[pg 333]Missionary Statistics.We have been much assisted in our missionary statistics by the kindness of the secretaries of the several Missionary Boards, and by permission of the proprietor, Mr. F. Rand, for the use of his valuable Missionary Chart, prepared with great care, in 1840, by the Reverend Messrs. Jefferson Hascall and Daniel Wise.Those of the Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists, and Episcopalians, are brought down to 1841, and are quite accurate; but the efforts of some of the other denominations in this great and glorious cause are not fully stated, as some of the items have not been reported.First Protestant Missions.The first Protestant mission on record was undertaken in 1559, by Michael, who was sent into Lapland by Gustavus Vasa, king of Sweden.John Eliot commenced the first mission to the Indians atNonantum, now Newton, Massachusetts, in 1646. This mission gave rise to a society in England for the propagation of the gospel in New England, and to the formation of several other missionary stations; so that, in 1696, there were thirty Indian churches in New England.In 1705, Messrs. Ziegenbalg and Plutcho, under the auspices of Frederick IV., king of Denmark, commenced a mission at Tranquebar, in South Hindoostan, which was very successful. Its fruits continue to the present time.In 1728, a mission was begun by Schultze, at Madras, under the patronage of the Christian Knowledge Society. In the following thirty-three years, fourteen hundred and seventy converts united with the church.Moravian Missions.The Moravians trace their origin to the ninth century, when the king of Moravia united with the Greek church.West Indian Mission.—The Moravians commenced their mission[pg 334]on the Island of St. Thomas in 1732. Its commencement was occasioned by a conversation between a negro, named Anthony, and some servants of Count Zinzendorf. The negro said he had a sister at St. Thomas, who was deeply anxious to be instructed about religion. This remark was repeated to one of“thebrethren,”named Leonard Dober. He determined to visit St. Thomas,“even,”as he said,“if he were obliged to sell himself for a slave to effect his purpose.”Dober went; and though, for a time, little good was effected, yet, in 1736, the Lord poured out his spirit, and many of the slaves were awakened. There are now two stations on this island.In 1734, they began their mission on the Island of St. Croix. It was soon abandoned, but was reëstablished in 1740. In 1754, missions were commenced on the Islands of St. Jan and Jamaica; in 1756, at Antigua; in 1765, at Barbadoes; in 1777, at St. Christopher's; and at Tobago in 1790.Greenland Mission.—This was commenced in 1733, at New Herrnhut, or Lusatia, by Matthew and Christian Stach, when the congregation of the brethren at home amounted to but six hundred members. They persevered through cold, hunger, and discouragement, though for five years they had no conversions. Greenland isnowa Christian country.North American Indian Missions.—These were begun in Georgia, 1735, among the Creeks, at the instigation of Count Zinzendorf. It was followed by numerous other stations, many of which have since become extinct.South American Missions.—Surinam, a Dutch settlement in Guiana, was the scene of their first operations here, about 1735 or 1738. They began on the invitation of a planter. Several other settlements were attempted, but were subsequently abandoned, for various causes. In 1767, they commenced a prosperous station at Paramaribo.Labrador Missions.—Supposing that a natural affinity subsisted between this people and the Greenlanders, the brethren commenced their labors here in 1752. This attempt failed; but, in 1770, a settlement was effected at Nain, by the agency of Messrs. Haven, Drachart, and Jensen.South African Mission.—George Schmidt was the father of this mission. He commenced it in 1737; but it was afterwards abandoned for about fifty years, until, in 1792, a permanent settlement was effected at Gnadenthal, one hundred and thirty-five miles east of Cape Town.Note.—The brethren have also had missions, at different periods, in Asiatic Russia, Egypt, Persia, Lapland, Guinea, Algiers, Ceylon and the Nicobar Islands; all of which, for various causes, have been abandoned.[pg 335]Summary.In the year 1840, the Moravians had, in the afore-mentioned places and in South Africa, forty-seven stations and out-stations, one hundred and ninety-seven missionaries and assistants, seventeen thousand seven hundred and three communicants, and fifty-seven thousand two hundred and fifty-five souls under their care.London Missionary Society.The extensive and splendid missions of this board originated with the Rev. David Bogue, while on a visit to London. From his suggestions, the society was formed, in 1795, by several ministers of various denominations.South Sea Islands.—The society commenced their labors among these isles by sending out thirty-six missionaries, in 1796, who arrived safely, and commenced their duties at Otaheite, Tongataboo, and St. Christina, in March, 1797. Subsequently, they spread their influence over nearly all the islands of the Pacific Ocean. These missions have been eminently successful.New South Wales.—This mission was begun by the labors of Mr. Threlkeld, in 1826, in Bahtabee, on Lake Macquaire.South African Missions.—The success of the missions in the islands of the Pacific and South Seas, turned their attention to this dark land. Dr. Vanderkemp, who was their first laborer, began his labors on the River Keis Kamma, in Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards spread very widely among the Caffres and Hottentots.East Indian Missions.—The society's missions in this most interesting quarter of the globe were commenced at Calcutta and Chinsura, by the Rev. Mr. Forsyth, in 1798. Subsequently, their stations spread over Northern and Peninsular India, India beyond the Ganges, into China, Siam, and some of the Asiatic Isles.Guiana and West Indies.—At the request of a pious Dutch planter, Mr. Wray was sent to Demerara, in Guiana, in 1807. This was the beginning of the society's operations in South America.Other Missions.—Beside these, are the European and Mediterranean islands missions, which, though of recent date, are promising in their aspects.Education.—This society has several presses distributed over the vast field occupied by their agents, by means of which millions of pages are annually scattered among the people. They publish tracts[pg 336]parts of the Scriptures, &c. &c. They have also upwards of four hundred native assistants, which are not mentioned in the following summary.Summary.From the best accounts we can obtain, this society had, in 1840, in Asia, the South Sea Islands, Africa, Guiana, and in Europe, about five hundred and fifty missionary stations and out-stations, one hundred and sixty-four missionaries, five thousand communicants, and about twenty-five thousand scholars.American Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—The news of the success of English missionary enterprise, seconded by the zeal and influence of S. J. Mills, originated the germ of the invaluable labors of this board, which was organized in 1810. Their first missions were in Asia. Bombay was the scene of their first labors, in the year 1813, and Messrs. Nott, Newell, and Hall, their first missionaries. From Bombay they extended their influence to Ceylon, in 1816; to China, and South-eastern Asia, and to Siam, in 1830.Mediterranean Missions.—These missions were begun by sending out Messrs. Parsons and Fisk on a voyage of research. The first station occupied was Beyroot, in Syria, in 1823. To this, stations at Malta, in Greece, at Constantinople, &c., have been added.Missions at the Sandwich Islands.—A special providence marked the commencement of these missions. Two boys, named Obookiah and Hopu, were, at their own request, brought to America. This gave rise to a train of interesting circumstances, which led to the commencement of the mission, in 1820, by Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, and others. Vast success has attended this mission, especially of late.North American Indian Missions.—These were commenced in 1816, among the Cherokees, by the Rev. C. Kingsbury. The Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Osages, and other tribes, have since shared the labors of the board. The late unhappy removal of the Cherokee nation has done much towards the prostration of missionary success among that interesting but deeply-injured tribe.Missions in Africa.—The efforts of the board in this quarter of the globe are of recent date. Only seven years have elapsed since their commencement. Some native towns on the western coast, and a numerous aboriginal tribe called the Zulus, on the south-east shore, are the chief objects of their labors at present. This field is considered very[pg 337]promising, and it is confidently believed that its occupation will be one effectual aid in the great work of regenerating that darkened, enslaved, and degraded continent.In 1841, this board had missions to the Zulus in South Africa, the Grebos in West Africa, to Greece, to Turkey, Syria, the Nestorians of Persia, the Independent Nestorians, the Persian Mahometans, to the Mahrattas in Western India, to Madras and Madura in Southern India, to Ceylon, Siam, China Singapore, Borneo, and to the Sandwich Islands.They have missions to the Cherokee Indians, the Choctaws, Pawnees, to the Oregon Indians, the Sioux, Ojibwas, Stockbridge Indians, New York Indians, and to the Abenaquis.Summary Of Foreign Missions.The number of missions in this department is seventeen; of stations, sixty-one; of ordained missionaries, one hundred and eleven, five of whom are also physicians; of physicians, seven; of teachers, eight; of secular superintendents, two; of printers, eleven; of bookbinders, one; of female helpers, married and unmarried, one hundred and thirty-nine;—making a total of laborers beyond sea from this country of two hundred and eighty. To these add four native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-five other native helpers, and the number of laborers who are employed and supported by the board in the missions beyond sea, is four hundred and nineteen.Summary Of Indian Missions.Among the Indian nations, there are twenty-five stations; twenty-five missionaries, two of whom are physicians; two other physicians, five teachers; ten other male, and fifty-nine female, assistant missionaries; three native preachers; and three other native assistants;—total, one hundred and seven.General Summary.The number of the missions in 1841 was twenty-six; stations, eighty-five; and ordained missionaries, one hundred and thirty-six, ten of whom were physicians. There were nine physicians not preachers, thirteen teachers, twelve printers and bookbinders, and twelve other male and one hundred and ninety-eight female assistant missionaries. The whole number of laborers from this country was three hundred and eighty-one, or sixteen more than were reported in 1840. To these we must add seven native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-eight native helpers, which made the whole number five hundred and twenty-six, thirty-nine more than in 1840. Nine ordained missionaries, three male and seventeen female assistant missionaries, have been sent forth during the year.The number of mission churches was fifty-nine, containing nineteen[pg 338]thousand eight hundred and forty-two members, of whom four thousand three hundred and fifty were received the year before.There were fifteen printing establishments, twenty-nine presses, five type-founderies, and fifty founts of type in the native languages. The printing for the year was about fifty million pages; the amount of printing from the beginning is about two hundred and ninety million pages. Twenty-four thousand copies of theMissionary Heraldare now published monthly, and sixty-five thousand copies of theDay-spring, a monthly paper, are also issued.Seven of the thirty-four boarding-schools have received the name of seminaries, and these contain four hundred and ninety-nine boys; the other twenty-seven contain two hundred and fifty three boys and three hundred and seventy-eight girls;—making a total of boarding scholars of one thousand one hundred and thirty. The number of free schools was four hundred and ninety, containing about twenty-three thousand pupils.The receipts have been two hundred and thirty-five thousand one hundred and eighty-nine dollars, and the expenditures two hundred and sixty eight thousand, nine hundred and fifteen dollars.Presbyterian Board Of Foreign Missions.Until within a few years, this body of Christians united with the American board in their operations among the heathen. A distinct society, under the name of theWestern Foreign Missionary Society, was formed in 1831, by the synod of Pittsburg, which was merged into the present board in 1837.Three of the missions of the board were begun by this society, namely, the Western Africa, the Hindoostan, and Iowa and Sac missions.This board is intending to reënforce its missions, and to occupy several new stations, as soon as the requisite arrangements can be made. Its main efforts will be directed towards Hindoostan, where it has now two presses in active coöperation with its missionaries. This denomination of Christians have the following missions:—Iowa and Sac Indians; Chippewa and Ottawa Indians; Texas; Western Africa,Kroos; Chinese,Singapore; Siam; Northern India,Lodiana, Allahabad, Furrukhabad.Summary.This church has now under her care in the foreign field, fifty-seven laborers sent from her own bosom, twenty-three of whom are ministers of the gospel; besides eight native assistants, some of them men of learning, all of them hopefully pious, and in different stages of preparation[pg 339]and trial for the missionary work among their own benighted people. Through the mission stations occupied by these brethren, the church is brought in direct contact with five different heathen nations, containing two thirds of the whole human race. Annual expenditure about sixty-five thousand dollars.The Presbyterian Domestic Board of Missions employs or aids two hundred and sixty missionaries and agents, who have under their charge about twenty thousand communicants, and twenty thousand Sabbath school scholars. Annual disbursements about thirty-five thousand dollars.English Baptist Missionary Society.East Indies.—A mission was commenced at Serampore in 1793. The English Baptists were just awakening to a sense of their responsibility for the conversion of the world, when Dr. Thomas arrived in London, to solicit missionary aid for Hindoostan. The society took him under their patronage, and sent him back in company with Dr. Cary. After laboring successfully in various places, in 1800 Dr. Cary removed to Serampore, which thenceforward became a central station.West Indian Missions.—In 1814, a mulatto preacher, named Baker, requested this society to send a missionary to Jamaica. In compliance with this request, Mr. I. Rowe was sent out, who, after laboring with pleasing success, died; and, in 1815, the society sent out Mr. Compere and assistants, who established a mission in Kingston. This was the origin of the Baptist missions in the West Indies.South American Mission.—On a representation to the society, that much good might be done among the negro population and the Indians in and around Honduras, in the Bay of Mexico, the society, in 1822, sent out Mr. J. Bourne, who succeeded in establishing a church and congregation.South African Mission.—In 1831, Rev. W. Davies was sent to Graham's Town, at the urgent solicitation of some Baptists, resident at that place.Summary.This society have, in Asia, the Asiatic Islands, West Indies, South America, and South Africa, one hundred and twenty-nine stations and out-stations, one hundred and thirty-four missionaries and assistants, twenty-two thousand four hundred and eighty-eight communicants, and seventeen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five scholars. This statement does not contain the full amount of their labors to the present year.[pg 340]American Baptist Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—Rev. A. Judson may be said to be the father of Baptist missions in this country, and, indeed, of the missionary labors of this society. It was his conversion to the principles of the Baptists, while a missionary of the American board in India, that roused them to action. He commenced his labors under discouraging circumstances, at Rangoon, in the Burman empire, 1813. Since then, the operations of this board have become very extensive, embracing immense portions of the Burman empire, Siam, &c. Asia is their principal mission field, and they have laid sure foundations for the evangelization of many parts of that benighted clime.Indian Missions.—An impression, made, no doubt, by divine influence, of the importance of missions to this people, led, in 1817, to the appointment of J. M. Peck and J. E. Welch to be missionaries to the North American Indians. J. M. Peck commenced their first Indian mission among the Cherokees in 1818. Many tribes are now embraced by the labors of the board, and although the progress of truth has been slow among the“red men,”yet the board have cause to rejoice over their Indian missions.African Mission.—This mission was commenced by the offer of L. Cary and C. Teage, colored men, to become the messengers of the churches in this work. They commenced their duties, in 1821, at Liberia, where the board continues its efforts for the redemption of Africa, with some success, chiefly among the Bassas.European Missions.