedings of the Wardens of the South Church in Portsmouth, NH From May 1842 to April 1871. Includes meeting minutes, list of individuals present at meetings, votes taken at meetings, etc.

Box 8

Folder 1 Meeting Records 1872-1926 (Bound Volume)

Folder 2 Annual Meeting Records 1877-1947 (Bound Volume)

Includes notice of meeting, election of officers, votes, summary of parish financial state (debt, expenses and income), committee reports, and general church business.

Folder 3 Meeting Records 1927-1940 (Bound Volume)

Wardens of the South Parish in Portsmouth, NH. Includes meeting minutes, list of individuals present at meetings, votes taken at meetings, etc.

Box 9

Folder 1 Meeting Records 1811-1830

1811 Jacob Abbott regarding supplying the pulpit
1819 Announcement regarding invitation made to Nathan Parker to be pastor
1819 “An Address on the occasion of introducing John W. Foster to the Office of Deacon in the South Church, Portsmouth”
1820 Letter from Robert Smith and Anna Smith to have their membership transferred to the North Church due to ongoing “trials” (2 copies)
1821 Committee Report on the Theological Split with North Church outlines the ongoing tensions between the two churches. Report is signed by Nathaniel A. Haven, Edward Cutts, Samuel Cushman, Nathaniel A. Haven Jr. and John W. Foster (original and photocopy) * Folder 1b and 1c
1821 Certification that Robert and Anna Smith had been received by the North Church
1822 Vote that a record book be purchased by the church
1824 Report on the conduct of Althia Johnson in regards to her intemperance
1826 Amendment to Statement of Incorporation * Folder 1d
1826 Subscription list for support of the new church building (2 pages)
1826 Report of the state of religion in the church, especially amongst the youth
1828 Request for letters of dismissal from Martha Trundy, Mary Hooker, Elizabeth Yeaton, Sarah Yeaton and Mary Vaughan to join the “new Church styled the third Congregational Church Portsmouth”
1828 Negotiations to sell the old South Meeting House
1829 Vote to lend the Third Congregational Church a communion plate
1830 Letter to Miss Mercy Jackson regarding her dismissal and apparent theological differences from the South Church
1830 Bond of David Lowd
1830 Letters regarding the transfer of membership from North Church to South Church for Eliza Ann McClintock, Eliza Sweetser, and Elizabeth McClintock Letters discuss theological issues extensively

Folder 2 Meeting Records 1831-1842

1831 Letter to Martha Walden regarding her request to transfer membership to the Pleasant Street Church
1833 Report for the quarterly meeting of the South Church regarding temperance
1833 Regarding the failing health of Nathaniel Parker
1833 Certification that Andrew P. Peabody’s membership at the University Church at Cambridge
1833 Ordination of Andrew P. Peabody
1833 Report requesting more frequent church meetings
1834 Report of the Seafaring population
1842 Report of the Committee for Repairs and Alterations to the church (2)
1842 Report and vote regarding repairs and alterations to the church, including construction of two galleries

Folder 3 Warden’s Materials 1856-1860

1856-1857 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1857 Promissory note from the South Parish to the South Parish Sunday School (2)
1857-1858 Warden’s accounts statement
1858 Meeting minutes
1858 Report of the committee on raising money for alterations and repairs to the church
1858 Subscriptions for repairs and alterations to the building
1858-1859 Warden’s accounts statement
1858-1859 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1859-1869 Warden’s account statement
1859-1860 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1859 Balance Sheet
1859 Meeting notification
1859 Correspondence with William Sheafe regarding pew rental and uncollected taxes
1859 Report of the Committee of Pew Valuation
1860 Balance Sheet

Folder 4 Warden’s Materials 1860-1864

1860-1861 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1861 Correspondence related to William Foote’s declining the position of pastor
1861 Balance Sheet
1861 Warden’s account statement
1861-1862 Warden’s account statement
1862 Request that the correspondence between the Wardens and James DeNormandie be read to the congregation
1862-1863 Warden’s account statement
1862-1863 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1863-1864 Warden’s account statement
1863-1864 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1863-1864 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1864 Salter Tredick declining position as Warden
1864 A. J. Penhallow declining position as Warden
1864 Notice of annual meeting

Folder 5 Warden’s Materials 1864-1865

1864-1865 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1865 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1864-1865 Report of Treasurer William H. Rollins

Folder 6 Warden’s Materials 1865-1866

1865-1866 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1866 Charity Fun Report to the Wardens
1866 ca. List of temporary ministers to “Supply” pulpit and wages paid, as well as a list of paid musicians
1865-1866 Warden’s account statement
1866 American Unitarian Association fund raising

Folder 7 Warden’s Materials 1866-1867

1866-1867 Warden’s Report with brief financial statement
1867 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1867 List of paid musicians, fuel and light expenses and incidental expenses
1867 Warden’s account statement
1867 ca. Request for leave of absence from Rev. DeNormandie to complete studies in Europe, as requested in 1862
1866 Request from the Warden’s that DeNormandie supply the pulpit while he is gone

Folder 8 Warden’s Materials 1868-1870

1868-1870 Warden’s Report
1870 Warden’s Report
1869-1870 Treasurer’s Report
1869 Richard Jenness correspondence regarding payment of pew fees and separation from the church
1868-1869 Schedule of Expenses
1870 James DeNormandie (minister) correspondence regarding the formation of a music committee
1869-1870 Schedule of Expenses
1869 South Parish Charity Funds trustees report
1870 South Parish Charity Funds trustees report
1870 Benjamin W. Curtis correspondence regarding leaving the church
1870 Receipts for contribution to the American Unitarian Association
1870 Eliza M. Trundy letter regarding her husband’s bequest of his house on Deer Street, asking that she be permitted to continuing living in the house
1867-1870 Joseph H. Clark correspondence regarding dispute over payment for a pew
1868 H. J. Baldwin letter regarding pew taxes

Folder 9 Warden’s Materials 1871-1872

1871 Warden’s Report
1871 Warden’s account statement
1871 Schedule of Expenses
1871 South Church Charity Funds trustees report
1872 South Church Charity Funds trustees report
1871 Treasurer’s Account
1872 E. S. Ryder letter regarding leaving the church
1872 John S. Harvey letter regarding selling “the pew I have been occupying” to settle the Brooks Estate
1872 James DeNormandie (minister) letter regarding “salary and taxes”
1872 Receipts for contribution to the American Unitarian Association
1872 Rush R. Shippen letter regarding contributions to the American Unitarian Association
1872 William H. Rollins letter regarding James DeNormandie and the Committee of Conference
1872 Report of the Committee of Conference
1872 Warden’s account statement
1872 Warden’s account statement

Folder 10 Warden’s Materials 1873

1873 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1873 Receipt for dues paid to the American Unitarian Association
1873 Letter from Eliza M. Trundy announcing the death of her husband (3 letters)
1873 Letter from Edwin P. Davis regarding his address change in Michigan
1873 Letter from John Pray regarding transportation (railroad papers) for Mr. Chase and Miss Philbrick
1873 ca. Note regarding payment of taxes for Miss Rice
1873 Letter from Mrs. T. Jones regarding use of her pew
1873 Letter from Eliza M. Trundy
1873 Letter from Mary E. L. Pickering and Charles Pickering regarding a pew transfer
1873 Letter from Sarah H. Foster regarding planting trees around the church
1873 Letter from Eliza M. Trundy
1873 Letter from M.R. Lyman regarding pew tax
1873 Receipt for dues paid to the American Unitarian Association

Folder 11 Warden’s Materials 1874

1874 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1874 Report regarding repairs needed to the interior of the church building
1874 Receipt for taxes paid on pew James F. Shores
1874 Request for payment of taxes by Mrs. Fitz
1874 Note regarding payment by Mrs. Fitz
1874 Receipt for taxes paid by the Misses Salter
1874 Copy of the will of Arabella Rice
1874 Alfred M. Hoyt giving up his pew for the year

Folder 12 Warden’s Materials 1875

1875 Treasurer’s Report (with C. H. Rollins)
1875 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1875 Wardens account statement
1876 Treasurer’s Report (with C. H. Rollins)
1876 Wardens account statement
1877 Report from Rev. James DeNormandie regarding the need to decrease parish expenses and debt
1877 Summary of Parish expenses
1877 Warden’s Report
1877 Treasurer’s Report

Folder 13 Warden’s Materials 1878-1881

1878 Warden’s Report
1878 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1878 Statement from Rev. James DeNormandie regarding the need for a new Hymn Book
1878 Petition to publish a series of lectures on the history of the South Church
1878 Note regarding the suit between Charles H. Sanborn and Thomas Chase Jr.
1878-1879 Treasurer’s Report
1879 Warden’s Report
1879 Resignation of Alfred W. Haven from his position as Trustee of the South Parish Charity Fund
1879 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1880 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1880 Treasurer’s Report
1880 Warden’s Report
1881 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1881 Treasurer’s Report
1881 Warden’s Report

Folder 14 Warden’s Materials 1882-1883

1882-1883 Treasurer’s Report
1882 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1882 Treasurer’s Report
1882 Letter from Rev. James DeNormandie regarding proposed changes in taxation
1882 Warden’s Report
1882 Letter from James Rindge Stanwood regarding reproducing the centerpiece of the original South Church for the Old State House in Boston
1883 Resignation of James DeNormandie
1883 Call for a meeting regarding the payment of DeNormandie’s salary and the letter from James Rindge Stanwood
1883 Request to call a Parish meeting
1883 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1884 Statement of the Oliver W. Penhallow Fund
1884 Request to call a Parish meeting
1884 Charity Fund Report to the Wardens
1884 Acceptance of call to be pastor by Alfred Gooding
1884 Treasurer’s Report

IV. Ministers

Materials for individual ministers vary greatly, with some ministers having numerous items and others, none. Materials vary from sermons to correspondence. Materials in this section were found grouped by minister, order was retained rather than separating into categories of printed materials and correspondence.

For additional printed sermons see also Printed Material.

