[1]   At a meeting of the Proprietors of Pews in the First Church, on Wednesday the 6th day of July, 1808, by virtue of a warrant in the following words, viz.

“The Deacons of this Church notify the Society that a meeting will be held in this house on Wednesday the sixth day of July next at four o’clock, P.M. for the following objects, viz. To choose a clerk. To confirm the doings of the committee of said Society, respecting the assignation of pews in the new Church in Summer Street. To adopt such measures as may be necessary for the assessment of the weekly taxes on the pews, and for the sale of the surplus pews. And to act on such other concerns as may come before said meeting. As the business will be of great importance to the Society, the punctual attendance of every proprietor is earnestly requested. Old Brick or First Church. June 25, 1808.”

Deacon David Tilden chosen moderator, and after having read the warrant, William Furness chosen Clerk. He being absent, Voted to adjourn this meeting to Friday next at this place at 4 o’clock P.M.

The original Notification was read from the Desk by Mr. Willard on the afternoon of the Sabbath, June 26, and a copy posted at the Church on the 25th.

Adjourned Meeting, Friday, July 8, 1808.

Deacon David Tilden, moderator. Gave information that Mr. William Furness declined accepting the office of clerk: then proceeded to the choice of a clerk, and Samuel Bradford by ballot was chosen Clerk of said Society.

William Smith, esquire, then administered the oath to said Samuel Bradford for the faithful performance of his duty.

After reading the warrant, for the meeting,

Voted That the assignment of pews in the new church in Summer Street made to the proprietors of pews in this church by their Standing Committee be approved and confirmed.

Voted That the present Standing Committee be authorized to assess the taxes on the respective pews in the new meeting-house and to report at the adjournment or any future meeting of this Society.

Voted That the Standing Committee of this Society be authorized to sell those pews in the new church in Summer Street that are not assigned to the members of this Society, at such time and in such manner, as they shall judge for the best interest of the Society.

Voted To adjourn this meeting to Friday next at this place, at 4 o’clock p.m.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

[2]   Adjourned Meeting, Friday, July 15, 1808.

Deacon Tilden, moderator. The present Standing Committee of the First Church, agreeably to a Vote of the Society, that they make an assessment of taxes on the respective pews in the new meeting house,—made Report of their doings, which being read,

Voted That the said Report of their doings be accepted.

Voted That the Standing Committee request the Clergyman who may officiate on the next Sabbath to inform the Society of the day on which the First Church, namely the new house in Summer Street shall be opened for public worship.

Pews in Chauncy Place Church

Weekly Tax Assessed by Committee, 1808

[3]

Amount of Weekly Taxes 36, 63 cents.

Voted That this meeting be dissolved. Samuel Bradford, Clerk.

Memorandum. Rev. William Emerson preached a Farewell Sermon in the Old Brick on Sabbath, 17th July, 1808, and announced to the Society that the First Church would meet in the new house in Summer Street on Thursday next, 11 o’clock for the object of public worship and a Dedication of the new house.

Tuesday, July 19, 1808.

At a meeting of the Proprietors of Pews in First Church by virtue of a warrant in the following words, namely, “The proprietors of the First Church are hereby notified that their annual meeting will be held in this place on Tuesday 19th instant at 4 o’clock P.M. for the purpose of choosing their Standing Committee, voting the Minister’s Salary, and transacting any other business that may legally come before them.” July 9, 1808.

Voted That Dea. Tilden be moderator.

Voted That the Standing Committee for the year ensuing consist of six members. [4] Dea. David Tilden, Dea. James Morrill, Mr. John Joy, Mr. William Smith, Mr. Samuel Bradford, Mr. Enoch Huse, are chosen.

Voted Deacon David Tilden be treasurer for the year ensuing.

Voted That the Salary of Rev. William Emerson for the ensuing year be Twenty-Five Dollars a Week, and that he be furnished with wood twenty-eight cords.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflen be the Sexton, and allowed one hundred and twenty dollars for the year ensuing, and in that proportion for any part of the year he may serve.

Voted That this meeting be dissolved. S. Bradford Clerk.

The original notification was read from the Desk on Sabbath 10 July, by Rev. Dr. Ware, and a copy was posted at the meeting house on 9th July.

Thursday, July 21, 1808.

The First Church in Summer Street dedicated to the Worship of Almighty God.

Meeting of Standing Committee, July 26, 1808.

By assignment, and notice previously given to the Pew holders situate in the Gallery, “that those who were not satisfied with the Pews assigned them by said Committee, might, according to an appraisement of pews on the lower floor, make an election of pews at said appraisements,” Messrs. Beza Tucker and John W. Blanchard, were present.

“Conditions of sale. 25 per cent. of the amount of purchase money to be paid down as earnest. The residue to be divided in equal payments at 3 and 6 mo. with interest, or 3 mo. without interest: Boston Money: Deeds to be given when the conditions are complied with. That the purchasers have the privilege of their pews in the gallery advertised at the first sale of Pews at auction which shall be attempted be made of Pews in said House, and that they be exempted from taxes on the purchase of pews they may this day make on the lower floor, until the sabbath succeeding the day on which such sale of pews shall be attempted to be made; and that in the sale at auction of gallery pews those belonging to the said purchasers shall be first offered.”

At the instance of the Standing Committee the Society remained after service. On motion made, and seconded,

[5]   Voted That the Society request of Rev. William Emerson a ms. copy of his last discourse delivered in the Old House the 17th inst. and of his First Discourse in the New House on the 21st inst. for publication.

Voted That the Deacons be a committee for the object of the above vote, and that on receiving the said copies they cause seven hundred copies to be printed; two hundred of which are to be presented to the Rev. Mr. Emerson, and the residue distributed to the Society in such manner as the Committee shall think proper.

Meeting of Standing Committee, August 2, 1808.

By assignment and notice previously given to sundry worshippers for the object of their making choice of pews, etc. as per conditions recorded;

Meeting of Standing Committee, August 2, 1808, at Dea. James Morrill’s.

The Committee made notifications to each and every pew proprietor of the weekly taxes on his pew.

Voted That a new deed be furnished to each and every proprietor who shall have paid all arrearages due on the pew he held in the Old Brick meeting house, and that the Treasurer be, and he is hereby authorized to give deeds in conformity to the above Vote.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

Meeting of Standing Committee, August 22.

Voted That Rev. William Emerson, in the name of the Standing Committee be requested to offer to the Proprietors of the Theological Library484 the use of the Vestry of the First Church in Boston on the following conditions:

In stating these conditions, the Committee have no intention of embarassing their offer, or of lessening its value in the estimation of the proprietors of the Theological Library; the Committee conceive that neither they, the pastor, nor any member of First Church will ever make such a use of the vestry, as will deprive the [6] proprietors of the Library of a single benefit, which they might hope to enjoy from any other room.

(signed) David Tilden, Chairman, Standing Committee.

Lord’s Day, P. M. September 25, 1808.

At the request of the Standing Committee the Society remained after service; they took into consideration the suggestion made by the Committee, of making a grant of a sum of money, to furnish certain household furniture for the house of Rev. William Emerson, in Summer Street.

Voted That a sum not exceeding seven hundred Dollars be appropriated from the funds for the object abovementioned, and that Rev. William Emerson be requested to accept of the same.

Voted That Dea. David Tilden, Dea. Morril, and Mr. Samuel Bradford be a committee to make the Communication to Rev. Mr. Emerson, and to carry the same into effect.

The Committee on the same day made their communication to the rev. pastor, who accepted the offer of the Society, and expressed the most lively sentiments of respect, gratitude and affection to the Society for this renewed instance of their liberality.

Samuel Bradford clerk.

Meeting of Standing Committee, September 29.

Voted That a book for registering of Births, Marriages and Burials of the Members of the Society be furnished by the Treasurer.485

Voted That four of Pollock’s Stoves be procured, and placed in the meeting-house.

Annual Meeting, Tuesday, July 18, 1809.

Due notice of the same having been given by notifications posted at said meeting house.

David Tilden chosen moderator.

Samuel Bradford chosen clerk.

David Tilden chosen Treasurer.

David Tilden, James Morrill, John Joy, William Smith, Enoch Huse, Samuel Bradford chosen Standing Committee.

Voted That Rev. Mr. Emerson be allowed for the ensuing year, in addition to his house twenty-five Dollars, each and every week: also be furnished with 30 cords of wood.

Voted That Ebenezer Claflen, as Sexton, be allowed one hundred and twenty-dollars for the ensuing year.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized, as soon as may be, to cause to be imported from England a suitable organ for the use and service of First Church.486

Voted That the Members of the Society are sensible of the [7] cordial and brotherly support of those members who have given their particular assistance in the vocal part of public worship.

The oath of office was administred to the clerk by the moderator.

Meeting Standing Committee, April 21, 1810.

Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to make a Deed of Pew No 45 to Mr. Ebenezer O. Fifield.

Deed made said April 21.

Meeting Standing Committee, May 1810.

Voted That the Treasurer make a Deed of pew No 5 to Mr. Ralph Huntington.

Deed made said May 19.

Annual Meeting, Tuesday, July 17, 1810.

David Tilden chosen moderator.

Samuel Bradford, clerk, and sworn by the moderator.

Deacon Tilden chosen Treasurer.

Deacon Tilden, Deacon Morrill, John Joy, William Smith, Enoch Huse, Samuel Bradford Standing Committee.

Voted That Rev. Mr. Emerson be allowed for the year ensuing twenty-five Dollars each and every week, and that he be furnished with thirty cords of wood for the ensuing year.

Voted That Ebenezer Claflin as sexton, be allowed one hundred and twenty Dollars for the year ensuing, and a further sum if to the Committee it should seem fit.

Voted That the Treasurer be empowered to pay thirty-two Dollars, the proportion of the expense incurred by sundry religious associations in this town for a dinner provided for the Rev. Clergy on the Day of the Meeting of the Rev. Clergy in convention on the day succeeding the Day of General Election.487 Dissolved.

Meeting of Standing Committee, April 11, 1811.

Voted That the Treasurer be empowered to make a deed of Pew No 35 to Mr. William Tileston.

Lord’s Day, May 12, 1811.

This day, at 45 minutes past seven in the Evening, our respected and beloved Friend Rev. William Emerson died, aged 42 years. He was installed pastor of the First Church October 16, 1799.

[8]   Monday, May 13, 1811. P.M.

Meeting of the Congregation at the Church, to adopt measures for the interment of their late Reverend Pastor.

Voted That the widow and Family of the Deceased be furnished with appropriate mourning, which, with all other necessary expenses be defrayed and paid out of the Society’s Funds.

Voted That Rev. Mr. Buckminster be requested to deliver a Sermon on the day of the interment; that Rev. Dr. Lathrop be also requested to make the first prayer, and Rev. Mr. Holley the second prayer.

Voted That the males of the Society wear a black crape round the arm for six weeks; and that the females assume appropriate badges of mourning for the same time.

Voted That Thursday next, 16th, be assigned for the interment, and that the religious exercises commence at 3 o’clock.

Voted That the Standing Committee carry into effect the above resolutions.

Adjourned without day.

Lord’s Day, May 19, 1811. P.M.

At the request of the Standing Committee, the Members of the Society remained after service.

Voted That the Thanks of the Society be presented Rev. Mr. Buckminster for his very excellent discourse at the interment of their deceased Pastor; and to request a copy of the same for the Press.

Voted That should a copy of the Sermon be procured, the Deacons cause one thousand copies to be printed.

Voted That a Committee be raised to consider the situation of the Family of our late respected Pastor, and report at the adjournment of this meeting, such a plan for their support, as will be respectful to the memory of our deceased pastor, and honorable to the Society.

Voted That the Committee consist of the Standing Committee together with Peter C. Brooks, Daniel Sargent, Samuel Torrey and Benjamin Joy.

Voted That the Society’s Tomb in the Chapel Burying Ground be repaired or rebuilt, as to the Standing Committee shall seem fit.

Voted That twenty-five Dollars be paid weekly to the widow of the late Pastor, until other support shall be determined on.

Voted That this meeting be adjourned to this day fortnight.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

[9]   Lord’s Day, June 2, 1811. Adjourned meeting.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the situation of the Family of our late respected pastor.

Report That the sum of Five Hundred Dollars be allowed and paid from the Society’s Funds to the Widow of Rev. Mr. Emerson, in quarterly payments for the support of herself and children, during the term of seven years from and after the first day of July next.

That the said Widow have the use and occupancy of the parish house for the term of one year from the first day of July next, unless the Society should have occasion for the said House for parochial objects.

David Tilden Chairman.

The above report unanimously accepted.

A notification, calling on the proprietors of the First Church to attend their annual meeting on the 16th inst. was posted, bearing date July 7, 1811, at the meeting-house.

Samuel Bradford clerk.

First Church, Lord’s Day, July 23, 1811.

A contribution was made this afternoon for the unhappy sufferers by fire at Newburyport,488 and the sum of two hundred and forty-four Dollars collected. Whereupon the Standing Committee

Voted That the said sum be paid over by the Treasurer to Epes Sargent, authorized treasurer to receive monies raised for the relief of said Sufferers.

Annual Meeting, July 16, 1811.

David Tilden chosen moderator.

Samuel Bradford, Clerk: who being absent, Dea. Morrill officiated as clerk pro. tem.

Voted That the Standing Committee consist of six, and the following were chosen, David Tilden, James Morril, John Joy, William Smith, Samuel Bradford and Enoch Huse.

Voted That David Tilden be Treasurer.

Voted That the Sexton be allowed a Salary of one hundred and fifty Dollars for the ensuing year.

Voted That the Report of the Committee, which was unanimously accepted Lord’s Day June 2d respecting the allowance to the widow of our deceased pastor, be and is this day confirmed.

A conversation having taken place respecting the Committee having by the Treasurer paid to Messrs. Jonathan L. and Benjamin Austin one hundred Dollars as a compensation for damages sustained in the exchange of pews.

[10]   June 16, 1811.

Voted that the consideration of the subject be postponed to the adjournment, on the 23d current; and then the meeting was accordingly adjourned.

Adjourned Meeting, July 23, 1811.

The Committee having informed the Brethren of the principles which influenced them to pay Messrs. Austin the sum of one hundred Dollars.

Voted That the subject do now subside.

Voted That this meeting be dissolved, and after the Clerk was sworn, it was accordingly dissolved.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

Oath administered by William Smith, esq.

Lord’s Day, August 18, 1811. Meeting Standing Committee.

Voted That the Deacons be authorized as soon as may be, to cause Insurance against Fire to be made in the sum of 20,000 Dollars on the four Dwelling-Houses belonging to the Society, at either of the Insurance offices in Boston, where it can be effected at the lowest Premium.

September 11, 1811. Meeting of Standing Committee.

The Deacons reported that they had effected insurance against Fire on the Four Dwelling Houses at the Phoenix Office, 20,000 Dollars at one quarter per centum from August 1811 to August 1812.

Annual Meeting, July 21, 1812.

Dea. Tilden chosen moderator.

Samuel Bradford, chosen clerk for ensuing year.

David Tilden, James Morrill, John Joy, William Smith, Samuel Bradford, Enoch Huse Standing Committee for ensuing year.

Dea. Tilden chosen Treasurer.

Voted That Ebenezer Claflin, Sexton, be allowed one hundred and fifty Dollars for the year ensuing.

Voted That the Widow of the late pastor continue to have the Occupancy of the parish house for the term of one year from the first of July present unless the Society shall have occasion for it for parochial objects.

Voted That the Society approve of the proceedings of the Standing Committee in reference to insurance against fire for the year past, and are authorized and requested to inquire at the several Offices in Boston to ascertain the best terms at which [11] insurance may be effected for the ensuing year.

Oath administered the Clerk. Meeting dissolved.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

Lord’s Day, April 25, 1813.

The Brethren of the Society, by notification posted, and notice from the pulpit, remained after Evening Service for the consideration of the Brethren in supplying the pulpit.

Voted That the Brethren designate by ballot the name of the person whom they would wish to supply the pulpit for the 2, 3, 4, and 5 Sabbaths in May.

The votes being collected, it appeared that the ballots stood thus.

Meeting dissolved.

Lord’s Day, May 16, 1813.

The Brethren of the Church and Congregation met after the Evening Service (the like notification having been given as on 25th April) when the moderator, Dea. Tilden informed the Society that the Members of the Church at a late meeting on the subject of electing a pastor for the Society, had unanimously chosen and elected Mr. John L. Abbot as pastor of said First Church. After conversation on the subject, it was

Voted To postpone the consideration thereof to Sabbath next, 23 inst. That notifications may issue to the absent, and all the members present, requiring their punctual attendance; viz. to the several pewholders of the Society.

Lord’s Day, May 23, 1813.

The Brethren of the Society met by adjournment for the object therein mentioned (the like notifications having been previously given). A motion was made for the Congregation to concur with the church in their vote of the election of Mr. John L. Abbot as Pastor. The motion was withdrawn to give opportunity to take the following Vote of the members of the Society.

Voted That we now proceed to vote for a Pastor of the First Church.

Voted That any individual present declaring himself personally authorized to vote for an absent proprietor, is so permitted to do; and the vote by proxy be counted.

The Vote for Pastor being then taken by ballot, it appeared that

Voted That Mr. Abbot be invited to settle with the First Church as their pastor, and the said vote passed without a dissentient.

Voted That a Committee, consisting of two members of the Church and four members of the Congregation wait on Mr. Abbot with the Doings of the Society, and request his acceptance of their choice or election of him as their pastor.

Voted That said Committee be authorized and empowered to offer to said Mr. Abbot in case he should accord in their wishes, for his support and maintenance, the Salary of twenty-five Dollars for each and every week; that he be furnished with the parish dwelling house and also with twenty-five Cords of Wood annually.

Voted That Dea. Tilden, Dea. Morrill, William Stevenson, John Joy, Daniel Sargent, and Edward Reynolds be the Committee.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

Lord’s Day, June 6, 1813.

Rev. Dr. Porter officiated this day, and after evening service read to the Congregation a letter from Mr. John L. Abbot, communicating his acceptance of the application of the committee of First Church to become their pastor.

June 22, 1813.

Meeting of Standing Committee, at the request of several brethren of the Society, who officiate in the orchestra, respecting the procuring an organ on hire; and the committee accepted the report of Dea. Morrill, James Thwing, Daniel Messinger and James Phillips to hire from Mr. Graupner an organ for the term of one year. And it was agreed to allow him for the same one hundred Dollars, to commence from 27 August. The organ to be placed in the house at the expense of said Graupner: the Society to pay the incidental expenses of preparing the gallery for its reception.490

Annual meeting, July 12, 1813.