—These missions were commenced in 1832. Professor Chase was sent to explore the kingdom of France, and the Rev. J. C. Rostan commenced a course of evangelical demonstrations at Paris; since which, Germany and Greece have shared the attention of the board. These are missions of the first importance.General Summary.This board have missions as follow:—In North America, to the Ojibwas, near Lake Superior; the Ottawas, in Michigan; Oneidas, in New York; Otoes, near the junction of Missouri and Platte Rivers; Shawanoes, including the Delawares, Putawatomies, and Western Ottawas, in the Indian Territory; Cherokees, Creeks, and Choctaws, in the Indian Territory. In Europe, they have missions to France, Germany, Denmark, and Greece;—to the Bassas, in West Africa;—in Asia, to Burmah and the Karens; to Siam and China, Arracan, Asam, and to the Teloogoos.The number of Indian missions is eight; stations and out-stations, sixteen; missionaries and assistant missionaries, twenty-eight; native assistants, ten; churches, sixteen; baptisms reported the last year,[pg 341]two hundred and seventy-one; present number of church members, one thousand three hundred and twenty-four; schools, seven; scholars, one hundred and ninety-two.The number of European missions is three; stations and out-stations, twenty; missionaries and assistant missionaries, seven; native preachers and assistants, twenty-three; churches, twenty-seven; baptisms the past year, one hundred and eighty-seven; church members, five hundred and fifty-eight.In the mission to West Africa there are two stations, five missionaries and assistant missionaries, one native assistant, two churches of twenty-five members, and two schools containing eighty-five scholars.The number of the Asiatic missions is eight, stations and out-stations, sixty-two; missionaries and assistant missionaries, fifty-nine; native assistants, seventy-seven; churches, thirty-two; baptisms the past year, three hundred and seventeen; church members, one thousand eight hundred and two; schools, thirty-five, scholars, five hundred and sixty.Grand total, twenty missions, one hundred stations and out-stations, ninety-nine missionaries and assistant missionaries, one hundred and eleven native preachers and assistants, seventy-seven churches, seven hundred and eighty baptisms the past year, more than three thousand seven hundred members of mission churches, forty-four schools, and eight hundred and seventy-seven scholars.The annual expenditure of the board is about eighty thousand dollars.Free-Will Baptists.This flourishing class of Christians have not, until recently, directed their efforts to a foreign field. They now occupy one station in Orissa, where they have two missionaries with their ladies. Two other missionaries are about being located, for which purpose funds are now provided.Episcopal Missions.The Church of England has been actively engaged in missionary operations since the year 1698, when the“Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge”was formed. In 1701, the“Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts”was instituted. The“Church Missionary Society”was established in 1800. These societies are still in active and vigorous operation. They have missions in[pg 342]every quarter of the globe, and their annual expenditures, for the propagation of the Gospel, amount to about one million three hundred and seventeen thousand three hundred and fifty-six dollars.The Episcopal Church in the United States established aDomestic and Foreign Missionary Societyin 1820; and the General Convention of 1835 resolved, That the Church itself was the missionary society and that every member of the Church, by baptism, was, of course, bound to support her missions. The missionary field was declared to bethe world,domestic missionsbeing those established within the territory of the United States, andforeign missionsthose without that territory. At each triennial meeting of the General Convention, a Board of Missions, consisting of about one hundred members, is selected from the different dioceses. This Board has the general supervision of all the missionary operations of the Church; and meets annually, or oftener, if necessary.There are two standing committees of this Board,—theCommittee for Domestic Missionsand theCommittee for Foreign Missions, to whom, during the recess of the Board, the care and management of the missions is confided. This Society now has under its charge one hundred and forty-five domestic, and twelve foreign stations, employing eighty-five domestic and eleven foreign missionaries, and also eighteen teachers and assistants in the foreign stations.The expenditures of this Board, for the year 1841, were sixty-one thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents. This Society has missionary stations in Athens, Crete, Constantinople, China, (Maca,) Cape Palmas and other stations in Western Africa, and in Texas.Society For Propagating The Gospel Among The Indians And Others.This society derived its origin among the Puritans, in England, in 1648. The charter under which it now acts was granted by the legislature of Massachusetts, in 1687. Its list of past and present members in 1840, comprised one hundred and twenty-five names of the most eminent divines, jurists, and laymen in Massachusetts, in which state the operations of the society are chiefly confined. The funds of this society, in 1840, amounted to thirty-six thousand three hundred and eighty-seven dollars, the income of which is annually expended for the“propagation of the gospel”among the needy and destitute.In conformity with the spirit and design of this ancient and venerable society, all measures in any degree of a party or sectarian character, are scrupulously avoided.[pg 343]Wesleyan Or English Methodist Missionary Society.Scarcely had Mr. Wesley raised the standard of Methodism in England, before he turned his attention to the wants of other lands. America presenting a vast field for missionary labor, he sent over Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmore, in 1769. These were the first Methodist missionaries. From their labors the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States gradually came into being. Dr. Coke was preëminently useful in establishing missions in various places This society was organized in 1817.West Indies.—A peculiar providence marked the commencement of this mission. Dr. Coke, with three preachers, was proceeding to Nova Scotia, in September, 1786, but was driven, by stress of weather, to Antigua. Finding a number of serious persons there, he preached Jesus to them, and by his labors laid the foundation for extensive missions.British North America.—About 1779, several Methodist emigrants were the means of awakening many souls. Among these was Mr. Black, who, after laboring for some time with zeal and success, was appointed the superintendent of the mission in British North America. This mission embraces Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, Newfoundland, and Honduras.Missions in Asia.—The plan of establishing missions in Asia originated with Dr. Coke; and, in 1813, he sailed, with Messrs. Harvard, Clough, Ault, Erskine, Squance, and Lynch, for Ceylon. Unfortunately, he died on the passage. The brethren, after many trials, reached Ceylon, and commenced their labors at Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Matura. From Ceylon, the society directed its attention to continental India, where their labors have become very extensive.Missions in South Africa.—These missions were begun in 1816, by Rev. Barnabas Shaw, among the Namaquas, a tribe of Hottentots. These missions have subsequently spread over large portions of this benighted land.Missions in the South Seas.—These missions include the Friendly Isles, New Zealand, New South Wales, &c. They were commenced at the latter place, in 1815, by Mr. Leigh, who began his duties and labors at Sydney, with favorable auspices and good success.Missions in the Mediterranean.—These were commenced in Gibraltar, in 1804, by Mr. McMullen, who died a few days after beginning his labors. The mission was then suspended until 1808, when Mr. William Griffith was appointed to its charge. Besides this mission, the Methodists have stations at Malta, Alexandria, and Zanto.Missions in Europe.—These missions embrace the labors of the society in Sweden, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Norman and[pg 344]Shetland Isles. Notwithstanding many obstacles, arising from intolerance, ignorance, or superstition, the good work progresses at these missions.Summary.In 1840, this society had, in the West Indies, fifty missionary stations; in British North America, eighty-four stations; in Asia, twenty-two,; in the South Seas, twenty-five; in Africa, thirty-one; and in Europe, forty-two stations. In all these countries the society had two hundred and fifty-four stations, six hundred and twenty-three missionaries and teachers, seventy-two thousand seven hundred and twenty-four communicants, and fifty-six thousand five hundred and twenty-two scholars.Missions Of The Methodist Episcopal Church.I.Foreign Missions.1.The Liberia Missionwas commenced in 1833, by the Rev. M. B. Cox, who, in a few short months after, was called to his eternal reward. His dying language was,“Though a thousand fall, Africa must not be given up.”Five other missionaries have fallen in the same field. The Liberia mission now includes an annual conference of seventeen preachers, all colored, except the superintendent and the two brethren recently sent out. It has a membership of nearly one thousand, of whom one hundred and fifty arenatives. There are thirteen day schools, in which from five hundred to six hundred children are instructed, (of whom about forty are natives, preparing for future usefulness,) fourteen churches, eight mission-houses, three school-houses, one academy, (a stone building,) and one printing-office. Total of missionaries, male and female, twenty-four.2.The Oregon Mission.—This mission was commenced by Rev. Messrs. Jason and Daniel Lee, and now numbers twenty-one missionaries, including preachers, teachers, physicians, farmers, mechanics, &c. The greater part of these were sent out in 1840, making, with their wives and children, about fifty souls—the largest missionary expedition going, at one time, from this country. They are now laying the foundations of their future work.3.The Texas Missionwas commenced by Rev. Dr. Ruter, assisted by two young preachers, who accompanied him to that country in 1837. An annual conference was established in this mission field in 1840, which now includes three regular presiding elders' districts, and eighteen stations and circuits. It numbers twenty-three travelling preachers, thirty-six local preachers, (i. e., lay preachers, who support themselves, and preach as they have opportunity) and two thousand[pg 345]seven hundred and ninety-five members. There is a college at Rutersville.II.Domestic Missions.1.German Missions.—The first German mission was established in Cincinnati, in 1835, by Rev. William Nast. There are now seventeen German missions, containing about one thousand members, in the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and New York. A German paper is published at Cincinnati, calledThe Christian Apologist, having eleven hundred subscribers.2.Indian Missions.—There are eighteen missions, and one manual labor school, among the Indians located within the bounds of Rock River, Michigan, Holston, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas conferences. These now include two thousand six hundred and seventeen native church members.3.Missions among the Slaves.—There are forty-seven of these missions in successful operation, including twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-three in church fellowship.4.Missions in Destitute Portions of the Country.—There are one hundred and eight domestic missions of this kind, which embrace twenty-three thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight church members.Aggregate.Foreign missions—sixty-three missionaries, four thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.—Domestic missions—one hundred and seventy-eight missionaries, forty-one thousand church members.—Total—two hundred and forty-one missionaries, forty-five thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.The whole amount of missionary money collected for the year ending April 20, 1842, is one hundred and five thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars; expended, one hundred and forty-nine thousand and sixty-five dollars.Seventh-Day Baptist Missionary Society.The operations of this society are confined to the occasional assistance of destitute churches at home. It employs six agents and missionaries. Its receipts for 1838 were one hundred and eighty-six dollars.The Seventh-Day Baptists have also aSociety for the Promotion of Christianity among theJews, at home and abroad. It was organized in 1838.[pg 346]French Protestant Missionary Society.This society was formed in 1822, at the house of S. V. S. Wilder Esq., an American merchant, then residing in Paris. It has a seminary for the preparation of students. In 1829, it sent out three missionaries to their first field of labor, among the French emigrants of South Africa, and among the surrounding tribes. It had, in 1839, in South Africa, seven stations, twelve missionaries, about one hundred converts, and five hundred scholars.Netherlands Missionary Society.The principal labors of this society are expended in Dutch India and in Siam. In Dutch India they have eighteen missionaries, at thirteen stations. Of the success of this society, little is known in this country.Scottish Missionary Society.This society was established, in 1796, by the members of the Episcopal church in Edinburgh. It has had missions in Tartary, Asia, and the West Indies. Some of them are still sustained.German Missionary Society.This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Bâsle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by aukasefrom the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations,—Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.[pg 347]Church Of Scotland Missions.These missions appear to be of recent date. Most of their labor is expended on Asia.Calcutta, Bombay, Poonah, and Madras, are their principal stations. Their missionaries devote a large portion of their efforts to the promotion of education.Rhenish Missionary Society.The successes of the London Missionary Society inspired the pious inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine with an ardent wish to imitate their zeal. Under this impulse, a society was formed, in 1828, at Barmen, on the Rhine, by a union of the previously-formed societies of Barmen, Elberfield, Cologne, and Wesel.Messrs. Gottlieb, Leipold, Zahn and Wurmb, were among their earliest missionaries. Wurmb was formerly a soldier. He fought in the battle of Leipsic as lieutenant, and obtained two medals of honor. He next studied medicine, and gained a diploma; and when he became a subject of religious influence, he laid all his honors and learning at the foot of the cross. He began his labors at Wupperthal, in South Africa, in which country are several missionaries, and four stations.Missions Of The Roman Catholic Church.We regret that it is not in our power to record the missionary efforts of the Roman Catholics. Suffice it to say that their missions extend to all countries, and that they are ardent in their zeal, indefatigable in their labors, and unsparing in their expenditures, in the propagation of the doctrines of this ancient church.Jews' Missionary Society.This association was formed in England, in 1808. It is patronized chiefly by ministers and members of the established church. It has forty-nine missionaries and agents, who occupy twenty-three stations in Asia and Europe. Of these missionaries, twenty-four are Jewish converts. Its receipts in 1839 were upwards of eighty thousand dollars. Three or four thousand Jews have been converted, by this and other instrumentalities, within a few years.[pg 348]In England, there is an institution for the purpose of receiving Jewish converts, and teaching them a trade. A considerable number have enjoyed its privileges.Indians.As great efforts are making, by almost all classes of Christians to spread the benign influence of the gospel among the red men on our borders, it may not be amiss to state their locations, numbers, &c. &c.Mr. McCoy, in his valuable“Annual Register of Indian Affairs,”published at Shawanoe, in the Indian Territory, makes many important statements respecting this highly-interesting people.He says that the number of Indians north of Mexico may be fairly estimated at one million eight hundred thousand. He estimates the population of the tribes east and west of the Mississippi as follows:—Tribes East Of Mississippi River.Indians in New England and New York4,715Indians from New York, at Green Bay725Wyandots, in Ohio and Michigan623Miamies1,200Winnebagoes4,591Chippewas6,793Ottawas and Chippewas of Lake Michigan5,300Chippewas, Ottawas, and Putawatomies8,000Putawatomies1,400Menominees4,200Creeks23,668Cherokees10,000Chickasaws5,429Choctaws3,500Seminoles2,420Appalachicolas340Total81,904Tribes West Of Mississippi River.Sioux27,500Iowas1,200Sauks of Missouri500Sauks and Foxes6,400Assinaboines8,000Crees3,000Camanches7,000Crows4,500Arrepahas, Kiawas, &c.1,400Caddoes800Snake and other tribes within the Rocky Mountains20,000Gros-ventres3,000Arrekaras3,000Cheyennes2,000Minatarees1,500Mandans1,500Black Feet30,000Tribes west of Rocky Mountains80,000Total201,300[pg 349]The above tribes, although within the territory of the United States, are not within what is commonly called the Indian Territory.Mr. McCoy states the names and numbers of the indigenous and emigrant tribes within the Indian Territory, so called, as follow:—Indigenous Tribes.Osage5,510Kauzau, or Kansas1,684Otoe and Missouria1,600Omaha1,400Pawnee10,000Puncah800Quapau450Total21,444Emigrant Tribes.Choctaw15,000Cherokee4,000Creek3,600Seneca and Shawanoo of Neosho462Wea225Piankasha119Peoria and Kaskaskias135Ottawa81Shawanoe of Kauzau River764Delaware856Kickapoo603Putawatomie444Emigrant26,289Indigenous21,444Total47,733Among the population of the emigrant tribes are included thirteen hundred and fifty negro slaves.Mr. McCoy estimates that, of the one million eight hundred thousand Indians in North America, about seventy thousand may be classed with civilized man, having in greater or less degrees advanced towards civilization.By the Indian Territory is meant the country within the following limits, viz.: Beginning on Red River, on the Mexican boundary, and as far west of the state of Arkansas as the country is habitable; thence down Red River, eastwardly, along the Mexican boundary to Arkansas; thence northwardly, along the line of Arkansas, to the state of Missouri; thence north, along its western line, to Missouri River; thence up Missouri River to Puncah River; thence westerly as far as the country is habitable; thence southwardly to the place of beginning.[pg 350]