A. Samuel Haven

Box 10

Folder 1 1792-1806 Correspondence

1792 April 20 Samuel Haven to Joseph Langdon regarding President Willard preaching in Portsmouth

1793 June 28 Samuel Haven to Joseph Langdon regarding pulpit exchange

1794 November 6 Samuel McClintock to Joseph Langdon regarding pulpit exchange

1797 February 6 Announcement from the church in Hampton regarding the settlement of Jesse Appleton as pastor

1804 April 24 Announcement of the death of a pastor

1808 March 6 Announcing the death of Samuel Haven

Undated fragment from William Montagne to Nathaniel Adams

Undated fragment

Folder 2 1760 “Preaching Christ, The Great Business of the Gospel Ministries, A Sermon Delivered at the anniversary of Congregational Ministers at Portsmouth, in the Province of New Hampshire, September 30, 1760. By Samuel Haven, A.M. Pastor of the South Church in Portsmouth. Portsmouth, Printed and Sold by Daniel Fowle, 1760.” [printed pamphlet]

Folder 3 1798 “The Validity of Presbyterian Ordination, and the Importance of Candor and Union among Christians of different Persuasions, who agree in the Essentials of Christianity; Illustrated in a Discourse Delivered at the Dudleian Lecture of Harvard College, September 5, 1798. By Samuel Haven, D.D. Pastor of a Church in Portsmouth.” [printed pamphlet photocopy]

Folder 4 ca. 1806 “A Discourse Delivered in the South Church in Portsmouth, at the Internment of the Rev. Samuel Haven, D.D…and of this wife, Mrs. Margaret Haven…By Joseph Buckminster, D.D…Printed by W. & D. Treadwell, Portsmouth, N.H.” [printed pamphlet]
B. Timothy Alden

Folder 5 1800 “My Grace is Sufficient for Thee.” Copy (typed transcription) of a sermon delivered at the South Church in Portsmouth January 19, 1800.

Folder 6 1804 “A Discourse, Delivered Before the Members of the Portsmouth Female Asylum…1804…By Timothy Alden, Junior, A.M…From the Press of J. Melcher, Portsmouth, N.H. 1804.” [printed pamphlet]

Folder 7 1805 “A Discourse Delivered at an Evening Lecture in the South Meetinghouse in Portsmouth, N.H. 31 July 1805…Portsmouth, N.H. Printed by William and Daniel Treadwell, 1805.” On the resignation of Timothy Alden. [printed pamphlet]

Folder 8 1808 “An Account of the Several Religious Societies in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, From their first establishment, and the Ministers of each, to the First of January, 1805. By Timothy Alden, Jun…Boston: Printed by Muroe, Francis, & Parker…1808.” [printed pamphlet]

C. Nathan Parker

Folder 9 1820 “An Address Delivered May 23, 1820, To the Teachers of the South Parish Sunday School. Portsmouth. By the Rev. Nathan Parker.” [printed pamphlet]

Folder 10 1826 Manuscript excerpt from a sermon preached by Nathan Parker on February 12, 1826, the day of the last service in the Old South Meeting House

Folder 11 1826 Printed pamphlet – Nathan Parker’s dedication sermon for the new South Church building, 1826. [3 copies]

Folder 12 1826 Printed pamphlet (photocopy) – Nathan Parker’s dedication sermon for the new South Church building, 1826.

Folder 13 1833 Brief manuscript by Jacob Wendell about the Reverend Nathan Parker’s service to the South Church

Folder 14 1833 Nov 11 — Gannett, Boston to John W. Foster, condolence on the death of Nathan Parker

Folder 15 1833 ca. List of individuals that contributed to Nathan Parker’s memorial fund including the amount given

D. Andrew Peabody

Folder 16 Correspondence regarding the installation of Peabody, 1833

1833 Feb 21 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, declining invitation to substitute preach during illness of Dr. Parker, citing obligations to the church in Haverhill, Mass. and his college teaching position
1833 Mar 15 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, arrangements for substitution during the illness of Dr. Parker, who is recovering
1833 June 21 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, accepting position to “help Dr. Parker” during his illness, after the close of the college semester
1833 July 8 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, unable to give a definite answer about preaching in Portsmouth, Haverhill can no longer support him due to an “irruption of Universalists” taking away interest in the Unitarian church, he has been offered two other permanent positions in Fall River and Framingham, Mass.
1833 July 13 South Church to Andrew Peabody, stating that Peabody could potentially be offered a permanent position due to Parker’s continued falling health
1833 July 16 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, unsure about taking position offered in Portsmouth
1833 Aug 10 John W. Foster to Andrew Peabody, urging Peabody to come to Portsmouth to preach a few sermons
1833 Aug 14 Andrew Peabody to John W. Foster, uncertain about coming to Portsmouth based on small salary and the inability he would have to support his family
1833 Sept 20 South Church, notice regarding the installation service of Andrew Peabody including committee responsibilities and other area pastors to be invited
1833 Sept 26 South Church, invitation to the installation service for Andrew Peabody, lists pastors to be invited

Folder 17 Published Sermons 1837-1848

1837 May 14 “Views on Duty Adapted to the Times,” Portsmouth: J.W. Foster J.F. Shores and Son, 1837 [published pamphlet, 2 copies]

1841 Nov 25 “Reverence and Family Discipline…Preached at Portsmouth on The Day of the Annual Thanksgiving…” Portsmouth: J. W. Foster; J. F. Shores and Son, 1841 [printed pamphlet]

1843 Mar 2 “A Sermon on the End of the World” [printed pamphlet]

1848 Mar 12 “An Appeal to the Young,” Portsmouth: J. W. Foster & Son, 1848 [printed pamphlet]

Folder 18 Published Sermons 1852-1859

1852 Jan 18 “Two Sermons Preached on the Sunday Succeeding the Internment of John W. Foster” Portsmouth: James F. Shores, Jr., 1852 [printed pamphlet, 2 copies]

1854 June 11 “Reform and Reformers,” Portsmouth: J. F. Shores, Jr., 1854 [printed pamphlet]

1857 Feb 15 “A Sermon Delivered at the Closing of the Sunday-School Room in Court Street, Prior to Its Removal to give a place to a new chapel,” Portsmouth: J F. Shores & J. H. Foster Publishers, 1857 [printed pamphlet, 4 copies]

1858 Dec 25 “Sermons Connected with the Re-Opening of the Church of the South Parish,” Portsmouth, James F. Shores, Jun., & Joseph H. Foster, 1859 [printed pamphlet]

1859 Dec 25 and 1860 Jan 15 “The Scripture Doctrine of Christ. Three Sermons Preached at Portsmouth, N.H.,” Portsmouth: James F. Shores, Jun., & Joseph H. Foster, 1860 [printed pamphlet]

Folder 19 Published Sermons 1883-1888

1883 Nov 4 “The Teil-Tree and the Oak. A Sermon Preached at the South Church in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, at the Close of the Fiftieth Year from his ordination as its minister,” Cambridge: John Wilson and Son. 1883 [printed pamphlet, 2 copies]

1888 June 25 “An Address on the Seventieth Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School in Portsmouth, New Hampshire,” Portsmouth: Journal Steam Printing Establishment, 1888 [printed pamphlet, 2 copies]

Folder 20 1860 Notice and correspondence regarding the resignation of Peabody

Manuscript Sermons

Folder 21 1834-1840 Sermons

Folder 22 1841-1845 Sermons

Folder 23 1846-1855 Sermons

Folder 24 1857-1858 Sermons

Folder 25 1871-1875 Sermons

Box 11

Folder 1 1876-1879 Sermons

Folder 2 1880 Sermons

Folder 3 1881 Sermons

Folder 4 1882 Sermons

Folder 5 1883-1884 Sermons

Folder 6 1885-1886 Sermons

Folder 7 Sermon fragments

E. James deNormandie

Folder 8 Ordination materials

“Services at the Ordination of Mr. James deNormandie in Portsmouth, N.H., October 1, 1862. Sermon by Ezra S. Gannett, Pastor of the Arlington Street Church, Boston.” Boston: Walker, Wise, and Company. Portsmouth: Jas. F. Shores and Jos. Hiller Foster. 1862. [printed pamphlet 2 copies]

Order of Exercises at the Ordination of Mr. James DeNormandie Portsmouth, N.H. Oct. 1, 1862.

Folder 9 Ordination correspondence and notes

Note regarding the publication of DeNormandie’s ordination service, notes from various ministers and individuals regarding their part in the ordination including Edward C. Guild, Andrew Peabody, George E. Ellis, Charles Lowe, William H. Rollins, S. K. Lothrup, C. G. DeNormandie, Charles Burroughs, Mrs. Haley, E. E. Hale, George W. Briggs, and Samuel Lord.

Folder 10 Published Sermons

“A Discourse Delivered on the Occasion of the National and State Thanksgiving, November 21, 1864. By James DeNormandie” Portsmouth: C.W. Brewster and Son, 1864. [printed pamphlet]

“The Bright Side of the Grave. A Sermon Preached on Easter Sunday, April 12, 1868, by James DeNormandie, Minister of the South Parish, Portsmouth, N.H.” Portsmouth: C.W. Brewster and Son, 1868. [printed pamphlet]

“Address by James DeNormandie, at the opening of Miss A. C. Morgan’s School For Young Ladies, At Portsmouth, N.H., Sept. 24, 1874.”

“Bread for Nought, and the Sin of Extravagance, Two Sermons Preached at the Vesper Service, Oct. 3 and Oct. 10, 1875.” Portsmouth: Lewis W. Brewster, 1875 [printed pamphlet]

“Fifty Years in the Ministry, A Sermon Preached October 6, 1912 By James DeNormandie Minister of the First Church (Roxbury), Boston” Boston: Press of Geo. H. Ellis Co., 1912. [3 copies, printed pamphlet]

Folder 11 Published Sermons 1877

Drawing the Line Between the Accepted and the Rejected. 1877 [2 copies]

Everlasting Punishment. 1877 [2 copies]

What it is to be Damned. 1877 [2 copies]

What it is to be Saved. 1877 [7 copies]

Folder 12 Unpublished Sermons

Reflections of the Civil War 1865

Folder 13 Baptisms and Marriages performed by DeNormandie 1862-1883

Folder 14 Other Materials

“Peace – Not War. A Sermon Preached in the Federal Street Meetinghouse, December 14, 1845. By Ezra S. Gannett.” Boston: Joseph Dow, 1845. [printed pamphlet]

Report of the Second Meeting of the National Conference of Unitarian and Other Churches, Held in Syracuse, N.Y. October 10-11, 1866. Boston: Alfred Mudge and Son, 1866.

F. Alfred Gooding

Folder 15 Published Pamphlet

The Theological History of an Old Parish by its Minister, Rev. Alfred Gooding, South Parish, Portsmouth, NH. Boston: George H. Ellia, 1901. [printed pamphlet]

G. William Safford Jones

Folder16 Annual Reports of the Minister

1925-1926, 1926-1927, 1928, 1929, 1930, 1931, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1940, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1943-1944, 1945

Folder 17 Published Sermons

“The Waters that Issue out of the Sanctuary. A Sermon Preached by the Reverend William Safford Jones in the Channing Memorial Church Newport, Rhode Island August 3rd, 1913.”

“The Valor of Righteousness, A Tribute to a Great American Theodore Roosevelt. A Sermon Preached by the Reverend William Safford Jones in the Channing Memorial Church, Newport, Rhode Island at a Service of Commemoration January 12, 1919.”