Samuel Bradford chosen Clerk for ensuing year.

Dea. Tilden, moderator for the present meeting.

Voted That the Standing Committee consist of nine members, viz. David Tilden, James Morril, John Joy, William Smith, Enoch Huse, Samuel Bradford, James Thwing, James Phillips, Edward Reynolds.

[13]   David Tilden, treasurer.

Voted That Ebenezer Claflin be the sexton, with the Salary of 150 Dollars.

Voted That this Society do now, and they accordingly did, confirm the Vote of 23d May respecting the support of Mr. Abbot, their pastor elect.

Meeting dissolved.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

July 14, 1813.

This Day, Wednesday, Rev. John L. Abbot was ordained pastor of First Church and Society.

Introductory prayer by Rev. Mr. Thacher; Sermon, by Rev. Professor Ware; Consecrating Prayer, by Rev. Dr. Lathrop; Charge, by Rev. President Kirkland; Fellowship of the Churches by Rev. Charles Lowell; Concluding prayer by Rev. Mr. Parker of Portsmouth. The members composing the Ecclesiastical Council, with the professors, tutors and residents of Harvard University; also the Episcopal Clergy and Baptist ministers of the town, with all the clergy of the Boston association, with a large number of invited guests and the proprietors of pews in First Church, dined at Concert Hall. The whole was conducted with decency and in order.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

July 18, 1813. Meeting of Proprietors, Sabbath Evening.

Voted That a committee be raised to request of Rev. Professor Ware a copy of his learned and excellent Discourse before the Congregation on the Day of the ordination of Rev. John L. Abbot.

Voted That same Committee request of Rev. President Kirkland a copy of his serious, energetic, and elegant Charge; and also to request of Rev. Mr. Lowell a copy of his pathetic and interesting Expression of the Fellowship of the Churches, delivered by them on the said occasion.

Voted That on procuring said Copies, a competent number be printed and disposed of by the Standing Committee.

Voted That the Deacons be the Committee to procure from the Rev. Gentlemen the copies above referred to.

S. Bradford Clerk.

N.B. The Deacons applied to the Reverend Gentlemen; but they declined furnishing copies as requested.

October 17, 1813. Meeting of Society.

A letter was communicated from Rev. Mr. Abbot respecting the ill state of his health; whereupon Voted unanimously, that this church and congregation are deeply afflicted, and sincerely regret the indisposition and ill state of health of their reverend and beloved pastor; and they recommend that he comply with the advice of his Physicians, with respect [14] to a contemplated Voyage or Journey.

Voted That the Standing Committee be requested to inform the Rev. Pastor of the above vote, and to aid him in suitable arrangements for the same.

Voted That the expenses of supplying the Pulpit be paid by the Society during the absence of the Rev. Mr. Abbot, and that his salary be continued.

Samuel Bradford clerk.

True Copy, Samuel Bradford Clerk.

March 21, 1814. Meeting of Standing Committee.

Voted That the Deacons be, and are hereby authorized to give certificates to those persons who are entitled to a deed of a pew, until a Treasurer is chosen; that office being vacated by the death of their late Treasurer and Deacon David Tilden.

July 16.

Notifications dated and posted the 17th at the meeting house Chauncy Place for the annual meeting of the Society on Tuesday 26 said July at 4 o’clock P.M.

Samuel Bradford Clerk.

July 26, 1814. Annual meeting.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

James H. Foster, chosen Clerk.

James Morrill, James Thwing, William Smith, Enoch Huse, James Phillips, Edward Reynolds, Daniel Messinger, James H. Foster, Standing Committee.

James Thwing chosen Treasurer.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflin be Sexton, with a salary of one hundred and fifty Dollars.

Voted That the Thanks of the Society be given to Dea. James Morrill for his services and assistance to the late Treasurer in the duties of that office for [15] the last twenty-seven years.

Voted That the thanks of this Society be given to Col. Bradford for his Services.

Voted That this meeting be dissolved.

James H. Foster Clerk.

Oath administered to the Clerk by

Samuel M. Thayer Esquire

August 25, 1814. Meeting Standing Committee.

Voted that deeds of the following pews be given to the following persons:

October 17, 1814. Meeting of the Committee.

A letter received from Rev. Samuel Stearns at Andover, was read, of which the following is a copy:

Andover, October 17, 1814.

Voted That the Society be notified in the public papers to meet at the meeting-house to-morrow morning at 10 o’clock, and that the Sexton be directed to notify such of the Society as he can of said meeting.

J. H. Foster Clerk.

October 18, 1814. Meeting of Society in Chauncy Place.

The above letter from Rev. Mr. Stearns was read.

Voted That the body of our late worthy and respected pastor be brought from Andover into this town for interment.

Voted That the Funeral be on Friday next from the meeting-house.

Voted That the Standing Committee make the necessary arrangements for the Funeral, and the expenses on the occasion to be paid by the Society.

[16]   October 18, 1814. Meeting of the Committee.

Voted That Dea. Morrill and William Smith be a Committee to wait on Rev. Edward Everett and request him to deliver an address or Sermon, as most agreeable to him, at the interment of our late worthy pastor, on Friday next.

Voted That Rev. President Kirkland, Rev. Dr. Lathrop, Rev. Isaac Smith, Rev. James Freeman, Rev. William E. Channing, and Rev. S. C. Thacher be requested to attend as pall bearers; and that Rev. Dr. Lathrop and Rev. J. McKean be requested to make prayers on the occasion.

Voted That the Services commence at 2 o’clock.

Voted That Deacon Morrill and William Smith be a committee to go to Andover and request of J. L. Abbot, Esquire the remains of our late pastor, and cause the same to be removed to Boston.

Voted That James H. Foster cause the pulpit to be shrouded.

Voted That Deacon Thwing, James Phillips, and Daniel Messinger be a Committee to have music prepared for the occasion.

October 23, 1814. Meeting of Society, after Service.

Voted That the Deacons of the Society be a committee to return thanks to Rev. Mr. Everett for his excellent discourse at the interment of our late Pastor, and to request a copy for the press.

Voted That the Deacons, if Mr. Everett complies, cause 500 copies of the Discourse to be printed for the use of the Society.

November 7, 1814. Meeting Standing Committee.

Voted That a deed of Pew No 45 be given to [blank] Gooch491 on a formal relinquishment of the same by E. O. Fifield.

December 5, 1814. Meeting of Committee.

Voted That a Committee of two be now appointed to settle with the late Treasurer, Mr. James Thwing, he having declined continuing in the office.492

Voted That James Morrill and William Smith be that Committee.

December 25, 1814. Meeting of the Society.

Voted That Mr. N. L. Frothingham be requested to preach four Sabbaths from and after the first Sabbath in January next.

[17]   The following letter from the New South Society was communicated.

Voted To accept the invitation, and that Deacon Morrill and Samuel Bradford be a Committee to wait on the Ladies.

J. H. Foster Clerk.

January 26, 1815. Meeting of the Society.

Called by the Standing Committee, by notification as follows.

Voted That it is expedient to make choice of a pastor.

Voted That we do now proceed to the choice of a pastor.

Voted That a Committee of Three be appointed to Collect, count, and sort the votes.

Voted That Daniel Sargent, Josiah Bradlee, and Dea. Morrill be that committee.

The Committee reported the whole number to be fifty-four, and that Mr. Nathaniel Langdon Frothingham is unanimously elected.

Voted That for the support of Mr. Frothingham, he shall receive the sum of twenty-five Dollars per week; be furnished with the Parish Dwelling House, and with twenty-five cords of wood annually.

Voted That the Standing Committee be a committee to wait on Mr. Frothingham with a copy of these votes, and request his acceptance of their election of him as their pastor.

Voted That as a contribution for the poor was omitted previous to the last Thanksgiving there shall be a collection on the first Sunday in February next for the poor of the Society.

[18]   Voted That the Bills of Pew Taxes be made out quarterly, and that the Box pass in the House on the first Sabbaths in April, July, October, and January, to collect the taxes.

James H. Foster Clerk.

February 12, 1815.

Rev. Mr. Holley preached this morning, and Rev. Mr. Lowell in the afternoon.

After the evening service, Mr. Lowell read to the Society a letter from Mr. Frothingham, communicating his acceptance of their invitation to become their pastor.493

The Society being requested to tarry, it was

Voted That the Standing Committee be a committee to confer with our pastor elect, as to the time of ordination, and to make all necessary arrangements for the same.

J. H. Foster Clerk.

February 19, 1815.

Society requested to tarry after service, and the following note was communicated.

Voted To submit the subject of the above to the Standing Committee to confer and act with committees of other churches on that subject.

Sunday, March 12, 1815.

The Society having tarried after service to receive a communication from their Committee of the arrangements made for the ordination of Mr. Frothingham, on Wednesday next; on motion of Mr. P. C. Brooks,

Voted That Ashur Benjamin, Peter C. Brooks, and Samuel Bradford, be a Committee to ascertain what alterations can be made to improve the passage into the house, and alter the ornaments over the pulpit window, with power to execute the same.

James H. Foster Clerk.

[19]   March 15, 1815.

This day, Rev. Mr. Frothingham was ordained pastor of the First Church and Congregation. Introductory Prayer, by Professor Ware. Sermon, by Rev. Joseph McKean. Consecrating Prayer, by Rev. William E. Channing. Charge, by Rev. John Lathrop. Fellowship of the Churches, by Rev. S. C. Thacher. Concluding Prayer, by Rev. Francis Parkman. Dinner being prepared by the Committee; after the religious solemnities of the day were over, the Ecclesiastical Council, the Clergy of Boston and its vicinity, with other invited guests, dined at Concert Hall.494

Lord’s Day, March 19, 1815. Meeting after service.

Voted That the Deacons be a committee to wait on Rev. Dr. McKean, Rev. Dr. Lathrop, and Rev. Dr. Thacher, return them the thanks of the Society for their very excellent and appropriate performances at the ordination of Rev. Mr. Frothingham, and request of them copies for the press.

Voted That if the several gentlemen comply with the request of the Society, that the Committee procure as many copies printed as they may judge sufficient for the use of the Society.

Copies obtained and printed.

Lord’s Day Evening, March 26, 1815. Meeting of the Society in the Vestry.

Voted That the Committee for improving the passage into the meeting-house be empowered to repair the ceiling, and make all other repairs necessary in the meeting-house.

June 6, 1815. Meeting of the Committee.

Voted That Daniel Messinger, James Phillips, Edward Reynolds, and James H. Foster, be a Committee to take charge of the Organ Loft to agree with the organist for his salary, to superintend the music, etc.

Annual Meeting, July 18, 1815.

Deacon James Morrill, Moderator.

James H. Foster, clerk.

Deacon James Morrill, William Smith, Daniel Sargent, Enoch Huse, Edward Reynolds, Daniel Messinger, James Phillips, Peter C. Brooks, and James H. Foster, Standing Committee.

Voted That Deacon Morrill be Treasurer.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflin be sexton for the ensuing year, with a salary of 150 Dollars.

Voted That the salary of the Organist be two hundred Dollars, as per contract with the Committee.

[20]   Voted That we do now confirm the Vote of January 26 last respecting the maintenance and support of Mr. Frothingham, viz. 25 dollars per week, the use of the parish house, and 25 cords of woods annually.

Whereas, at the annual meeting of this Society, 14 July, 1807, the Society Voted that it was expedient to sell the meeting house they occupied, and to erect a newhouse for public worship and four dwelling houses on their land in Summer Street, a committee was appointed to complete the business upon such terms and conditions as they might judge for the interest of the Society. The committee agreeably to their appointment, completed the business; in doing which they were under the necessity of borrowing money of sundry persons, and directed the Deacons in behalf of the Society to give their notes for the amount. The names of the persons to whom the notes are due, with the amount, are, Mrs. Clark, 2500$, P. C. Brooks, 2000$, Estate of Dea. Tilden 1000$, Estate of J. Joy 2500$, Estate of Samuel Torrey 1000$, John Cunningham 1000$, Miss Pitts 500$, Mrs. Thwing 1000$.

Voted That the present Deacons, or their successors in office, be directed to discharge the above named notes out of the first money not otherwise appropriated, that may come into the Treasury.

Voted To adjourn to Monday next, 4 o’clock P.M.

J. H. Foster Clerk.

Oath administered to clerk by W. Smith Esq.

July 24, 1815. Adjourned Meeting.

Voted That the sum of nine hundred Dollars be raised for the purpose of paying the bills for alterations and improvements in the meeting-house, directed by a vote passed 12 March last; and that the Standing Committee assess each proprietor’s pew according to its weekly tax.

Voted The meeting be dissolved. J. H. Foster Clerk.

August 13, 1815.

This day a contribution made in the Churches for sufferers by fire in Petersburg, Va. $212.66 was collected in this Society, and by Daniel Sargent paid over to a Committee to receive the collections.

November 6, 1815. Meeting of Committee.

Voted that pew No 123 be sold at auction for payment of the taxes.

James H. Foster Clerk.

[21]   Note given to Peter C. Brooks, dated Apr. 9, 1816, for 1000 dollars interest from 1st Jan. last, in lieu of a note due the estate of David Tilden for that sum. Signed by the Deacons in behalf of the Society.

An organ for the First Church was ordered to be made sometime about the year 1810: but from various causes was not received till this time. It arrived in the Ship Restitution from London, June 16, 1816, was received at the Vestry 19th, and used in public worship June 30.495

Annual Meeting, July 23, 1816.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 14th inst. Prayer by Rev. Mr. Frothingham.

Dea. Morrill chosen Moderator.

James H. Foster, chosen Clerk.

Dea. Morrill, James H. Foster, Enoch Huse, Edward Reynolds, Peter C. Brooks, James Phillips, Daniel Sargent, Daniel Messinger, and Turner Phillips, Standing Committee.

Dea. Morrill, chosen Treasurer.

Ebenezer Clafflin, Sexton: with salary of one hundred and fifty Dollars. Meeting dissolved.

J.H. Foster Clerk.

Annual Meeting, July 29, 1817.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 20th inst. Prayer by Rev. Mr. Frothingham.

Dea. Morrill chosen Moderator.

James H. Foster, chosen Clerk.

Dea. Morrill chosen Treasurer.

Dea. Morrill, James H. Foster, Edward Reynolds, Peter C. Brooks, Daniel Sargent, James Phillips, Daniel Messinger, Turner Phillips, and Allen Crocker, Standing Committee.

Ebenezer Clafflen chosen Sexton, with the usual salary of 150 dollars. Meeting dissolved.

James H. Foster Clerk.

Annual Meeting, July 28, 1818.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 19th instant.

All the Officers re-chosen, as of last year.

Voted that the proprietors of those pews on which more than one year’s tax is due, be notified, that unless said taxes are paid within sixty Days, their pews will be sold for the payment.

Meeting dissolved. James H. Foster Clerk.

April 1, 1819. Fast Day. Committee Meeting.

Voted That the clerk call a meeting of the Society on the 15th inst. to take into consideration the request of William Bainbridge and others; and also to consider of the propriety of selling the vacant lot of land.

[22]   April 15, 1819. Proprietors’ Meeting.

Met agreeable to notification, posted 4th instant.

Dea. Morrill chosen Moderator.

The following letter was read from the Chair.

Voted That the request of William Bainbridge and others be submitted to a special committee, and to report at the adjournment.

Voted That the Committee consist of five, viz. Benjamin Joy, James Morrill, Daniel Sargent, Daniel Messinger and James H. Foster.

Voted To refer to the Committee above chosen the subject disposing of the Land, and to report at the adjournment.

Voted That this meeting be adjourned to Thursday [23] of the next week, to meet in this place at four o’clock P.M. and that each proprietor be notified, and also that notice be given from the Desk on the next Sabbath. Adjourned.

April 22, 1819. Adjourned Meeting.

The Committee appointed at the last meeting presented their report, which was read by the Moderator. Some alteration and modification being made, the report was as follows, namely,

“The Committee to whom was referred the request of William Bainbridge and others, and also the question as to the expediency of selling a part of the Society’s land, ask leave to report the following votes upon the same respectively.

Whereas Commodore Bainbridge and others have requested permission to make a communication between Pond Street and Chauncy Place by opening the brick wall belonging to the Church, for the accommodation of foot passengers only.

Voted that altho’ the Proprietors of this Church are not without their apprehensions that even such a communication may have a tendency to disturb the peace and quiet of the place, which so dear to them as a religious congregation, and so important to the schools which are kept in the lower apartments of the meeting-house; yet being desirous to act a neighbourly part, and in consideration of the respect they have for the applicants, they consent that such an opening made be made, under the direction and superintendence of a Committee of the Church, and under such restrictions and conditions as said Committee may prescribe.

provided that it be distinctly understood that the Proprietors of this Church will close the said communication whenever they shall find it inconvenient to let it remain open.

Voted That it is expedient to sell a part of the Society’s land lying southwesterly of the meeting house, sufficient for one dwelling house, upon condition that no other than a brick house shall be built thereon, and also upon condition that no part of said house shall be nearer to the meeting-house than the distance of forty-five feet.

James Morrill, per order.

Voted That the first vote in the above Report be accepted, and be submitted to the same Committee to superintend and carry into effect.

Voted That the consideration of the second vote be postponed to the next annual meeting.

Meeting dissolved. J. H. Foster Clerk.

[24]   Annual Meeting, July 27, 1819.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 17th instant.

Dea. James Morrill, Moderator.

James H. Foster, Clerk.

James Morrill, Treasurer.

James Morrill, James H. Foster, Edward Reynolds, Peter C. Brooks, Daniel Sargent, James Phillips, Daniel Messinger, Turner Phillips, and Allen Crocker, Standing Committee.

Ebenezer Clafflin, Sexton, with salary of 150 dollars.

Meeting dissolved. (signed) James Morrill Moderator.

Annual Meeting, August 1, 1820.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 22 July last.

Officers all rechosen, as at last meeting.

Voted That Daniel L. Gibbens, Levi Bliss, and David Francis be a committee to call on delinquent proprietors for payment of the pew Tax, and also to inform them that the Standing Committee are directed to sell their pews according to the tenor of their deeds, unless said taxes are paid.

Voted That the petition of Ebenezer Clafflen be referred to the Standing Committee, with power to act thereon.

Voted That the collection of taxes on the sabbath be omitted.

Voted That this meeting be dissolved.

Oath administered by Turner Phillips, Esquire. James H. Foster Clerk.

Annual Meeting, July 31, 1821.

Met agreeably to notifications, posted 21st instant.

James Morrill chosen Moderator.

The votes were collected for a Clerk for the year, and David Francis was elected; but he not being present, Daniel L. Gibbens was appointed Clerk pro tempore.