[pg 333]Missionary Statistics.We have been much assisted in our missionary statistics by the kindness of the secretaries of the several Missionary Boards, and by permission of the proprietor, Mr. F. Rand, for the use of his valuable Missionary Chart, prepared with great care, in 1840, by the Reverend Messrs. Jefferson Hascall and Daniel Wise.Those of the Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists, and Episcopalians, are brought down to 1841, and are quite accurate; but the efforts of some of the other denominations in this great and glorious cause are not fully stated, as some of the items have not been reported.First Protestant Missions.The first Protestant mission on record was undertaken in 1559, by Michael, who was sent into Lapland by Gustavus Vasa, king of Sweden.John Eliot commenced the first mission to the Indians atNonantum, now Newton, Massachusetts, in 1646. This mission gave rise to a society in England for the propagation of the gospel in New England, and to the formation of several other missionary stations; so that, in 1696, there were thirty Indian churches in New England.In 1705, Messrs. Ziegenbalg and Plutcho, under the auspices of Frederick IV., king of Denmark, commenced a mission at Tranquebar, in South Hindoostan, which was very successful. Its fruits continue to the present time.In 1728, a mission was begun by Schultze, at Madras, under the patronage of the Christian Knowledge Society. In the following thirty-three years, fourteen hundred and seventy converts united with the church.Moravian Missions.The Moravians trace their origin to the ninth century, when the king of Moravia united with the Greek church.West Indian Mission.—The Moravians commenced their mission[pg 334]on the Island of St. Thomas in 1732. Its commencement was occasioned by a conversation between a negro, named Anthony, and some servants of Count Zinzendorf. The negro said he had a sister at St. Thomas, who was deeply anxious to be instructed about religion. This remark was repeated to one of“thebrethren,”named Leonard Dober. He determined to visit St. Thomas,“even,”as he said,“if he were obliged to sell himself for a slave to effect his purpose.”Dober went; and though, for a time, little good was effected, yet, in 1736, the Lord poured out his spirit, and many of the slaves were awakened. There are now two stations on this island.In 1734, they began their mission on the Island of St. Croix. It was soon abandoned, but was reëstablished in 1740. In 1754, missions were commenced on the Islands of St. Jan and Jamaica; in 1756, at Antigua; in 1765, at Barbadoes; in 1777, at St. Christopher's; and at Tobago in 1790.Greenland Mission.—This was commenced in 1733, at New Herrnhut, or Lusatia, by Matthew and Christian Stach, when the congregation of the brethren at home amounted to but six hundred members. They persevered through cold, hunger, and discouragement, though for five years they had no conversions. Greenland isnowa Christian country.North American Indian Missions.—These were begun in Georgia, 1735, among the Creeks, at the instigation of Count Zinzendorf. It was followed by numerous other stations, many of which have since become extinct.South American Missions.—Surinam, a Dutch settlement in Guiana, was the scene of their first operations here, about 1735 or 1738. They began on the invitation of a planter. Several other settlements were attempted, but were subsequently abandoned, for various causes. In 1767, they commenced a prosperous station at Paramaribo.Labrador Missions.—Supposing that a natural affinity subsisted between this people and the Greenlanders, the brethren commenced their labors here in 1752. This attempt failed; but, in 1770, a settlement was effected at Nain, by the agency of Messrs. Haven, Drachart, and Jensen.South African Mission.—George Schmidt was the father of this mission. He commenced it in 1737; but it was afterwards abandoned for about fifty years, until, in 1792, a permanent settlement was effected at Gnadenthal, one hundred and thirty-five miles east of Cape Town.Note.—The brethren have also had missions, at different periods, in Asiatic Russia, Egypt, Persia, Lapland, Guinea, Algiers, Ceylon and the Nicobar Islands; all of which, for various causes, have been abandoned.[pg 335]Summary.In the year 1840, the Moravians had, in the afore-mentioned places and in South Africa, forty-seven stations and out-stations, one hundred and ninety-seven missionaries and assistants, seventeen thousand seven hundred and three communicants, and fifty-seven thousand two hundred and fifty-five souls under their care.London Missionary Society.The extensive and splendid missions of this board originated with the Rev. David Bogue, while on a visit to London. From his suggestions, the society was formed, in 1795, by several ministers of various denominations.South Sea Islands.—The society commenced their labors among these isles by sending out thirty-six missionaries, in 1796, who arrived safely, and commenced their duties at Otaheite, Tongataboo, and St. Christina, in March, 1797. Subsequently, they spread their influence over nearly all the islands of the Pacific Ocean. These missions have been eminently successful.New South Wales.—This mission was begun by the labors of Mr. Threlkeld, in 1826, in Bahtabee, on Lake Macquaire.South African Missions.—The success of the missions in the islands of the Pacific and South Seas, turned their attention to this dark land. Dr. Vanderkemp, who was their first laborer, began his labors on the River Keis Kamma, in Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards spread very widely among the Caffres and Hottentots.East Indian Missions.—The society's missions in this most interesting quarter of the globe were commenced at Calcutta and Chinsura, by the Rev. Mr. Forsyth, in 1798. Subsequently, their stations spread over Northern and Peninsular India, India beyond the Ganges, into China, Siam, and some of the Asiatic Isles.Guiana and West Indies.—At the request of a pious Dutch planter, Mr. Wray was sent to Demerara, in Guiana, in 1807. This was the beginning of the society's operations in South America.Other Missions.—Beside these, are the European and Mediterranean islands missions, which, though of recent date, are promising in their aspects.Education.—This society has several presses distributed over the vast field occupied by their agents, by means of which millions of pages are annually scattered among the people. They publish tracts[pg 336]parts of the Scriptures, &c. &c. They have also upwards of four hundred native assistants, which are not mentioned in the following summary.Summary.From the best accounts we can obtain, this society had, in 1840, in Asia, the South Sea Islands, Africa, Guiana, and in Europe, about five hundred and fifty missionary stations and out-stations, one hundred and sixty-four missionaries, five thousand communicants, and about twenty-five thousand scholars.American Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—The news of the success of English missionary enterprise, seconded by the zeal and influence of S. J. Mills, originated the germ of the invaluable labors of this board, which was organized in 1810. Their first missions were in Asia. Bombay was the scene of their first labors, in the year 1813, and Messrs. Nott, Newell, and Hall, their first missionaries. From Bombay they extended their influence to Ceylon, in 1816; to China, and South-eastern Asia, and to Siam, in 1830.Mediterranean Missions.—These missions were begun by sending out Messrs. Parsons and Fisk on a voyage of research. The first station occupied was Beyroot, in Syria, in 1823. To this, stations at Malta, in Greece, at Constantinople, &c., have been added.Missions at the Sandwich Islands.—A special providence marked the commencement of these missions. Two boys, named Obookiah and Hopu, were, at their own request, brought to America. This gave rise to a train of interesting circumstances, which led to the commencement of the mission, in 1820, by Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, and others. Vast success has attended this mission, especially of late.North American Indian Missions.—These were commenced in 1816, among the Cherokees, by the Rev. C. Kingsbury. The Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Osages, and other tribes, have since shared the labors of the board. The late unhappy removal of the Cherokee nation has done much towards the prostration of missionary success among that interesting but deeply-injured tribe.Missions in Africa.—The efforts of the board in this quarter of the globe are of recent date. Only seven years have elapsed since their commencement. Some native towns on the western coast, and a numerous aboriginal tribe called the Zulus, on the south-east shore, are the chief objects of their labors at present. This field is considered very[pg 337]promising, and it is confidently believed that its occupation will be one effectual aid in the great work of regenerating that darkened, enslaved, and degraded continent.In 1841, this board had missions to the Zulus in South Africa, the Grebos in West Africa, to Greece, to Turkey, Syria, the Nestorians of Persia, the Independent Nestorians, the Persian Mahometans, to the Mahrattas in Western India, to Madras and Madura in Southern India, to Ceylon, Siam, China Singapore, Borneo, and to the Sandwich Islands.They have missions to the Cherokee Indians, the Choctaws, Pawnees, to the Oregon Indians, the Sioux, Ojibwas, Stockbridge Indians, New York Indians, and to the Abenaquis.Summary Of Foreign Missions.The number of missions in this department is seventeen; of stations, sixty-one; of ordained missionaries, one hundred and eleven, five of whom are also physicians; of physicians, seven; of teachers, eight; of secular superintendents, two; of printers, eleven; of bookbinders, one; of female helpers, married and unmarried, one hundred and thirty-nine;—making a total of laborers beyond sea from this country of two hundred and eighty. To these add four native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-five other native helpers, and the number of laborers who are employed and supported by the board in the missions beyond sea, is four hundred and nineteen.Summary Of Indian Missions.Among the Indian nations, there are twenty-five stations; twenty-five missionaries, two of whom are physicians; two other physicians, five teachers; ten other male, and fifty-nine female, assistant missionaries; three native preachers; and three other native assistants;—total, one hundred and seven.General Summary.The number of the missions in 1841 was twenty-six; stations, eighty-five; and ordained missionaries, one hundred and thirty-six, ten of whom were physicians. There were nine physicians not preachers, thirteen teachers, twelve printers and bookbinders, and twelve other male and one hundred and ninety-eight female assistant missionaries. The whole number of laborers from this country was three hundred and eighty-one, or sixteen more than were reported in 1840. To these we must add seven native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-eight native helpers, which made the whole number five hundred and twenty-six, thirty-nine more than in 1840. Nine ordained missionaries, three male and seventeen female assistant missionaries, have been sent forth during the year.The number of mission churches was fifty-nine, containing nineteen[pg 338]thousand eight hundred and forty-two members, of whom four thousand three hundred and fifty were received the year before.There were fifteen printing establishments, twenty-nine presses, five type-founderies, and fifty founts of type in the native languages. The printing for the year was about fifty million pages; the amount of printing from the beginning is about two hundred and ninety million pages. Twenty-four thousand copies of theMissionary Heraldare now published monthly, and sixty-five thousand copies of theDay-spring, a monthly paper, are also issued.Seven of the thirty-four boarding-schools have received the name of seminaries, and these contain four hundred and ninety-nine boys; the other twenty-seven contain two hundred and fifty three boys and three hundred and seventy-eight girls;—making a total of boarding scholars of one thousand one hundred and thirty. The number of free schools was four hundred and ninety, containing about twenty-three thousand pupils.The receipts have been two hundred and thirty-five thousand one hundred and eighty-nine dollars, and the expenditures two hundred and sixty eight thousand, nine hundred and fifteen dollars.Presbyterian Board Of Foreign Missions.Until within a few years, this body of Christians united with the American board in their operations among the heathen. A distinct society, under the name of theWestern Foreign Missionary Society, was formed in 1831, by the synod of Pittsburg, which was merged into the present board in 1837.Three of the missions of the board were begun by this society, namely, the Western Africa, the Hindoostan, and Iowa and Sac missions.This board is intending to reënforce its missions, and to occupy several new stations, as soon as the requisite arrangements can be made. Its main efforts will be directed towards Hindoostan, where it has now two presses in active coöperation with its missionaries. This denomination of Christians have the following missions:—Iowa and Sac Indians; Chippewa and Ottawa Indians; Texas; Western Africa,Kroos; Chinese,Singapore; Siam; Northern India,Lodiana, Allahabad, Furrukhabad.Summary.This church has now under her care in the foreign field, fifty-seven laborers sent from her own bosom, twenty-three of whom are ministers of the gospel; besides eight native assistants, some of them men of learning, all of them hopefully pious, and in different stages of preparation[pg 339]and trial for the missionary work among their own benighted people. Through the mission stations occupied by these brethren, the church is brought in direct contact with five different heathen nations, containing two thirds of the whole human race. Annual expenditure about sixty-five thousand dollars.The Presbyterian Domestic Board of Missions employs or aids two hundred and sixty missionaries and agents, who have under their charge about twenty thousand communicants, and twenty thousand Sabbath school scholars. Annual disbursements about thirty-five thousand dollars.English Baptist Missionary Society.East Indies.—A mission was commenced at Serampore in 1793. The English Baptists were just awakening to a sense of their responsibility for the conversion of the world, when Dr. Thomas arrived in London, to solicit missionary aid for Hindoostan. The society took him under their patronage, and sent him back in company with Dr. Cary. After laboring successfully in various places, in 1800 Dr. Cary removed to Serampore, which thenceforward became a central station.West Indian Missions.—In 1814, a mulatto preacher, named Baker, requested this society to send a missionary to Jamaica. In compliance with this request, Mr. I. Rowe was sent out, who, after laboring with pleasing success, died; and, in 1815, the society sent out Mr. Compere and assistants, who established a mission in Kingston. This was the origin of the Baptist missions in the West Indies.South American Mission.—On a representation to the society, that much good might be done among the negro population and the Indians in and around Honduras, in the Bay of Mexico, the society, in 1822, sent out Mr. J. Bourne, who succeeded in establishing a church and congregation.South African Mission.—In 1831, Rev. W. Davies was sent to Graham's Town, at the urgent solicitation of some Baptists, resident at that place.Summary.This society have, in Asia, the Asiatic Islands, West Indies, South America, and South Africa, one hundred and twenty-nine stations and out-stations, one hundred and thirty-four missionaries and assistants, twenty-two thousand four hundred and eighty-eight communicants, and seventeen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five scholars. This statement does not contain the full amount of their labors to the present year.[pg 340]American Baptist Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—Rev. A. Judson may be said to be the father of Baptist missions in this country, and, indeed, of the missionary labors of this society. It was his conversion to the principles of the Baptists, while a missionary of the American board in India, that roused them to action. He commenced his labors under discouraging circumstances, at Rangoon, in the Burman empire, 1813. Since then, the operations of this board have become very extensive, embracing immense portions of the Burman empire, Siam, &c. Asia is their principal mission field, and they have laid sure foundations for the evangelization of many parts of that benighted clime.Indian Missions.—An impression, made, no doubt, by divine influence, of the importance of missions to this people, led, in 1817, to the appointment of J. M. Peck and J. E. Welch to be missionaries to the North American Indians. J. M. Peck commenced their first Indian mission among the Cherokees in 1818. Many tribes are now embraced by the labors of the board, and although the progress of truth has been slow among the“red men,”yet the board have cause to rejoice over their Indian missions.African Mission.—This mission was commenced by the offer of L. Cary and C. Teage, colored men, to become the messengers of the churches in this work. They commenced their duties, in 1821, at Liberia, where the board continues its efforts for the redemption of Africa, with some success, chiefly among the Bassas.European Missions.—These missions were commenced in 1832. Professor Chase was sent to explore the kingdom of France, and the Rev. J. C. Rostan commenced a course of evangelical demonstrations at Paris; since which, Germany and Greece have shared the attention of the board. These are missions of the first importance.General Summary.This board have missions as follow:—In North America, to the Ojibwas, near Lake Superior; the Ottawas, in Michigan; Oneidas, in New York; Otoes, near the junction of Missouri and Platte Rivers; Shawanoes, including the Delawares, Putawatomies, and Western Ottawas, in the Indian Territory; Cherokees, Creeks, and Choctaws, in the Indian Territory. In Europe, they have missions to France, Germany, Denmark, and Greece;—to the Bassas, in West Africa;—in Asia, to Burmah and the Karens; to Siam and China, Arracan, Asam, and to the Teloogoos.The number of Indian missions is eight; stations and out-stations, sixteen; missionaries and assistant missionaries, twenty-eight; native assistants, ten; churches, sixteen; baptisms reported the last year,[pg 341]two hundred and seventy-one; present number of church members, one thousand three hundred and twenty-four; schools, seven; scholars, one hundred and ninety-two.The number of European missions is three; stations and out-stations, twenty; missionaries and assistant missionaries, seven; native preachers and assistants, twenty-three; churches, twenty-seven; baptisms the past year, one hundred and eighty-seven; church members, five hundred and fifty-eight.In the mission to West Africa there are two stations, five missionaries and assistant missionaries, one native assistant, two churches of twenty-five members, and two schools containing eighty-five scholars.The number of the Asiatic missions is eight, stations and out-stations, sixty-two; missionaries and assistant missionaries, fifty-nine; native assistants, seventy-seven; churches, thirty-two; baptisms the past year, three hundred and seventeen; church members, one thousand eight hundred and two; schools, thirty-five, scholars, five hundred and sixty.Grand total, twenty missions, one hundred stations and out-stations, ninety-nine missionaries and assistant missionaries, one hundred and eleven native preachers and assistants, seventy-seven churches, seven hundred and eighty baptisms the past year, more than three thousand seven hundred members of mission churches, forty-four schools, and eight hundred and seventy-seven scholars.The annual expenditure of the board is about eighty thousand dollars.Free-Will Baptists.This flourishing class of Christians have not, until recently, directed their efforts to a foreign field. They now occupy one station in Orissa, where they have two missionaries with their ladies. Two other missionaries are about being located, for which purpose funds are now provided.Episcopal Missions.The Church of England has been actively engaged in missionary operations since the year 1698, when the“Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge”was formed. In 1701, the“Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts”was instituted. The“Church Missionary Society”was established in 1800. These societies are still in active and vigorous operation. They have missions in[pg 342]every quarter of the globe, and their annual expenditures, for the propagation of the Gospel, amount to about one million three hundred and seventeen thousand three hundred and fifty-six dollars.The Episcopal Church in the United States established aDomestic and Foreign Missionary Societyin 1820; and the General Convention of 1835 resolved, That the Church itself was the missionary society and that every member of the Church, by baptism, was, of course, bound to support her missions. The missionary field was declared to bethe world,domestic missionsbeing those established within the territory of the United States, andforeign missionsthose without that territory. At each triennial meeting of the General Convention, a Board of Missions, consisting of about one hundred members, is selected from the different dioceses. This Board has the general supervision of all the missionary operations of the Church; and meets annually, or oftener, if necessary.There are two standing committees of this Board,—theCommittee for Domestic Missionsand theCommittee for Foreign Missions, to whom, during the recess of the Board, the care and management of the missions is confided. This Society now has under its charge one hundred and forty-five domestic, and twelve foreign stations, employing eighty-five domestic and eleven foreign missionaries, and also eighteen teachers and assistants in the foreign stations.The expenditures of this Board, for the year 1841, were sixty-one thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents. This Society has missionary stations in Athens, Crete, Constantinople, China, (Maca,) Cape Palmas and other stations in Western Africa, and in Texas.Society For Propagating The Gospel Among The Indians And Others.This society derived its origin among the Puritans, in England, in 1648. The charter under which it now acts was granted by the legislature of Massachusetts, in 1687. Its list of past and present members in 1840, comprised one hundred and twenty-five names of the most eminent divines, jurists, and laymen in Massachusetts, in which state the operations of the society are chiefly confined. The funds of this society, in 1840, amounted to thirty-six thousand three hundred and eighty-seven dollars, the income of which is annually expended for the“propagation of the gospel”among the needy and destitute.In conformity with the spirit and design of this ancient and venerable society, all measures in any degree of a party or sectarian character, are scrupulously avoided.