Folder 18 Published Pamphlets

“The View from Above.” A Newcomen Address, 1948

“Colonial Backgrounds of the Piscataqua Region.” A Newcomen Address, 1944

Folder 19 Unpublished Sermons

“In the House of Rimmon” A Sermon Preached in the Temple of Israel, Portsmouth, NH December 2, 1951.

H. John S. McPhee

Box 12

Folder 1 Notebook

Materials removed from a notebook including several sheets of music, sermons, lists of members of the South Church, marriages, dedications and funerals, miscellaneous printed pamphlets for events.

Folder 2 Funeral Notebook

Scrapbook containing death records and clippings of obituaries for while McPhee was minister.

Folder 3 Funeral Notebook Photocopies and Obituary clippings

Folder 4 Church Planning materials including correspondence regarding changes to the bylaws, history of the church, and meetings.

V. Pews and Membership

This section contains materials related to individual members of the church. In the early years of the church the primary record of these individuals is in the form of pew tax assessments. In later years there are membership transfers. In the twentieth century records of donations can also be found in the Financial section.

This section begins with bound volumes of tax lists, sometimes for a long span of years and sometimes for individual years. This is followed by some small pew maps and individual pew deeds, which have been indexed. Pew deeds date from 1820 to 1880 with the majority being from the 1850s and 1860s.

See also Manuscript Collection MS004.

Box 17

Folder 1 Report of the Committee to form a Church Charity Fund 1819
Plan for the Charity Fund 1819
Report of the Committee regarding a burial ground 1819

Folder 2 Records of the Trustees of the South Church Charity Fund 1819-1835 (Bound Volume)

The volume begins with materials related to the formation of the South Church Charity fund naming Rev. Nathan Parker, Joseph Haven, Thomas Sheafe, Edward Cutts, and N. A. Haven Jr. as trustees. It also includes the bylaws of the group, financial accounting information (donations and expenditures), and meeting minutes. In the rear of the book there is a list of cemetery plots and owners, titled “Record of Lots sold in the Proprietor’s Burying Ground.”

Folder 3 Record Book “Journal A South Church Charity Fund” 1826-1835 (Bound Volume)

The first section of the book was sewn shut with string and was therefore not examined. Entries include daily expenses and donations to specific funds. It also records transactions related to the burial ground.

Folder 4 Record Book Journal B 1836-1854

Records expenses and income of the Charity Fund including maintenance of the church building such as the clearing alley, maintaining the book collection in the library and providing for the poor and widows of the parish.

Folder 5 Account Book 1842-1895

Folder 6 Account Book of Disbursements 1885-1923

Folder 7 Annual Financial Statements 1820-1836

Includes expenses for the year such as library costs and “tracts for Seamen,” as well as income in the form of contributions or interest. In 1821 there is a list of ship captains, vessels and books distributed including:

Capt. Appleton Ship Charlotte – 1 Bible, 1 Testament, 1 Psalm Book, 10 Tract
Capt. Tibbetts Brig. Durham – 1 Bible, 1 Test., 6 Tracts – Clark’s Answer to ye Question why are you a Christian
Capt. George Melcher his coaster – 1 Bible, 1 Tract
Capt. Salter Ship Albert – 1 Bible, 1 Test., 1 Psalm Book, 7 Tracts, Price’s Sermon
Capt. Blunt Brig Criterion – 1 Bible, 1 Test. 1 Psalm Book, 7 Tracts
Capt. Kennard Ship Maria Tufton – 1 Bible, 1 Test., 1 Psalm Book, 10 Tracts – Bennett View – Thornton on Repentance Scougal’s Life of God in the soul of man
Capt. Tullock Solomom Brilliant – 1 Bible, 1 Test, 8 Tracts
Capt. Martin Brig Gustovers – 1 Bible, 1 Test, 1 Psalm Book, 7 Tracts

Folder 8 Annual Financial Statements 1845-1847

For all below Annual Financial Statements, reports include details about banking and specific funs such as the Joseph Haven, Ann Treadwell Fund and the Robert Rice Fund. Note: Does not include all years for time span.

Box 18

Folder 1 Annual Financial Statements 1848-1853

Folder 2 Annual Financial Statements 1854-1859

Folder 3 Annual Financial Statements 1860-1863

Folder 4 Annual Financial Statements 1864-1870

Folder 5 Annual Financial Statements 1871-1879

Folder 6 Annual Financial Statements 1888-1899

Folder 7 Annual Financial Statements 1900-1908

Folder 8 Receipts 1846-1848

Receipts are primarily for wood purchased, usually from Leonard Cotton, for various poor of the community. Earlier receipts include the names and specific amounts of wood provided to each individual on the list.

Folder 9 Receipts 1849

Folder 10 Receipts 1850

Folder 11 Receipts 1851

Folder 11b Receipts 1852

Folder 12 Receipts 1853

Folder 13 Receipts 1854

Folder 14 Receipts 1855

Folder 15 Receipts 1856

Folder 16 Receipts 1857

Folder 17 Receipts 1858

Folder 18 Receipts 1859

Folder 18b Receipts 1860

Folder 19 Receipts 1861

Folder 20 Receipts 1862-1863

Folder 21 Receipts 1865-1867

Folder 22 Receipts 1870-1871

Folder 23 Receipts 1883

Folder 24 Receipts 1884

Folder 25 Receipts 1885

Folder 26 Receipts 1886

Folder 27 Receipts 1887

Folder 27b Receipts 1888

Folder 28 Receipts 1889-1891

Folder 29 Receipts 1892-1893

Folder 30 Receipts 1894-1895

Folder 31 Receipts 1896-1897

Folder 32 Receipts 1898-1899

Folder 33 Receipts 1900-1905

Folder 34 Receipts 1906-1908

Folder 35 Financial Correspondence 1847-1880

Correspondence regarding banking changes and financial issues of the Charity Fund.

Folder 36 Financial Correspondence ca. 1880s

Folder was bound with a label marked “South Parish Trust Letters Bills Paid.” The packet was left intact in the folder. Included are correspondence about investments and funds, funeral expenses for N. J. Ham and other receipts.

Folder 37 Communion Contribution Statement

Two statements regarding a possible change in the method of raising funds amongst the congregation on communion Sundays for the South Parish Charity Fund

Folder 38 Property and Legal Records

Plot Plan for the Proprietors Burial Ground 1829 (OVERSIZED)

Deeds for Proprietors Burial Ground

Deed for cemetery plot of Abby W. Johnson

Statement by Nath. A. Haven regarding the South Parish’s right to the Proprietor’s Burial Ground property, formerly town land, 1829

Act of Incorporation for the South Church Charity Fund, 1829

Statement by the Fence Viewer concerning property line for Parish Property, 1813 and 1829

Deed for land transfer from South Church to South Parish Charity Fund for the Proprietor’s Cemetery property, 1830

Folder 39 Proprietors Cemetery plot numbers and name of individual buried

Box 19

Folder 1 Proprietors Cemetery Record Book 1819-1835

Record of names of plot owners and year purchased

Folder 2 Misc. Loan from South Church Charity Fund to the South Church, 1853-1854

B. Special Funds

Folder 3 Thomas Adams Fund Account Book 1901-1946

Folder 3b Thomas Adams Fund correspondence

Folder 4 Symes Bequest 1821-1911

Folder 4b Symes Bequest and Ann Toppan Fund 1825-1890

Folder 5 Symes Bequest and Ann Toppan Fund 1911-1937

Folder 6 Organ Subscription Fund 1870

Folder 7 Joseph H. Foster Monument

Folder 8 John W. Foster Memorial

C. Investments and Property Records

Folder 9 Nebraska Property 1887-1892

Folder 10 Nebraska Property 1887-1892

Folder 11 Missouri Property 1894-1896

Folder 12 Missouri Property 1894-1896

Folder 13 Minnesota Property ca. 1900

Folder 14 Minnesota Property ca. 1900

Folder 15 Minnesota Property ca. 1900

D. Miscellaneous

Folder 16 Portsmouth Savings Bank Investment Committee 1867-1869

Folder 17 Miscellaneous Deeds 1792, 1799, 1812

Folder 18 Insurance, Loans and Investments 1891-1897

Folder 19 Mortgage papers 1887-1897

VII. Societies and Clubs

A. Ladies Domestic Missionary Society

The South Church’s Ladies Domestic Missionary Society was formed in 1821, however the records for the earliest part of the Society (1821 to 1845) were lost in a fire at one of the homes of its members, Ellen Lunt. In the words of one of its members, Sarah Haven Foster, “In the latter part of the year 1821 an Association was formed at the suggestion of the pastor, Rev. Dr. Parker, for the purpose of social communion, and mutual work. It was called the “Cent Society”; and the trifling sum of one cent for each meeting was contributed by each member; to be appropriated to the purchase of bedding and clothing, which was loaned as needed to sick members of the parish.” In 1825 the Society took the name The Ladies Society of the South Parish for the Encouragement of Domestic Missions. During meetings the women would sew, in the early years for needy members of the community and in later years sewn items would be sold at a sale. The proceeds of the organization supported different causes through the years including the Shoals Mission, the pastor’s library, and other local charities.

Secretary and Treasurer Records include meeting minutes, list of officers, collection of dues, activities of the group, etc.

Box 20

Folder 1 History

“A Historical Sketch of the Ladies Domestic Missionary Society” by Rev. Alfred Gooding

“The Ladies Domestic Missionary Society of the South Parish” by Marion Rugg (2 copies)

Folder 2 Record Book 1845-1867

Includes Act of Incorporation and expenses and income. There are specific lists showing what goods were made and sold by the women of the Society and for how much items were sold. Goods sold included aprons, doll clothes, lampshades, toilet cushions, book marks, etc.

Folder 3 Meeting Minutes, 1862-1904

Includes description of meetings and activities of the Society.

Folder 4 Secretary and Treasurer records, 1860-1870

Folder 5 Secretary and Treasurer records, 1903-1905

Folder 6 Secretary and Treasurer records, 1906-1909

Folder 7 Secretary and Treasurer records, 1910-1915

Folder 8 Secretary and Treasurer records, 1959-1961

Folder 9 Share certificate for the Unitarian Educational Society, 1890

B. Unitarian Layman’s League

The South Church Unitarian Layman’s League was formed in 1920 a group of men in the Parish. The purpose of the Layman’s League was “to stimulate interest in religious and social problems, to encourage friendly relations among men of the Unitarian faith or in sympathy with it and to aid in the advancement of liberal religious ideas.” The League held monthly meetings with speakers on topics of interest. The League provided financial contribution to the upkeep of the church building, including paying a portion of the cost of an upgraded heater pipe, a new gas range for the kitchen and electrical installation in the cellar in 1924. The Society was known as the James DeNormandie Chapter of the Layman’s League.