Deacon Morrill, Deacon Foster, Edward Reynolds, Peter C. Brooks, Daniel Sargent, James Phillips, Daniel Messinger, Turner Phillips and Allen Crocker, Standing Committee.

James Morrill, Treasurer.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to appoint a Sexton from time to time during the Year, and to fix his salary, not to exceed his compensation last year.

Voted That a Committee of four be appointed to examine the Treasurer’s accounts, and to report on the financial concerns of the Society. [25] Daniel L. Gibbens, Samuel Floyd, E. T. F. Richardson, and Ralph Huntington, chosen Committee.

Voted That Ralph Huntington, James Phillips, and Samuel Floyd be a committee to collect the dues from delinquent pewholders.

Voted That this meeting be adjourned to 25th September next; then to hear the report of the Committees.

Copied from the minutes of D. L. Gibbens,

David Francis Clerk.

Oath administered Clerk by Turner Phillips esq.

Adjourned Meeting, September 25, 4 o’clock P.M.

Met agreeably to notifications posted at the meeting house.

Records of the last meeting read.

Committee on the State of the Treasury reported as follows:

The Committee have made no estimate of the probable amount of repairs, because it is represented to them that the buildings are in very perfect order.

Before closing, they beg to recommend, that instead of the subcommittee as heretofore, there be in future annually chosen from the Proprietors at large a Committee of Three whose duty it shall be to examine the accounts of the Treasurer, and report on the financial concerns of the Society at the annual meeting subsequent to their appointment.

The above report unanimously accepted, and agreeably to recommendation a Committee was appointed to audit and to report on the Treasurer’s accounts at the next annual meeting. The following were elected the Committee, Daniel L. Gibbens, Joseph Otis, and Samuel Floyd.

The Committee appointed to wait upon the delinquent proprietors reported verbally, that they had called upon the several gentlemen, and had minuted the answers received upon the backs of the Bills which were handed to the Treasurer.

Voted That the Treasurer immediately notify the proprietors of pews 3, 70, 72, 124, 127, that unless their taxes are paid within three months, the said pews be sold at auction agreeably to the tenor of the deeds.

Turner Phillips stated his regret, that the last meeting should have been passed over without paying even a small tribute to the exertions of Deacon Foster, our late Clerk, and he now moved, That the Thanks of the Society be presented him for his faithful and unremitted exertions during the whole time he has performed the duties of the office.

Which motion was unanimously accepted.

The meeting was then adjourned to meet in this place this day thirteen weeks.

David Francis Clerk.

[27]   Adjourned Meeting, December 25, 1821.

The Chairman reported that he had notified all the owners of pews No 3, 70, 72, 124, 127, agreeably to a vote of the last meeting; from one only of whom he had received an answer, in which he promises to pay half the amount of his dues in the first week of January next, and the remainder in May. In consideration of which,

Voted That pews 3, 72, 127, be positively sold at auction, to defray delinquent taxes, on 21st January next, and that pews No 70, 124 be also sold at same time unless the owner complies with the tenor of his letter to the Treasurer. Adjourned.

Annual Meeting. July 30, 1822.

Met agreeably to notifications posted 21st instant.

Rev. Pastor opened the meeting with prayer.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

The records read of the last annual and subsequent meeting, and before proceeding to the choice of Clerk,

Voted That the Committee of Finance be requested to make their report: which was done by the Chairman, as follows.

The Committee appointed, etc. report That on a careful examination of the Treasurer’s Accounts they find them fairly kept, rightly cast, and properly vouched. That he has received during the past Year

That he has paid during the same time,

The Committee in further discharge of their duty, present the following schedule of property, and the income arising from the same.

Brick meeting-house in Chauncy Place.

Annual Expenses as follows:

As two of the houses are leased on the condition that the occupants shall make all necessary repairs for five years, and as the other buildings are represented to be in very perfect repair, it is a reasonable calculation that at least eight hundred dollars may be applied annually to the reduction of the Society’s debts, which are as follows.

Voted to proceed to the choice of Clerk:

David Francis elected; and the oath of office administered at the time, by Turner Phillips, Esquire.

Voted To be observed as a standing rule, that the Clerk attend all meetings of the Standing Committee, and keep a record of their doings.

Voted To proceed to the choice of a standing Committee.

As it was understood that a number of votes would be handed in by proxy; Voted That none but a written power be accepted, whole number of votes 67, necessary to a choice 34, [29] the following gentlemen having above that number, were chosen.

• James Morrill
• James H. Foster
• Daniel Sargent
• Daniel Messinger
• Peter C. Brooks
• Edward Reynolds
• Turner Phillips
• Allen Crocker

Voted That the Clerk be added, and constitute the ninth member.

Voted That the Thanks of the Society be presented to Dea. James Morrill for his very valuable and gratuitous services as Treasurer for Seven Years past.

Voted That the Thanks of the Society be given to Mr. James Phillips for his services as one of the Standing Committee for many years past.

Voted To proceed to the choice of Treasurer. James Morrill, elected.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflin be continued Sexton with a Salary of one hundred and fifty Dollars.

Daniel L. Gibbens, Joseph Otis, and Josiah Danforth were chosen Committee of Finance.

Voted That a Committee of Three be appointed to examine the Church Records, and to ascertain if any act of incorporation has ever been granted the Society, and to report at the next annual meeting.

Voted That Joseph T. Buckingham, Josiah Bradlee, and Daniel L. Gibbens be that Committee.

Adjourned. D. F. Clerk.

Lord’s Day afternoon, September 8, 1822. Committee.

A communication from the managers of the Female Asylum,497 requesting the use of the Church for religious services on their anniversary, 20th instant, was read, and granted.

Lord’s Day, October 6, 1822. Committee Meeting.

Col. Messinger represented that the organ was very much out of repair; that it appears not to have been properly put up, and that, upon consulting an experienced player, he gave it as his opinion that it might be made one of the best in town, many of its tones being entirely lost, or were never brought into action. He stated, that the expense might be about 200 dollars, and moved that a Committee be appointed to employ an experienced organ builder to do all things necessary to make the instrument perfect.

Voted That Daniel Messinger, James Phillips, and James H. Foster be the Committee, with power to see the work completed.

Lord’s Day, May 4, 1823. Committee Meeting.

Application by Henry Cabot for renting the Society’s [30] Dwelling-house, lately occupied by his father, who wished it upon the same terms, with a request that a thorough repair be made;

Voted That Deacon Morrill be authorized to lease the said house for five years at the annual rent of 550 dollars, the Lessee to make such repairs as he shall see fit.

The Treasurer stated That by a vote of the Society, Sept. 25, 1821, in regard to selling certain pews for delinquent taxes had not been completely fulfilled, and desiring the sense of the Committee thereon,

Voted That Dea. Morrill give notice to the owner of Pews No 70 and 124, that unless the taxes due be paid before the 1st day of July next, the said pews be positively sold at auction for the purpose of paying such taxes.

Lord’s Day, May 11, 1823. Committee Meeting.

Deacon Morrill stated that he had given Mr. Cabot the vote of the committee, and that Mr. C. understood that he was to have it (the house) upon the same terms as those of his father and Judge Parker; Committee considered the subject.

Voted That Mr. Cabot have the lease of the house upon the same terms as those of Judge Parker, namely annual rent of 550 dollars for 5 years, allowing 130 dollars for repairs.

Application from Mr. William Emerson, to build for him a School House in the vacant lot;

Voted That the Deacons confer with Mr. Emerson, and in case he would lease such a building for four years, to call a meeting of the proprietors.

Request of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery for the use of the Church the first Monday in June, was granted.

Annual Meeting. May 26, 1823.

Agreeably to usual notice given, by posting and from the pulpit, the proprietors met to consider of the expediency of building a school room in the vacant lot.

Dea. Foster reported that Mr. Emerson was ready to give 150 dollars a year for four years.

Mr. B. Joy remarked that Judge Jackson had requested whenever the Society were to make any disposal of the land, that he might have it for his own use.

Voted that the subject be referred to a special committee to confer with the parties, and report at a meeting to be held on 3d June next.

Voted That Deacon Morrill, Deacon Foster, Daniel Sargent, Joseph Otis, Stephen Glover, be the Committee.

Mr. Gibbens called the attention of the meeting to the state of the Choir. He observed that it was necessary to have a singing school, in order to bring forward such persons as feel an inclination to succeed our present very excellent choristers, who may from time [31] to time be obliged to leave the seats, and to whose gratuitous and generous services he paid a becoming compliment.

Voted to refer the subject to the committee just chosen on the school room.

Voted that the Standing Committee cause an alteration to be made in the hanging of the sashes in the lower tier of Windows, for the more convenient admission of air.

Adjourned. D. F. Clerk.

June 3, 1823. Adjourned Meeting.

Committee on the School Room reported, that they had met, and given notice to the parties interested of such meeting, but had received no communication.

Voted that all further proceedings in this business do cease.

The same Committee reported progress on the singing school; Voted that the subject be deferred until the Annual Meeting; meeting dissolved.

D. Francis Clerk.

Annual Meeting. July 29, 1823.

Met in pursuance of the usual notifications.

Rev. Pastor opened the meeting with prayer.

Deacon Morrill chosen moderator.

David Francis chosen Clerk: who being absent, Joseph T. Buckingham was elected pro. tem.

Records of the past meeting in the year were then read. The Committee of Finance presented their annual report, which was read and accepted: namely

“The Committee of Finance submit the following: That they have examined the Books and Accounts of the Treasurer, and find them correctly kept, and properly vouched.

That he has received during the past year for rents, pew

That he has paid, during the year

Leaving a balance due Treasurer $218.90, but that a considerable amount of the last quarter’s dues have been collected by the Treasurer, which, if brought into the account would result in a balance due the society.

The Committee would remark that the condition and prospects of the Society in relation to its funds are very similar to those of the last year, and for a more particular account of the receipts and expenditures, they refer to the last annual report.

Standing Committee. Deacon Morrill, Deacon Foster, Daniel Sargent, Turner Phillips, Edward Reynolds, Daniel Messinger, Peter C. Brooks, Allen Crocker, David Francis.

James Morrill chosen Treasurer.

Ebenezer Clafflin continued Sexton, with a salary of one hundred and fifty Dollars.

Daniel L. Gibbens, Joseph Otis, and Isaac Danforth, committee of Finance.

The Chairman of the Committee to whom was referred at the last annual meeting the examination of the records, and the consideration of the expediency of applying to the Legislature for an act of incorporation, reported a statement of facts, and the individual opinion of the Committee.

Voted That the Standing Committee be directed to apply to the Legislature at its next session for an act of incorporation, granting to the Society the customary privileges and powers of similar societies.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to use discretionary powers in relation to the sale of pews on which taxes have been due more than three months.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to institute a Singing School whenever they think it expedient.

Meeting dissolved.

August 10, 1823. Society Meeting.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator: who observed, that Rev. Dr. Lowell’s Church was to be repaired, and that the congregation would no doubt wish to be accommodated with seats in other churches; [33] He therefore hoped the Society would present a formal invitation to said parish to take seats with us.

Voted That the Proprietors of this Church present their respects and a cordial invitation to Rev. Mr. Lowell’s Society to take seats with them during the time their place of worship is undergoing repairs.

Voted That Rev. Mr. Frothingham be desired to present this invitation.

November 30, 1823. Society Meeting.

Deacon Morrill in the chair; who informed, that agreeably to a recommendation passed at the last annual meeting, he thought it time to call up the subject of a singing school, and requested gentlemen to express their minds on the occasion.

Voted That it is expedient to open a Singing School for the term of three months.

Voted That Daniel L. Gibbens, Samuel Floyd, and Ebenezer Clathingham498 be a committee to engage a suitable master, and make arrangements for opening said school.

Voted That the Standing Committee have the superintendence of the School when under operation.

December 14, 1823. Committee Meeting.

The Chairman of the subcommittee on the singing school reported That they had engaged a suitable teacher, and recommended that the room be opened the next Wednesday Evening.

February 8, 1824. Committee Meeting.

Deacon Morrill stated, that he had requested this meeting, in order to appoint a subcommittee to advice with him in that part of his duty relative to the payment of Bills. He had been in the habit of using his own judgment, but it would gratify him to have one or two joined in the responsibility.

Voted that Deacon Foster and the Clerk be a committee to examine and approve all bills before paid.

March 28, 1824. Committee Meeting. To consult on the subject of the singing school.

The Chairman of subcommittee reported progress, and wished the school continued until the 1st May, when he thought the scholars would be prepared to sit in the Loft. Which was Voted in the affirmative.

It was thought advisable that some scientific singer should be engaged for leading the new choristers, when they take their seats.

Voted That Dea. Foster, D. Messinger, D. L. Gibbens, Ebenezer Frothingham, and S. Floyd to be a committee to select a person.

[34]   The Standing Committee have contracted with Mr. Eldad Brown to rebuild the wood houses attached to the Society’s Estate in Summer Street.

April 11, 1824. Society Meeting.

Voted That having understood it to be the intention of the Society worshipping in Brattle Street to make some repairs on their church, we do cordially invite them to worship at the First Church during that interval; and that our pastor communicate these wishes to Rev. Mr. Palfrey.

June 6, 1824. Society Meeting.

Rev. Mr. Frothingham laid before the Society a letter from the Mayor, inclosing a recommendation of the City Council, that a collection be taken up in the several churches in Boston for the relief of the sufferers by fire in Newcastle, Delaware; the subject was duly considered, and finally Voted that the subject be indefinitely postponed.

June 13, 1824. Church Meeting.

Inviting Delegates at the ordination of Rev. E. S. Gannet.

Annual Meeting. July 27, 1824.

Met in pursuance of notifications duly posted, 17th.

Meeting opened by prayer, by Rev. Pastor.

Dea. Morrill chosen Moderator.

David Francis chosen Clerk.

Records for the past year read by the Clerk.

Standing Committee. Dea. Morrill, Dea. Foster, D. Messinger, P. C. Brooks, J. P. Bradlee, Charles Sprague, Ebenezer Chadwick, D. L. Gibbens, and D. Francis.

The Committee of Finance beg leave to report:

That they have examined the accounts of the Treasurer, and find them rightly cast, and properly vouched. That he has charged himself with the following sums, viz.

That he charges the Society with the balance

Leaving a balance due Dea. Morrill of 518.75.

There are outstanding demands against the Society including balance due Rev. Mr. F. and interest on notes, which they estimate at 1250$. There are no funds to meet these claims, and the balance due the Treasurer, except some uncollected rents and pew taxes, amounting probably to 800$. And as it is understood that further repairs of the side walk and in the Court are absolutely necessary, it is to be regretted that no reasonable calculation can be made on any reduction of the permanent debt, the ensuing year. It will readily be perceived that this result, so different from the expectation authorized by the Financial Reports of the two preceding years, is brought about by the necessary though unlooked for expenditure of about 2000 dollars on the Estates.

The demands are as follows. Permanent debt.

For the whole amount of the above sum the Society have been, and now are, paying an interest of six per cent. Your Committee are persuaded that a very considerable saving may be made in this respect, as they are assured that money may be obtained, with such security as this society is able to give at 4½, or at most 5 per cent. They therefore recommend that a Committee be appointed to obtain a loan of 1100 dollars forthwith, on the best terms practicable, provided that a preference shall be given to the present holders of the notes at the lowest rate of interest offered by others, and that the Standing Committee be authorized to issue notes in the name and behalf of the Society to the above amount, and to cancel those now held against us.

Voted That a Committee be appointed to inquire upon what terms a loan can be obtained.

Voted That Stephen Glover, Levi Bliss, and Joseph Otis be that committee.

[36]   Dea. James Morrill chosen Treasurer.

Ashur Benjamin, Isaac Danforth, Henry Cutter, Committee of Finance.

Voted Ebenezer Clafflin be continued Sexton, with a Salary of 150 Dollars.

Voted That the Standing Committee give immediate attention to the reparation of the side walk leading to the church.

Voted That the thanks of the Society be presented to Messrs. Daniel Sargent, Turner Phillips, Allen Crocker, and Edward Reynolds for their faithful and attentive services as members of the Standing Committee for a number of years past.

Dissolved. D. F. Clerk.

September 13, 1824. Committee Meeting.

Dea. Morrill exhibited a statement of expenses in repairing Real Estate, amounting to [blank].

He observed that one thousand Dollars were wanted, besides the money on hand, to meet these demands:

Voted that the amount be borrowed at 6 per cent, for one year.

Voted That Deacon Foster be auditor of accounts for the year.

Voted That Daniel Messinger, James H. Foster, and James Phillips be a Committee to superintend the Singing Loft.

April 8, 1825. Committee Meeting.

The Committee appointed at the annual meeting to ascertain the rate of interest at which 1100 Dollars can be borrowed, reported that it could be obtained for ten years for 5 per cent. payable in yearly instalments at option. It being understood that the present holders of the notes would renew them upon the above terms.

Voted that preference be given to them, and that an exchange of notes be effected without delay.

Proceeded to make and sign the new notes: and the following list exhibits the names of the owners, and the amounts.

The above notes are all made payable in ten years, with interest at 5 per cent, payable semi-annually; except the last note, which comes not under the arrangement, and which bears interest at 6 per cent. All subject to the condition that the Society may make such annual payments on the principal as may be convenient.

May 29, 1825. Society Meeting.

The Pastor notified the meeting from the Desk, and tarried to inform the Society that repairs were making upon the meeting-house on Church Green, and that it was probable the worshippers there would have to leave for a few sabbaths; and asked if it would be agreeable to have them invited to take seats with us.

Voted That Rev. Mr. Frothingham be requested to give an invitation to Rev. Mr. Young’s Society to join with us in public worship during the time of their seclusion from their own church.

Annual Meeting. August 2, 1825.

Met agreeably to notifications posted in the Porch.

Meeting opened with prayer, by the Rev. Pastor.

Records of the preceding meetings within the year were read by the Clerk.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

David Francis chosen Clerk.

James Morrill, James H. Foster, Daniel Messinger, Peter C. Brooks, James Phillips, David Francis, Daniel L. Gibbens, Ebenezer Chadwick, Joseph Otis, Standing Committee.

Deacon Morrill chosen Treasurer.

Charles Sprague, Matthew M. Hunt, George Barker, chosen Committee of Finance.

Voted That the present Committee be requested to examine the books for the past year, as the Committee chosen for that purpose were out of town, and could not attend to it.

Voted that Ebenezer Clafflin be continued Sexton, with the usual salary.

Voted That in future, all deeds shall be legal and sufficient when signed by the two deacons for the time being.

Oath administered to clerk by Justice Parker.