[pg 343]Wesleyan Or English Methodist Missionary Society.Scarcely had Mr. Wesley raised the standard of Methodism in England, before he turned his attention to the wants of other lands. America presenting a vast field for missionary labor, he sent over Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmore, in 1769. These were the first Methodist missionaries. From their labors the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States gradually came into being. Dr. Coke was preëminently useful in establishing missions in various places This society was organized in 1817.West Indies.—A peculiar providence marked the commencement of this mission. Dr. Coke, with three preachers, was proceeding to Nova Scotia, in September, 1786, but was driven, by stress of weather, to Antigua. Finding a number of serious persons there, he preached Jesus to them, and by his labors laid the foundation for extensive missions.British North America.—About 1779, several Methodist emigrants were the means of awakening many souls. Among these was Mr. Black, who, after laboring for some time with zeal and success, was appointed the superintendent of the mission in British North America. This mission embraces Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, Newfoundland, and Honduras.Missions in Asia.—The plan of establishing missions in Asia originated with Dr. Coke; and, in 1813, he sailed, with Messrs. Harvard, Clough, Ault, Erskine, Squance, and Lynch, for Ceylon. Unfortunately, he died on the passage. The brethren, after many trials, reached Ceylon, and commenced their labors at Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Matura. From Ceylon, the society directed its attention to continental India, where their labors have become very extensive.Missions in South Africa.—These missions were begun in 1816, by Rev. Barnabas Shaw, among the Namaquas, a tribe of Hottentots. These missions have subsequently spread over large portions of this benighted land.Missions in the South Seas.—These missions include the Friendly Isles, New Zealand, New South Wales, &c. They were commenced at the latter place, in 1815, by Mr. Leigh, who began his duties and labors at Sydney, with favorable auspices and good success.Missions in the Mediterranean.—These were commenced in Gibraltar, in 1804, by Mr. McMullen, who died a few days after beginning his labors. The mission was then suspended until 1808, when Mr. William Griffith was appointed to its charge. Besides this mission, the Methodists have stations at Malta, Alexandria, and Zanto.Missions in Europe.—These missions embrace the labors of the society in Sweden, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Norman and[pg 344]Shetland Isles. Notwithstanding many obstacles, arising from intolerance, ignorance, or superstition, the good work progresses at these missions.Summary.In 1840, this society had, in the West Indies, fifty missionary stations; in British North America, eighty-four stations; in Asia, twenty-two,; in the South Seas, twenty-five; in Africa, thirty-one; and in Europe, forty-two stations. In all these countries the society had two hundred and fifty-four stations, six hundred and twenty-three missionaries and teachers, seventy-two thousand seven hundred and twenty-four communicants, and fifty-six thousand five hundred and twenty-two scholars.Missions Of The Methodist Episcopal Church.I.Foreign Missions.1.The Liberia Missionwas commenced in 1833, by the Rev. M. B. Cox, who, in a few short months after, was called to his eternal reward. His dying language was,“Though a thousand fall, Africa must not be given up.”Five other missionaries have fallen in the same field. The Liberia mission now includes an annual conference of seventeen preachers, all colored, except the superintendent and the two brethren recently sent out. It has a membership of nearly one thousand, of whom one hundred and fifty arenatives. There are thirteen day schools, in which from five hundred to six hundred children are instructed, (of whom about forty are natives, preparing for future usefulness,) fourteen churches, eight mission-houses, three school-houses, one academy, (a stone building,) and one printing-office. Total of missionaries, male and female, twenty-four.2.The Oregon Mission.—This mission was commenced by Rev. Messrs. Jason and Daniel Lee, and now numbers twenty-one missionaries, including preachers, teachers, physicians, farmers, mechanics, &c. The greater part of these were sent out in 1840, making, with their wives and children, about fifty souls—the largest missionary expedition going, at one time, from this country. They are now laying the foundations of their future work.3.The Texas Missionwas commenced by Rev. Dr. Ruter, assisted by two young preachers, who accompanied him to that country in 1837. An annual conference was established in this mission field in 1840, which now includes three regular presiding elders' districts, and eighteen stations and circuits. It numbers twenty-three travelling preachers, thirty-six local preachers, (i. e., lay preachers, who support themselves, and preach as they have opportunity) and two thousand[pg 345]seven hundred and ninety-five members. There is a college at Rutersville.II.Domestic Missions.1.German Missions.—The first German mission was established in Cincinnati, in 1835, by Rev. William Nast. There are now seventeen German missions, containing about one thousand members, in the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and New York. A German paper is published at Cincinnati, calledThe Christian Apologist, having eleven hundred subscribers.2.Indian Missions.—There are eighteen missions, and one manual labor school, among the Indians located within the bounds of Rock River, Michigan, Holston, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas conferences. These now include two thousand six hundred and seventeen native church members.3.Missions among the Slaves.—There are forty-seven of these missions in successful operation, including twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-three in church fellowship.4.Missions in Destitute Portions of the Country.—There are one hundred and eight domestic missions of this kind, which embrace twenty-three thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight church members.Aggregate.Foreign missions—sixty-three missionaries, four thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.—Domestic missions—one hundred and seventy-eight missionaries, forty-one thousand church members.—Total—two hundred and forty-one missionaries, forty-five thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.The whole amount of missionary money collected for the year ending April 20, 1842, is one hundred and five thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars; expended, one hundred and forty-nine thousand and sixty-five dollars.Seventh-Day Baptist Missionary Society.The operations of this society are confined to the occasional assistance of destitute churches at home. It employs six agents and missionaries. Its receipts for 1838 were one hundred and eighty-six dollars.The Seventh-Day Baptists have also aSociety for the Promotion of Christianity among theJews, at home and abroad. It was organized in 1838.[pg 346]French Protestant Missionary Society.This society was formed in 1822, at the house of S. V. S. Wilder Esq., an American merchant, then residing in Paris. It has a seminary for the preparation of students. In 1829, it sent out three missionaries to their first field of labor, among the French emigrants of South Africa, and among the surrounding tribes. It had, in 1839, in South Africa, seven stations, twelve missionaries, about one hundred converts, and five hundred scholars.Netherlands Missionary Society.The principal labors of this society are expended in Dutch India and in Siam. In Dutch India they have eighteen missionaries, at thirteen stations. Of the success of this society, little is known in this country.Scottish Missionary Society.This society was established, in 1796, by the members of the Episcopal church in Edinburgh. It has had missions in Tartary, Asia, and the West Indies. Some of them are still sustained.German Missionary Society.This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Bâsle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by aukasefrom the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations,—Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.[pg 347]Church Of Scotland Missions.These missions appear to be of recent date. Most of their labor is expended on Asia.Calcutta, Bombay, Poonah, and Madras, are their principal stations. Their missionaries devote a large portion of their efforts to the promotion of education.Rhenish Missionary Society.The successes of the London Missionary Society inspired the pious inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine with an ardent wish to imitate their zeal. Under this impulse, a society was formed, in 1828, at Barmen, on the Rhine, by a union of the previously-formed societies of Barmen, Elberfield, Cologne, and Wesel.Messrs. Gottlieb, Leipold, Zahn and Wurmb, were among their earliest missionaries. Wurmb was formerly a soldier. He fought in the battle of Leipsic as lieutenant, and obtained two medals of honor. He next studied medicine, and gained a diploma; and when he became a subject of religious influence, he laid all his honors and learning at the foot of the cross. He began his labors at Wupperthal, in South Africa, in which country are several missionaries, and four stations.Missions Of The Roman Catholic Church.We regret that it is not in our power to record the missionary efforts of the Roman Catholics. Suffice it to say that their missions extend to all countries, and that they are ardent in their zeal, indefatigable in their labors, and unsparing in their expenditures, in the propagation of the doctrines of this ancient church.Jews' Missionary Society.This association was formed in England, in 1808. It is patronized chiefly by ministers and members of the established church. It has forty-nine missionaries and agents, who occupy twenty-three stations in Asia and Europe. Of these missionaries, twenty-four are Jewish converts. Its receipts in 1839 were upwards of eighty thousand dollars. Three or four thousand Jews have been converted, by this and other instrumentalities, within a few years.[pg 348]In England, there is an institution for the purpose of receiving Jewish converts, and teaching them a trade. A considerable number have enjoyed its privileges.Indians.As great efforts are making, by almost all classes of Christians to spread the benign influence of the gospel among the red men on our borders, it may not be amiss to state their locations, numbers, &c. &c.Mr. McCoy, in his valuable“Annual Register of Indian Affairs,”published at Shawanoe, in the Indian Territory, makes many important statements respecting this highly-interesting people.He says that the number of Indians north of Mexico may be fairly estimated at one million eight hundred thousand. He estimates the population of the tribes east and west of the Mississippi as follows:—Tribes East Of Mississippi River.Indians in New England and New York4,715Indians from New York, at Green Bay725Wyandots, in Ohio and Michigan623Miamies1,200Winnebagoes4,591Chippewas6,793Ottawas and Chippewas of Lake Michigan5,300Chippewas, Ottawas, and Putawatomies8,000Putawatomies1,400Menominees4,200Creeks23,668Cherokees10,000Chickasaws5,429Choctaws3,500Seminoles2,420Appalachicolas340Total81,904Tribes West Of Mississippi River.Sioux27,500Iowas1,200Sauks of Missouri500Sauks and Foxes6,400Assinaboines8,000Crees3,000Camanches7,000Crows4,500Arrepahas, Kiawas, &c.1,400Caddoes800Snake and other tribes within the Rocky Mountains20,000Gros-ventres3,000Arrekaras3,000Cheyennes2,000Minatarees1,500Mandans1,500Black Feet30,000Tribes west of Rocky Mountains80,000Total201,300[pg 349]The above tribes, although within the territory of the United States, are not within what is commonly called the Indian Territory.Mr. McCoy states the names and numbers of the indigenous and emigrant tribes within the Indian Territory, so called, as follow:—Indigenous Tribes.Osage5,510Kauzau, or Kansas1,684Otoe and Missouria1,600Omaha1,400Pawnee10,000Puncah800Quapau450Total21,444Emigrant Tribes.Choctaw15,000Cherokee4,000Creek3,600Seneca and Shawanoo of Neosho462Wea225Piankasha119Peoria and Kaskaskias135Ottawa81Shawanoe of Kauzau River764Delaware856Kickapoo603Putawatomie444Emigrant26,289Indigenous21,444Total47,733Among the population of the emigrant tribes are included thirteen hundred and fifty negro slaves.Mr. McCoy estimates that, of the one million eight hundred thousand Indians in North America, about seventy thousand may be classed with civilized man, having in greater or less degrees advanced towards civilization.By the Indian Territory is meant the country within the following limits, viz.: Beginning on Red River, on the Mexican boundary, and as far west of the state of Arkansas as the country is habitable; thence down Red River, eastwardly, along the Mexican boundary to Arkansas; thence northwardly, along the line of Arkansas, to the state of Missouri; thence north, along its western line, to Missouri River; thence up Missouri River to Puncah River; thence westerly as far as the country is habitable; thence southwardly to the place of beginning.[pg 350]
Missionary Statistics.We have been much assisted in our missionary statistics by the kindness of the secretaries of the several Missionary Boards, and by permission of the proprietor, Mr. F. Rand, for the use of his valuable Missionary Chart, prepared with great care, in 1840, by the Reverend Messrs. Jefferson Hascall and Daniel Wise.Those of the Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists, and Episcopalians, are brought down to 1841, and are quite accurate; but the efforts of some of the other denominations in this great and glorious cause are not fully stated, as some of the items have not been reported.First Protestant Missions.The first Protestant mission on record was undertaken in 1559, by Michael, who was sent into Lapland by Gustavus Vasa, king of Sweden.John Eliot commenced the first mission to the Indians atNonantum, now Newton, Massachusetts, in 1646. This mission gave rise to a society in England for the propagation of the gospel in New England, and to the formation of several other missionary stations; so that, in 1696, there were thirty Indian churches in New England.In 1705, Messrs. Ziegenbalg and Plutcho, under the auspices of Frederick IV., king of Denmark, commenced a mission at Tranquebar, in South Hindoostan, which was very successful. Its fruits continue to the present time.In 1728, a mission was begun by Schultze, at Madras, under the patronage of the Christian Knowledge Society. In the following thirty-three years, fourteen hundred and seventy converts united with the church.Moravian Missions.The Moravians trace their origin to the ninth century, when the king of Moravia united with the Greek church.West Indian Mission.—The Moravians commenced their mission[pg 334]on the Island of St. Thomas in 1732. Its commencement was occasioned by a conversation between a negro, named Anthony, and some servants of Count Zinzendorf. The negro said he had a sister at St. Thomas, who was deeply anxious to be instructed about religion. This remark was repeated to one of“thebrethren,”named Leonard Dober. He determined to visit St. Thomas,“even,”as he said,“if he were obliged to sell himself for a slave to effect his purpose.”Dober went; and though, for a time, little good was effected, yet, in 1736, the Lord poured out his spirit, and many of the slaves were awakened. There are now two stations on this island.In 1734, they began their mission on the Island of St. Croix. It was soon abandoned, but was reëstablished in 1740. In 1754, missions were commenced on the Islands of St. Jan and Jamaica; in 1756, at Antigua; in 1765, at Barbadoes; in 1777, at St. Christopher's; and at Tobago in 1790.Greenland Mission.—This was commenced in 1733, at New Herrnhut, or Lusatia, by Matthew and Christian Stach, when the congregation of the brethren at home amounted to but six hundred members. They persevered through cold, hunger, and discouragement, though for five years they had no conversions. Greenland isnowa Christian country.North American Indian Missions.—These were begun in Georgia, 1735, among the Creeks, at the instigation of Count Zinzendorf. It was followed by numerous other stations, many of which have since become extinct.South American Missions.—Surinam, a Dutch settlement in Guiana, was the scene of their first operations here, about 1735 or 1738. They began on the invitation of a planter. Several other settlements were attempted, but were subsequently abandoned, for various causes. In 1767, they commenced a prosperous station at Paramaribo.Labrador Missions.—Supposing that a natural affinity subsisted between this people and the Greenlanders, the brethren commenced their labors here in 1752. This attempt failed; but, in 1770, a settlement was effected at Nain, by the agency of Messrs. Haven, Drachart, and Jensen.South African Mission.—George Schmidt was the father of this mission. He commenced it in 1737; but it was afterwards abandoned for about fifty years, until, in 1792, a permanent settlement was effected at Gnadenthal, one hundred and thirty-five miles east of Cape Town.Note.—The brethren have also had missions, at different periods, in Asiatic Russia, Egypt, Persia, Lapland, Guinea, Algiers, Ceylon and the Nicobar Islands; all of which, for various causes, have been abandoned.