This series contains meeting minutes, newspaper clippings about events, ephemera, and financial records (income and expenditures). The materials appear to have been removed from a scrapbook. Original order was retained.

Folder 10 Meeting Records, 1920-1928

Folder 11 Dues Book, 1948-1960

Includes a list of members and dues paid for each year.

C. Alliance of Unitarian Women

In 1888 the Women of the Unitarian Church organized into a group known as the Women’s Auxiliary or the Women’s Society it was later called the General Alliance of Unitarian and other Liberal Christian Women. The group held rummage sales, teas for its members, Funds raised were contributed to church related causes such as the minister’s pension fund and the national Women’s Alliance, as well as various charities such as the Red Cross and the Old Ladies Home.

Folder 13 Meeting Minutes 1895-1906

Folder 14 Meeting Minutes 1906-1924

Folder 15 Meeting Minutes 1927-1937

Box 21

Folder 1 Account Book 1905-1922

Folder 2 Account Book 1922-1946

Lists expenses and income for the society including list of members, dues paid each year and expenses for events, contributions made, etc.

Folder 3 Treasurer’s Reports, 1937-1946

Yearly summary of expenses and income

Folder 4 Meeting Record Book, 1937-1948

Includes meeting minutes, officers, articles of incorporation, events and organizational business.

Folder 5 Miscellaneous

List of names labeled “Founders Fund” with amounts contributed
Portsmouth Savings Bank receipt, 1918
Letter from A— M. Loring to Mrs. Cleary, Feb. 15, 1933

D. Dorcas Society

The Dorcas Society was formed in 1834. The first record of the Society at the South Church is in 1890, although it appears that the group was operating previous to that date. The Society is named after Dorcas of the Bible who after being raised from the dead, by Peter, did charitable works, such as sewing coats and garments for the poor.

Folder 6 Record Book 1954-1961

Includes meeting minutes, a description of activities (luncheon with decorations, etc.), election of officers, dues paid, etc. The activities also involved small improvements around the church such as organizing the kitchen cabinets, purchasing new number cards for the hymn board, organizing rummage and food sales, etc.

Folder 7 Meeting Minutes 1890-1912 (Bound Volume)

E. Young People’s Group

Box 22

Folder 1 Record Book, 1945-1966

Includes meeting minutes with officers.

F. Unity Club

Folder 2 Record Book, 1889-1917

Includes a list of members and annual meeting minutes

Folder 2b Record Book, 1898-1900

VIII. Sabbath School

The South Parish Sabbath or Sunday School was established in 1818. The first section of materials contain general materials about the school such as Act of Incorporation, By-Laws and meeting minutes as well as addresses made to students and teachers by various ministers.

The second section contains information related to the purchase of the Pitt Street Church (Court Street) from the Baptist Society in 1829. This building became the first Sunday School building for the church until it was replaced with the construction of a new building in 1835. The third section contains correspondence regarding Sunday School celebration in 1868. The fourth section consists of financial materials and the fifth is records of students. Student records contain names, ages, attendance, etc. beginning in 1818.

See also Printed Materials where there are several printed pamphlets regarding the Sabbath School.

A. General

Box 23

Folder 1 1805, “Catechumenical Certificate,” signed by Elvira Haven

Folder 1b 1818 ca., “Regulations of the South Parish Sunday School…Established 1818” printed broadside [2 copies, different printings]

Folder 2 1818-1873 “List of Teachers South Parish Sunday School” (Bound Volume)

Includes a list of male and female teachers from 1818 to 1873. Includes the name of the teacher, date when they started teaching, date when teaching was discontinued and reason for leaving (ex. Ill health, sickness in family, left town, deceased, domestic arrangements and with whom, married and to whom, etc.)

Folder 3 1828 Act of Incorporation for the South Church Sabbath School

Folder 4 1828 By Laws of the South Church Sabbath School

Folder 5 1820-1831 Annual Meeting Minutes

Minutes includes meeting votes, individuals in leadership and discussion of teachers. Includes statements about expectations for children in the school in regard to reading, scripture memorization, attendance, etc.

Folder 6 1831-1946 Annual Meeting Minutes

Begins with details of the purchase of the Sunday School building, including individuals who contributed to the initial fund. This is followed by a transcription of the deed for the property and the organizations Act of Incorporation. The remainder of the volume includes votes taken at meetings, officers and organizational information. The volume concludes with the dissolving of the Sunday School in 1946.

Folder 7 1819-1836 Annual Reports

Contains manuscript reports of the Superintendent of the Sunday School regarding what the children have been taught and how many children were enrolled in Sunday School.

Folder 8 1831-1843 Annual Reports

“Record of the Proceedings of the Teachers of the South Parish Sunday School, from October 3, 1831 to June 18, 1843. School established June 13, 1818. B.” Records house where meeting was held, printed pamphlets concerning school activities, and activities of the school.

Folder 9 1828-1946 Annual Reports

“Records of the Teachers of the Portsmouth South Parish Sunday School. C.” Includes descriptions of meetings including whether a “social meetings” or a “regular term meetings,” number of male and female teachers present, activities, etc. Pasted in the book are several newspaper clippings and the 1848 South Parish Sunday School report (pamphlet titled: “The Superintendents’ Report, Made on the Twentieth Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School. June 11, 1848.” In the rear of the book there is a list of individuals who donated to the monument fund, including students and teachers.

Folder 10 1852-1889 Annual Reports

“Records of the Teachers of the Portsmouth South Parish Sunday School. D.” Includes records of meetings and numerous pamphlets glued into pages (including anniversary celebrations, order of exercises of meetings, etc.).

Box 24

Folder 1 Scrapbook

Contains printed material including broadsides and pamphlets produced by the Sunday School including:

Regulations of the South Parish Sunday School, 1818

Regulations of the South Parish Sunday School, 1824

Regulations of the South Parish Sunday School, 1850

An Address Delivered May 23, 1820 to the Teachers of the South Parish Sunday School, Portsmouth, By the Rev. Nathan Parker

An Address Delivered to the Teachers of the South Parish Sunday School in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, April 23, 1823 By Nathaniel Appleton Haven

An Address to the Pupils of the South Parish Sunday School, the Sunday after the internment of Rev. Nathan Parker, D.D.

A New Year’s Gift to the Children of the South Parish Sunday School, 1837

The Twelfth Annual Report of the Superintendents of the South Parish Sunday School in Portsmouth, NH 1838

Address Delivered on the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School 1843 by J. W. Foster

Class Paper (attendance form, blank)

Sabbath School Punctual Attendance Ticket (large sheet of tickets)

Catalog of the South Parish Sabbath School Library, 1848

First Book for Sunday Schools, 1849 (printed for the South Parish)

Prayers for Children and Young Persons compiled by a teacher for the use of the Sabbath Schools and Families, 1834

Portsmouth Sunday School Hymn Book Compiled for the use of the South Parish Sabbath School by their pastor A. P. Peabody, 1840

B. Building Purchase and Construction

Folder 2 1826-1835 Sunday School Subscriptions, “Subscriptions and Donations to the South Parish Sabbath School Society. Contains a list of individuals who contributed money to the South Church Sunday School.

Folder 3 Sunday School Share Certificate Book 1829-1858

Folder 4 Sunday School Share Certificates

1829 Jeremiah L. Lunt for two shares
1829 Nathaniel W. Appleton for two shares
1829 John Ball for two shares
1838 Estate of Samuel A. Haven (for Joseph Haven) transferred four shares to John W. Foster
1858 John E. Salter for two shares

Folder 5 Independent Congregational Society Certificate of Incorporation, 1796

Oversize Deed for Pitt Street Church purchased by John Ballard from James Day, 1828

Oversize Deed for the sale of the Pitt Street church to the South Church, 1829

Folder 6 List of pew owners in the Pitt Street church prior to sale (Baptist Church), 1828

Includes the following individuals: Samuel Cleaves, Elisha C. Crane, John Pearson, Samuel Bowles, Samuel B. Lord, John Drayon [?], Robert Holbrook, Nathaniel T. S. Pierce, T. H. Peirce [?], Elizabeth Trusdel, Mary French, John Mugridge, James Marden, Jeremiah Brewster, William C. Parke, Sarah Trundy, Joseph Walker for S. Walton, Thomas Moulton, Joseph Whidden, Samuel Bowles for Hannah Bowles, and Joseph Walton.

Folder 7 Agreement for continued us of the Pitt Street Church by members of the Baptist Society, 1828

Folder 8 Pledge list for purchase of the Pitt Street Church, 1828, 1830

Oversize Insurance documents for Pitt Street Church, 1830

Folder 9 Documents related to the purchase of the Maloon land and “old buildings” in 1836

Folder 10 1837 Contract for the construction of a Vestry building between Benjamin F. Webster and a Committee of the South Parish Sabbath School, represented by Richard Jenness, William R. Jones, Stephen H. Simes, J. R. Lyman, James F. Shores Jr. and Joseph H. Foster.

Provides detailed description of materials to be used in construction and outlines the function of the new building (teacher’s rooms, library and vestry) which was designed by architects Preston and Emerson of Boston, Massachusetts.

Folder 11 1837-1857 Correspondence regarding support for the purchase and construction of the Sunday School building

Folder 12 1838, “Original Odes Sung at the Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School,” June 13, 1838. Includes songs by James T. Fields and Louisa Simes.

Folder 13 1856 Deed for Sunday School Building at 26 Court Street

Folder 14 1856 Letter from Andrew Peabody offering a $150 subscription to the new Sunday School room

Folder 15 1857 List of individuals purchasing shares purchasing share for the South Parish Sunday School

Folder 16 1858 ca., blank share certificates

Folder 17 1858 Lease for the South Parish Sunday School Building by the South Parish

C. Correspondence

Folder 18 Undated Printed invitation from Sunday School committee to celebration of Joseph H. Foster’s twenty-two years serving as Sunday School superintendent

Undated Notes regarding committee planning celebration, events being planned

1868 May 26 A. P. Peabody to Joseph H. Foster, regarding invitation to Sunday School celebration

1868 May 29 A. P. Peabody to Joseph H. Foster, accepting an invitation to Sunday School celebration

1868 June 9 Charles C. Salter to Joseph H. Foster, declining invitation to Sunday School celebration

1868 June 15 S. P. Sanger to Joseph H. Foster

1868 June 17 L. H. Winkley [?] to Joseph H. Foster

1868 June 19 Charles Lowe to Joseph H. Foster, regarding invitation to Sunday School celebration

1868 June 20 Joseph H. Foster concerning appreciation for teaching

1868 June 21 James F. Shores to South Parish, Joseph H. Foster, regarding recent recognition for his years as a teacher at the South Church.