Meeting dissolved. D. Francis, Clerk.

[38]   January 26, 1826. Committee Meeting.

To take into consideration the present state of the Singing Choir, which was thought to need some additional help.

Voted That it is expedient to have some new arrangement in the Singing Loft, by the introduction of some gentleman as a constant Leader.

Voted That James Phillips and Daniel Messinger be a committee to ascertain if a suitable person can be procured to take the lead of the choristers, and at what compensation; and to report at an early day.

Voted That the compensation to the present female singer be at the rate of 75 dollars a year.

February 5, 1826. Committee Meeting.

Sub-committee on the singing, reported progress, and wished farther powers.

Voted that said Committee have full powers to treat with some one to take the lead in the choir, and to determine his compensation.

April 10, 1826.

The Committee met to consider the application of Mr. Mallet, the organist, for the privilege of being allowed the Church for the purpose of giving a concert of Sacred Music.

Voted That the request be granted, and that the same be signified to Mr. Mallet.

May 14, 1826. Committee Meeting.

At the request of the Singers, who desire some alteration in the seats of the Loft.

Voted to leave the arrangement to the sub-committee on the singing.

May 16, 1826. Notice.

Samuel P. Gardner, Esq. this day lodged with the clerk a written paper, signifying his right to build upon the borders of his land next the Church, however much it may obstruct the light to the west windows thereof.

Annual Meeting. August 1, 1826.

Met in pursuance of notifications duly posted at the Porch.

Meeting opened with prayer by the Pastor.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

The following communication was received from Rev. Mr. Frothingham.

The moderator stated that the Standing Committee were in favour of granting the request, reserving to themselves the selection of the preachers during the absence of Mr. Frothingham.

Mr. Charles Sprague laid before the meeting the following preamble and votes:

The respected pastor of this Society having requested leave of absence for the purpose of passing a year in Europe, and the people to whom he has been so long endeared by the faithful and acceptable discharge of his sacred office, feeling happy, at whatever sacrifice, to testify their affection and respect for his character as a man and a minister:

Voted That the Society cheerfully accede to the request of Rev. Mr. Frothingham for leave of absence, as expressed in his letter of application to the Standing Committee.

Voted That the Salary of the Pastor be continued to him during his absence, and that the Standing Committee take due measures to supply the desk until his return, at the expense of the Society.

Voted That [blank], together with the Deacons, be a Committee forth-with to wait on Rev. Mr. Frothingham and communicate to him the foregoing votes: to express to him that his Society are deeply sensible of the sacrifice they are making, but that they do it the more willingly in the hope that he will receive it as a manifestation of their regard for his wishes; and especially to assure him of their earnest prayer that a good providence may go with him in the days of his absence, bear him safe through the perils of sea and land, and in due season restore him in health and comfort to the family and the people of his love.

Voted That the above be considered by paragraphs; which being done, the whole were adopted, and Charles Sprague, Nathaniel Goddard, James Phillips, and Edward Reynolds, joined with the Deacons, to deliver them to the Pastor.

[40]   Proceeded to the choice of Officers for the Year.

David Francis elected Clerk.

James Morrill, elected Treasurer.

James Morrill, James Foster, Peter C. Brooks, Daniel Messinger, Charles Sprague, Daniel L. Gibbens, Joseph Otis, Ebenezer Chadwick and David Francis, Standing Committee.

The Committee on accounts reported that they had examined the Treasurer’s books, and entered therein a certificate, which states that they found the accounts well vouched, rightly cast, etc.

Voted That a Committee of Finance be chosen whose duty it shall be to give a detailed statement of the property of the Society, of the nature and value thereof, of the income and expenses, and all other items proper to be known by the members, and to make report as soon as convenient: To inform the Standing Committee when ready, who are desired to call a special meeting of the proprietors.

Voted That William Goddard, William Hayden, and John F. Loring be this Committee of Finance.

Voted That Ebenezer Claffin be continued Sexton upon the usual terms.

August 1, 1826. Committee Meeting.

Met for the purpose of making arrangements to supply the Pulpit.

Voted That the Deacons and Daniel L. Gibbens be a committee to engage the preachers to supply for the term of three months.

December 12, 1826. Committee Meeting.

The subcommittee for supplying the Desk, desire the sense of the Standing Committee upon the manner in which they had performed the duty, for the last four months. They hoped the committee and the proprietors generally were satisfied with their exertions, which had been unremitted to obtain the best preachers, and that they had at times found it difficult to obtain clerical gentlemen unengaged.499 The Committee expressed their decided approbation, and

Voted That the same gentlemen be requested to continue as formerly to sustain the office of providing for the pulpit the coming three months.

March 12, 1827. Committee Meeting.

Request from Judge Parker for repairs on the House which he occupies.

[41]   Voted that the Deacons be a Committee to superintend such repairs as are requisite on said House; which repairs shall extend only to the Entry, Stairway, Kitchen, and two parlours. That they make a proposition to Judge Parker to do it themselves, or to remit one quarter’s rent, and leave it to his own direction; and further that they have power to renew the lease on the same terms as before.

April 23, 1827. Committee Meeting.

Request from Dr. Bigelow that one quarter’s rent be allowed for repairs, and that he have the house for five years longer.

Voted That the Deacons be authorized to give a lease to Dr. Bigelow, and to allow a quarter’s rent for repairs.

Voted That the Deacons and Daniel Messinger be a Committee to superintend the complete repair of the parsonage house previous to the return of our minister, and that it be done to Mrs. Frothingham’s satisfaction.

Voted That the same Committee ascertain at what cost the outside front of the four Dwelling Houses can be painted; and likewise the expense of repairing the inside of the meeting-house.

June 3, 1827. Committee Meeting.

Subcommittee reported that a new lease had been made to Dr. Bigelow, and that the parsonage House was undergoing repairs agreeably to the wishes of Mrs. Frothingham.

Same Committee reported an estimate of expense of painting Dwelling-Houses, which amounts to about two hundred and fifty Dollars.

Voted that a contract be made to have the work done. In regard to repairs of inside of the Church, the Committee are of opinion, that it is hardly necessary to make them general: that the expense would be great, and that it might for the present be dispensed with.

Voted that the ceiling beneath the galleries be whitewashed, and such trifling repairs made as will add to the better appearance of the Meetinghouse.

Annual Meeting. July 31, 1827.

Met in pursuance of notifications duly posted.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

David Francis chosen Clerk.

Your Committee have attended to the duties assigned them, and submit the following:

They have, on a careful examination of the accounts of the Treasurer for the last year, found them rightly entered, correctly cast, and properly vouched, and that a balance remains in his hands of 242 76/100 Dollars and that there is now due the Society for taxes and rents about $720. They find also that the Society is indebted to their pastor, and for interest on Notes, about $860 from which it appears that all their debts (except for loans) may be paid, and a balance remain in our favour of about 100 dollars.

They believe that the annual income of the Society, without increasing the taxes, may be safely estimated at about $3490 viz.

without any extraordinary occurrence will probably not exceed 3200 dollars, which will leave a balance in the treasury at the end of each year of nearly 300 Dollars, which they recommend should be applied towards the discharge of their debt.

Your Committee also find that the Society are indebted to sundry persons on Notes 11330 dollars, and that they possess, in addition to the four houses on Summer Street, 14 pews on the lower floor, and a number in the Gallery of the meeting house; also a lot of land adjoining the church, containing about 6230 feet; a part of which land they recommend should be sold, on such conditions as the Society may prescribe. They also recommend that the Pews be sold; and that the proceeds of the whole be applied to the reduction of our debts.

Your Committee have endeavored to ascertain the value of the property belonging to the Society. The four Dwelling-Houses they value at 35000 dollars; the vacant land at 175 cents to 2 dollars per foot; and the pews at $2000 for the whole.

Amount disbursed during: the last year.

[43] The report was unanimously accepted.

Voted That a Committee be appointed with full power and authority to make sale of a portion of the vacant land belonging to the proprietors of this Church, and lying south thereof, on such terms as they shall consider most for the interest of the proprietors; provided however that the portion of land sold under this vote, shall on no account extend more than forty feet northerly from the southerly line of said land; and that no other building than a dwelling house shall be erected thereon; and provided further that no part of said land shall be sold at a price less than one dollar and fifty cents a square foot.

Voted That the whole fund obtained from the sale of the land authorized by the preceding Vote, shall be, and the same is hereby strictly appropriated towards the payment of the debt due by the proprietors of this Church.

Moved that the consideration of these votes be postponed to an adjourned meeting this day week; which motion was rejected.

The question was then taken on accepting the resolutions, and carried in the affirmative.

Voted That a Committee of three be chosen by ballot to execute the votes above recorded: when, on declaring the ballots it was found that William Goddard, John F. Loring, and William Hayden Jr. were elected.

Proceeded to the choice of a Standing Committee. Previous to collecting the ballots, Mr. Sprague and Mr. Chadwick declined being considered as candidates. Deacon Morrill, Deacon Foster, Daniel Messinger, Daniel L. Gibbens, David Francis, Joseph Otis, Peter C. Brooks, James Phillips, Joseph T. Buckingham, Standing Committee.

The election of a Treasurer being next in order, Deacon Morrill, who has dispensed the duties of that office for the last forty years, desired to be excused from being a Candidate. The ballots were then taken, and the choice fell unanimously upon Deacon Foster.

Voted unanimously That the thanks of this Society be presented to Deacon James Morrill for his long course of faithful services in the office of Treasurer of the Society.

Voted That the Standing Committee be requested, without delay, to furnish and repair the meeting house as below specified, namely, To carpet the aisles of the Church, and the stairs and floor of the desk; to repair said Stairs, provide a new [44] curtain for the Window, new cushions for the top of the desk, and two new Hymn Books.

In regard to the Sexton,

Voted that the whole subject be referred to the Standing Committee.

Voted That the Committee of Sale be requested to make inquiry, and to report concerning the corporate powers of the First Church.

August 6, 1827. Committee Meeting.

A Communication was received from Mr. David Francis, resigning his place at the board as Secretary, which was ordered to be laid upon the table.

Daniel L. Gibbens appointed Clerk, pro. tem. who made the following record.

Voted That Deacon Morrill, Deacon Foster, and D. L. Gibbens be a committee to carry into effect the vote of the Society relating to the pulpit, aisles, etc.

Voted That the Deacons and Daniel Messinger be a committee to complete the repairs on the dwelling-houses.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflin be sexton, with the same salary as heretofore.

Voted That Daniel Messinger, James Phillips and James H. Foster, be a Committee to superintend the singing loft, appoint the organist, etc.

Voted That the treasurer be directed to pay to Eldad Brown 67.71; being amount of his bill for work on dwelling-houses.

November 20, 1827. Society’s Meeting.

Met to hear report of Committee for sale of Land, and to choose a Treasurer in room of Deacon Foster, who declines the office.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

William Hayden, Jr. chosen Treasurer.

The Committee appointed to sell the vacant lot of Land, etc. report That they have sold all the land which they were authorized to sell, to Mr. Gideon F. Thayer, at the price of One Dollar, seventy-seven and a half cents per square foot, payable on delivery of the deed, or at any time within ten years, at the option of the purchaser. In case he avails himself of the credit, the payment to be secured by mortgage of the premises, at 5 per cent. per annum, payable semiannually.

The Committee beg leave to make known, that it is their unanimous opinion that the interest of the proprietors will be greatly advanced, by ex [45] tending the authority of the Committee so that they may sell such an additional quantity of land as to make the northerly line of the lot sold parallel to the southerly side of the Church, and thus leave the lot between the land sold and the church in the form of an oblong square. The Committee were empowered to sell a piece of land forty feet in width, which would leave the line of the land sold a bevel, equal to the present line between the Church’s land and that of Judge Jackson. It will be very obvious, that if a building should be erected within thirty feet of the Church, upon this bevel line, the effect would be very inharmonious and unpleasant. The Committee therefore request authority to sell a lot of the width of forty-eight feet on Chauncy Place, extending in a straight line to the width of forty feet in the rear.

In the vote authorizing the sale, there is a restriction that it should be sold for the purpose only of erecting dwelling-houses. At the request of Mr. Thayer, the Committee state, that it is his wish to erect a building to be used as a School House; and the Committee are of opinion that the land cannot be better disposed of, so far as respects the interest of the proprietors, than to authorize the erection of such a building; they recommend, therefore that the powers of the Committee be so far extended, as they may allow Mr. Thayer to erect a School House.

To carry into effect these views the Committee recommend the annexed votes.

Voted That the authority, given to the Committee for the purpose of selling a portion of land lying south of the Church, be so far increased, as that the said Committee may sell a lot of land extending from the south-easterly corner of the Society’s land forty-eight feet along the line of Chauncy Place, thence, in a straight line to a point on the line of S. P. Gardiner’s land, which shall be forty-feet from the southwesterly corner of the Society’s land; it being the intention of this vote to authorize the sale of the southerly lot, as marked out on a plan drawn by S. P. Fuller, and dated July 18, 1827: said lot containing thirty-Eight Hundred and Forty-Two Square Feet.

Voted That the restriction in the vote authorizing the sale of this land (which restriction provides that said land shall be sold for the erection only of Dwelling Houses) be so far removed, as that the Committee be authorized to insert a proviso in the deed, permitting the erection only of Dwelling Houses, or a Building to be used as a School [46] House; and that no building shall be erected except it be built of stone and brick.”

The foregoing Report, together with the Votes, were unanimously accepted.

The following letter from the Pastor was then read, and ordered to be recorded.

March 16, 1828. Committee Meeting.

Request of Mr. Cabot to renew his lease for five years, upon the former terms, namely, 550 dollars a year for five years, and an allowance of a quarter’s rent for repairs.

Voted that the request be granted, and that Deacon Morril communicate the same to Mr. Cabot.

Upon representation of some of the Committee, that the roof of the meeting-house was very much out of repair,

Voted That Daniel L. Gibbens, Dea. Morrill and Joseph Otis be a committee to order and direct all proper reparation to be made to the roof, and substantial timbers inserted for its better support.

Voted That the Deacons be a Committee to arrange the situation of the outhouses on the South side the Church.

Adjourned. David Francis Clerk.

[47]   June 1, 1828. Committee Meeting.

Deacon Morrill reported, that the roof of the Church had been completely secured under the superintendance of Messrs. Hammond and Shaw, architects.

Voted That a Committee be appointed to obtain plans, and estimates of cost, of a new pulpit.

Voted That the same Committee who have under consideration the plan of a new curtain be a Committee to carry the above into effect.

June 24, 1828. Committee Meeting.

A Letter from Mr. G. F. Thayer was read, relative to the erection of a Fence between the premises of First Church and Chauncy Hall.

Voted That the fence to be erected shall be in height within six inches of the underpart of the caps of the rough pillars that support the Hall.

Voted That the clerk inform Mr. Thayer of this decision.

July 7, 1828. Committee Meeting.

Another letter from Mr. Thayer, hoping the Committee would reconsider their vote for erecting the fence so high as to exclude much light and air from his premises.

Voted That the vote passed at the last meeting be reconsidered.

Voted That a Fence be erected agreeably to the proposition of Mr. Thayer, as stated in his first letter, with the proviso, that it shall rise in height to within two feet of the underpart of the caps of the rough pillars; and that Mr. Thayer obligate himself to elevate said fence two feet whenever the Standing Committee decide that circumstances render it necessary.

Voted That Daniel L. Gibbens and Daniel Messinger be a Committee with full powers to see to the erection of said fence, and also to finish off our yard with gravel and brick walks complete.

July 29, 1828. Annual Meeting.

Met in pursuance of notifications duly posted in the Porch.

Meeting opened with prayer by the Pastor.

Deacon Morrill chosen Moderator.

David Francis chosen Clerk; oath administered at the time, by the moderator, no justice of peace being present.

Dea. Morrill, Daniel Messinger, Daniel L. Gibbens, Joseph Otis, Josiah Bradlee, Charles Sprague, Ebenezer Chadwick, J. T. Buckingham, and David Francis, Standing Committee.

Voted That the Standing Committee appoint the Sexton, and fix his Salary.

[48]   The Committee of Finance of First Church respectfully report,

That they have examined the accounts of the receipts and payments of Deacon Morrill, for the time that he was acting treasurer subsequently to the last annual meeting. They find the accounts correctly cast and regularly vouched. It appears there has been received,

The Committee of Finance of First Church respectfully report,

That they have examined the accounts of monies received and disbursed by William Hayden Jr. Treasurer from his election in November last, to the present day, which account is reported herewith; and that they find the same to be correctly cast and regularly vouched. By this account it appears that the present Treasurer has received

The detailed report of the Treasurer was then read and accepted, and filed with the Society’s Papers.

The Committee for the sale of land, presented a deed intended to be given Mr. Thayer, which was read, and request made to the Deacons to sign the same, as the legal officers of the Society: But the Deacons decline to sign the Deeds.

The Committee appointed to inquire into the corporate powers of the Society, laid the following papers before the meeting.

July 29, 1828.

[51]   Voted that the Committee appointed to sell the estate purchased by G. F. Thayer be directed to wait upon the Deacons and respectfully request them to sign the deed which has been drawn for the conveyance of said Estate; and if the Deacons should then decline to sign the instrument, that the Committee be empowered to execute a deed themselves, or to take such other measures as they may find necessary for the completion of the contract already made between these Proprietors and the said Gideon F. Thayer.

Voted That the Standing Committee of the First Church be, and they are hereby authorized to make such alterations and repairs in and about the said Church during the ensuing year, as they may deem expedient.

August 13, 1828. Committee Meeting.

Voted That the Treasurer be requested to attend the meetings of the Committee, and that the clerk notify him accordingly.

Voted That Daniel Messinger, Josiah Bradlee and Joseph T. Buckingham be Committee on the Singing.

Voted That the Committee on repairing the Yard be requested to continue their services to completion thereof.

Voted That a Committee be raised to consider and report, first, The cost of an entire new Pulpit. secondly, The expense of repairing the inside of the Church. thirdly, The cost of painting the outside of the Church complete.

Voted That Joseph T. Buckingham, Josiah Bradlee, and Charles Sprague be the Committee to carry into effect the above Vote.

Voted That D. L. Gibbons and the Clerk be a Committee to approve Bills.

Voted That Ebenezer Clafflen be continued as sexton, with the usual salary.

Voted That if application be made for the Vestry to [be] used for a Sunday School, that the disposal thereof be left with the Minister and Deacons.

August 26, 1828. Committee Meeting.

Met to hear report of subcommittee on Repairs: who presented a plan of a new pulpit, stating the expense at [blank] Dollars, exclusive of Cushions and Curtain.