[pg 335]Summary.In the year 1840, the Moravians had, in the afore-mentioned places and in South Africa, forty-seven stations and out-stations, one hundred and ninety-seven missionaries and assistants, seventeen thousand seven hundred and three communicants, and fifty-seven thousand two hundred and fifty-five souls under their care.London Missionary Society.The extensive and splendid missions of this board originated with the Rev. David Bogue, while on a visit to London. From his suggestions, the society was formed, in 1795, by several ministers of various denominations.South Sea Islands.—The society commenced their labors among these isles by sending out thirty-six missionaries, in 1796, who arrived safely, and commenced their duties at Otaheite, Tongataboo, and St. Christina, in March, 1797. Subsequently, they spread their influence over nearly all the islands of the Pacific Ocean. These missions have been eminently successful.New South Wales.—This mission was begun by the labors of Mr. Threlkeld, in 1826, in Bahtabee, on Lake Macquaire.South African Missions.—The success of the missions in the islands of the Pacific and South Seas, turned their attention to this dark land. Dr. Vanderkemp, who was their first laborer, began his labors on the River Keis Kamma, in Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards spread very widely among the Caffres and Hottentots.East Indian Missions.—The society's missions in this most interesting quarter of the globe were commenced at Calcutta and Chinsura, by the Rev. Mr. Forsyth, in 1798. Subsequently, their stations spread over Northern and Peninsular India, India beyond the Ganges, into China, Siam, and some of the Asiatic Isles.Guiana and West Indies.—At the request of a pious Dutch planter, Mr. Wray was sent to Demerara, in Guiana, in 1807. This was the beginning of the society's operations in South America.Other Missions.—Beside these, are the European and Mediterranean islands missions, which, though of recent date, are promising in their aspects.Education.—This society has several presses distributed over the vast field occupied by their agents, by means of which millions of pages are annually scattered among the people. They publish tracts[pg 336]parts of the Scriptures, &c. &c. They have also upwards of four hundred native assistants, which are not mentioned in the following summary.Summary.From the best accounts we can obtain, this society had, in 1840, in Asia, the South Sea Islands, Africa, Guiana, and in Europe, about five hundred and fifty missionary stations and out-stations, one hundred and sixty-four missionaries, five thousand communicants, and about twenty-five thousand scholars.American Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—The news of the success of English missionary enterprise, seconded by the zeal and influence of S. J. Mills, originated the germ of the invaluable labors of this board, which was organized in 1810. Their first missions were in Asia. Bombay was the scene of their first labors, in the year 1813, and Messrs. Nott, Newell, and Hall, their first missionaries. From Bombay they extended their influence to Ceylon, in 1816; to China, and South-eastern Asia, and to Siam, in 1830.Mediterranean Missions.—These missions were begun by sending out Messrs. Parsons and Fisk on a voyage of research. The first station occupied was Beyroot, in Syria, in 1823. To this, stations at Malta, in Greece, at Constantinople, &c., have been added.Missions at the Sandwich Islands.—A special providence marked the commencement of these missions. Two boys, named Obookiah and Hopu, were, at their own request, brought to America. This gave rise to a train of interesting circumstances, which led to the commencement of the mission, in 1820, by Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, and others. Vast success has attended this mission, especially of late.North American Indian Missions.—These were commenced in 1816, among the Cherokees, by the Rev. C. Kingsbury. The Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Osages, and other tribes, have since shared the labors of the board. The late unhappy removal of the Cherokee nation has done much towards the prostration of missionary success among that interesting but deeply-injured tribe.Missions in Africa.—The efforts of the board in this quarter of the globe are of recent date. Only seven years have elapsed since their commencement. Some native towns on the western coast, and a numerous aboriginal tribe called the Zulus, on the south-east shore, are the chief objects of their labors at present. This field is considered very[pg 337]promising, and it is confidently believed that its occupation will be one effectual aid in the great work of regenerating that darkened, enslaved, and degraded continent.In 1841, this board had missions to the Zulus in South Africa, the Grebos in West Africa, to Greece, to Turkey, Syria, the Nestorians of Persia, the Independent Nestorians, the Persian Mahometans, to the Mahrattas in Western India, to Madras and Madura in Southern India, to Ceylon, Siam, China Singapore, Borneo, and to the Sandwich Islands.They have missions to the Cherokee Indians, the Choctaws, Pawnees, to the Oregon Indians, the Sioux, Ojibwas, Stockbridge Indians, New York Indians, and to the Abenaquis.Summary Of Foreign Missions.The number of missions in this department is seventeen; of stations, sixty-one; of ordained missionaries, one hundred and eleven, five of whom are also physicians; of physicians, seven; of teachers, eight; of secular superintendents, two; of printers, eleven; of bookbinders, one; of female helpers, married and unmarried, one hundred and thirty-nine;—making a total of laborers beyond sea from this country of two hundred and eighty. To these add four native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-five other native helpers, and the number of laborers who are employed and supported by the board in the missions beyond sea, is four hundred and nineteen.Summary Of Indian Missions.Among the Indian nations, there are twenty-five stations; twenty-five missionaries, two of whom are physicians; two other physicians, five teachers; ten other male, and fifty-nine female, assistant missionaries; three native preachers; and three other native assistants;—total, one hundred and seven.General Summary.The number of the missions in 1841 was twenty-six; stations, eighty-five; and ordained missionaries, one hundred and thirty-six, ten of whom were physicians. There were nine physicians not preachers, thirteen teachers, twelve printers and bookbinders, and twelve other male and one hundred and ninety-eight female assistant missionaries. The whole number of laborers from this country was three hundred and eighty-one, or sixteen more than were reported in 1840. To these we must add seven native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-eight native helpers, which made the whole number five hundred and twenty-six, thirty-nine more than in 1840. Nine ordained missionaries, three male and seventeen female assistant missionaries, have been sent forth during the year.The number of mission churches was fifty-nine, containing nineteen[pg 338]thousand eight hundred and forty-two members, of whom four thousand three hundred and fifty were received the year before.There were fifteen printing establishments, twenty-nine presses, five type-founderies, and fifty founts of type in the native languages. The printing for the year was about fifty million pages; the amount of printing from the beginning is about two hundred and ninety million pages. Twenty-four thousand copies of theMissionary Heraldare now published monthly, and sixty-five thousand copies of theDay-spring, a monthly paper, are also issued.Seven of the thirty-four boarding-schools have received the name of seminaries, and these contain four hundred and ninety-nine boys; the other twenty-seven contain two hundred and fifty three boys and three hundred and seventy-eight girls;—making a total of boarding scholars of one thousand one hundred and thirty. The number of free schools was four hundred and ninety, containing about twenty-three thousand pupils.The receipts have been two hundred and thirty-five thousand one hundred and eighty-nine dollars, and the expenditures two hundred and sixty eight thousand, nine hundred and fifteen dollars.Presbyterian Board Of Foreign Missions.Until within a few years, this body of Christians united with the American board in their operations among the heathen. A distinct society, under the name of theWestern Foreign Missionary Society, was formed in 1831, by the synod of Pittsburg, which was merged into the present board in 1837.Three of the missions of the board were begun by this society, namely, the Western Africa, the Hindoostan, and Iowa and Sac missions.This board is intending to reënforce its missions, and to occupy several new stations, as soon as the requisite arrangements can be made. Its main efforts will be directed towards Hindoostan, where it has now two presses in active coöperation with its missionaries. This denomination of Christians have the following missions:—Iowa and Sac Indians; Chippewa and Ottawa Indians; Texas; Western Africa,Kroos; Chinese,Singapore; Siam; Northern India,Lodiana, Allahabad, Furrukhabad.Summary.This church has now under her care in the foreign field, fifty-seven laborers sent from her own bosom, twenty-three of whom are ministers of the gospel; besides eight native assistants, some of them men of learning, all of them hopefully pious, and in different stages of preparation[pg 339]and trial for the missionary work among their own benighted people. Through the mission stations occupied by these brethren, the church is brought in direct contact with five different heathen nations, containing two thirds of the whole human race. Annual expenditure about sixty-five thousand dollars.The Presbyterian Domestic Board of Missions employs or aids two hundred and sixty missionaries and agents, who have under their charge about twenty thousand communicants, and twenty thousand Sabbath school scholars. Annual disbursements about thirty-five thousand dollars.English Baptist Missionary Society.East Indies.—A mission was commenced at Serampore in 1793. The English Baptists were just awakening to a sense of their responsibility for the conversion of the world, when Dr. Thomas arrived in London, to solicit missionary aid for Hindoostan. The society took him under their patronage, and sent him back in company with Dr. Cary. After laboring successfully in various places, in 1800 Dr. Cary removed to Serampore, which thenceforward became a central station.West Indian Missions.—In 1814, a mulatto preacher, named Baker, requested this society to send a missionary to Jamaica. In compliance with this request, Mr. I. Rowe was sent out, who, after laboring with pleasing success, died; and, in 1815, the society sent out Mr. Compere and assistants, who established a mission in Kingston. This was the origin of the Baptist missions in the West Indies.South American Mission.—On a representation to the society, that much good might be done among the negro population and the Indians in and around Honduras, in the Bay of Mexico, the society, in 1822, sent out Mr. J. Bourne, who succeeded in establishing a church and congregation.South African Mission.—In 1831, Rev. W. Davies was sent to Graham's Town, at the urgent solicitation of some Baptists, resident at that place.Summary.This society have, in Asia, the Asiatic Islands, West Indies, South America, and South Africa, one hundred and twenty-nine stations and out-stations, one hundred and thirty-four missionaries and assistants, twenty-two thousand four hundred and eighty-eight communicants, and seventeen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five scholars. This statement does not contain the full amount of their labors to the present year.[pg 340]American Baptist Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—Rev. A. Judson may be said to be the father of Baptist missions in this country, and, indeed, of the missionary labors of this society. It was his conversion to the principles of the Baptists, while a missionary of the American board in India, that roused them to action. He commenced his labors under discouraging circumstances, at Rangoon, in the Burman empire, 1813. Since then, the operations of this board have become very extensive, embracing immense portions of the Burman empire, Siam, &c. Asia is their principal mission field, and they have laid sure foundations for the evangelization of many parts of that benighted clime.Indian Missions.—An impression, made, no doubt, by divine influence, of the importance of missions to this people, led, in 1817, to the appointment of J. M. Peck and J. E. Welch to be missionaries to the North American Indians. J. M. Peck commenced their first Indian mission among the Cherokees in 1818. Many tribes are now embraced by the labors of the board, and although the progress of truth has been slow among the“red men,”yet the board have cause to rejoice over their Indian missions.African Mission.—This mission was commenced by the offer of L. Cary and C. Teage, colored men, to become the messengers of the churches in this work. They commenced their duties, in 1821, at Liberia, where the board continues its efforts for the redemption of Africa, with some success, chiefly among the Bassas.European Missions.—These missions were commenced in 1832. Professor Chase was sent to explore the kingdom of France, and the Rev. J. C. Rostan commenced a course of evangelical demonstrations at Paris; since which, Germany and Greece have shared the attention of the board. These are missions of the first importance.General Summary.This board have missions as follow:—In North America, to the Ojibwas, near Lake Superior; the Ottawas, in Michigan; Oneidas, in New York; Otoes, near the junction of Missouri and Platte Rivers; Shawanoes, including the Delawares, Putawatomies, and Western Ottawas, in the Indian Territory; Cherokees, Creeks, and Choctaws, in the Indian Territory. In Europe, they have missions to France, Germany, Denmark, and Greece;—to the Bassas, in West Africa;—in Asia, to Burmah and the Karens; to Siam and China, Arracan, Asam, and to the Teloogoos.The number of Indian missions is eight; stations and out-stations, sixteen; missionaries and assistant missionaries, twenty-eight; native assistants, ten; churches, sixteen; baptisms reported the last year,[pg 341]two hundred and seventy-one; present number of church members, one thousand three hundred and twenty-four; schools, seven; scholars, one hundred and ninety-two.The number of European missions is three; stations and out-stations, twenty; missionaries and assistant missionaries, seven; native preachers and assistants, twenty-three; churches, twenty-seven; baptisms the past year, one hundred and eighty-seven; church members, five hundred and fifty-eight.In the mission to West Africa there are two stations, five missionaries and assistant missionaries, one native assistant, two churches of twenty-five members, and two schools containing eighty-five scholars.The number of the Asiatic missions is eight, stations and out-stations, sixty-two; missionaries and assistant missionaries, fifty-nine; native assistants, seventy-seven; churches, thirty-two; baptisms the past year, three hundred and seventeen; church members, one thousand eight hundred and two; schools, thirty-five, scholars, five hundred and sixty.Grand total, twenty missions, one hundred stations and out-stations, ninety-nine missionaries and assistant missionaries, one hundred and eleven native preachers and assistants, seventy-seven churches, seven hundred and eighty baptisms the past year, more than three thousand seven hundred members of mission churches, forty-four schools, and eight hundred and seventy-seven scholars.The annual expenditure of the board is about eighty thousand dollars.Free-Will Baptists.This flourishing class of Christians have not, until recently, directed their efforts to a foreign field. They now occupy one station in Orissa, where they have two missionaries with their ladies. Two other missionaries are about being located, for which purpose funds are now provided.Episcopal Missions.The Church of England has been actively engaged in missionary operations since the year 1698, when the“Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge”was formed. In 1701, the“Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts”was instituted. The“Church Missionary Society”was established in 1800. These societies are still in active and vigorous operation. They have missions in[pg 342]every quarter of the globe, and their annual expenditures, for the propagation of the Gospel, amount to about one million three hundred and seventeen thousand three hundred and fifty-six dollars.The Episcopal Church in the United States established aDomestic and Foreign Missionary Societyin 1820; and the General Convention of 1835 resolved, That the Church itself was the missionary society and that every member of the Church, by baptism, was, of course, bound to support her missions. The missionary field was declared to bethe world,domestic missionsbeing those established within the territory of the United States, andforeign missionsthose without that territory. At each triennial meeting of the General Convention, a Board of Missions, consisting of about one hundred members, is selected from the different dioceses. This Board has the general supervision of all the missionary operations of the Church; and meets annually, or oftener, if necessary.There are two standing committees of this Board,—theCommittee for Domestic Missionsand theCommittee for Foreign Missions, to whom, during the recess of the Board, the care and management of the missions is confided. This Society now has under its charge one hundred and forty-five domestic, and twelve foreign stations, employing eighty-five domestic and eleven foreign missionaries, and also eighteen teachers and assistants in the foreign stations.The expenditures of this Board, for the year 1841, were sixty-one thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents. This Society has missionary stations in Athens, Crete, Constantinople, China, (Maca,) Cape Palmas and other stations in Western Africa, and in Texas.Society For Propagating The Gospel Among The Indians And Others.This society derived its origin among the Puritans, in England, in 1648. The charter under which it now acts was granted by the legislature of Massachusetts, in 1687. Its list of past and present members in 1840, comprised one hundred and twenty-five names of the most eminent divines, jurists, and laymen in Massachusetts, in which state the operations of the society are chiefly confined. The funds of this society, in 1840, amounted to thirty-six thousand three hundred and eighty-seven dollars, the income of which is annually expended for the“propagation of the gospel”among the needy and destitute.In conformity with the spirit and design of this ancient and venerable society, all measures in any degree of a party or sectarian character, are scrupulously avoided.[pg 343]Wesleyan Or English Methodist Missionary Society.Scarcely had Mr. Wesley raised the standard of Methodism in England, before he turned his attention to the wants of other lands. America presenting a vast field for missionary labor, he sent over Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmore, in 1769. These were the first Methodist missionaries. From their labors the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States gradually came into being. Dr. Coke was preëminently useful in establishing missions in various places This society was organized in 1817.West Indies.