1868 June 22 — G. Nowell to Joseph H. Foster, regarding appreciation for teaching Sunday school

1868 June 23 Charles Lowe of Boston to Joseph H. Foster

1868 June 24 “Order of Exercises, at the Rural Celebration, of the 50th Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School, June 24, 1868,” printed pamphlet regarding events planned for the celebration of Joseph H. Foster’s 22nd year as Sunday School Superintendent

D. Financial

Folder 19 Treasurer’s Book, 1828-1891 (Bound Volume)

Records of expenses and income (from trust funds, bonds, donations, etc.) for the South Church Sunday School.

Box 25

Folder 1 Bills and Receipts, 1829-1837

Folder 2 Cashbook, 1832-1901 (Bound Volume)

Record of cash on hand and daily transactions.

Folder 3 Account Book, 1832-1903 (Bound Volume)

Detail of transactions organized by name of individual to whom money was paid or received.

Folder 4 Bills and Receipts, 1838-1868

Folder 5 Treasurer’s Reports, 1839-1867

Yearly financial reports including salaries, purchase of supplies, insurance, repairs, etc. for the running of the Sunday School.

Folder 6 Treasurer’s Book, 1891-1902

Records of expenses and income (from trust funds, bonds, donations, etc.) for the South Church Sunday School.

Folder 7 Cashbook, 1901-1937

Record of cash on hand and daily transactions.

Box 26

Folder 1 Miscellaneous Financial Records, 1869-1884

Including account summaries and individual receipts for expenses of the Sunday School including maintenance to the building, carpet cleaning, purchasing books (lists of specific titles), supplies, furniture, expenses for picnics and special events, wallpaper, etc.

E. Students

Folder 2 Roll Book A 1818-1823

Includes the names of students, age, names of parents or individual with whom they are living, home address, class, date of admission and “remarks.” Remarks include notes about withdrawal, death, and students who later taught as well. One unusual entry notes that Noah Staples Tripe had “gone to sea.” Later the section of remarks changes to the name of the student’s teacher. At the rear of the volume there is a summary of student attendance for each week. Summary breaks down the number of students by am and pm and by boys and girls. Following the attendance there is a list of students by classroom teacher (girls only). See index for volume A and B below.

Folder 3 Roll Book B 1823-1832

In the front of the book it notes that there “are at present belonging to the school 120 Girls & 87 Boys – Total 207…Teachers employed 18 Ladies & 12 Gentlemen.”

Includes the names of students, age, names of parent (sometimes occupation of father or widow status), residence, date of admission, class and remarks. Remarks include notations about child moving away, moving to another church in town (Methodist, North, etc.) or dying. As in book A one student is noted as going to sea. Student 1164 Ebenezer Ball (age 5, son of Washington Ball) left in 1840 on the Ship Mary & Susan. One child, William Jones Simes is noted as having been lost at sea in 1845. At the rear of the volume there is a summary of student attendance for each week. Summary breaks down the number of students by am and pm and by boys and girls. See index for volume A and B below.

Folder 4 Roll Book C 1833-1852

At the time of the beginning of the book in 1833 there were a total of 246 pupils enrolled in the Sunday School with 34 female and 20 male teachers. Includes the names of students, age, names of parent (sometimes occupation of father or widow status), residence, date of admission, class and remarks. Remarks include notations about child moving away, moving to another church in town (Methodist, North, Catholic (2033) etc.) or dying. For one student, Charles William Ball (1507) it is noted that he was a “very exemplary youth – died in Salem Feby 1856.” This volume provides more remarks than the previous two volumes, frequently noting if a child is “interesting” or “promising.” At the rear of the volume there is a summary of student attendance for each week. Summary breaks down the number of students by am and pm and by boys and girls. See index for volume C below.

Folder 5 Roll Book D 1818-1859

Transcription of Roll Books A, B, and C with additional student information from 1852 to 1859.

Folder 6 Index Roll Book A and B 1818-1832

Index by last name of students for Roll Books A and B above, includes name of students and number where they appear in the two first volumes.

Folder 7 Index Roll Book C 1833-____

Index by last name of students for Roll Book C above, includes name of students and number where they appear in the two first volumes. Appears to have students past Roll Book C.

F. Miscellaneous

Folder 8 Address by Charles S. Daveis to the Sunday School as Portland in 1839, draws connections between Sunday School in Portsmouth and Portland

Folder 9 “Original Odes, Sung at the Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School” June 1, 1838 by James T. Fields and Miss Louisa Simes [Printed Broadside]

Folder 10 “Order of Exercises at the Dedication of the S. P. Sabbath School Room, Portsmouth, NH” November 13, 1857 [Printed Broadside]

Folder11 Printed Pamphlets

“Address to the Pupils of the South Parish Sunday School, The Sunday After the Internment of Rev. Nathan Parker D. D.” 1834

“Rev. Dr. Peabody’s Sermon at the Closing of the Sunday-School Room in Court Street” February 15, 1857

“An Address on the Seventieth Anniversary of the South Parish Sunday School” 1888 by Andrew Peabody

Folder 12 Sunday School Subscription Book 1836 (Bound Volume)

Folder 13 Sunday School Subscription Book 1847 (Bound Volume)

Folder 14 1854 Letter from the Hawes Place Society at South Boston inquiring about the plan of organization for the Sunday School in Portsmouth knowing it had had “great success”

Folder 15 1818-1854 List of Sunday School Superintendents

Folder 16 1848 Materials related to the 30th Anniversary Celebration (poor condition)

Folder 17 1870 Sunday School Library Fund Record Book

Folder 18 Miscellaneous notes regarding operations of the school

Folder 19 Miscellaneous

IX. Universalist Church

Materials were left in their original order and contain a mix of meeting minutes, committee reports, assessments (special monuments, support of pastor, support of late pastor’s family, etc.), and general church business. Some items could have been filed in correspondence, however the decision was made to retain the original order as items were found bound in original packets.

A. Ministers and Correspondence

Box 27

Folder 1 1815

May 21 Hosea Ballou to the Wardens of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth, leaving the church in Portsmouth for Salem
June 1 Hosea Ballou to the Wardens of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth, reasons for leaving Portsmouth
June 5 Church Committee to the Wardens of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth, regarding Hosea Ballou leaving the church for Salem and efforts to keep him in Portsmouth
June 19 Samuel Mudge and Thomas S. Bowles, Church Committee to the Wardens, attempt to retain Hosea Ballou in Portsmouth
June Hosea Ballou to the Wardens, request to leave for Salem
Aug 25 Hosea Ballou to the Wardens, thanks for the “additional testimony of Christian fellowship”

Folder 2 March to May 1828

Mar 1 Sebastian Streeter to John Gregory, difficulties in the society regarding pastors
Mar 24 Edward Turner to the Wardens, leaving the church in Portsmouth, possible controversy, to take position as a Unitarian pastor in Charlton
Mar 29 Wardens to Sebastian Streeter, regarding Turner leaving the church
Apr 8 Wardens to Hosea Ballou, regarding Turner leaving the church
Apr 12 Hosea Ballou to ____, providing pastors for church in Portsmouth
Apr 28 ____ to ____, appreciation for assistance finding pastors to preach in Portsmouth
May 14 Paul Dean to John Gregory, Wardens, Thomas F. King will be visiting church to preach
May 31 Paul Dean to Wardens, introduction for Thomas F. King

Folder 3 June to November 1828

June 14 to R. H. Ballou, invitation for Thomas King
June 28 to Sebastian Streeter, difficulties facing the church
July 1 Wardens to Thomas F. King (copy), discussion of salary
July 25 Wardens to Thomas F. King, acknowledging acceptance of pastoral position
Aug 23 Wardens to Thomas F. King, sending money in anticipation of King coming to Portsmouth
Oct 14 Mr. Burroughs to the Wardens, installation of King
Oct 15 J. W. Putnam to the Wardens, installation of King
Nov 18 Wardens to John Grant, thanks for help while church was without a pastor, presentation of a plate
Nov 18 John Grant to the Wardens, thanks for the plate and note
ca. 1828 Wardens to Sebastian Streeter, requesting a visit from Streeter

Folder 4 1835

Feb 26 Thomas F. King to the Wardens, request that his salary be paid in advance
Oct 30 Thomas F. King to the Wardens, request for dismission
Nov 3 Thomas F. King to the Clerk of the Universalist Church, announcing his last day at the church
Nov 18 William H. Knapp to Joseph Cheever, unable to come to Portsmouth to preach
Nov 20 J. P. Atkinson to Joseph Cheever, unable to come to Portsmouth to preach
Dec 25 John G. Adams to Joseph Cheever, regarding the health of Brother Williamson

Folder 5 1836

Feb 5 George W. Bozin to Joseph Cheever, regarding preachers for Portsmouth
Mar 28 J. Gregory to Joseph Cheever, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Apr 27 J. P. Atkinson to Joseph Cheever, regarding “supplying the desk” in Portsmouth
May 4 J. Bromley to Joseph Cheever, meeting of Universalists in NH
May 31 Sebastian Streeter to Nathaniel March, plans to visit Portsmouth
June 15 Edwin Holt to Nathaniel March, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 6 1837-1838

Jan 14, 1837 John Bennett to the Wardens, regarding a city wide collection to benefit the Howard Benevolent Society
May 16, 1837 J. W. Shores to the Wardens, request for use of the Meetinghouse by the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Society
May 25, 1837 William Bodge to the Wardens, request for use of the Meetinghouse by the Mechanic’s Association
May 1838 Moses Ballou to the Wardens, request for leave of absence to visit his aged parents

Folder 7 1843-1848

Mar 31, 1843 Moses Ballou to the Members of the Universalist Society, has been offered a position in New York
Apr 25, 1843 Wardens to Mr. Montgomery, the possible leaving of Moses Ballou
Apr 30, 1843 George W. Montgomery to the Wardens, resignation
June 18, 1845 James M. Carr to Moses Ballou, request that Ballou return to Portsmouth
Aug 12, 1845 J. M. Carr to Moses Ballou, return with exceptions
Sept 4, 1845 G. M. Laighton to Moses Ballou, plans to return to Portsmouth to preach
Feb 23, 1848 Moses Ballou to the Wardens, request to be relived of duties due to health problems including “bleeding at the lungs”
Mar 1, 1848 Moses Ballou to the Wardens, regarding leave of absence