Presented a statement of expense for coloring the Walls, which can be done at [blank] Dollars.

[52]   The Committee also gave a statement of expenses for painting the Outside of the Church; the Brick work at [blank] Dollars, the wood work at [blank] Dollars.

Voted that the Committee proceed to have the new pulpit constructed according to the plan presented, with such alterations as the beauty of the work may require; to furnish the Curtain and Cushions; to have the walls colored; and to make all such other minute repairs as may be requisite to the good appearance of the inside of the House.

Adjourned. D. Francis Clerk.

October 9, 1828. Committee Meeting.

A letter was read from the South Congregational Church, kindly offering the use of their Church to the worshippers in Chauncey Place, during the time their meeting-house is undergoing repairs.

Voted That the thanks of this Committee be presented to the Committee of the South Congregational Church for their kind offer, and that it be cordially accepted; and that the Clerk be requested to return answer to that purport.

November 11. Committee Meeting.

For the purpose of providing funds for paying the expenses of repairs in the meeting-House.

Voted That for the purpose of defraying the expenses of certain repairs, and alterations made by this Committee in and about the Church in Chauncy Place, under a vote of the Proprietors of said Church passed at their last annual meeting, the Treasurer be, and he is hereby authorized to borrow a sum not exceeding fifteen hundred Dollars, at a rate of interest not exceeding six per centum per annum, and payable at the pleasure of said proprietors, after one year.

December 14, 1828. Committee Meeting.

The use of our meeting-house having been offered to the Proprietors of Trinity Church for performance of service on Christmas Day, a letter was received and read from the Wardens, accepting of the offer, and presenting their cordial thanks to the Society for their kindness.

[53]   January 18. Proprietors’ Meeting.

A meeting of the proprietors was called this day, at the request of a number of the gentlemen, to consider the propriety of asking for an act of incorporation, under which to manage the financial affairs of the First Church.

Dea. James Morrill chosen moderator.

Voted, unanimously, That the Committee who had the management of the sale of the School-house Land, be requested to apply to the Legislature for an act of Incorporation, without delay.

Adjourned.

February 22, 1829. Proprietors’ Meeting. Dea. Morrill in the chair.

Mr. Josiah Bradlee stated that the proprietors had been requested to remain, that the opinion of the congregation might be taken upon the propriety of asking for the press the excellent Sermon against controversy delivered by the pastor on the 8th inst. Whereupon it was

Voted that a committee be chosen to wait upon Rev. Mr. Frothingham and request a copy for the press.500

May, 1829. Proprietor’s Meeting.

The Proprietors were requested to remain after service, to take into consideration the recommendation of the City Government to have a collection in the several churches for the sufferers by the fire in Augusta, Georgia. Also, to express their opinion in regard to inviting the Hollis Street Congregation to seats in our meeting-house, while theirs is under repair.

Voted That it be recommended to have a Collection on the next Sabbath morning.

Voted That a letter of invitation be sent to the Society in Hollis Street, requesting them to worship in our church, while theirs is under reparation.

May 1, 1829.

A letter of thanks was received in reply to the above invitation, stating that some of the Society will be happy to avail themselves of the offer, and that some will accept the offer of the South South Society.501

[54]   Boston, July 28, 1829.

The Annual Meeting of The Proprietors of The First Church was held at their house this day at 4 oClock P.M. agreeably to Notice posted in the Porch and printed notifications distributed in the Pews.

The meeting was opened with Prayer by Reverend Mr. Frothingham, Deacon James Morrill was appointed Moderator.

Mr. David Francis gave notice that he should decline a reelection to the office of Clerk.

Colonel Messinger was appointed to collect assort and count the votes for Clerk, who reported that Daniel L. Gibbens was elected.

The oath of Office was then administered to the Clerk elect by the Moderator, no qualified Justice of the peace being present.

The Committee appointed in January last to apply to the Legislature for an Act of incorporation, presented the following Report, which was accepted.

The Committee appointed by the Proprietors of The First Church to apply to The Legislature for an Act of Incorporation respectfully Report, That in accordance with the instructions of The Proprietors, this Committee made application to the Legislature, by petition, and have procured the passage of an Act of Incorporation, a copy of which they have the honor to submit herewith,

For the Committee

William Goddard Chairman.

In the Year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and twenty nine.

An Act declaring and confirming the incorporation of the Proprietors of The First Church in Boston.

Section 1st Be it enacted by the Senate, and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, That all persons who now are or hereafter may be the Proprietors of Pews in the Meeting House in Chauncy Place, in Boston be and they hereby are declared and confirmed to be a body corporate and politic, by the name of The “First Church in Boston,” with power to elect such Officers and to pass such By-Laws as may be necessary for the proper management of their affairs, And with all the powers, rights and privileges which by the Constitution or laws of this Commonwealth belong to Parishes, And with power also to purchase, take and hold any estate, real, personal or mixed, for the support of the Ministry, and the suitable [55] maintenance of the Public worship of God, and the same to sell, mortgage or otherwise dispose of, as they may see fit, provided that the whole estate of the [said]502 corporation, exclusive of their Meeting House, shall not exceed in its annual income, the sum of Five thousand Dollars, and the said corporation shall be and hereby are declared in Law, to be seized and possessed of the said Meeting House, with all the land under and adjoining the same, and of all other lands, tenements, and estate heretofore possessed and enjoyed by the Proprietors of the First Church, or by the Deacons, or any other Officers of the same for their use, with all the rights, privileges and appurtences to the same belonging, reserving however to the several Proprietors of Pews in the said Meeting House their right to, and interest in their said Pews, respectively.

Section 2d Be it further enacted, that the said Proprietors shall be entitled to all the privileges which they have heretofore in fact enjoyed, and shall be subject to all the duties which they have heretofore in fact been subject to, and shall be bound by all the contracts they have heretofore in fact entered into.

Section 3d Be it further enacted, that all monies raised by the said Proprietors, for any lawful purpose, shall be assessed upon the several Proprietors of the Pews, in said Meeting House, or in any other Meeting House, that may be substituted therefor, according to the relative value of the said pews, regard being had to their situation, and convenience, and the said Pews shall be held liable to be taken and sold for the payment of all assessments, duly made, and for the discharge of all expences incurred by such sale, in such manner, and upon such events, circumstances and conditions, as have been, or may be hereafter ordered and directed by the said Proprietors, at any legal meeting, and which are or may be summarily expressed and contained in the Deed or conveyance of the Pews, and the said assessment shall be considered as a lien upon said Pews.

Section 4th Be it further enacted, That the present officers of the said Proprietors shall be, and remain in office, until the first annual meeting of the said corporation, unless by decease or resignation, the places of any of them should become vacant, in which case, the said Proprietors may elect others to fill such vacancies, and the said Officers shall cause the first meeting of the said corporation to be called, by a printed notification to each Proprietor of a Pew in said Meeting House, and afterwards, notice of the meetings of said corporation, shall be given in such manner as the corporation shall direct.

Section 5^th Be it further enacted, that this act may be altered, amended or repealed, at the pleasure of the Legislature.

In the House of Representatives March 2d 1829 Passed to be enacted,

W. B. Calhoun, Speaker.

In Senate March 2d 1829. Passed to be enacted, Sh. Leland, President. March 3d 1829. Approved,

Levi Lincoln

[56]   The foregoing is a true copy of the original act entitled “an act declaring and confirming the incorporation of the Proprietors of the First Church in Boston.”

signed Edward D. Bangs, Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Voted that the above act of incorporation be accepted, and the same is hereby adopted, for the future regulation and government of the Proprietors of the First Church.

The following Report was read and accepted.

The Committee appointed to examine the accounts of the Treasurer of Proprietors of the First Church, ask leave to Report, That they have examined the accounts of The Treasurer for the year which closed on the thirtieth day of June last, and find them correctly cast, and regularly vouched. During the year the Treasurer has paid out, on account of the Proprietors, the sum of Five thousand five hundred and seventy two Dollars and sixty five cents, and he has received on their account, the sum of Five thousand five hundred and fourteen Dollars and eighteen cents, leaving a balance due the Treasurer, of Fifty eight Dollars and forty seven cents.

For the Committee

William Goddard Chairman.

The Treasurer made the following communication. Which, together with the Report of the Committee of Finance, were ordered to be printed, and distributed to the members of the corporation, Viz.

The Treasurer of the Proprietors of the First Church requests permission to submit to the Proprietors a general view of their finances, by means of the following Report. During the year which closed on the thirtieth day of June last, the amount of money which was received by the Treasurer, on account of the Church, was Five thousand five hundred and fourteen Dollars, and eighteen cents, this amount was derived from the following sources, Viz.

Within the same year the Treasurer has made payments in behalf of the Proprietors, amounting in the aggregate, to Five thousand five hundred seventy two dollars and and sixty five cents, which payments may be classed under the following heads, Viz.

The present state of the Debt of the Proprietors, of the First Church is as follows, Viz.

The very considerable repairs and improvements which have been made during the past year, by the standing Committee, under sanction of a vote of the Proprietors, at their last annual Meeting, have not only absorbed the balance which might reasonably have been expected to remain in the hands of the Treasurer, had there been nothing but the usual expenses of the Society, but have also required an addition to the debt, of the Proprietors, of the sum of Fifteen hundred Dollars, While it is believed that these improvements are well worth the consequent expenditure, and have given very general satisfaction to the People worshipping in this House, it is at the same time true, that this unusual expenditure renders the last year not a fair criterion of the manner in which the finances of the Society might ordinarily be managed.

Provided no expenses of an unusual character should occur within the year which commenced on the first instant, the income and expenditures of this Society, might be estimated with probable accuracy, as follows, Viz.

[59] By this calculation, a balance of five or six hundred Dollars would remain annually, to be applied to the reduction of the debt of the Society, And the Treasurer is not able to perceive any sufficient reason to prevent this anticipation from being, hereafter, fully realized.

Respectfully Submitted to the Proprietors,

William Hayden Jun. Treasurer.

July 28, 1829.

Voted That we now proceed to the choice of nine members, to compose the standing Committee, for the year ensuing, the votes being collected, it appeared that the following gentlemen were chosen, Viz.

• Deacon James Morrill
• Josiah Bradlee
• David Francis
• Daniel Messinger
• Charles Sprague
• Ebenezer Chadwick
• James Phillips
• Joseph T. Buckingham
• Daniel L. Gibbens

William Hayden Junior was unanimously re-elected Treasurer of the corporation, for the ensuing year.

Voted That the thanks of this Society be presented to Mr. David Francis, for his services as Clerk thereof, for a number of years past, and that the present Clerk, be instructed to transmit to him a copy of this vote.

Voted That the Standing Committee, be authorized to make such alterations and repairs, in, and about the Church, and Houses, as they may deem expedient.

Voted That the Act of Incorporation be submitted to the standing Committee, to report at the adjourned meeting, such regulations and By-Laws, for the government of the corporation, and for calling future meetings, as they may consider necessary.

Voted That when this meeting adjourn, it shall be to the first tuesday in October next.

Voted That the standing Committee be authorized to appoint a Sexton, from time, to time, during the year, and to fix his salary.

Voted That this Meeting be now adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[60]   Boston, August 4, 1829. A Meeting of the standing Committee was held in the Vestry.

Messrs. Messinger, Buckingham and Phillips were appointed a Committee to superintend the Organ Loft.

Messrs. Bradlee and Messinger, were appointed a Committee to procure suitable Mats for the Porch.

Deacon Morrill and D. L. Gibbens were authorized to dispose of the old Pulpit, Cushions, Curtains, Steps and other Lumber about the Church, by Auction or Private sale.

Mr. Francis and Deacon Morrill, were appointed a Committee, to procure a new door for the front of the Church, and to cause the side and front doors to be painted.

Messrs. Gibbens, Buckingham and Sprague, were appointed a Committee, to draft such regulations, and By-Laws, as may be necessary for the future government of the Corporation.

Voted That the Treasurer be requested to attend the meetings of this Committee.

Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to pay to the Reverend Mr. Frothingham the sum of One hundred and twenty five Dollars, in lieu of the twenty five Cords of wood, which he is entitled to receive from the Society, the present year.

Voted That the Salary of the Sexton, the present year, be at the rate of one hundred and fifty dollars per annum, which shall be in full compensation, for all services rendered in that capacity, including a constant care, and oversight of the church, Side-walk, Yard, and other property of the Corporation, in and about the Church.

Mr. Ebenezer Claflen, was reappointed Sexton.

Voted that this meeting be adjourned.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of The Standing Committee was held after the morning service August 16, 1829.

The Chairman, informed the Committee, that the Policy of Insurance on the Property of the Corporation was about to expire, and it was Voted that that Gentleman be authorized and requested to cause the same to be renewed on the same terms as the last year.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

[61]   A Meeting of the standing Committee was held after the morning service August 23, 1829.

The Sub-Committee for procuring a new door for the front of the Meeting house, submitted a plan, suggested by the architect, of Double Doors, to open and fold inside the Porch, which was adopted, and the committee was instructed to proceed with the work.

It was intimated to the Committee, that the Fire which happened on the 17th instant and which put at hazard the whole property of the corporation, would not have occurred, had proper care been observed by the occupant of that Room, and it was therefore Voted that the chairman be requested to notify the tenant occupying the School Room at the Northeast Corner of the meeting house, that he must vacate the same at the expiration of the present quarter.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of the Standing Committee was held August 30, 1829.

The Clerk read a communication from the Mayor of the city, soliciting aid for the erection of a Granite Wall, about the Chapel Burial Ground, and it was

Voted that the Chairman of this Committee be authorized and requested to subscribe to that object, any sum not exceeding twenty Dollars, to be paid from the funds of the corporation.

The Chairman of this Committee who was charged with the renewal of the Policy of insurance, reported in part, and asked instructions, as to the name, to be inserted in that instrument, it was thereupon,

Voted that the policy be made in the name of the Treasurer, and that that Officer be added to the Committee for the purpose of completing the business of insurance.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, October 4, 1829.

The standing Committee met this day after the evening service. The Committee appointed to prepare By Laws reported that they had attended to that service and the regulations for the future government of the society, proposed by them, were read, and after amendment, were adopted, and ordered to be presented to the Society at their adjourned meeting on tuesday next.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[62]   Boston, October 6, 1829. A meeting of The Proprietors of The First Church Corporation was held agreeably to adjournment, Deacon James Morrill Moderator.

The Committee, by their Chairman, reported the following By-Laws which were adopted, and ordered to be printed with the Act of Incorporation and distributed in the Pews of the Proprietors, Viz.

On motion it was Voted that this meeting be dissolved.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

The Committee met November 8, 1829.

When the Committee appointed to procure a new Door to the front of the Church, reported that they had completed that Work, and that the Bill for the same was in their opinion an exorbitant one, After explanation and debate on the subject, it was Voted that the same Committee be authorized and directed to settle with Mr. Hammond on the best terms they can.

Adjourned.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

Sunday Morning February 28, 1830.

The Committee met, to consider a proposition from the Treasurer, relating to the sale of The Note and Mortgage held by The Corporation against Mr. Gideon F. Thayer, and applying the proceeds to the reduction of the debt.

Voted That the Chairman and Treasurer be a Committee to consider that subject, and Report.

Adjourned.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a Meeting of The Standing Committee of the Proprietors of the First Church, held on the 28th day of February 1830, at which Meeting all the Members were present.

It was proposed to sell and transfer the Note and Mortgage of Mr. Gideon F. Thayer, and appropriate the proceeds to the payment of the Debts of the Corporation, And after some discussion, Deacon James Morrill and the Treasurer were appointed a Committee to consider that subject, to take legal advice as to the proper mode of making such transfer, and to report. And in case a meeting of the Proprietors should be necessary, for that purpose, it was understood that the Clerk had the consent and direction of the Standing Committee to call one.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[64]   A Special Meeting of the Proprietors was held at the Church in Chauncy Place on tuesday March 9, 1830, and was organized by the appointment of Deacon James Morrill as Moderator.

The following Vote was proposed and after debate was adopted.

At a special meeting of the Corporation called “the Proprietors of The First Church in Boston” held on the ninth day of March 1830 pursuant to notice, It was

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to sell and dispose of Gideon F. Thayers Note to the Corporation, secured by mortgage of Real Estate, upon such terms as they may deem expedient. And the Treasurer is hereby empowered to make and execute the necessary endorsement and transfer, of said securities, in behalf of the Corporation, and to receive the proceeds and appropriate the same towards the payment of the debt of this Corporation, and to no other purpose whatever.

It was then Voted That this meeting be dissolved.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Whereas Doubts have arisen in regard to the legality of a meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church Corporation which was held in Chauncy Place on the 9th instant, by reason of no special Vote of the Standing Committee of that Corporation, having been passed, authorizing the Clerk to issue notifications for the same.

Now therefore, to end all controversy on that subject the undersigned, members of that Committee, hereby Certify, That at a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 28 day of February, last past, at which all the members were present, It was expressly understood that in the event of its being ascertained by a sub-Committee which was appointed for that purpose, that further and enlarged power was necessary for the Standing Committee to make a legal transfer of a Note and Mortgage held by the Corporation against Gideon F. Thayer, and apply the proceeds to the reduction of the debt of the Corporation, then and in that case, that the Clerk had the consent and direction of the said Committee to call a meeting of the Proprietors for that purpose.

[65] The following, is a copy of a certificate, accompanying the Note and Mortgage transferred to Deacon James Morrill.

We the undersigned being the Major part of the members of the Standing Committee of the Proprietors of the First Church in Boston, do hereby express our assent to, and approbation of, the assignment and transfer of the Note and Mortgage of Gideon F. Thayer, to James Morrill hereunder written,

A Meeting of the Standing Committee was held on Sunday March 14, 1830.

A Communication was received from the Mayor and Aldermen, “requesting that the Bills may be tolled only, for lectures and other meetings, except on Sunday,” and it was thereupon

Voted that this Society will comply with that request, and that the Sexton receive directions accordingly.

Voted That Messrs. Sprague, Gibbens and Bradlee be a Committee to take into consideration the expediency of revising the present form of Blank Deeds used for the conveyance of Pews in this Church, and of recommending to the Proprietors an exchange of the Deeds they now hold for such as may be adopted.

Adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a Meeting of the Standing Committee, held after the morning service, Sunday March 21, 1830.

It was suggested that this Corporation may be interested in an application now pending before the Mayor and Aldermen, to alter the northerly line of Summer Street. Whereupon it was Voted That Messrs. Sprague, Buckingham and Messinger be a Committee to examine the Plans in the Mayor’s Office, and to remonstrate against the proposed alteration if in their opinion, it would affect injuriously the interests of this Society.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[66]   The Standing Committee met April 18, 1830.