—A peculiar providence marked the commencement of this mission. Dr. Coke, with three preachers, was proceeding to Nova Scotia, in September, 1786, but was driven, by stress of weather, to Antigua. Finding a number of serious persons there, he preached Jesus to them, and by his labors laid the foundation for extensive missions.British North America.—About 1779, several Methodist emigrants were the means of awakening many souls. Among these was Mr. Black, who, after laboring for some time with zeal and success, was appointed the superintendent of the mission in British North America. This mission embraces Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, Newfoundland, and Honduras.Missions in Asia.—The plan of establishing missions in Asia originated with Dr. Coke; and, in 1813, he sailed, with Messrs. Harvard, Clough, Ault, Erskine, Squance, and Lynch, for Ceylon. Unfortunately, he died on the passage. The brethren, after many trials, reached Ceylon, and commenced their labors at Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Matura. From Ceylon, the society directed its attention to continental India, where their labors have become very extensive.Missions in South Africa.—These missions were begun in 1816, by Rev. Barnabas Shaw, among the Namaquas, a tribe of Hottentots. These missions have subsequently spread over large portions of this benighted land.Missions in the South Seas.—These missions include the Friendly Isles, New Zealand, New South Wales, &c. They were commenced at the latter place, in 1815, by Mr. Leigh, who began his duties and labors at Sydney, with favorable auspices and good success.Missions in the Mediterranean.—These were commenced in Gibraltar, in 1804, by Mr. McMullen, who died a few days after beginning his labors. The mission was then suspended until 1808, when Mr. William Griffith was appointed to its charge. Besides this mission, the Methodists have stations at Malta, Alexandria, and Zanto.Missions in Europe.—These missions embrace the labors of the society in Sweden, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Norman and[pg 344]Shetland Isles. Notwithstanding many obstacles, arising from intolerance, ignorance, or superstition, the good work progresses at these missions.Summary.In 1840, this society had, in the West Indies, fifty missionary stations; in British North America, eighty-four stations; in Asia, twenty-two,; in the South Seas, twenty-five; in Africa, thirty-one; and in Europe, forty-two stations. In all these countries the society had two hundred and fifty-four stations, six hundred and twenty-three missionaries and teachers, seventy-two thousand seven hundred and twenty-four communicants, and fifty-six thousand five hundred and twenty-two scholars.Missions Of The Methodist Episcopal Church.I.Foreign Missions.1.The Liberia Missionwas commenced in 1833, by the Rev. M. B. Cox, who, in a few short months after, was called to his eternal reward. His dying language was,“Though a thousand fall, Africa must not be given up.”Five other missionaries have fallen in the same field. The Liberia mission now includes an annual conference of seventeen preachers, all colored, except the superintendent and the two brethren recently sent out. It has a membership of nearly one thousand, of whom one hundred and fifty arenatives. There are thirteen day schools, in which from five hundred to six hundred children are instructed, (of whom about forty are natives, preparing for future usefulness,) fourteen churches, eight mission-houses, three school-houses, one academy, (a stone building,) and one printing-office. Total of missionaries, male and female, twenty-four.2.The Oregon Mission.—This mission was commenced by Rev. Messrs. Jason and Daniel Lee, and now numbers twenty-one missionaries, including preachers, teachers, physicians, farmers, mechanics, &c. The greater part of these were sent out in 1840, making, with their wives and children, about fifty souls—the largest missionary expedition going, at one time, from this country. They are now laying the foundations of their future work.3.The Texas Missionwas commenced by Rev. Dr. Ruter, assisted by two young preachers, who accompanied him to that country in 1837. An annual conference was established in this mission field in 1840, which now includes three regular presiding elders' districts, and eighteen stations and circuits. It numbers twenty-three travelling preachers, thirty-six local preachers, (i. e., lay preachers, who support themselves, and preach as they have opportunity) and two thousand[pg 345]seven hundred and ninety-five members. There is a college at Rutersville.II.Domestic Missions.1.German Missions.—The first German mission was established in Cincinnati, in 1835, by Rev. William Nast. There are now seventeen German missions, containing about one thousand members, in the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and New York. A German paper is published at Cincinnati, calledThe Christian Apologist, having eleven hundred subscribers.2.Indian Missions.—There are eighteen missions, and one manual labor school, among the Indians located within the bounds of Rock River, Michigan, Holston, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas conferences. These now include two thousand six hundred and seventeen native church members.3.Missions among the Slaves.—There are forty-seven of these missions in successful operation, including twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-three in church fellowship.4.Missions in Destitute Portions of the Country.—There are one hundred and eight domestic missions of this kind, which embrace twenty-three thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight church members.Aggregate.Foreign missions—sixty-three missionaries, four thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.—Domestic missions—one hundred and seventy-eight missionaries, forty-one thousand church members.—Total—two hundred and forty-one missionaries, forty-five thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.The whole amount of missionary money collected for the year ending April 20, 1842, is one hundred and five thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars; expended, one hundred and forty-nine thousand and sixty-five dollars.Seventh-Day Baptist Missionary Society.The operations of this society are confined to the occasional assistance of destitute churches at home. It employs six agents and missionaries. Its receipts for 1838 were one hundred and eighty-six dollars.The Seventh-Day Baptists have also aSociety for the Promotion of Christianity among theJews, at home and abroad. It was organized in 1838.[pg 346]French Protestant Missionary Society.This society was formed in 1822, at the house of S. V. S. Wilder Esq., an American merchant, then residing in Paris. It has a seminary for the preparation of students. In 1829, it sent out three missionaries to their first field of labor, among the French emigrants of South Africa, and among the surrounding tribes. It had, in 1839, in South Africa, seven stations, twelve missionaries, about one hundred converts, and five hundred scholars.Netherlands Missionary Society.The principal labors of this society are expended in Dutch India and in Siam. In Dutch India they have eighteen missionaries, at thirteen stations. Of the success of this society, little is known in this country.Scottish Missionary Society.This society was established, in 1796, by the members of the Episcopal church in Edinburgh. It has had missions in Tartary, Asia, and the West Indies. Some of them are still sustained.German Missionary Society.This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Bâsle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by aukasefrom the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations,—Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.[pg 347]Church Of Scotland Missions.These missions appear to be of recent date. Most of their labor is expended on Asia.Calcutta, Bombay, Poonah, and Madras, are their principal stations. Their missionaries devote a large portion of their efforts to the promotion of education.Rhenish Missionary Society.The successes of the London Missionary Society inspired the pious inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine with an ardent wish to imitate their zeal. Under this impulse, a society was formed, in 1828, at Barmen, on the Rhine, by a union of the previously-formed societies of Barmen, Elberfield, Cologne, and Wesel.Messrs. Gottlieb, Leipold, Zahn and Wurmb, were among their earliest missionaries. Wurmb was formerly a soldier. He fought in the battle of Leipsic as lieutenant, and obtained two medals of honor. He next studied medicine, and gained a diploma; and when he became a subject of religious influence, he laid all his honors and learning at the foot of the cross. He began his labors at Wupperthal, in South Africa, in which country are several missionaries, and four stations.Missions Of The Roman Catholic Church.We regret that it is not in our power to record the missionary efforts of the Roman Catholics. Suffice it to say that their missions extend to all countries, and that they are ardent in their zeal, indefatigable in their labors, and unsparing in their expenditures, in the propagation of the doctrines of this ancient church.Jews' Missionary Society.This association was formed in England, in 1808. It is patronized chiefly by ministers and members of the established church. It has forty-nine missionaries and agents, who occupy twenty-three stations in Asia and Europe. Of these missionaries, twenty-four are Jewish converts. Its receipts in 1839 were upwards of eighty thousand dollars. Three or four thousand Jews have been converted, by this and other instrumentalities, within a few years.[pg 348]In England, there is an institution for the purpose of receiving Jewish converts, and teaching them a trade. A considerable number have enjoyed its privileges.Indians.As great efforts are making, by almost all classes of Christians to spread the benign influence of the gospel among the red men on our borders, it may not be amiss to state their locations, numbers, &c. &c.Mr. McCoy, in his valuable“Annual Register of Indian Affairs,”published at Shawanoe, in the Indian Territory, makes many important statements respecting this highly-interesting people.He says that the number of Indians north of Mexico may be fairly estimated at one million eight hundred thousand. He estimates the population of the tribes east and west of the Mississippi as follows:—Tribes East Of Mississippi River.Indians in New England and New York4,715Indians from New York, at Green Bay725Wyandots, in Ohio and Michigan623Miamies1,200Winnebagoes4,591Chippewas6,793Ottawas and Chippewas of Lake Michigan5,300Chippewas, Ottawas, and Putawatomies8,000Putawatomies1,400Menominees4,200Creeks23,668Cherokees10,000Chickasaws5,429Choctaws3,500Seminoles2,420Appalachicolas340Total81,904Tribes West Of Mississippi River.Sioux27,500Iowas1,200Sauks of Missouri500Sauks and Foxes6,400Assinaboines8,000Crees3,000Camanches7,000Crows4,500Arrepahas, Kiawas, &c.1,400Caddoes800Snake and other tribes within the Rocky Mountains20,000Gros-ventres3,000Arrekaras3,000Cheyennes2,000Minatarees1,500Mandans1,500Black Feet30,000Tribes west of Rocky Mountains80,000Total201,300[pg 349]The above tribes, although within the territory of the United States, are not within what is commonly called the Indian Territory.Mr. McCoy states the names and numbers of the indigenous and emigrant tribes within the Indian Territory, so called, as follow:—Indigenous Tribes.Osage5,510Kauzau, or Kansas1,684Otoe and Missouria1,600Omaha1,400Pawnee10,000Puncah800Quapau450Total21,444Emigrant Tribes.Choctaw15,000Cherokee4,000Creek3,600Seneca and Shawanoo of Neosho462Wea225Piankasha119Peoria and Kaskaskias135Ottawa81Shawanoe of Kauzau River764Delaware856Kickapoo603Putawatomie444Emigrant26,289Indigenous21,444Total47,733Among the population of the emigrant tribes are included thirteen hundred and fifty negro slaves.Mr. McCoy estimates that, of the one million eight hundred thousand Indians in North America, about seventy thousand may be classed with civilized man, having in greater or less degrees advanced towards civilization.By the Indian Territory is meant the country within the following limits, viz.: Beginning on Red River, on the Mexican boundary, and as far west of the state of Arkansas as the country is habitable; thence down Red River, eastwardly, along the Mexican boundary to Arkansas; thence northwardly, along the line of Arkansas, to the state of Missouri; thence north, along its western line, to Missouri River; thence up Missouri River to Puncah River; thence westerly as far as the country is habitable; thence southwardly to the place of beginning.
We have been much assisted in our missionary statistics by the kindness of the secretaries of the several Missionary Boards, and by permission of the proprietor, Mr. F. Rand, for the use of his valuable Missionary Chart, prepared with great care, in 1840, by the Reverend Messrs. Jefferson Hascall and Daniel Wise.
Those of the Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists, and Episcopalians, are brought down to 1841, and are quite accurate; but the efforts of some of the other denominations in this great and glorious cause are not fully stated, as some of the items have not been reported.
First Protestant Missions.The first Protestant mission on record was undertaken in 1559, by Michael, who was sent into Lapland by Gustavus Vasa, king of Sweden.John Eliot commenced the first mission to the Indians atNonantum, now Newton, Massachusetts, in 1646. This mission gave rise to a society in England for the propagation of the gospel in New England, and to the formation of several other missionary stations; so that, in 1696, there were thirty Indian churches in New England.In 1705, Messrs. Ziegenbalg and Plutcho, under the auspices of Frederick IV., king of Denmark, commenced a mission at Tranquebar, in South Hindoostan, which was very successful. Its fruits continue to the present time.In 1728, a mission was begun by Schultze, at Madras, under the patronage of the Christian Knowledge Society. In the following thirty-three years, fourteen hundred and seventy converts united with the church.
The first Protestant mission on record was undertaken in 1559, by Michael, who was sent into Lapland by Gustavus Vasa, king of Sweden.
John Eliot commenced the first mission to the Indians atNonantum, now Newton, Massachusetts, in 1646. This mission gave rise to a society in England for the propagation of the gospel in New England, and to the formation of several other missionary stations; so that, in 1696, there were thirty Indian churches in New England.
In 1705, Messrs. Ziegenbalg and Plutcho, under the auspices of Frederick IV., king of Denmark, commenced a mission at Tranquebar, in South Hindoostan, which was very successful. Its fruits continue to the present time.
In 1728, a mission was begun by Schultze, at Madras, under the patronage of the Christian Knowledge Society. In the following thirty-three years, fourteen hundred and seventy converts united with the church.
Moravian Missions.The Moravians trace their origin to the ninth century, when the king of Moravia united with the Greek church.West Indian Mission.—The Moravians commenced their mission[pg 334]on the Island of St. Thomas in 1732. Its commencement was occasioned by a conversation between a negro, named Anthony, and some servants of Count Zinzendorf. The negro said he had a sister at St. Thomas, who was deeply anxious to be instructed about religion. This remark was repeated to one of“thebrethren,”named Leonard Dober. He determined to visit St. Thomas,“even,”as he said,“if he were obliged to sell himself for a slave to effect his purpose.”Dober went; and though, for a time, little good was effected, yet, in 1736, the Lord poured out his spirit, and many of the slaves were awakened. There are now two stations on this island.In 1734, they began their mission on the Island of St. Croix. It was soon abandoned, but was reëstablished in 1740. In 1754, missions were commenced on the Islands of St. Jan and Jamaica; in 1756, at Antigua; in 1765, at Barbadoes; in 1777, at St. Christopher's; and at Tobago in 1790.Greenland Mission.—This was commenced in 1733, at New Herrnhut, or Lusatia, by Matthew and Christian Stach, when the congregation of the brethren at home amounted to but six hundred members. They persevered through cold, hunger, and discouragement, though for five years they had no conversions. Greenland isnowa Christian country.North American Indian Missions.—These were begun in Georgia, 1735, among the Creeks, at the instigation of Count Zinzendorf. It was followed by numerous other stations, many of which have since become extinct.South American Missions.—Surinam, a Dutch settlement in Guiana, was the scene of their first operations here, about 1735 or 1738. They began on the invitation of a planter. Several other settlements were attempted, but were subsequently abandoned, for various causes. In 1767, they commenced a prosperous station at Paramaribo.Labrador Missions.—Supposing that a natural affinity subsisted between this people and the Greenlanders, the brethren commenced their labors here in 1752. This attempt failed; but, in 1770, a settlement was effected at Nain, by the agency of Messrs. Haven, Drachart, and Jensen.South African Mission.—George Schmidt was the father of this mission. He commenced it in 1737; but it was afterwards abandoned for about fifty years, until, in 1792, a permanent settlement was effected at Gnadenthal, one hundred and thirty-five miles east of Cape Town.Note.—The brethren have also had missions, at different periods, in Asiatic Russia, Egypt, Persia, Lapland, Guinea, Algiers, Ceylon and the Nicobar Islands; all of which, for various causes, have been abandoned.[pg 335]Summary.In the year 1840, the Moravians had, in the afore-mentioned places and in South Africa, forty-seven stations and out-stations, one hundred and ninety-seven missionaries and assistants, seventeen thousand seven hundred and three communicants, and fifty-seven thousand two hundred and fifty-five souls under their care.
The Moravians trace their origin to the ninth century, when the king of Moravia united with the Greek church.
West Indian Mission.—The Moravians commenced their mission[pg 334]on the Island of St. Thomas in 1732. Its commencement was occasioned by a conversation between a negro, named Anthony, and some servants of Count Zinzendorf. The negro said he had a sister at St. Thomas, who was deeply anxious to be instructed about religion. This remark was repeated to one of“thebrethren,”named Leonard Dober. He determined to visit St. Thomas,“even,”as he said,“if he were obliged to sell himself for a slave to effect his purpose.”Dober went; and though, for a time, little good was effected, yet, in 1736, the Lord poured out his spirit, and many of the slaves were awakened. There are now two stations on this island.
In 1734, they began their mission on the Island of St. Croix. It was soon abandoned, but was reëstablished in 1740. In 1754, missions were commenced on the Islands of St. Jan and Jamaica; in 1756, at Antigua; in 1765, at Barbadoes; in 1777, at St. Christopher's; and at Tobago in 1790.