Folder 8a 1850-1851

Oct 31, 1850 Silas S. Fletcher to the Wardens, resignation from the position as pastor
Nov 12, 1850 Silas S. Fletcher to ____ Wendell, leaving the church in Portsmouth
Feb 10, 1851 William H. Mann for John Sise to Mr. Laighton, regarding a credit also “We have received an excellent assortment of Blk Silks Kid Gloves, Fancy & Taffeta Ribbons…”
Feb 21, 1851 W. A. P. Dillingham to Br. Wendell, possibly returning to Portsmouth controversy regarding his salary
Mar 5, 1857 W. A. P. Dillingham to the Universalist Society, accept the position as pastor
Dec 27, 1857 A. Tompkins to ____, arrangements for a pastor to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 8b January to February 1852

Jan 3 A. Tompkins to John P. Simes, preaching at the church
Jan 8 Hosea Ballou to John P. Simes, offering to fill in as a minister
Jan 11 W. A. P. Dillingham, request for a leave of absence as pastor due to poor health
Jan 13 Hosea Ballou to John P. Simes, plans to visit Portsmouth
Jan 24 E. B. Brooks to John P. Simes, arrangements to visit Portsmouth
Jan 26 A. A. Miner to ___, plans to visit Portsmouth per request of Hosea Ballou
Feb 4 M. M. Preston to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 7 M. M. Preston to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 12 Sumner Ellis to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 12 J. R. Johnson to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 13 S. C. Brown to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 17 J. R. Johnson to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Feb 21 John P. Simes to W. A. P. Dillingham, inquiry about whether or not he will be returning as pastor
Feb 23 M. M. Preston to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 9 March to April 1852

Mar 9 W. A. P. Dillingham to John P. Simes, resignation from pastor position due to poor health and Dr. Cheever’s opinion that he could not safely live in Portsmouth
Mar 10 Hosea Ballou to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Mar 18 John P. Simes to W. A. P. Dillingham, regarding Dillingham’s absence from the position as pastor
Mar 20 W. A. P. Dillingham to John P. Simes, continued disagreement concerning his leave
Mar 22 W. H. Waggome to John P. Simes, willing to preach if Dillingham does not return
Mar 25 E. Case Jr. to John P. Simes, recommendation for J. R. Johnson, prospective pastor
Apr 8 W. A. P. Dillingham to John P. Simes, resignation letter
Apr 13 N. Gunnison to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Apr 19 B. U. Tillotrow to John P. Simes, unable to meet preaching request
Apr 22 O. H. Tillotson to John P. Simes, unable to meet preaching request
Apr 26 J. G. Adams to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Apr 26 N. Gunnison to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Apr 30 W. A. P. Dillingham to John P. Simes, plans to visit the church
Unknown ca. March 1852 fragment regarding salary requirements

Folder 10 May to June 1852

May 1 G. G. Urichland to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
May 3 J. E. Pompet to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
May 3 W. H. Ryder to John P. Simes, recommendation for G. Collins
May 10 G. Collins to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
May 11 J. G. Adams to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
May 14 A. A. Miner to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
May 18 N. W. Dean to John P. Simes, unable to meet request to preach
May 21 Moses Whittemore to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
June 4 W. W. Dean to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
June 8 Moses Ballou to John P. Simes, unable to come to Portsmouth when requested
June 8 O. H. Tillotson to John P. Simes, changing date to come to Portsmouth
June 8 W. H. Waggoner to John P. Simes, plans to come to Portsmouth to preach
June 18 William Tuckerman to John P. Simes, request for funds from the Universalist Society for the City Missionary Society
June 29 John M. Spear to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 11 July 1852

July 3 John Boyden [fragment]
July 3 John Boyden to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 6 John P. Simes to John Boyden, request that he come to Portsmouth
July 9 John Boyden to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 9 Robert Townley to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 10 Calvin Gardner to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 11 John Moore to John P. Simes, unable to preach in Portsmouth when requested
July 16 John Moore to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 17 Henry Bacon to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 21 John Salter, Portsmouth Mutual Fire Insurance Office to First Universalist Society, invoice for policy
July 24 George Severance to John P. Simes, offer to preach in Portsmouth
July 26 Moses Whittemore to John P. Simes plans to preach in Portsmouth
July 29 Henry Bacon to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 12 August to September 1852

Aug 3 D. C. Tomlinson to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 10 Robert Townley to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 13 G. W. Quinby to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 20 W. H. Waggoner to John P. Simes, recommendation for D. C. Tomlinson
Aug 23 Moses Ballou to John P. Simes, inquiry about how the search for a minister is going
Aug 23 John P. Simes, Samuel Greene, and Charles Mendum (Wardens of the Universalist Church) to William Euckerman, unable to help support the City Missionary Society
Aug 24 N. Gunnison to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 25 D. C. Tomlinson to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 26 Ebenezer Fisher to John P. Simes, reference for O. W. Wight
Aug 27 Robert Townley to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Aug 30 J. G. Adams to John P. Simes, recommendation for preacher C. H. Webster
Sept 2 E. W. Champney to John P. Simes, regarding Mr. Wight’s ability to preach
Sept 13 Charles A. Skinner to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Sept 14 A. Willis to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Sept 20 C. H. Webster to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Sept 23 E. Case Jr. to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Sept 24 C. H. Webster to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Sept 27 E. Case Jr. to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 13a October to December 1852

Oct 4 Robert Townley to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Oct 12 John Boyden Jr. to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth although not as a “candidate” for a permanent position
Oct 15 Charles Woodhouse to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Oct 26 A. Tompkins to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Oct 29 A. Willis to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Nov 13 J. E. Pompet to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Nov 17 J. E. Pompet to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Nov 24 A. Willis to John P. Simes, accepting the invitation to be pastor
Nov 26 Lemuel Willis to the Wardens and Members of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Nov 30 William Bell to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Nov 30 A. A. Miner to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Dec 7 A. Willis to John P. Simes, death of Mr. Smith’s “beautiful little girl,” living arrangements for his family in a tenement on Daniel Street, looking for a boarding house for he and his family until they settle into a permanent home, will be sending furniture via railroad, and general arrangements for coming to be a new pastor
Dec 14 Edwin A. Hills to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Dec 20 Thomas J. Greenwood to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth
Dec 22 D. M. Reed to John P. Simes, plans to preach in Portsmouth

Folder 13b 1854

Sept 10 Lemuel Willis to the Wardens, resignation
Sept 28 Lemuel Willis to the Wardens, plans to leave the church

Folder 14 1855

June 27 Adoniram Judson Patterson to ____ Senter, acceptance of pastor position
July 9 Adoniram Judson Patterson to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, acceptance of position as pastor and plans to move to Portsmouth
July 13 Adoniram Judson Patterson to ____ Senter, plans to come to Portsmouth
July 13 Miron Hutchenson and Eliot Drumy to T. G. Senter, consent to his leaving and recommendation for Patterson
Oct 31 E. H. Chopin to ____ Senter, plans to come to Portsmouth
Nov 3 Thomas J. Greenwood to T. G. Senter, installation of Patterson
Nov 5 J. H. Moore to ____ Senter, installation of Patterson
Nov 5 G. V. Maxham to ____ Senter, installation of Patterson
Nov 6 B. M. Tillotron to T. G. Senter, installation of Patterson

Folder 15 1856

Jan 10 George W. Montgomery, fond memories of his time in Portsmouth and appreciation for the congregation. “I am happy to hear that the Lodges of Odd Fellows are flourishing, and that from a feeble seed the cause has grown into prosperity…”
May 13 W. Simes to W. J. Laighton, regarding serving as a warden in the church
June 3 Adoniram Judson Patterson to W. J. Laighton, difficulties fulfilling roll as pastor
Nov 7 Charles Burroughs to Timothy ____
Jan 14 Frederic Foster, request to preach in Portsmouth
Apr 30 Jeannie Pierce to Musical Committee of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth, unable to retain her leading position with the choir without proper compensation

Folder 16 1860-1861

May 15, 1860 Adoniram Judson Patterson to W. J. Laighton, appreciation for increased salary
Nov 20, 1861 Eben Fisher to Adoniram Judson Patterson, financial matters and salary
May 18, 1862 Francis C. Jarvis, John P. Hart, Hattie M. Remick, Martha A. Hart, Annie M. Wendell, Mary H. Freeman, and Albertina Cate to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, members of the church do not like the music the choir is selecting, defending their position as members of the choir
May 20, 1862 Adoniram Judson Patterson to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, regarding dispute with choir

Folder 17 1866-1870

June 8, 1866 Adoniram Judson Patterson to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, resignation as pastor
Jan 21, 1869 R. P. Ambler to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, resignation as pastor
Apr 9, 1870 George W. Bicknell to the Wardens of the Universalist Church, request for leave of absence

B. Pews and membership

Folder 18 Pew Deeds

Folder 19 Taxes for 1824, 1831

Includes pew number and amount of assessment (1831). Names are included for 1824.

Folder 20 Taxes for 1836 (Bound Volume)

Includes pew number, owner and taxes paid for all below Tax Books

Folder 21 Taxes for 1842

Folder 22 Taxes for 1843

Folder 23 Taxes for 1844

Folder 24 Taxes for 1853

Folder 25 Taxes for 1854

Folder 26 Taxes for 1855

Folder 27 Taxes for 1856-7

Folder 28 Taxes for 1858

C. Financial

Receipts include building maintenance, payment of salary to ministers, purchase of wood for the church, candles, printing tax bills, etc. Receipts were left in their original order, as they were found bound in packets with string. For this reason some years have more than one folder.