A communication was received from the Hon. Isaac Parker requesting to be discharged from his liability as Lessee of one of the houses belonging to the Proprietors, whose tenant he has been for the last twenty two years.

Voted That the Lease to Judge Parker be terminated on the first day of May next, agreeably to his request.

Deacon James Morrill and D. L. Gibbens were appointed a Committee to cause such repairs to be made upon said house as may be necessary and to lease the same on such terms and conditions as they may consider equitable, and for the interest of the Proprietors.

Repeated complaints having been made of the disorderly conduct of the Scholars in the room at the N.E. corner of this house, it was Voted That the Clerk be directed to notify Mr. Titcomb that the Committee desire him to vacate that room at the expiration of the present quarter. Adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a meeting of the standing Committee held April 25, 1830.

It was Voted that Mr. Titcomb have permission to return to the Clerk the notice to vacate the room occupied by him, in consequence of a communication received from him expressing his willingness to comply with the rules of this committee in relation to the playground for his Scholars.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

June 20, 1830.

The Proprietors were requested to remain after the morning service, and on motion it was Voted That the Reverend Mr. Frothingham be requested to convey to the Proprietors of Federal Street Church, through their Pastors, the invitation of this Society for them to worship in this house while theirs is undergoing repairs. Adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[67]   The standing Committee met July 18, 1830.

The sub-Committee appointed to cause repairs to be made on the house recently occupied by Honorable Isaac Parker and to lease the same, Reported that they had effected thorough repairs, and had leased the same to James Parker for the term of five years at the rate of Five hundred and seventy five Dollars per Annum, which report was accepted.

Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to settle with Judge Parker on equitable terms.

Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to sell Pew No. 9 at auction for the payment of taxes.

Ebenezer Chadwick and Charles Sprague Esquires were appointed a Committee to audit the accounts of the Treasurer.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

The Annual Meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church was held at their house in Chauncy Place, July 20, 1830. And was opened with prayer by the Reverend Mr. Frothingham. Deacon James Morrill was appointed Moderator.

The Records of the last year were read by the Clerk.

A Committee was appointed to collect the Votes for Clerk for the year ensuing, which reported the whole number were for Daniel L. Gibbens, and he was declared unanimously reelected, and was sworn to the faithful discharge of that duty, by the Moderator.

The Committee on the Treasurer’s Account made the following Report, which was Accepted, Viz.

The Sub Committee of the Standing Committee appointed on the 18th instant to examine the accounts of the Treasurer, respectfully Report That they have examined the said Accounts for the year which closed on the 30th of June last, and find them correctly cast and regularly vouched.

For the Sub-Committee

Charles Sprague

July 20, 1830.

The Treasurer made the following statement which was accepted Viz. The Treasurer of the Proprietors of the First Church respectfully asks leave to state to the Proprietors, that within the year which closed on the thirtieth day of June 1830, he received on their account the sum of Ten Thousand Seven Hundred and Forty Six Dollars and Sixty Eight Cents; which amount was [68] derived from the following Sources, viz: From the Sale of Gideon F. Thayer’s Note and Mortgage, received for an Estate

The Treasurer charges the Proprietors, within the same year, with the following items, viz:

The balance due the Treasurer, as stated in his last year’s

And the following Notes have been paid and cancelled by the treasurer, viz:

All which is respectfully submitted to the Proprietors.

William Hayden Jr. Treasurer.

July 20, 1830.

The Votes being collected for a Standing Committee, the following Gentlemen were declared unanimously reelected, viz.

• Deacon James Morrill
• Josiah Bradlee
• David Francis
• Daniel Messinger
• Charles Sprague
• Ebenezer Chadwick
• James Phillips
• Joseph T. Buckingham
• Daniel L. Gibbens

William Hayden Jr. was unanimously reelected Treasurer.

Joseph T. Buckingham, Charles Sprague, and James Phillips, were appointed a Committee of Finance.

Voted That the Standing Committee shall not in any case be authorized to pay more than Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars a year as the salaries of the organist and singers.

The Meeting was then dissolved.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, August 29, 1830.

The members of the Society were requested to remain after the blessing was pronounced, Deacon Morrill presiding. It was Voted that Deacon Morrill, Mr. J. T. Buckingham and Deacon Foster be a Committee to wait on the Reverend Mr. Frothingham and request of him a Copy of his Century Sermon delivered this day, for the Press.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

[70]   The Standing Committee met November 28, 1830.

Voted that the Treasurer be authorized to pay any sum not exceeding fifty Dollars for the benefit of the Chauncy Place Sunday School at the discretion of the chairman of this Committee.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a meeting of the Standing Committee held in Chauncy Place December 26, 1830.

It was Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to borrow any sum of money that may be necessary for the use of the society, not exceeding six hundred dollars.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of The Standing Committee was held January 16, 1831.

A Communication was received from Gideon F. Thayer requesting to be considered an applicant for the School Room occupied by George Titcomb, and it was Voted that it is inexpedient to take any order on that subject.

Deacon Morrill was appointed a Committee to procure a Grate to be placed in the house occupied by Henry Cabot Esq. agreeably to the request of that Gentleman.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston March 13, 1831.

The Standing Committee held a meeting to act on a communication from Doct. Jacob Bigelow, proposing to renew the lease of the house occupied by him, on the same terms as are stipulated in the present lease, which being read, it was Voted That The Committee will lease the said house to the said Dr. Bigelow on the terms and conditions proposed by him in his Note of 8th instant.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[71]   April 7, 1831.

The Standing Committee met after the Morning service, on Fast-day, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr. Ebenezer Claflen who has for a great number of years506 discharged the duties of Sexton, with fidelity, and to the acceptance of the Society. A Number of applications for the office, were presented by the Clerk, and after deliberation it was

Voted unanimously that Francis Dillaway507 be appointed Sexton for the residue of the year, or until the annual Meeting, and that his salary be at the rate of one hundred dollars per annum, payable quarter yearly.

Deacon Morrill and the Clerk, were appointed a Committee to superintend, and cause such repairs to be made, on the houses, as in their judgement shall be necessary.

Voted that the same Committee be authorized to make such alterations and repairs in the passage way between the houses and Meeting house, as they may think expedient.

Voted That the Treasurer be authorized to pay the representatives of the late Mr. Claflen, his full salary to the expiration of the quarter on which he had entered.

On Motion of Mr. Francis, it was Voted that Messrs. Francis, Sprague and Messinger, be a Committee, to consult with the Pastor on the expediency of introducing into the Church a new Hymn Book, in lieu of Belknaps’ Collection, and to report at the next annual meeting.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, May 15, 1831.

A Communication from Jonathan Chapman Junior requesting the use of the Meeting House for the “Young Men of Boston”508 for the purpose of an Oration, on the 4th day of July next, was read, and it was thereupon Voted that this Committee do most cheerfully consent that the house may be used for that purpose, on that occasion.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[72]   The Annual Meeting of The First Church Corporation was held at their house in Chauncy Place, on Tuesday the 19th July 1831.

Previous to the transaction of business, and in conformity with ancient custom, the throne of Grace was addressed by the Reverend Pastor.

The Meeting was then organized by the appointment of Deacon James Morrill as Moderator.

The records of the meetings of the Proprietors, and of the Standing Committee during the last year were read and approved.

Mr. Henry Cutter was appointed to collect, assort and count the votes for the Officers of the corporation for the ensuing year.

Daniel L. Gibbens was reelected Clerk, and the Oath of Office was administered to him by the venerable Moderator, in the absence of a qualified Justice of the Peace.

The following Report was read by the Clerk, in the absence of the Committee, and unanimously accepted.

The Committee of Finance appointed at the last annual meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church, Ask leave to Report That they have attended to the examination of the Treasurers accounts for the year which closed on the thirtieth day of June last.

That they find the said accounts correctly cast and regularly vouched.

All which is respectfully submitted

Boston, July 18, 1831.

The Treasurer presented the following Report, which was unanimously accepted, Viz.

The Treasurer of the Proprietors of the First Church in Boston, respectfully asks leave to Report to the Proprietors.

These payments have been made for the following purposes, Viz.

All which is respectfully submitted to the Proprietors.

William Hayden Junior Treasurer.

July 19, 1831.

The Votes were collected for a Standing Committee, and the following Gentlemen were declared elected, Viz.

• Deacon James Morrill
• Josiah Bradlee
• Ebenezer Chadwick
• Daniel Messinger
• Charles Sprague
• David Francis
• James Phillips
• Joseph T. Buckingham
• Daniel L. Gibbens

William Hayden Junior Esq. was unanimously reelected Treasurer, but declined accepting that Office, Whereupon Mr. David Francis was elected Treasurer of the Corporation, for the ensuing year, and accepted the trust.

Messrs. Ralph Huntington, James W. Vose and [75] Levi Bliss were chosen a Committee of Finance.

The following Report was read by Mr. Francis, Chairman of the Committee and accepted.

The Sub-Committee, appointed by the Standing Committee, to confer with the Minister respecting the expediency of changing the Hymn Books, beg to Report That they have had a conference on the subject with the Minister, and are of opinion that at present a change is inexpedient.

Voted That the Thanks of this Society be presented to William Hayden Junior Esq. for his very able and faithful services in the office of Treasurer for a number of years.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to appoint a Sexton, from time to time as may be necessary and to determine his compensation.

The Meeting was then adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of The standing Committee was held August 21, 1831.

Francis Dillaway was appointed Sexton for the current year, and it was Voted that his Salary be at the rate of one hundred dollars per Annum, payable quarter yearly.

Daniel Messinger, Joseph T. Buckingham and James Phillips were appointed a Committee to superintend the Singers, and the Organ Loft.

Deacon Morrill and the Clerk were appointed a Committee to negotiate with H. Cabot, respecting a renewal of his lease, on the terms of his present lease and with authority to allow him one quarters Rent for internal Repairs.

Voted that a Screen be placed in front of the Back houses in the West Yard.

Voted That the proposition of John Dodd to hire the whole Cellar for five years, at the rate of One hundred dollars per Annum, be accepted, on condition that no offensive or dangerous Article shall be stored therein, and no Truck be allowed to enter the yard.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

[76]   A Meeting of The Standing Committee was held April 29, 1832.

Messrs. Bradlee, Sprague and Francis were appointed a Committee to confer with the Lessee of the Cellar, in regard to complaints of an improper use of the Yard and Sidewalks by rolling Casks and Coopering the same, to the annoyance of the neighbors and the danger of the lives of the Scholars who attend school in the Rooms under the Meeting house, and the said Committee are fully authorized to vacate and conclude the lease, if its terms are not complied with.

Messrs. Gibbens and Buckingham were appointed to make such Repairs, in, and about the House, Yards, and Dwelling Houses, as they may think expedient, and to expend any sum of Money that may be necessary for that purpose, at their discretion. Deacon Morrill was subsequently added to this Committee. Adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

The Standing Committee met after the morning service May 13, 1832, all the members present.

A Request from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for the use of the Meeting house on the last Wednesday of the present Month for the delivery of an address on the occasion of the dedication of the Masonic Temple, was made by the Clerk, Whereupon it Was Voted unanimously, that the request be cheerfully complied with.

It was also Voted that the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company have the use of the Meeting house on the first Monday in June, if requested.

The Chairman of the Committee on repairs reported that various estimate had been procured of very considerable Repairs, which were laid before the Committee for their consideration. And after a very full discussion and due deliberation, it was Voted unanimously that the Sub-Committee be directed to cause all necessary Repairs to be made in and about the Building at their discretion, but particularly the painting the meeting house, inside and outside, Whiting the Ceiling, Coloring the Walls, Painting the blinds on the back side of the Society’s Block of Houses, raising and paving the avenue on the North side of the Church etc. etc.

Voted that the Treasurer be authorized to borrow any sum of Money which may be necessary to pay the expence of such repairs as may be made [77] under the direction of the sub-Committee, provided it shall not exceed the sum of two thousand Dollars.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

May 27, 1832.

A Meeting of the standing Committee was held after the morning services, When a communication from the Standing Committee of Hollis Street Church, was read by the Reverend Mr. Frothingham, inviting the Members of this Society, to seats in their Church, during the time this house may be vacated for Repairs, And it was

Voted to accept the invitation.

The same communication also proffers the use of Hollis Street Church for the thursday Lectures, and it was

Voted that this subject be referred to the Reverend Pastor, to be laid before the Clergymen who usually officiate at those Lectures.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of the Committee was held at the store of Mr. D. Francis, to decide on the manner in which the next Annual Meeting may be called. A Majority of the Committee being present it was

Voted that the Clerk be directed to issue notifications to the Members of the Society in addition to depositing the usual notifications in the Pews.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

July 1832.

[78]   The Annual Meeting of The First Church Corporation was held in the Vestry July 17, 1832.

The Reverend Mr. Frothingham opened the meeting with Prayer, and it was then organized by the appointment of Deacon James Morrill as Moderator.

The Records of the last Annual Meeting, and of the doings of the standing Committee at their several meetings were read by the Clerk. Colonel Daniel Messinger was appointed to collect, sort and count the votes for officers of the Corporation for the ensuing year, and the following Gentlemen were elected, Viz.

The following Report was read and accepted, The Committee appointed at the last Annual Meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church who were required “to audit and examine the accounts of the Treasurer and to report thereon” have attended to that duty and respectfully submit the following Report.

Your Committee have carefully examined the accounts forwarded to them by David Francis Esq. and compared the entries in the Ledger with the annexed account Current, made up to the 30th June last, and find them to agree, that they are rightly cast and properly vouched excepting two quarters salary to the Rev. Mr. Frothingham, $137.50 allowed Mr. Cabot for repairs, $83 for Insurance, and five dollars to the Sexton, for which there appears no receipts or vouchers. All which the Committee have no doubt have been duly paid agreeably to the entries in the Treasurers accounts. But they recommend the vouchers for which [79] be obtained, and placed on File together with the policies of Insurance for future reference.

Boston, July 16, 1832.

The Treasurers Account Current, accompanying the foregoing Report, is placed on file. On Motion of Mr. Francis it was Voted That the Standing Committee be requested, forthwith, to advertise and sell at Auction any number of the Pews belonging to the Society that they may think expedient.

On Motion of Mr. Buckingham, the first Article of the By Laws was altered by inserting at the end, the following words, “or in such other mode as the Standing Committee may direct.”

Voted that the Standing Committee be authorized to appoint a Sexton, from time to time, and to decide what compensation he shall receive.

The Meeting was then adjourned.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

July 22, 1832. The Standing Committee met after the morning service.

Francis Dillaway was reappointed Sexton for the Current year, and his salary was fixed at One hundred dollars per year, payable quarterly.

Messrs. Messinger, Phillips and Sprague were appointed a Committee to superintend the Organ Loft.

The Sub-Committee who have in charge the repairs now being made on the house, reported progress, and were instructed to complete their labors, agreeably to their original plan, and Also to ascertain if any alterations can be made in the School Rooms on the lower floor which will be for the interest of the Corporation and if so to report a plan and the probable expence. Mr. Chadwick was added to the Committee.

A Communication from the Clerk of the Proprietors of the Church in Brattle Square, transmitting a Vote of the Standing Committee of that Society, was read, And it was Voted that the thanks of this Committee be communicated by the Chairman to the Committee of the Church in Brattle Square for their friendly invitation to seats in their house.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[80]   Boston, October 14, 1832.

The Standing Committee met this day, and Voted that the Treasurer be authorized to borrow any further sums of Money which may be required to pay the existing Bills for Repairs, not exceeding five hundred Dollars.

Voted That the Treasurer be directed to call on certain Persons for damages sustained by this Corporation in the destruction of Bricks, Fence etc. by reason of Trucks or other Loaded vehickles having been driven on to the new Brick Passage Way on the North side of the Meeting house.

Voted that the Committee on Repairs be authorized to place a sufficient number of stone Posts in front of the Passage Way, to prevent future injury.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Circular was read from the Desk, by the Reverend Mr. Frothingham, soliciting aid for the inhabitants of The Cape De Verd Islands, who are represented as in a perishing condition, by reason of famine, and the congregation was notified that a collection would be taken for their relief, in the afternoon. The sum of One hundred and eighteen dollars and twenty five cents was collected and subsequently paid over (to the Committee appointed by the Citizens to collect subscriptions) by Deacon J. H. Foster.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of the Committee was held December 23, 1832.

An Application for the use of the house, for the purpose of “making an appeal in behalf of the Slaves, and to remove mistaken prejudices in relation to the principles and measures of the New England Anti Slavery Society, and Also to invite personal and pecuniary cooperation” signed Arnold Buffum, President, was read, And it was Voted that it is inexpedient to grant the request.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

A Meeting of the Committee was held March 31.

A Communication was received from G. W. T. Jones, Organist, asking for an increase of his Salary, and it was Voted unanimously that the Clerk be directed to to notify him that his services in the Organ Loft will be dispensed with, from and after the first day of July next.509

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

[81]   The Standing Committee met April 14, 1833.

Mr. Phillips was appointed Chairman for the current year. The Treasurer was authorized to let any vacant Pew belonging to the corporation for any sum not less than the taxes.

Messrs. Phillips and Gibbens were appointed a Committee to superintend all Repairs that may become necessary.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a Meeting of the standing Committe on Lords day May 5, 1833.

Application was made in behalf of the Sunday school, for thirty dollars to be appropriated to the purchase of Books, and the Reverend Mr. Frothingham and Messrs. Chadwick and Gibbens were appointed a Committee to enquire into the circumstances and history of that establishment, to report at a future meeting.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

The Committee met after the Morning service May 19, 1833.

The Committee on the Sunday School, offered the following Report, which was unanimously accepted, Viz.

Boston, May 11, 1833.

The Committee appointed to enquire into the state of the Sunday School having attended to that service, Report That the following questions seemed to them to enter fairly into the province of their Commission: Viz. How is that School composed? How has it been supported? What has been its success? to whom does it belong? and how shall it be in future maintained? To these questions they agree in replying.

1st The Chauncy Sunday School was originally an offset from the Franklin Sunday School, the Directors of which, requiring another room for its accommodation, asked and obtained the use of the Vestry of the First Church. The Children of this Society were invited to attend for instruction, and several Ladies belonging to it were persuaded to become instructed, in the new School; At present, two thirds of the pupils, and one half of the teachers are Members of the Society of First Church.

2d It has has been supported by this Church from the beginning until now. The expences of such an establishment will vary somewhat, one year from another, but the greatest of them, arising from the purchase of Books has been already met. [82] During the last year the sum of thirteen dollars only was required.