Greenland Mission.—This was commenced in 1733, at New Herrnhut, or Lusatia, by Matthew and Christian Stach, when the congregation of the brethren at home amounted to but six hundred members. They persevered through cold, hunger, and discouragement, though for five years they had no conversions. Greenland isnowa Christian country.
North American Indian Missions.—These were begun in Georgia, 1735, among the Creeks, at the instigation of Count Zinzendorf. It was followed by numerous other stations, many of which have since become extinct.
South American Missions.—Surinam, a Dutch settlement in Guiana, was the scene of their first operations here, about 1735 or 1738. They began on the invitation of a planter. Several other settlements were attempted, but were subsequently abandoned, for various causes. In 1767, they commenced a prosperous station at Paramaribo.
Labrador Missions.—Supposing that a natural affinity subsisted between this people and the Greenlanders, the brethren commenced their labors here in 1752. This attempt failed; but, in 1770, a settlement was effected at Nain, by the agency of Messrs. Haven, Drachart, and Jensen.
South African Mission.—George Schmidt was the father of this mission. He commenced it in 1737; but it was afterwards abandoned for about fifty years, until, in 1792, a permanent settlement was effected at Gnadenthal, one hundred and thirty-five miles east of Cape Town.
Note.—The brethren have also had missions, at different periods, in Asiatic Russia, Egypt, Persia, Lapland, Guinea, Algiers, Ceylon and the Nicobar Islands; all of which, for various causes, have been abandoned.
Summary.
In the year 1840, the Moravians had, in the afore-mentioned places and in South Africa, forty-seven stations and out-stations, one hundred and ninety-seven missionaries and assistants, seventeen thousand seven hundred and three communicants, and fifty-seven thousand two hundred and fifty-five souls under their care.
London Missionary Society.The extensive and splendid missions of this board originated with the Rev. David Bogue, while on a visit to London. From his suggestions, the society was formed, in 1795, by several ministers of various denominations.South Sea Islands.—The society commenced their labors among these isles by sending out thirty-six missionaries, in 1796, who arrived safely, and commenced their duties at Otaheite, Tongataboo, and St. Christina, in March, 1797. Subsequently, they spread their influence over nearly all the islands of the Pacific Ocean. These missions have been eminently successful.New South Wales.—This mission was begun by the labors of Mr. Threlkeld, in 1826, in Bahtabee, on Lake Macquaire.South African Missions.—The success of the missions in the islands of the Pacific and South Seas, turned their attention to this dark land. Dr. Vanderkemp, who was their first laborer, began his labors on the River Keis Kamma, in Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards spread very widely among the Caffres and Hottentots.East Indian Missions.—The society's missions in this most interesting quarter of the globe were commenced at Calcutta and Chinsura, by the Rev. Mr. Forsyth, in 1798. Subsequently, their stations spread over Northern and Peninsular India, India beyond the Ganges, into China, Siam, and some of the Asiatic Isles.Guiana and West Indies.—At the request of a pious Dutch planter, Mr. Wray was sent to Demerara, in Guiana, in 1807. This was the beginning of the society's operations in South America.Other Missions.—Beside these, are the European and Mediterranean islands missions, which, though of recent date, are promising in their aspects.Education.—This society has several presses distributed over the vast field occupied by their agents, by means of which millions of pages are annually scattered among the people. They publish tracts[pg 336]parts of the Scriptures, &c. &c. They have also upwards of four hundred native assistants, which are not mentioned in the following summary.Summary.From the best accounts we can obtain, this society had, in 1840, in Asia, the South Sea Islands, Africa, Guiana, and in Europe, about five hundred and fifty missionary stations and out-stations, one hundred and sixty-four missionaries, five thousand communicants, and about twenty-five thousand scholars.
The extensive and splendid missions of this board originated with the Rev. David Bogue, while on a visit to London. From his suggestions, the society was formed, in 1795, by several ministers of various denominations.
South Sea Islands.—The society commenced their labors among these isles by sending out thirty-six missionaries, in 1796, who arrived safely, and commenced their duties at Otaheite, Tongataboo, and St. Christina, in March, 1797. Subsequently, they spread their influence over nearly all the islands of the Pacific Ocean. These missions have been eminently successful.
New South Wales.—This mission was begun by the labors of Mr. Threlkeld, in 1826, in Bahtabee, on Lake Macquaire.
South African Missions.—The success of the missions in the islands of the Pacific and South Seas, turned their attention to this dark land. Dr. Vanderkemp, who was their first laborer, began his labors on the River Keis Kamma, in Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards spread very widely among the Caffres and Hottentots.
East Indian Missions.—The society's missions in this most interesting quarter of the globe were commenced at Calcutta and Chinsura, by the Rev. Mr. Forsyth, in 1798. Subsequently, their stations spread over Northern and Peninsular India, India beyond the Ganges, into China, Siam, and some of the Asiatic Isles.
Guiana and West Indies.—At the request of a pious Dutch planter, Mr. Wray was sent to Demerara, in Guiana, in 1807. This was the beginning of the society's operations in South America.
Other Missions.—Beside these, are the European and Mediterranean islands missions, which, though of recent date, are promising in their aspects.
Education.—This society has several presses distributed over the vast field occupied by their agents, by means of which millions of pages are annually scattered among the people. They publish tracts[pg 336]parts of the Scriptures, &c. &c. They have also upwards of four hundred native assistants, which are not mentioned in the following summary.
Summary.
From the best accounts we can obtain, this society had, in 1840, in Asia, the South Sea Islands, Africa, Guiana, and in Europe, about five hundred and fifty missionary stations and out-stations, one hundred and sixty-four missionaries, five thousand communicants, and about twenty-five thousand scholars.
American Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—The news of the success of English missionary enterprise, seconded by the zeal and influence of S. J. Mills, originated the germ of the invaluable labors of this board, which was organized in 1810. Their first missions were in Asia. Bombay was the scene of their first labors, in the year 1813, and Messrs. Nott, Newell, and Hall, their first missionaries. From Bombay they extended their influence to Ceylon, in 1816; to China, and South-eastern Asia, and to Siam, in 1830.Mediterranean Missions.—These missions were begun by sending out Messrs. Parsons and Fisk on a voyage of research. The first station occupied was Beyroot, in Syria, in 1823. To this, stations at Malta, in Greece, at Constantinople, &c., have been added.Missions at the Sandwich Islands.—A special providence marked the commencement of these missions. Two boys, named Obookiah and Hopu, were, at their own request, brought to America. This gave rise to a train of interesting circumstances, which led to the commencement of the mission, in 1820, by Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, and others. Vast success has attended this mission, especially of late.North American Indian Missions.—These were commenced in 1816, among the Cherokees, by the Rev. C. Kingsbury. The Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Osages, and other tribes, have since shared the labors of the board. The late unhappy removal of the Cherokee nation has done much towards the prostration of missionary success among that interesting but deeply-injured tribe.Missions in Africa.—The efforts of the board in this quarter of the globe are of recent date. Only seven years have elapsed since their commencement. Some native towns on the western coast, and a numerous aboriginal tribe called the Zulus, on the south-east shore, are the chief objects of their labors at present. This field is considered very[pg 337]promising, and it is confidently believed that its occupation will be one effectual aid in the great work of regenerating that darkened, enslaved, and degraded continent.In 1841, this board had missions to the Zulus in South Africa, the Grebos in West Africa, to Greece, to Turkey, Syria, the Nestorians of Persia, the Independent Nestorians, the Persian Mahometans, to the Mahrattas in Western India, to Madras and Madura in Southern India, to Ceylon, Siam, China Singapore, Borneo, and to the Sandwich Islands.They have missions to the Cherokee Indians, the Choctaws, Pawnees, to the Oregon Indians, the Sioux, Ojibwas, Stockbridge Indians, New York Indians, and to the Abenaquis.Summary Of Foreign Missions.The number of missions in this department is seventeen; of stations, sixty-one; of ordained missionaries, one hundred and eleven, five of whom are also physicians; of physicians, seven; of teachers, eight; of secular superintendents, two; of printers, eleven; of bookbinders, one; of female helpers, married and unmarried, one hundred and thirty-nine;—making a total of laborers beyond sea from this country of two hundred and eighty. To these add four native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-five other native helpers, and the number of laborers who are employed and supported by the board in the missions beyond sea, is four hundred and nineteen.Summary Of Indian Missions.Among the Indian nations, there are twenty-five stations; twenty-five missionaries, two of whom are physicians; two other physicians, five teachers; ten other male, and fifty-nine female, assistant missionaries; three native preachers; and three other native assistants;—total, one hundred and seven.General Summary.The number of the missions in 1841 was twenty-six; stations, eighty-five; and ordained missionaries, one hundred and thirty-six, ten of whom were physicians. There were nine physicians not preachers, thirteen teachers, twelve printers and bookbinders, and twelve other male and one hundred and ninety-eight female assistant missionaries. The whole number of laborers from this country was three hundred and eighty-one, or sixteen more than were reported in 1840. To these we must add seven native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-eight native helpers, which made the whole number five hundred and twenty-six, thirty-nine more than in 1840. Nine ordained missionaries, three male and seventeen female assistant missionaries, have been sent forth during the year.The number of mission churches was fifty-nine, containing nineteen[pg 338]thousand eight hundred and forty-two members, of whom four thousand three hundred and fifty were received the year before.There were fifteen printing establishments, twenty-nine presses, five type-founderies, and fifty founts of type in the native languages. The printing for the year was about fifty million pages; the amount of printing from the beginning is about two hundred and ninety million pages. Twenty-four thousand copies of theMissionary Heraldare now published monthly, and sixty-five thousand copies of theDay-spring, a monthly paper, are also issued.Seven of the thirty-four boarding-schools have received the name of seminaries, and these contain four hundred and ninety-nine boys; the other twenty-seven contain two hundred and fifty three boys and three hundred and seventy-eight girls;—making a total of boarding scholars of one thousand one hundred and thirty. The number of free schools was four hundred and ninety, containing about twenty-three thousand pupils.The receipts have been two hundred and thirty-five thousand one hundred and eighty-nine dollars, and the expenditures two hundred and sixty eight thousand, nine hundred and fifteen dollars.
Missions in Asia.—The news of the success of English missionary enterprise, seconded by the zeal and influence of S. J. Mills, originated the germ of the invaluable labors of this board, which was organized in 1810. Their first missions were in Asia. Bombay was the scene of their first labors, in the year 1813, and Messrs. Nott, Newell, and Hall, their first missionaries. From Bombay they extended their influence to Ceylon, in 1816; to China, and South-eastern Asia, and to Siam, in 1830.
Mediterranean Missions.—These missions were begun by sending out Messrs. Parsons and Fisk on a voyage of research. The first station occupied was Beyroot, in Syria, in 1823. To this, stations at Malta, in Greece, at Constantinople, &c., have been added.
Missions at the Sandwich Islands.—A special providence marked the commencement of these missions. Two boys, named Obookiah and Hopu, were, at their own request, brought to America. This gave rise to a train of interesting circumstances, which led to the commencement of the mission, in 1820, by Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, and others. Vast success has attended this mission, especially of late.
North American Indian Missions.—These were commenced in 1816, among the Cherokees, by the Rev. C. Kingsbury. The Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Osages, and other tribes, have since shared the labors of the board. The late unhappy removal of the Cherokee nation has done much towards the prostration of missionary success among that interesting but deeply-injured tribe.
Missions in Africa.—The efforts of the board in this quarter of the globe are of recent date. Only seven years have elapsed since their commencement. Some native towns on the western coast, and a numerous aboriginal tribe called the Zulus, on the south-east shore, are the chief objects of their labors at present. This field is considered very[pg 337]promising, and it is confidently believed that its occupation will be one effectual aid in the great work of regenerating that darkened, enslaved, and degraded continent.
In 1841, this board had missions to the Zulus in South Africa, the Grebos in West Africa, to Greece, to Turkey, Syria, the Nestorians of Persia, the Independent Nestorians, the Persian Mahometans, to the Mahrattas in Western India, to Madras and Madura in Southern India, to Ceylon, Siam, China Singapore, Borneo, and to the Sandwich Islands.
They have missions to the Cherokee Indians, the Choctaws, Pawnees, to the Oregon Indians, the Sioux, Ojibwas, Stockbridge Indians, New York Indians, and to the Abenaquis.
Summary Of Foreign Missions.
The number of missions in this department is seventeen; of stations, sixty-one; of ordained missionaries, one hundred and eleven, five of whom are also physicians; of physicians, seven; of teachers, eight; of secular superintendents, two; of printers, eleven; of bookbinders, one; of female helpers, married and unmarried, one hundred and thirty-nine;—making a total of laborers beyond sea from this country of two hundred and eighty. To these add four native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-five other native helpers, and the number of laborers who are employed and supported by the board in the missions beyond sea, is four hundred and nineteen.
Summary Of Indian Missions.
Among the Indian nations, there are twenty-five stations; twenty-five missionaries, two of whom are physicians; two other physicians, five teachers; ten other male, and fifty-nine female, assistant missionaries; three native preachers; and three other native assistants;—total, one hundred and seven.
General Summary.
The number of the missions in 1841 was twenty-six; stations, eighty-five; and ordained missionaries, one hundred and thirty-six, ten of whom were physicians. There were nine physicians not preachers, thirteen teachers, twelve printers and bookbinders, and twelve other male and one hundred and ninety-eight female assistant missionaries. The whole number of laborers from this country was three hundred and eighty-one, or sixteen more than were reported in 1840. To these we must add seven native preachers, and one hundred and thirty-eight native helpers, which made the whole number five hundred and twenty-six, thirty-nine more than in 1840. Nine ordained missionaries, three male and seventeen female assistant missionaries, have been sent forth during the year.
The number of mission churches was fifty-nine, containing nineteen[pg 338]thousand eight hundred and forty-two members, of whom four thousand three hundred and fifty were received the year before.
There were fifteen printing establishments, twenty-nine presses, five type-founderies, and fifty founts of type in the native languages. The printing for the year was about fifty million pages; the amount of printing from the beginning is about two hundred and ninety million pages. Twenty-four thousand copies of theMissionary Heraldare now published monthly, and sixty-five thousand copies of theDay-spring, a monthly paper, are also issued.
Seven of the thirty-four boarding-schools have received the name of seminaries, and these contain four hundred and ninety-nine boys; the other twenty-seven contain two hundred and fifty three boys and three hundred and seventy-eight girls;—making a total of boarding scholars of one thousand one hundred and thirty. The number of free schools was four hundred and ninety, containing about twenty-three thousand pupils.
The receipts have been two hundred and thirty-five thousand one hundred and eighty-nine dollars, and the expenditures two hundred and sixty eight thousand, nine hundred and fifteen dollars.
Presbyterian Board Of Foreign Missions.Until within a few years, this body of Christians united with the American board in their operations among the heathen. A distinct society, under the name of theWestern Foreign Missionary Society, was formed in 1831, by the synod of Pittsburg, which was merged into the present board in 1837.Three of the missions of the board were begun by this society, namely, the Western Africa, the Hindoostan, and Iowa and Sac missions.This board is intending to reënforce its missions, and to occupy several new stations, as soon as the requisite arrangements can be made. Its main efforts will be directed towards Hindoostan, where it has now two presses in active coöperation with its missionaries. This denomination of Christians have the following missions:—Iowa and Sac Indians; Chippewa and Ottawa Indians; Texas; Western Africa,Kroos; Chinese,Singapore; Siam; Northern India,Lodiana, Allahabad, Furrukhabad.Summary.This church has now under her care in the foreign field, fifty-seven laborers sent from her own bosom, twenty-three of whom are ministers of the gospel; besides eight native assistants, some of them men of learning, all of them hopefully pious, and in different stages of preparation[pg 339]and trial for the missionary work among their own benighted people. Through the mission stations occupied by these brethren, the church is brought in direct contact with five different heathen nations, containing two thirds of the whole human race. Annual expenditure about sixty-five thousand dollars.The Presbyterian Domestic Board of Missions employs or aids two hundred and sixty missionaries and agents, who have under their charge about twenty thousand communicants, and twenty thousand Sabbath school scholars. Annual disbursements about thirty-five thousand dollars.