Box 28

Folder 1 Receipts 1811-1812

Folder 2 Receipts 1813

Folder 3 Receipts 1814

Folder 4 Receipts 1815

Folder 5 Receipts 1816

Folder 6 Receipts 1817

Folder 7 Receipts 1818

Folder 8 Receipts 1819

Folder 9 Receipts 1820

Folder 10a Receipts 1820-1821

Folder 10b Receipts 1821

Folder 11 Receipts 1821-1822

Folder 12 Receipts 1822 Painting and Repairs

Folder 13 Receipts 1822-1823

Folder 14 Receipts 1823-1824

Folder 15 Receipts 1824-1825

Folder 16 Receipts 1826

Folder 17 Receipts 1827-1828

Folder 18 Receipts 1828-1829

Folder 19 Receipts 1830

Folder 20 Receipts 1831-1832

Folder 21 Receipts 1832-1833

Folder 22 Receipts 1833-1834

Folder 23 Receipts 1835

Folder 24 Receipts 1836-1837

Folder 25 Receipts 1838

Folder 26 Receipts 1838-1839

Folder 27 Receipts 1839-1840

Folder 28 Receipts 1840-1841

Folder 29 Receipts 1840 Meetinghouse Repairs

Folder 30 Receipts 1840 Meetinghouse Repairs

Folder 31 Receipts 1841-1842

Box 29

Folder 1 Receipts 1842-1843

Folder 2 Receipts 1843

Folder 3 Receipts 1843-1844 Building Vestry

Folder 4 Receipts 1843-1844

Folder 5 Receipts 1844-1845 Purchasing Organ

Folder 6 Receipts 1845-1846

Folder 7 Receipts 1846-1847

Folder 8 Receipts 1847-1848

Folder 9 Receipts 1848-1849

Folder 10 Receipts 1850-1851

Folder 11 Receipts May 1850

Folder 12 Receipts 1851-1852

Folder 13 Receipts 1852-1853

Folder 14 Receipts 1853-1854

Folder 15 Receipts 1854-1855

Folder 16 Receipts 1855-1856

Folder 17 Receipts 1857-1858

Folder 18 Receipts 1857-1858

Folder 19 Receipts 1858-1859

Folder 20 Receipts 1859-1860

Folder 21 Receipts 1860-1861

Folder 22 Receipts 1862

Folder 23 Receipts 1862-1863

Folder 24 Receipts 1863-1864

D. Financial

Box 30

Folder 1 Wardens Accounts 1807-1813

Folder 2 Wardens Accounts 1815-1826

Folder 3 Wardens Accounts 1826-1834

Folder 4 Wardens Accounts 1835-1847

Folder 5 Wardens Accounts 1835-1839 (Bound Volume)

Folder 6 Wardens Accounts 1839 (Bound Volume)

Includes church income and expenses. Expenses include Athenaeum assessment, minister salary (Moses Ballou), and individual accounts.

Folder 7 Wardens Accounts 1848-1851

Folder 8 Wardens Accounts 1852-1863

Folder 9 Funds Book 1939-1947

E. Meetings

Folder 10 Meeting Notifications 1815-1844

States the time, date and location of meetings, sometimes includes purpose of meeting beyond choosing officers

Folder 11 Meeting Notifications 1844-1870

Folder 12 Record Book 1793-1852 (Bound Volume)

Records of annual meetings including officers present, votes taken, general business of the church.

Box 31

Folder 1 Record Book 1815-1940 (Bound Volume)

Folder 2 Record Book 1853-1927 (Bound Volume)

Folder 3 Record Book 1929-1946 (Bound Volume)

Folder 4 Meeting Records 1806-1813

Act of Incorporation of the Universalist Society in Portsmouth
List of members owing money to the church
Committee reports regarding parish debt
Financial Statements

Folder 5 Meeting Records 1814-1824

List of Parishioners (see list in introduction to Universalist Section)
Account with Mark Simes in regard to the building of the meeting house
Langley Boardman and others settlement for work on Church building
John Bennett bond agreement
Subscriptions for fund to paint the meeting house
Vote of the Committee of the Sale of Pews (regulations regarding pew sales)
Letter from Sebastian Streeter requesting a friendly dismission and letter of fellowship
Letter of fellowship for Sebastian Streeter
Vote to invite Edward Turner to be pastor
Committee report regarding adopting a new hymn book

Box 32

Folder 1 Meeting Records 1825-1830

Printed letter from the New Hampshire Auxiliary Colonization Society address to Rev. Edward Turner promoting free blacks have “asylum in the land of their Fathers” in the Colony of Cape Montserado in Africa
Request from the Universalist Society in Providence, Rhode Island to contribute to the fund for rebuilding their chapel after it was destroyed by fire
Statement from Edward Turner concerning his salary and his position as pastor
Statement regarding the position of Edward Turner and “some disaffection expressed by some individuals”
Recommendation for Thomas F. King from Sebastian Streeter
Funds sent to Thomas F. King prior to his coming to be pastor
Misc. undated pew lists and delinquent payees
Committee examining the idea of expanding the meeting house for an organ

Folder 2 Meeting Records 1835-1841

Assessment for the support of Thomas F. King “in consideration of Br. King’s being in debt & his Salary not being adequate to discharge the same as soon as he is desirous of doing”
Monument for Rev. John Murray
Repairs to the roof and lighting rod for the protection of the building from fire
Assessment for the support of the family of the late Rev. King
Establishment of a singing school
Refurbishments to the interior of the church, new blinds, carpet, paint, etc.
Report regarding proposed changes to the Hymn Book

Folder 3 Meeting Records 1842-1851

Subscription assessment for the support of building a church in Iowa City
Account for the Committee on Vestry
Subscriptions of support for purchasing an organ
Receipt for organ
Pastoral exchange with Rev. Andrew Peabody at the Unitarian Church
Resolution regarding the health of W. A. P. Dillingham and his position as pastor
Resolution regarding an anonymous letter sent to choir director Sarah Ann Nutter that was of an “unchristian spirit”
Building committee report regarding the need of interior and exterior repairs
Collection for reducing the church debt
Subscription for defraying the cost of installing Adoniram J. Patterson as pastor

Folder 4 Meeting Records 1852-1866

Committee report regarding delinquent taxes
Receipt for a contribution to the monument for Hosea Ballou at the Mount Auburn Cemetery
Blank pew tax receipts
Contract for alterations/renovations to the building
Petition to discontinue passing the collection plate during services and amounts pledged to be given directly to the church, no through the collection plate

F. Miscellaneous

Folder 5 Deed for land on which church stood on Pleasant Street, 1814

Folder 6 Portsmouth Athenaeum Share Certificate

Folder 7 Organ Share Certificates 1844

Book of individuals contributing to the organ fund as well as individual share certificates

Folder 8 Insurance Certificates and Receipts 1829-1858

Folder 9 Piece of fabric with description on rear “Wrought on board a U. S. Frigate by Rev. George Richards successor to Rev. John Murray and second pastor of the Universalist church in Portsmouth N. H.”

Folder 10 Typed transcript of a sermon delivered by Hosea Ballou on August 20, 1812 at the Universalist Church in Portsmouth titled: “Appropriate to the Occasion of a Day of Humiliation and Prayer Recommended by the President of the United States.”

Folder 11 Printed Sermon delivered by Thomas F. King on March 23, 1834 at the Universalist Church in Portsmouth titled: “The Paternal Character of God.”

Folder 12 Miscellaneous

Folder 13 Program for an Organ Concert, 1870

X. Miscellaneous

A. Printed Material

These materials were found scattered in the collection in no logical order and not located with any like materials. Many of the sermons can be found duplicated in the Ministers Materials section.

Box 33

Folder 1 Haven, Samuel, “An Ode Occasioned by the repairing of the South Church, and providing a covenant seat for the Singers,” ca. 1767

Folder 2 Haven, Samuel, “Mr. Haven’s Sermon, occasioned by the Death of the Honorable Henry Sherburne, Esq.” 1767

Folder 3 Haven, Samuel, “Mr. Haven’s Sermon at the Ordination of Reverend Mr. Belknap,” 1767

Folder 4 Haven, Samuel, “The Validity of Presbyterian Ordination, and the Importance of Candor and Union among Christians of different Persuasions, who agree in the Essentials of Christianity,” 1798

Folder 5 Haven, Samuel, “The Disinterested Benevolence of Gospel Ministers, in Promoting Steadfastness in their People,” 1800

Folder 6 Porter, Ebenezer, “The Magnitude of the Preacher’s World,” (Ordination of Rev. Israel Putnam), 1815

Folder 7 Parker, Nathan, “An Address Delivered to the South Parish Sunday School,” 1820

Folder 8 “Names of the Members of the First Church of Christ,” 1821

Folder 9 Blake, J. L., “One Thousand Questions for the Examination of Scholars in Blair’s Rhetorick,” 1822

Folder 10 Dewey, Orville, “The Unitarian Answer,” 1826

Folder 11 Parker, Nathan, “Dedication of a New Church,” 1826 (reprinted)

Folder 12 Parish report fragment, 1830

Folder 13 Annual Report of the New Hampshire Unitarian Association, 1833

Folder 14 Gannett, Ezra, “The Christian Ministry,” (Ordination of Andrew Peabody), 1833

Folder 15 “A New Year’s Gift to the Children of the South Parish Sunday School,” 1837

Folder 16 “An Act of Incorporation of the Sacred Music Society,” 1840

Folder 17 “The Haven School Fund,” 1843

Folder 18 Peabody, Andrew, “Slavery as it Appeared to a Northern Man in 1844,” 1844 reprinted in 1891

Folder 19 Peabody, Andrew, “The Currents in the Voyage of Life, A New Year’s Sermon,” ca. 1845

Folder 20 Peabody, Andrew, “The Importance of Opinions,” 1847

Folder 21 Peabody, Andrew, “Quench Not the Spirt,” 1849

Folder 22 “Regulations of the South Parish Sunday School,” 1850

Folder 23 Peabody, Andrew, Sermon on the Internment of John W. Foster, 1852

Folder 24 “Order of Christmas Services at the Unitarian Church, Portsmouth, NH” 1853

Folder 25 Whiting, Lyman, “The Recorded Name,” (Dedication of the new North Church building), 1855

Folder 26 The Year-Book of the Unitarian Congregational Churches, 1857

Folder 27 Peabody, Andrew, Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Sermon, 1858

Folder 28 Annual Report of the South Parish Sabbath School, 1858

Folder 29 Peabody, Andrew, “Four Sermons,” (Reopening of the Church), 1859

Folder 30 DeNormandie, James, “Christian Peace,” (Thanksgiving), 1864

Folder 31 Act of Incorporation and By-Laws for the South Church, 1874 (3 copies)

Folder 32 DeNormandie, James, “Christ or Confucious?” 1879

Folder 33 DeNormandie, James, “The Unpardonable Sin,” 1879

Folder 34 “A Statement of Beliefs of the Universalists,” 1887

Folder 35 Stanwood, James Rindge, “The Province Seal of New Hampshire under William and Mary 1692-1694,” 1889

Folder 36 Peabody, Andrew, “Life and Times of Plato,” ca. 1891

Box 34

Folder 1 Sweetser, Edwin C., “Universalism Explained,” 1893

Folder 2 Davis, Franklin Ware, “Old St. John’s Parish,” 1894

Folder 3 “Supper Prepared and Served by the ‘Men Folk’ of the Universalist Parish in Philbrick Hall, Portsmouth, NH,” 1896

Folder 4 Young, Edward, “Andrew P. Peabody, DD, LLD, A Memoir,” 1896

Folder 5 “Some Historical Notes Relating to St. John’s Church of Portsmouth, NH,” 1901

Folder 6 Gooding, Alfred, “The Theological History of an Old Parish,” 1901

Folder 7 Gooding, Alfred, “Reflections upon a Ministry of Twenty Years, 1884-1904,” 1904

Folder 8 “The Centennial of the Dedication of the Old Universalist Church and the Burning of the Mortgage of the New Universalist Church,” 1908