3d The School has been made honorable mention of, in printed reports, and your Committee believe, has answered faithfully and fully the ends, for which it was instituted. It is in a flourishing Condition and has been well conducted, the teachers continuing to take a strong interest in the services, which they benevolently undertook. Its library is sufficiently full and in good order, and your Committee agree in the opinion expressed by its present Principal, that a great multiplication of books in such a school, is not only without use, but absolutely hurtful.

4th From what has been stated, your Committee conclude that the Chauncy School truly and properly belongs to the First Church, which has adopted and fostered it. And they therefore do, in answer to the 5th Question, which they proposed to themselves, respectfully recommend, that we shall consider ourselves responsible for its future usefullness; that we shall endeavor to awaken a new attention to it, as our own property and charge; and that any needed sum, not exceeding Twenty five dollars, shall be appropriated annually, to its support.

On behalf of the Committee,

N. L. Frothingham.

The Clerk communicated the application of the Reverend Mr. Danforth, for the use of the Meeting house this afternoon at five oClock, to preach a Charity Sermon on behalf of the Colonization Society, And it was voted unanimously, that it is inexpedient to grant the request.

Application was also made by a Committee of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, for the use of the house on the first monday in June next, for the performance of religious services on their anniversary, and it was unanimously Voted that the request be granted.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[83]   On the third day of April 1833 Departed this life Deacon James Morrill, at the advanced age of Eighty two years, having been a worshipper at the First Church more than fifty four years. One of the Officers of the Church forty three years; Chairman of the Standing Committee, and Moderator of the Proprietors Meetings for nearly twenty years in succession. He was a devoted friend to the interests of the Society and to the Religion which he professed. The following is an extract from a Sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Frothingham on the Sunday after his death.

Boston, July 13, 1833.

The Proprietors of Pews in the First Church were notified to attend the Annual Meeting on tuesday the 16th instant at 4 oClock P.M.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[85]   The Annual Meeting of the Corporation of the First Church in Boston was holden at the Meeting House in Chauncy Place on Tuesday, July 16, 1833.

The Meeting was opened with prayer by the Reverend Pastor of the Church and was then organized by the appointment of James Phillips Esq. as Moderator.

The Records of the last Annual Meeting, and of the doings of the Standing Committee during the past year were read. Mr. Henry Cutter was appointed to collect, assort and count the votes for the Officers of the Corporation: and the following Gentlemen were severally elected to the respective offices, viz.

• Charles C. Paine, Clerk,

and was qualified by taking the oath of office which was administered by William Hayden Jr. Esquire.

The following Report was made by the Committee of Finance and accepted.

[86]

Boston June 30, 1833. Errors Excepted

(Signed) David Francis Treasurer.

Boston, July 13, 1833.

We certify that the above Account has been carefully examined by Us, that all the items are well vouched, and that the balance is carried to New Account on the Treasurer’s Books.

(Signed) Henry Cutter, G. Barker, Asa Richardson,

Committee of Finance.

The following Report by the Treasurer was also made and accepted:

2. The property of the Corporation may be estimated as follows:

3. The ordinary yearly expenses of the Corporation are as follows, viz:

leaving a surplus of $400. for extra expenses yearly.

5. The Corporation possess thirty four Pews in the Church, eighteen below and sixteen above, taxed at a yearly rate of about $400; of these, thirteen are occupied in whole or in part and yeild a yearly tax of $135.00.

On Motion of Mr. Hayden the Sixth Article of the By-Laws was amended by adding thereto the following words, viz: “This Committee shall also prepare and report at each annual meeting a particular account of the receipts and expenditures of the past year, together with a statement of the debt and of the available funds of the Proprietors.”

It was Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized and empowered to sell forthwith the unsold pews in this Church at such prices as they shall think for the interest of the Proprietors; for which purpose they be directed to take such measures as they may deem expedient for that purpose.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized, if they deem it expedient, to remove the four back pews at the bottom of the aisles; and [87] for that purpose to make an arrangement with Mr. Barker for an exchange of pews.

Voted That the Standing Committee have the usual power to appoint a Sexton.

The Meeting was then adjourned.

Charles Cushing Paine Clerk.

August 11, 1833.

The Standing Committee met after the morning Service, and James Phillips Esquire was appointed Chairman.

Francis Dillaway was appointed Sexton for the ensuing year, on the same terms as during the last year.

Messrs. Messinger and Phillips were appointed a Committee to have charge of the Organ Loft.

Messrs. Gibbens, Babcock and Barker were appointed a Committee of Repairs.

The Committee on Repairs were instructed to examine the Ground Floor of the Meeting House and to report as to increasing the rent from it. They were also requested to procure the Winter’s supply of Wood for the House.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

August 25, 1833. The Standing Committee met after the Morning Service.

The Committee on Repairs reported that they had examined the Ground Floor of the Meeting House and that no repairs in the apartments on the same were necessary, but that the rents received therefrom should be raised, viz: of that occupied by

• Miss Ayres, which now pays $80.00 to $100.00
• Mr. Titcomb, which now pays $88.00 to $125.00
• Miss Whitney, which now pays $100.00 to $125.00

and that the Vestry be let for a Female School at an annual rent of $150.00.

The Report was accepted and the Treasurer was directed to notify the above named Tenants that the said rents would be required of them after the next quarter day: and to advertise the Vestry.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

October 20, 1833. The Standing Committee met after the Morning Service.

The Treasurer’s proposition to collect the taxes on the Pews for the whole year at the beginning of the year, allowing [88] a discount of five per cent on the amount, was approved and authorized. The Treasurer was also authorized to carpet one of the galleries with a carpet three feet wide. The Committee on repairs reported that a thorough examination by two skillful mechanics had been made under their direction into the condition of the house occupied by Mr. Parker and no repairs were found necessary and that they had accordingly declined making any.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

February 16, 1834. The Members of the Society were requested to remain after the Afternoon Services and being called to order, Mr. Phillips presiding.

It was Voted that William B. Fowle, Daniel L. Gibbens and James Phillips be a Committee to wait on the Reverend pastor, and request a copy of his Morning Sermon for the press; and to print, and distribute according to their discretion, five hundred copies of it.511

Voted that twenty five dollars be appropriated for the expense thereof, and that the treasurer be directed to pay the same.

Voted that the same Committee be authorized to print and distribute an additional number of copies, if they shall be wanted.

Voted that the same Committee be directed to inquire into the expediency of procuring an Instructor in Music for the Sunday School.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

July 6, 1834.

The Standing Committee met after the afternoon services, and Messrs. Messinger and Gibbens were appointed a Committee to request of the reverend pastor a copy, for the press, of his sermon preached on the last Lord’s day on the occasion of the death of General Lafayette, and to print and distribute the same according to their discretion.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Tuesday, July 15, 1834. The Annual Meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church was holden this day at 4 oclock P.M. at their Meeting House in Chauncy Place.

After a prayer by the reverend pastor, the Meeting was opened by the appointment of James Phillips Esquire as Moderator.

The records of the past year were read by the clerk—Messrs. Fowle and Sprague were appointed a Committee to collect, assort, and count the votes for the choice of Officers. The meeting then proceeded to the election of Officers.

Charles C. Paine was chosen Clerk, and was qualified by Mr. Hayden by taking the oath of office.

David Francis Esquire was chosen Treasurer.

Before proceeding to the appointment of a Committee [89] of Finance, the report of the Committee for the last year was called for, and it was accordingly voted to have it read: but, the Committee reporting that it had, through inadvertance to the amendment made to the sixth by-law at the last Annual Meeting, been drawn in compliance with that by-law as it originally stood only, the Vote to have the report read was reconsidered; and it was then Voted, that, when this Meeting adjourn, it adjourn to this day fortnight at 4 oclock P.M. and that the Committee of Finance be directed to make their report at that meeting. It was also Voted that the choice of a Committee of Finance be postponed to that meeting.

The following Gentlemen were then chosen to constitute the Standing Committee for the ensuing year.

Voted that the Standing Committee have power to appoint a Sexton for the ensuing year.

All unfinished business was referred to the adjourned Meeting, and the Meeting then adjourned.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

July 15, 1834. The Standing Committee met after the adjournment of the Annual Meeting.

James Phillips Esquire was appointed Chairman of the Committee for the ensuing year.

Voted that the Treasurer be authorized to borrow a sum of money not exceeding five hundred dollars, to pay a promissory note of the Corporation which becomes due on Thursday next.

Voted that Messrs. Hayden and Gibbens be a Committee to inquire into the form heretofore used in giving the notes of the Corporation.

The Committee then adjourned to meet on Sunday next immediately after the Morning Service.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

July 20, 1834. The Standing Committee met after the Morning Service.

The Committee appointed at the last meeting made the following Report:

[90]   The sub-committee of the Standing Committee of the First Church, appointed to consider the mode in which Notes have been issued in behalf of the said Church, have attended to that Subject, and Report:

All these notes are dated August 1, 1833, and are understood to be in the possession of Daniel Messinger Esquire:

These notes were issued by the present treasurer, under what this Committee consider a great misapprehension of his authority; although the Committee have not the most distant idea but that the treasurer conceived he was doing right when he signed those notes, yet they believe that he had no more authority to sign them than any other individual of the Committee. The Standing Committee is endowed with authority to manage the prudential affairs of the Church; one of the most important acts to be done under that power is, the issuing of Notes in behalf of the Church; and such an act ought only to be done by the Standing Committee. If notes are to be issued with the single signature of the Treasurer, this Committee is at a loss to perceive what possible check there can be against the issuing of such notes, even without the knowledge of the Standing Committee. Some future Treasurer, less restrained by the principles of honour and honesty than the individual who now fills that office, might use the credit of the Church for his own private purposes. Under these views of the Subject, the Sub-committee recommend to the Standing Committee to pass the annexed votes.

Respectfully submitted

Voted that the Treasurer of the First Church be authorized to take up and cancel the four notes mentioned in the foregoing Report, and to cause others, of similar amount, to be issued in their stead, being first signed by at least two thirds of the members of the Standing Committee.

Voted that no note, or other obligation to pay money, shall hereafter be issued in behalf of the Proprietors of the First Church, unless the same shall have been first signed by at least two thirds of the members of the Standing Committee.

The Report and Votes were respectively accepted, and passed.

Messrs. Messinger, Phillips and Gibbens were appointed the Committee on the Organ loft.

[91]   Messrs. Gibbens, Babcock, and Barker were appointed the Committee on Repairs.

Francis Dillaway was appointed Sexton on the same terms as last year.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Tuesday, July 29, 1834. The Meeting of the Proprietors was holden at their Meeting House in Chauncy Place at 4 P.M. according to the adjournment; Mr. Phillips presiding.

The Records of the former Meeting, and of the doings of the Standing Committee subsequently, were read by the Clerk.

The Committee of Finance submitted the following Report, which was read and accepted.

The Committee, appointed by the Proprietors of the First Church, on the subject of Finance, have carefully examined the accounts of the Treasurer, and find them correctly cast and competently vouched. It appears by the Treasurer’s accounts that from the 30th day of June 1833 to the same day of the present year, the following amounts were passed to the credit of the Church, viz.

The amounts, disbursed by the Treasurer for account of the Church, within the same year, have been for the following purposes, viz:

Although the annual expenditures for the support of this Church appear to be very considerable in their aggregate amount, yet this Committee are not able to perceive that any important reduction of the usual expenses can be made. The disbursements for the Musical department are very high; the gentlemen who have charge of that department are best qualified to judge whether they can be reduced. This highly interesting portion of our public devotions deserves, in the opinion of this Committee, the continued attention and support of the brethren of the First Church. If it can be properly supported at less expense, the saving of expense would be gratifying; and it would be more conformable also to a positive vote of the Proprietors, adopted some years since, limiting the amount of this expenditure. If however no saving of expense can be made in this respect without diminishing the excellence of the Music which the worshippers in this Church have for some time past enjoyed, this Committee do not advise to any alteration.

July 29, 1834.

(Signed) William Hayden Jr. for the Committee of Finance.

After some discussion of the expenses of the Musical department, the following Vote was passed.

Voted that the Standing Committee are hereby authorized to make any arrangements which they may think proper in regard to the performances in the Organ loft, without reference to the restrictive vote on this subject passed by the proprietors on the twentieth day of July, 1830.

It was then Voted to proceed to the choice of a Committee of Finance, and the following Gentlemen were Chosen:

Voted that the Treasurer be authorized to put the demands of the Church against two of its delinquent members into the hands of the Clerk for collection.

The Meeting was then adjourned.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

[93]   Sunday, November 16, 1834.

The Standing Committee met after the Morning Services.

The use of the Church on the next Sunday evening was granted to Miss Woodward, for the purpose of having an Oratorio: it having been previously ascertained, that the Insurance on the building would not be affected thereby: the church to be lighted and used under the direction of the Committee on the Organ Loft.

The Committee on Repairs were authorized to renew Mr. Parker’s lease of the House now occupied by him for five years at a rent of not less than Seven hundred dollars a year, he paying the taxes and all repairs.

Messrs. Hayden and Fowle were appointed a Committee to ascertain on what terms a loan of money to the Church, sufficient to redeem all the outstanding notes, could be obtained.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Monday, January 19, 1835.

A meeting of the Proprietors, having been duly notified by the clerk and also by a notice from the pulpit, was holden this day at three oclock in the afternoon; and having been called to order by the clerk, James Phillips Esq. was appointed Moderator.

It was stated from the Chair that a petition had been presented to the City Government, praying to have Chauncy Place laid open as a public street; and the present meeting was called to take measures in opposition thereto.

Deacon Foster and other gentlemen expressed their feelings on the subject, and the Reverend Pastor offered the following resolutions, which were unanimously passed.

Voted That we hear with great concern of a proposal to open Chauncy place into a public street; That we should consider such a measure a violation of our privileges, and highly injurious to our interests and comfort; That we do not consider the public convenience to require the infliction of so great an evil upon us; and That we do earnestly deprecate and protest against it.

Voted That the Standing Committee be instructed to act for the Society in the premises; and with full power to represent it, and take every step, which future circumstances may render necessary.

The following resolution was then passed.

Voted that the Standing Committee take into consideration a Communication from the Hon. William Prescott and others, proprietors of Estates on Chauncy Place, and examine the deeds or other articles of agreement between this Corporation and Ebenezer Preble Esquire, by which they obtained the right of way in Chauncy place; and report at a future meeting; and they are authorized [94] to employ counsel, if necessary.

The Standing Committee were also directed to inquire whether a right of way for foot passengers would not be soon acquired by the public through Chauncy place by prescription.

The Meeting was then dissolved.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Sunday, January 25, 1835.

The Standing Committee met after the morning Service, to consider the communication of Judge Prescott and others, above mentioned, requesting a grant in fee of an undivided half part of the portion of Chauncey Place which was opposite their respective houses: this request being made on the supposition that they would have no claim for the injury to their said houses from the opening the Court, unless they owned some part of the court itself.512

The subject, after some discussion, was referred to a sub-committee, consisting of Mr. Hayden and the Clerk.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Sunday, February 1, 1835.

The Standing Committee met after the afternoon Service—to act upon a notification from the City Government, appointing Thursday afternoon next for a hearing on the Subject of opening Chauncy place: remonstrances against that measure having been presented as well by the Church as a Corporation, as by the proprietors of pews and worshippers therein, and also by Judge Prescott and others owners of the houses in Chauncy place, by Mr. Thayer as the principal of the School and by the parents of the children attending his and the other schools in the Court, and by the owners of estates in Bedford place and Summer street and the vicinity, and by many gentlemen at large who felt a strong interest in the welfare of the Society.

Mr. Hayden and the Clerk were appointed a committee to appear for the Church and support the remonstrance: with authority to employ some suitable person to measure the distances between streets in the neighbourhood.

The expediency of opening another passage through the Wall for foot passengers, on the other side, was suggested, but the subject was deferred for the present.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Sunday, March 22, 1835.

The Standing Committee met after the morning service, to ask for a copy of the Pastor’s sermon preached on the last Sunday, being the twentieth anniversay of his Ordination; and Messrs. Phillips, Babcock and Gibbens were appointed a Committee [95] to wait upon the pastor for the purpose, and to have the usual number of copies printed.

A wish was likewise expressed that the Clerk should enter upon the records those parts of the sermon which related to the doctrines and the practice of the Church.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

[97]   Sunday, April 26, 1835.

The standing Committee met after the morning services.

The Committee on Buildings reported that application had been made to them by Dr. Kirkland to know on what terms the house, now occupied by him under a lease made to Mr. Cabot, might be had after the expiration of the lease.

And thereupon Voted that that Committee arrange the best terms and report.

The same Committee reported that Mr. Parker would accept a new lease of his house on the terms required, provided he were allowed to underlet at the expiration of three years to a tenant to be approved on the part of the Church.

Voted that he have such privilege.

The same Committee reported that repairs were required on the house occupied by the pastor.

Voted that that Committee be empowered to put such repairs on said house as they shall deem proper.

The Committee on the organ loft reported that Mr. Jones, who by his contract was bound to give three months notice before leaving, wished an immediate discharge, as he was going to Europe.

Voted that Mr. Jones be released from his engagement, without any pledge on the part of the Church for a renewal of it on his return.513

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

Thursday, June 11, 1835.

The Standing Committee met this day at 3 p.m.

The Committee on Buildings reported that the best terms to be obtained from Dr. Kirkland for the house now leased to Mr. Cabot, were about $660 per annum, the lease to commence on the 1st of July, and the house to be repaired.

Voted that it is not expedient to lease the house, now hired by Mr. Cabot, on terms less advantageous than those on which Mr. Parker has his house.

Voted that if Dr. Kirkland takes the house, the Committee be authorized to put such repairs on it as they shall judge necessary.

Voted that the Vestry be let for $125 a year, and that $25 be allowed to the tenant for the use of the room for the Sunday school and other purposes.

Charles C. Paine Clerk.

[98]   Boston, July 21, 1835.

The Annual Meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church was held at their Meeting House this day at 4 O Clock PM. being notified by printed Notifications distributed in the Pews, the Meeting was opened with a Prayer by the Reverend Pastor, Major James Phillips was chosen Moderator.

C. C. Paine having signified in writing his intention to decline a reelection to the office of Clerk, Messrs. Huntington and Appleton were appointed to collect the votes for his successor. On counting the votes B. B. Appleton was declared to be elected and was duly qualified by taking the usual oath of office which was administered by William Hayden Esquire.

The committee on finance made the following report Viz.

“The Committee appointed by the Proprietors of the First Church, on the subject of Finance, respectfully, Report:

That they have carefully examined the accounts of the Treasurer, for the past year and find the same accurately kept, and correctly vouched.

The Amounts credited to the Church, in the Treasurers account, are as follows, Viz.

Rents:

During the same year, disbursements have been made, by the Treasurer as follows, Viz.

[99]

The funds of the Proprietors of the First Church, available to meet the Expenses of the current year, may be stated as follows viz:

This amount will probably, be just about sufficient to meet the ordinary annual expenses, as they occur.

Respectfully submitted for the Committee of Finance.

July 21, 1835.

William Hayden Jr., Chairman.

[100]   By request, part of the records of the past year was read by D. L. Gibbens, and on Motion of W. Hayden it was Voted that the standing committee be instructed to take proper measures to preserve and protect the rights of the Proprietors to the court or passage way to the Church—Mr. David Francis was unanimously reelected Treasurer—the following gentlemen were chosen the Standing Committee for the ensuing year, D. L. Gibbins, D. Messinger, William Hayden Junior, D. Francis, S. H. Babcock, G. Barker, James Phillips, William B. Fowle and Hazen Morse, after which the following letter was received and read, from G. F. Thayer.

Chauncy Hall, July 21, 1835.

On which it was directed to be recorded and placed on file, the Society voting to take no further order on the same.

Voted that the Rev. Mr. Frothingham, Messrs. Sprague and Messinger be a committee to consider and report on the expediency of changing the Hymn Books now in use.

Messrs. Hayden, Appleton and Bliss were chosen a Committee of Finance.

Voted that the Standing committee be authorized to appoint the Sexton. and determine his compensation.

On Motion, Voted that the thanks of this Society be presented to Charles C. Paine Esquire for his [101] able and faithful services as Clerk for two years past—and that the present Clerk be instructed to transmit him a Copy of this Vote.

The Meeting was then adjourned.

Benjamin B. Appleton Clerk.

The Clerk was requested to notify the Standing committee to meet on Sunday next.

Standing Committee Meeting, Sunday, July 26, 1835.

Present, Messrs. Phillips, Messinger, Gibbens, Barker, Hayden and Morse.

Colonel Messinger was chosen chairman of the Standing committee in place of Major Phillips who declined to be a candidate. Mr. Dillaway was appointed Sexton, at a Sallery of one hundred Dollars per Year. The Standing committee unanimously approved of the doings of the committee on the Singing department.

Messrs. Gibbens, Babcock and Barker were chosen a committee on repairs. Messrs. Hayden and Francis were appointed a sub committee on the subject of the Court or passage way to the Church. Messrs. Messinger, Phillips and Gibbens were chosen the committee on the Singing department.

Voted that the thanks of the standing committee be presented to James Phillips Esquire for his faithful services as chairman for a number of years past.

Benjamin B. Appleton Clerk.

Sunday, September 20, 1835.

The standing committee met at the Church pursuant to a notice from the Rev. Pastor. A circular letter from a committee for the sufferers by fire in Charlestown was read to them by the Rev. Mr. Frothingham—whereupon it was voted That a meeting of the proprietors be called by the Rev. Pastor after the evening service on the Sabbath following to take further order on the same (all the Committee were present).

A request from a committee in behalf of the Female Asylum, for the use of the church on Friday Afternoon 24th was received—read—and granted.

In accordance with the first of the above votes, a Proprietors meeting was held on Sunday, September 27, P M; the subject of the circular etc. was fully discussed and the following resolution adopted.

In consequence of the accidental omision of the officiating minister to give this notice, the collection was deffered till the next Lords Day Sunday Oct. 4th. The collection was taken this day amounting to 48.30 and was duly transferred by Dea. Foster to the Charlestown Committee.514

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Sunday, October 18, 1835.

Standing committee met after the morning service by notice, from the Clerk, the subject of the two Stoves at the east end of the Church, was considered and discussed, Whereupon the Committee on repairs was directed to procure two Stoves if they should deem it expedient of approved construction instead of the present.

The Sexton was also required to make early fires in the Church the more completely to warm the same even if it should be at an additional expense.

The committee on repairs by their chairman made a report of the expenses occured by repairs on the Pastors and the next adjoining house, and some other repairs to the amount of [blank] which was accepted, the same committee was also directed to repair the Gate leading to the Church Yard, with stone posts—or other wise as they may think expedient.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Sunday, November 15, 1835.

The Standing committee were notified from the Pulpit to remain after the morning service, when the committee were informed by the Treasurer, that in consequence of the large expenditure on repairs, he should require some additional funds to pay the several outstanding bills. Whereupon it was voted that the Treasurer be authorized to borrow a sum not exceeding Six Hundred dollars, for eight months from the 1st December, the Clerk was requested to notify the Standing committee to remain after the afternoon service.

The committee met agreeable to the above notice. It was suggested that as real Estate was at this time high—it would be for the intrest of the Proprietors to sell [103] one or more of the Dwelling Houses belonging to the Proprietors, and pay all the outstanding debts of the Society. After some discussion on the subject it was Voted that the Clerk call a meeting of the Proprietors on Tuesday the 24th at 3 O Clock at the Church to take the subject into consideration.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Proprietors Meeting, November 24, 1835.

A meeting was held at the Church this day, by notice left in the Pews, to consider the expediency of selling one or more of the Dwelling Houses belonging to the society—Col. Messinger was chosen Moderator.

The Treasurer made a Statement of the Debts and resorses of the Society, on Motion, it was voted that a committee of five persons be chosen to take into consideration the disposal of said property and report at an adjourned meeting—Messrs. Brooks, Wales, Paine, Pierce, and Appleton were chosen. The meeting was then adjourned to such time as said committee shall be ready to report.

Benjamin B. Appleton Clerk.

Standing Committee Meeting, December 20, 1835.

A meeting was held after service by notice from the Pulpit, a report from the Hon. Mr. Brooks in behalf of the committee chosen—Nov. 24th—was received, adverse to selling any part of the real Estate, whereupon it was Voted to call a Proprietors meeting on Tuesday December 29th at 4 OClock. The Clerk was directed to notify in the usual manner.

Benjamin B. Appleton Clerk.

Proprietors Meeting, Tuesday 29 December 1835.

The Proprietors met agreeable to notice at 4 O Clock. Col. Messinger in the chair.

The report of the Committee on sale of real estate was read by the Clerk. It was first moved to accept the report, but afterwards it was voted to lay the report on the table till the annual meeting in July. Mr. Francis made a motion that the Standing-committee be authorized to remove the four lower body Pews—which was amended by directing the Clerk to give a notice to that effect on the notification for the annual meeting.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

[104]   The Standing Committee met after morning service, January 10, 1836.

A letter from the Rev Mr. May was read, requesting the use of the Church for an Anti Slavery meeting—whereupon Voted, without debate to refuse the same, and that the Clerk be requested to answer the same accordingly.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Sunday, March 27, 1836.

The Standing committee remained after service, by notice from the Clerk. A communication received from the teacher of the Sunday School relating to some Books in their library which were not considered as being any longer useful; on which it was then Voted to request the Rev. Pastor to make a donation of them to the Farm School at Thompsons Island.

A letter having been communicated from Dr. Bigelow requesting to know on what tearms the Society will renew his lease after the present shall expire, Voted that the committee on repairs be authorized to renew his lease for five years from the expiration of his present at 750 dollars per annum, without any repairs—and the Clerk was directed to notify Dr. Bigelow that the committee were authorized to treat with him on those termes.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Proprietors Meeting, May 17, 1836.

The Society met this day at 4 o Clock p. m. according to a previous notification—The Meeting was called to order by William Hayden Jr. Esq—and Col. Messinger was to preside.

In the absence of the Clerk, C. C. Paine was elected Clerk pro. tem. and sworn to the faithful discharge of his duties as such by Mr. Hayden.

The Chairman stated the object of the Meeting to be to take measures to oppose the petition lately presented to the Mayor and Aldermen for laying out a Street over Chauncey Place. A Remonstrance which had been prepared, was read and theirupon, Voted That the Standing Committee be requested to sign the same, [105] and send it in to the Mayor and Aldermen as soon as can be conveniently done.

Voted That the Standing Committee be authorized to employ some person to carry round a Remonstrance to the pewholders and Worshipers for them to sign.

The Meeting was then disolved.

C. C. Paine Clerk, p. t.

a true copy from the minutes.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

Standing Committee Meeting, July 17, 1836.

The Standing committee were requested by notice from the Clerk, to remain after the morning service.

The Chairman read a letter from the Superintendent of the Gas Light Company requesting permision to lay the pipes through Chauncy Place. After some conversation the said letter was refered to a committee (Mr. Hayden) to report at the annual meeting such information as he may obtain.

The Sub Committee appointed July 26th to take measures to protect the rights of the Proprietors to the Court or passageway to the Church, reported by Mr. Hayden, that in their opinion, the passage way through the Brick Wall should be closed for a short time to secure to the Proprietors their rights to the same. The Committee were fully impowered to close the said passage way in such manner as they shall think proper.

Letters were read from S. L. Abbot and Calvin Ellis requesting to be considered applicants for the House now occupied by Dr. Bigelow; thereupon the Clerk was directed to inform them, that they should receive the attention of the committee.

B. B. Appleton Clerk.

[106]   The Annual Meeting of The Corporation of The First Church in Boston, was holden on tuesday the 19th day of July at 4 oClock P. M. pursuant to notifications deposited in the Pews on the Lord’s day preceding.

The Meeting was opened by Prayer, by the Reverend Mr. Frothingham, and was organized by the appointment of Daniel Messinger, Esquire as Moderator. The records of the past year were read by the Clerk. Messrs. Huntington and Barker were appointed a Committee to collect, assort and count the votes for officers for the ensuing year, and the following Gentlemen were elected to the respective offices, Viz.

The Oath of office was administered to the Clerk elect by William Hayden Junior Esquire.

The following Vote was offered by the Committee to whom was referred the communication from George Darracot, asking permission to place Gas Pipes in Chauncy Place, and was unanimously adopted, Viz.

“Application having been made by George Darracot in behalf of the Boston Gas Light Company to lay the Main pipes of that Company through Chauncy Place, It is by the Proprietors of said Church

“Voted That the Boston Gas Light Company be authorized, as far as the Proprietors of this Church are concerned, to lay their main Pipes through Chauncy Place—Provided that said pipes be laid outside of the Sidewalks; And provided, further, that the said Company shall obligate [107] themselves to remove said Pipes whenever they shall be thereto directed by the Proprietors of this Church, their successors or assigns.

July 1836

The following Report was made by the Committee of Finance, and unanimously accepted, viz. That according to the By-Laws of the Corporation they have examined the accounts of the Treasurer for the past year—and that they find the same correctly cast and vouched.

The Treasurer has received, on account of the Proprietors, during the year ending on the first of July instant, the following amounts of money, viz.

Within the same year the Treasurer has paid out, on the same account, the following sums, viz.

The Committee do not consider it probable that the Income of the Society, during the ensuing year, will much exceed that of the past, except that the aggregate of Rents will be a little higher. If any further extensive repairs of the Real Estate can be dispensed with it may be possible to pay off, from the revenue of the year, the note which was given to meet the repairs of the last year.

Respectfully submitted.

(Signed) William Hayden Junior, in behalf of

The Committee of Finance.

July 19, 1836.

The proposition to remove four of the body Pews and increase the width of the Aisles, was on Motion of Deacon Foster, indefinitely postponed.

The Report of a Committee appointed on the 24th day of November last, to enquire and Report on the expediency of selling a part of the Real Estate belonging to the Corporation, which was laid upon the table on the 29th of December last, and referred to this meeting, was taken up, and accepted unanimously.515

The Standing Committee were authorized to appoint a Sexton and determine on the amount he shall receive for his services.

The Record of the above meeting is made from minutes taken by Mr. B. B. Appleton.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[109]   A Meeting of the Standing Committee was held after the morning service, Lords Day, July 24, 1836.

Daniel Messinger Esq. was appointed Chairman for the ensuing year.

Francis Dillaway was appointed Sexton, and his salary fixed at One hundred Dollars for the year. In consideration of extra cleaning about to be done in the Church, it was Voted that twenty five dollars be paid Mr. Dillaway as a donation. Messrs. Messinger and Phillips were appointed to superintend the Organ Loft.

Messrs. Babcock, Barker and Morse were appointed a Committee on Repairs of Buildings. Voted that the last named Committee be requested to cause the Aisle Carpets to be cleansed, and the Windows of the Church to be washed, And that the same Committee cause a Door to be placed in the Vestibule, if they shall consider it expedient. A Communication from Henry H. Tuckerman and also a letter from Doct. Bigelow, soliciting a lease of the house now occupied by the Doctor, was read, and it was Voted that it is inexpedient to give the refusal of the house at present.

The Treasurer was authorized to offer and sell at Auction any number of the Pews belonging to the Society, not exceeding four.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, December 25, 1836.

At a Meeting of the Standing Committee this day, the Chairman submitted for its consideration the subject of reorganizing the Organ Loft. And after some discussion, it was Voted to adjourn to tuesday evening next, then to meet at the house of the Rev. Doctor Frothingham by his invitation.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Tuesday, December 27, 1836.

The Committee met according to adjournment, duly considering the subject proposed at its last meeting.

Voted that the Committee on the Organ Loft be instructed to reengage Miss Woodward, and also to engage Mr. Smith as Organist, for the ensuing year on the same terms as heretofore. It was also

[110]   Voted That notice be given to Colonel Newhall and to Mr. Brown, that the Standing Committee of the First Church have made such arrangements in relation to the Music in the Church, as will render their services unnecessary, after the termination of the quarter which commences on the first day of January next.

Voted That the Reverend Doctor Frothingham be added to the Sub-Committee on Music.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, March 26, 1837.

The Standing Committee met after the morning service, and received a communication from Doctor Jacob Bigelow requesting permission to occupy the house now under lease to him, one quarter, after the expiration of his lease. Whereupon it was Voted that Doctor Bigelow be permitted to retain the house until the first day of August next, at a rent of Seven hundred and fifty dollars per annum and taxes.

Voted that the Committee on Repairs be authorized to lease the house now occupied by Doctor Bigelow from and after the first day of August next, for an annual rent of not less than Seven hundred and fifty Dollars and taxes.

Voted that the same Committee be instructed to enquire and report on the expediency of preparing a number of Pews in the South Gallery, for sale, or to let, also to ascertain if any alteration can be made in the stairs leading to the Gallery’s. And also to report an estimate of the expence of these alterations, and the removal of four Pews from the lower floor.

Mr. Doggett was added to the Committee on repairs.

Application having been made to the Treasurer for the purchase of Pew No 114, It was Voted that he be authorized to dispose of the same at any price not less than One hundred and fifty dollars.

Voted That the Committee now adjourn to meet on the afternoon of the next Lords day.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

[111]   April 2, 1837.

The Committee met agreeably to adjournment. The Committee on Repairs report that it is expedient to remove Four Pews from the lower floor, to fit up a number of Pews in the south Gallery and to make alteration in the stairs, which report was accepted and the Committee were authorized to procure the necessary Plans.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

April 9, 1837.

At a meeting of the Standing Committee it was Voted that a Meeting of the Proprietors be notified to be held on Wednesday the 19th instant, at half past three oClock P.M. to consider and act on the subject of alterations and repairs as recommended by the Sub-Committee.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

April 19, 1837.

A Special Meeting of the Proprietors of First Church was held agreeably to notifications deposited in the Pews on the last Lords day. The Standing Committee reported that in their opinion it is expedient to remove the four bottom Pews from the floor of the house. Also to erect two new flights of Stairs to the Galleries and to fit up the Pews in the South Gallery. Which report was accepted and the Committee were authorized to make the alterations and repairs.

Voted that Messrs. C. C. Paine, D. L. Gibbens and William Hayden, Junior be a Committee to consider the expediency of altering or amending the By-Laws conformably to the revised Statutes.

A Communication was received from the Executive Committee of the Fraternity of Churches, and Committed to the Rev. Doct. Frothingham David Francis and T. B. Wales Esquires to consider and report.

On motion of William Hayden, Jr. Esq. it was Voted, unanimously, that the sum of five hundred dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated and granted to the Rev. Pastor of this Church, in addition to his salary for his services during the year which will close on the 30th June next. And that a Committee [112] of the Proprietors be appointed to consider the expediency of increasing the annual salary of the Pastor, with instructions to report at the next Annual Meeting, and Messrs. Sprague, Hayden and Messinger were appointed, that Committee.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

Boston, April 23, 1837. The Standing Committee met after the morning service.

A Communication signed Francis Jackson and seven others soliciting the use of the Church on the 30th of May next for a meeting of the Anti Slavery Convention was read and thereupon Voted unanimously that the request be not granted.

Voted That Messrs. Hayden and Messinger be a Committee to wait on the Reverend Pastor and request a Copy of the Sermon delivered before the Congregation this morning, for publication.

Daniel L. Gibbens Clerk.

At a meeting of the Standing Committee, July 16, 1837.

The Committee on repairs reported that they had caused certain repairs and alterations to be made, and asked further instructions, whereupon it was Voted that said Committee make such further repairs in the Gallery and in the Vestibule as in their judgement may be expedient.

Messrs. Barker and Appleton were appointed a Committee to confer with Mrs. Eldad Brown and John L. Phillips in relation to the arrearages due for taxes on the Pew formerly owned by the late Eldad Brown.

The Clerk and Mr. Babcock were appointed a Committee to wait on the Reverend Pastor with the thanks of the Committee for the highly interesting Sermon preached by him this morning and request a Copy of the same for publication.

D. L. Gibbens Clerk.

[113]   Tuesday, July 18, 1837.

The Annual Meeting of the Proprietors of the First Church was holden this day at 4 oClock P.M. agreeably to notifications deposited in the pews on the last Lords day. In conformity with ancient usage, the meeting was opened with prayer, by the Reverend Pastor, and was subsequently organized by the appointment of Daniel Messinger Esq. as Moderator.

The Records of the past year were read by the Clerk. Mr. Henry Cutter was appointed to collect and count the votes for Officers for the ensuing year. The Moderator declared the following Gentlemen elected to the several Offices, as follows Viz.

The Oath of office was administered to the Clerk by William Hayden, Junior, Esq.

The Committee of Finance, by their Chairman made the following Report, which was accepted unanimously.

The Committee of Finance of the Proprietors of the First Church respectfully submit to the Proprietors, their Annual Report.

The Committee have fully and carefully examined the accounts of the Treasurer of the Church for the past year, and find those accounts duly vouched and correctly cast.

Within the last year there has been received by the Treasurer on account of the Church the following items of income, Viz.

For [114] Rents Of the two Houses occupied by Messrs.

The disbursements made by the Treasurer within the year were for the following objects, viz.