Folder 9 “The Unitarian Advance,” 1915

Folder 10 “Order of Service Installation of the Reverend William Safford Jones,” 1922

Folder 11 Gooding, Alfred, “Statistics of a Long Ministry,” 1922

Folder 12 Order of Service the Sunday Before Saint Andrew’s Day, 1923

Folder 13 Vespers, 1923-1924

Folder 14 “Two Addresses Delivered in the South Church…on the Hundredth Anniversary of its Dedication,” 1926 (2 copies)

Folder 15 “Summer Conference of the New Hampshire Unitarian Association,” 1926

Folder 16 “Centenary of the Dedication,” 1926

Folder 17 Donnell, Albert, “Newington, New Hampshire Parish and Town A Study of the Ecclesiastical History,” 1926

Folder 18 “Union Service of the Five Churches,” 1927

Folder 19 Easter Vespers, 1928

Folder 20 Armistice Day Service, 1931

Folder 21 South Church Calendar, 1931 and 1934

Folder 22 “The New England Associate Alliance The South Parish, Portsmouth, NH,” 1933

Folder 23 Musical Vespers, 1935-1937

Folder 24 Summer Union Services Schedule, 1944

Folder 25 South Church Calendar, 1944

Folder 26 The Federated Churches of Portsmouth, 1945

Folder 27 “Dedication of the Parish House,” 1954 (9 copies)

Folder 28 Organ Dedication, 1954

Folder 29 Ordination Service of John Padandrew, 1955

Folder 30 Build for the Future, ca. 1961

Folder 31 Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of the Unitarian-Universalist Church in Portsmouth, NH, 1962

Folder 32 “100 Years of the New Hampshire Unitarian Association,” 1963

Folder 33 Installation Service for John S. MacPhee, 1964

Folder 34 “The Bells of Paul Revere his sons & grandsons,” 1976

Folder 35 Channing, William Ellery, “Unitarian Christianity,” undated

Folder 36 Perkins, Palfrey, “The Greatness of God,” undated

Folder 37 “History of South Parish in Portsmouth,” undated (3 copies)

B. Correspondence

Correspondence is a rather irregular group of materials that may have been separated from other parts of the collection at some point. There are groupings be year, but there are large gaps when no correspondence exists.

See also Warden’s Materials in Financial, as many of the correspondence addressed to the church Wardens remained in those records (retaining original order).

Box 35

Folder 1 1856-1858 William R. Emerson to Joseph F. Shores regarding design of building renovations, including selection of materials.

Folder 2 1858-1865

Folder 3 1862 Mary E. Arnold to J. F. M. Adams regarding family matters and the state of the country

Folder 4 1870-1872 Eliza M. Trundy to James F. Shores

Folder 5 1871-1872 William Pray to James F. Shores regarding moving

Folder 6 1871-1872 Elizabeth Shores Pray to James F. Shores

Folder 7 1872 First National Bank correspondence

Folder 8 1879-1899 Correspondence with Josiah Adams, undertaker

Folder 9 1884

Folder 10 1896 Correspondence regarding the contents of the Cornerstone (time capsule) at the Universalist Church

C. General Church History

Folder 11 Ralph May Statement about the South Church Property, 1951

Folder 12 Paul Costello History of South Church, 1955

D. Miscellaneous

Folder 13 Y.P.C.U. Peirce Memorial Church, Dover, Minutes Book, 1913-1918

Folder 14 Book of unidentified manuscript sermons, 1849-1866

Folder 15 South Church share in the Portsmouth Athenaeum, 1834

Box 36

Folder 1 George B. Hyde Scrapbook, 1908, 1917

Folder 2 James F. Shores Bills and Receipts, ca. 1870

Folder 3 Sermon “God is Spirit,” Dr. Babbidge, 1883

Folder 4 Unidentified 19th Century Sermons

E. 20th Century Miscellaneous Additions

Folder 5 1940-1970 Essay – “Tankard belonging to the South Church,” “Report of Minister 1946,” Church School roster ca. 1960, Church School Yearbook 1968-1969.

Folder 6 1970-1990 Misc. Orders of Service, Correspondence regarding Pierce Memorial Church, Essay – “South Church Played Major Role in Rebellion Against Puritanism,” by Paul Costello, Annual Reports (1975-1976), Music Book – “Singing Shouting Celebrating 200 Years of Universalism.”

Folder 7 Laurence Craig File

Folder 8 Genealogies of the Whipple, Dodge and Woodbury Families

Folder 9 Miscellaneous fragments and notes

Folder 10 Miscellaneous newspaper clippings

Folder 11 Miscellaneous ephemera fragments

Folder 12 Allen Brown Journal, January 1928

Oversized

Folder 1 Plan of Gas Pipe in Stone Church, 1853

Folder 2 Pew Owners, ca. 1820

Folder 3 Newspaper – The Trumpet Universalist Magazine, August 30, 1856

Folder 4 Aetna Insurance Certificate for the South Church Sunday School, 1830

Folder 5 Deed for the Pitt Street Church, 1828

Folder 6 Agreement between Abner Blaisdell, Mark Simes and Abraham Shaw with Asa Robinson and Samuel Cofran, 1807

Folder 7 Deed od Sale for the Pitt Street Church to the South Church Sunday School, 1829

Folder 8 Sketch of the interior of the church with some notes as to pew owners, unknown date

Folder Pew Plan, date unknown

Phase Boxes

***Phase Boxes are located at end of Manuscript Collection area in vault***

Phase Box 1 Miscellaneous cassette recordings

Phase Box 2 1983, 1984, 1985

Phase Box 3 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989

Phase Box 4 1989, 1990, 1991

Phase Box 5 1991, 1992

Phase Box 6 1992, 1993, 1994

Phase Box 7 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Phase Box 8 1998 to July 1999

Phase Box 9 August 1999 to 2000

Phase Box 10 2000

Phase Box 11 2000 to 2001

Phase Box 12 2001 to 2002

Phase Box 13 2002 to 2003

Phase Box 14 2003

Phase Box 15 2004 to 2005

Phase Box 16 2005 to 2006

Phase Box 17 2006 to 2007

South Church Papers – MS039

Recent News

Events Calendar

April 2024

Search Website

HOURS

SUPPORT US

FIND US

	April 2024
Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
	1	2	3 Franklin Club Franklin Club April 3, 2024 @ 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA The Junto, also known as the Leather Apron Club, was a club for mutual improvement established in 1727 by Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia. The Leather Apron Club's purpose was to debate questions of morals, politics, and natural philosophy, and to exchange knowledge of business affairs. The Athenaeum's newly formed Franklin Club was created with this mind. Please join us on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Sawtelle Reading Room. We loosely follow the list of questions from Ben Franklin’s club, and generally chat and share thoughts about current matters of life and town in a casual manner. The Franklin Club is a great opportunity to bring new members or potential new members who are looking for an opportunity to socialize and get to know other folks that are part of the Athenaeum. •	4 ATHENAEUM CLOSED ATHENAEUM CLOSED April 4, 2024 Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA Due to the weather, the Portsmouth Athenaeum is closed to the public today. Tour of Sawtelle Reading Room Tour of Sawtelle Reading Room April 4, 2024 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm The first-floor Sawtelle Reading Room in the 1805 building is open for tours. Donations accepted. • •	5 Art 'Round Town for exhibit "First in the Nation: New Hampshire Primaries – 1920-2020" Art 'Round Town for exhibit "First in the Nation: New Hampshire Primaries – 1920-2020" April 5, 2024 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA Please join us during Art 'Round Town for our current exhibit "First in the Nation: New Hampshire Primaries – 1920-2020" in the third-floor Randall Gallery. •	6
7	8	9 New Members Tea New Members Tea April 9, 2024 @ 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA New, prospective, and current members are invited to this in-person tea hosted in the first-floor Sawtelle Reading Room. •	10	11	12	13 Tour of Sawtelle Reading Room Tour of Sawtelle Reading Room April 13, 2024 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm The first-floor Sawtelle Reading Room in the 1805 building is open for tours. Donations accepted. •
14	15	16	17 2024 LECTURE SERIES: "An Insider's Take on NH's Presidential Primary" with Thomas Rath 2024 LECTURE SERIES: "An Insider's Take on NH's Presidential Primary" with Thomas Rath April 17, 2024 @ 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA On April 17th, Thomas Rath will present An Insider's Take on NH's Presidential Primary. His talk will address what's really important—and what goes on behind the scenes—at New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation Presidential primary. It will include anecdotes from his experience as a seasoned participant in and observer of New Hampshire's political scene. Click for more information. •	18	19	20
21	22	23	24	25 Great Bay Book Group Discussion with author David W. Moore Great Bay Book Group Discussion with author David W. Moore April 25, 2024 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm 3S Artspace, 319 Vaughan St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the most epic environmental battle in the Seacoast when a small group of passionate people defeated a proposed oil refinery in Great Bay that would have irrevocably changed our region. What can we learn from this story to help us confront today’s environmental threats? Please join the Great Bay-Piscataqua Waterkeeper and Great Bay Stewards in partnership with 3S Artspace for a book group discussion at 3S with David W. Moore (author of Small Town, Big Oil - The Untold Story of the Women Who Took on the Richest Man in the World-And Won), activists at the center of the story in the 1970s, and those at the forefront of environmental advocacy in our region today. Melissa Paly, the Conservation Law Foundation’s Great Bay Water Keeper and the Great Bay Stewards serves as host for the book discussion and features David Moore, author of Small Town, Big Oil; Athenaeum member Dudley Dudley, former Durham State Representative; Nancy Sandberg, former Chair of Save Our Shores; Meredith Bennett, daughter of Phyliss Bennett, publisher of Publick Occurences; Kalle Matso, Director of Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership; Amanda Gokee, Climate Reporter, Boston Globe; Christina Dubin, Seacoast Climate Action Now and Beyond Plastics; and others TBA. More information here: https://www.3sarts.org/events/287796203898. •	26 ArtsAthenaeum Concert "The Like Minds Ensemble" ArtsAthenaeum Concert "The Like Minds Ensemble" April 26, 2024 @ 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA The Portsmouth Athenaeum Chamber Music presents an ArtsAtheneaum Concert featuring the UNH-based trio, "The Like Minds Ensemble" with Peggy Vagts, flute; Margaret Herlehy, oboe; and Janet Polk, bassoon. This free concert will be on the first-floor Sawtelle Reading Room at the Athenaeum. Space is very limited. https://portsmouthathenaeum.org/event/artsathenaeum-concert-the-like-minds-ensemble/ •	27
28	29	30

South Church Papers – MS039

Share this:

Recent News

Events Calendar

April 2024

Search Website

HOURS