Until within a few years, this body of Christians united with the American board in their operations among the heathen. A distinct society, under the name of theWestern Foreign Missionary Society, was formed in 1831, by the synod of Pittsburg, which was merged into the present board in 1837.
Three of the missions of the board were begun by this society, namely, the Western Africa, the Hindoostan, and Iowa and Sac missions.
This board is intending to reënforce its missions, and to occupy several new stations, as soon as the requisite arrangements can be made. Its main efforts will be directed towards Hindoostan, where it has now two presses in active coöperation with its missionaries. This denomination of Christians have the following missions:—Iowa and Sac Indians; Chippewa and Ottawa Indians; Texas; Western Africa,Kroos; Chinese,Singapore; Siam; Northern India,Lodiana, Allahabad, Furrukhabad.
Summary.
This church has now under her care in the foreign field, fifty-seven laborers sent from her own bosom, twenty-three of whom are ministers of the gospel; besides eight native assistants, some of them men of learning, all of them hopefully pious, and in different stages of preparation[pg 339]and trial for the missionary work among their own benighted people. Through the mission stations occupied by these brethren, the church is brought in direct contact with five different heathen nations, containing two thirds of the whole human race. Annual expenditure about sixty-five thousand dollars.
The Presbyterian Domestic Board of Missions employs or aids two hundred and sixty missionaries and agents, who have under their charge about twenty thousand communicants, and twenty thousand Sabbath school scholars. Annual disbursements about thirty-five thousand dollars.
English Baptist Missionary Society.East Indies.—A mission was commenced at Serampore in 1793. The English Baptists were just awakening to a sense of their responsibility for the conversion of the world, when Dr. Thomas arrived in London, to solicit missionary aid for Hindoostan. The society took him under their patronage, and sent him back in company with Dr. Cary. After laboring successfully in various places, in 1800 Dr. Cary removed to Serampore, which thenceforward became a central station.West Indian Missions.—In 1814, a mulatto preacher, named Baker, requested this society to send a missionary to Jamaica. In compliance with this request, Mr. I. Rowe was sent out, who, after laboring with pleasing success, died; and, in 1815, the society sent out Mr. Compere and assistants, who established a mission in Kingston. This was the origin of the Baptist missions in the West Indies.South American Mission.—On a representation to the society, that much good might be done among the negro population and the Indians in and around Honduras, in the Bay of Mexico, the society, in 1822, sent out Mr. J. Bourne, who succeeded in establishing a church and congregation.South African Mission.—In 1831, Rev. W. Davies was sent to Graham's Town, at the urgent solicitation of some Baptists, resident at that place.Summary.This society have, in Asia, the Asiatic Islands, West Indies, South America, and South Africa, one hundred and twenty-nine stations and out-stations, one hundred and thirty-four missionaries and assistants, twenty-two thousand four hundred and eighty-eight communicants, and seventeen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five scholars. This statement does not contain the full amount of their labors to the present year.
East Indies.—A mission was commenced at Serampore in 1793. The English Baptists were just awakening to a sense of their responsibility for the conversion of the world, when Dr. Thomas arrived in London, to solicit missionary aid for Hindoostan. The society took him under their patronage, and sent him back in company with Dr. Cary. After laboring successfully in various places, in 1800 Dr. Cary removed to Serampore, which thenceforward became a central station.
West Indian Missions.—In 1814, a mulatto preacher, named Baker, requested this society to send a missionary to Jamaica. In compliance with this request, Mr. I. Rowe was sent out, who, after laboring with pleasing success, died; and, in 1815, the society sent out Mr. Compere and assistants, who established a mission in Kingston. This was the origin of the Baptist missions in the West Indies.
South American Mission.—On a representation to the society, that much good might be done among the negro population and the Indians in and around Honduras, in the Bay of Mexico, the society, in 1822, sent out Mr. J. Bourne, who succeeded in establishing a church and congregation.
South African Mission.—In 1831, Rev. W. Davies was sent to Graham's Town, at the urgent solicitation of some Baptists, resident at that place.
Summary.
This society have, in Asia, the Asiatic Islands, West Indies, South America, and South Africa, one hundred and twenty-nine stations and out-stations, one hundred and thirty-four missionaries and assistants, twenty-two thousand four hundred and eighty-eight communicants, and seventeen thousand seven hundred and thirty-five scholars. This statement does not contain the full amount of their labors to the present year.
American Baptist Board Of Foreign Missions.Missions in Asia.—Rev. A. Judson may be said to be the father of Baptist missions in this country, and, indeed, of the missionary labors of this society. It was his conversion to the principles of the Baptists, while a missionary of the American board in India, that roused them to action. He commenced his labors under discouraging circumstances, at Rangoon, in the Burman empire, 1813. Since then, the operations of this board have become very extensive, embracing immense portions of the Burman empire, Siam, &c. Asia is their principal mission field, and they have laid sure foundations for the evangelization of many parts of that benighted clime.Indian Missions.—An impression, made, no doubt, by divine influence, of the importance of missions to this people, led, in 1817, to the appointment of J. M. Peck and J. E. Welch to be missionaries to the North American Indians. J. M. Peck commenced their first Indian mission among the Cherokees in 1818. Many tribes are now embraced by the labors of the board, and although the progress of truth has been slow among the“red men,”yet the board have cause to rejoice over their Indian missions.African Mission.—This mission was commenced by the offer of L. Cary and C. Teage, colored men, to become the messengers of the churches in this work. They commenced their duties, in 1821, at Liberia, where the board continues its efforts for the redemption of Africa, with some success, chiefly among the Bassas.European Missions.—These missions were commenced in 1832. Professor Chase was sent to explore the kingdom of France, and the Rev. J. C. Rostan commenced a course of evangelical demonstrations at Paris; since which, Germany and Greece have shared the attention of the board. These are missions of the first importance.General Summary.This board have missions as follow:—In North America, to the Ojibwas, near Lake Superior; the Ottawas, in Michigan; Oneidas, in New York; Otoes, near the junction of Missouri and Platte Rivers; Shawanoes, including the Delawares, Putawatomies, and Western Ottawas, in the Indian Territory; Cherokees, Creeks, and Choctaws, in the Indian Territory. In Europe, they have missions to France, Germany, Denmark, and Greece;—to the Bassas, in West Africa;—in Asia, to Burmah and the Karens; to Siam and China, Arracan, Asam, and to the Teloogoos.The number of Indian missions is eight; stations and out-stations, sixteen; missionaries and assistant missionaries, twenty-eight; native assistants, ten; churches, sixteen; baptisms reported the last year,[pg 341]two hundred and seventy-one; present number of church members, one thousand three hundred and twenty-four; schools, seven; scholars, one hundred and ninety-two.The number of European missions is three; stations and out-stations, twenty; missionaries and assistant missionaries, seven; native preachers and assistants, twenty-three; churches, twenty-seven; baptisms the past year, one hundred and eighty-seven; church members, five hundred and fifty-eight.In the mission to West Africa there are two stations, five missionaries and assistant missionaries, one native assistant, two churches of twenty-five members, and two schools containing eighty-five scholars.The number of the Asiatic missions is eight, stations and out-stations, sixty-two; missionaries and assistant missionaries, fifty-nine; native assistants, seventy-seven; churches, thirty-two; baptisms the past year, three hundred and seventeen; church members, one thousand eight hundred and two; schools, thirty-five, scholars, five hundred and sixty.Grand total, twenty missions, one hundred stations and out-stations, ninety-nine missionaries and assistant missionaries, one hundred and eleven native preachers and assistants, seventy-seven churches, seven hundred and eighty baptisms the past year, more than three thousand seven hundred members of mission churches, forty-four schools, and eight hundred and seventy-seven scholars.The annual expenditure of the board is about eighty thousand dollars.
Missions in Asia.—Rev. A. Judson may be said to be the father of Baptist missions in this country, and, indeed, of the missionary labors of this society. It was his conversion to the principles of the Baptists, while a missionary of the American board in India, that roused them to action. He commenced his labors under discouraging circumstances, at Rangoon, in the Burman empire, 1813. Since then, the operations of this board have become very extensive, embracing immense portions of the Burman empire, Siam, &c. Asia is their principal mission field, and they have laid sure foundations for the evangelization of many parts of that benighted clime.
Indian Missions.—An impression, made, no doubt, by divine influence, of the importance of missions to this people, led, in 1817, to the appointment of J. M. Peck and J. E. Welch to be missionaries to the North American Indians. J. M. Peck commenced their first Indian mission among the Cherokees in 1818. Many tribes are now embraced by the labors of the board, and although the progress of truth has been slow among the“red men,”yet the board have cause to rejoice over their Indian missions.
African Mission.—This mission was commenced by the offer of L. Cary and C. Teage, colored men, to become the messengers of the churches in this work. They commenced their duties, in 1821, at Liberia, where the board continues its efforts for the redemption of Africa, with some success, chiefly among the Bassas.
European Missions.—These missions were commenced in 1832. Professor Chase was sent to explore the kingdom of France, and the Rev. J. C. Rostan commenced a course of evangelical demonstrations at Paris; since which, Germany and Greece have shared the attention of the board. These are missions of the first importance.
General Summary.
This board have missions as follow:—In North America, to the Ojibwas, near Lake Superior; the Ottawas, in Michigan; Oneidas, in New York; Otoes, near the junction of Missouri and Platte Rivers; Shawanoes, including the Delawares, Putawatomies, and Western Ottawas, in the Indian Territory; Cherokees, Creeks, and Choctaws, in the Indian Territory. In Europe, they have missions to France, Germany, Denmark, and Greece;—to the Bassas, in West Africa;—in Asia, to Burmah and the Karens; to Siam and China, Arracan, Asam, and to the Teloogoos.
The number of Indian missions is eight; stations and out-stations, sixteen; missionaries and assistant missionaries, twenty-eight; native assistants, ten; churches, sixteen; baptisms reported the last year,[pg 341]two hundred and seventy-one; present number of church members, one thousand three hundred and twenty-four; schools, seven; scholars, one hundred and ninety-two.
The number of European missions is three; stations and out-stations, twenty; missionaries and assistant missionaries, seven; native preachers and assistants, twenty-three; churches, twenty-seven; baptisms the past year, one hundred and eighty-seven; church members, five hundred and fifty-eight.
In the mission to West Africa there are two stations, five missionaries and assistant missionaries, one native assistant, two churches of twenty-five members, and two schools containing eighty-five scholars.
The number of the Asiatic missions is eight, stations and out-stations, sixty-two; missionaries and assistant missionaries, fifty-nine; native assistants, seventy-seven; churches, thirty-two; baptisms the past year, three hundred and seventeen; church members, one thousand eight hundred and two; schools, thirty-five, scholars, five hundred and sixty.
Grand total, twenty missions, one hundred stations and out-stations, ninety-nine missionaries and assistant missionaries, one hundred and eleven native preachers and assistants, seventy-seven churches, seven hundred and eighty baptisms the past year, more than three thousand seven hundred members of mission churches, forty-four schools, and eight hundred and seventy-seven scholars.
The annual expenditure of the board is about eighty thousand dollars.
Free-Will Baptists.This flourishing class of Christians have not, until recently, directed their efforts to a foreign field. They now occupy one station in Orissa, where they have two missionaries with their ladies. Two other missionaries are about being located, for which purpose funds are now provided.
This flourishing class of Christians have not, until recently, directed their efforts to a foreign field. They now occupy one station in Orissa, where they have two missionaries with their ladies. Two other missionaries are about being located, for which purpose funds are now provided.
Episcopal Missions.The Church of England has been actively engaged in missionary operations since the year 1698, when the“Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge”was formed. In 1701, the“Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts”was instituted. The“Church Missionary Society”was established in 1800. These societies are still in active and vigorous operation. They have missions in[pg 342]every quarter of the globe, and their annual expenditures, for the propagation of the Gospel, amount to about one million three hundred and seventeen thousand three hundred and fifty-six dollars.The Episcopal Church in the United States established aDomestic and Foreign Missionary Societyin 1820; and the General Convention of 1835 resolved, That the Church itself was the missionary society and that every member of the Church, by baptism, was, of course, bound to support her missions. The missionary field was declared to bethe world,domestic missionsbeing those established within the territory of the United States, andforeign missionsthose without that territory. At each triennial meeting of the General Convention, a Board of Missions, consisting of about one hundred members, is selected from the different dioceses. This Board has the general supervision of all the missionary operations of the Church; and meets annually, or oftener, if necessary.There are two standing committees of this Board,—theCommittee for Domestic Missionsand theCommittee for Foreign Missions, to whom, during the recess of the Board, the care and management of the missions is confided. This Society now has under its charge one hundred and forty-five domestic, and twelve foreign stations, employing eighty-five domestic and eleven foreign missionaries, and also eighteen teachers and assistants in the foreign stations.The expenditures of this Board, for the year 1841, were sixty-one thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents. This Society has missionary stations in Athens, Crete, Constantinople, China, (Maca,) Cape Palmas and other stations in Western Africa, and in Texas.
The Church of England has been actively engaged in missionary operations since the year 1698, when the“Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge”was formed. In 1701, the“Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts”was instituted. The“Church Missionary Society”was established in 1800. These societies are still in active and vigorous operation. They have missions in[pg 342]every quarter of the globe, and their annual expenditures, for the propagation of the Gospel, amount to about one million three hundred and seventeen thousand three hundred and fifty-six dollars.
The Episcopal Church in the United States established aDomestic and Foreign Missionary Societyin 1820; and the General Convention of 1835 resolved, That the Church itself was the missionary society and that every member of the Church, by baptism, was, of course, bound to support her missions. The missionary field was declared to bethe world,domestic missionsbeing those established within the territory of the United States, andforeign missionsthose without that territory. At each triennial meeting of the General Convention, a Board of Missions, consisting of about one hundred members, is selected from the different dioceses. This Board has the general supervision of all the missionary operations of the Church; and meets annually, or oftener, if necessary.
There are two standing committees of this Board,—theCommittee for Domestic Missionsand theCommittee for Foreign Missions, to whom, during the recess of the Board, the care and management of the missions is confided. This Society now has under its charge one hundred and forty-five domestic, and twelve foreign stations, employing eighty-five domestic and eleven foreign missionaries, and also eighteen teachers and assistants in the foreign stations.
The expenditures of this Board, for the year 1841, were sixty-one thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-seven cents. This Society has missionary stations in Athens, Crete, Constantinople, China, (Maca,) Cape Palmas and other stations in Western Africa, and in Texas.
Society For Propagating The Gospel Among The Indians And Others.This society derived its origin among the Puritans, in England, in 1648. The charter under which it now acts was granted by the legislature of Massachusetts, in 1687. Its list of past and present members in 1840, comprised one hundred and twenty-five names of the most eminent divines, jurists, and laymen in Massachusetts, in which state the operations of the society are chiefly confined. The funds of this society, in 1840, amounted to thirty-six thousand three hundred and eighty-seven dollars, the income of which is annually expended for the“propagation of the gospel”among the needy and destitute.In conformity with the spirit and design of this ancient and venerable society, all measures in any degree of a party or sectarian character, are scrupulously avoided.
This society derived its origin among the Puritans, in England, in 1648. The charter under which it now acts was granted by the legislature of Massachusetts, in 1687. Its list of past and present members in 1840, comprised one hundred and twenty-five names of the most eminent divines, jurists, and laymen in Massachusetts, in which state the operations of the society are chiefly confined. The funds of this society, in 1840, amounted to thirty-six thousand three hundred and eighty-seven dollars, the income of which is annually expended for the“propagation of the gospel”among the needy and destitute.
In conformity with the spirit and design of this ancient and venerable society, all measures in any degree of a party or sectarian character, are scrupulously avoided.
Wesleyan Or English Methodist Missionary Society.Scarcely had Mr. Wesley raised the standard of Methodism in England, before he turned his attention to the wants of other lands. America presenting a vast field for missionary labor, he sent over Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmore, in 1769. These were the first Methodist missionaries. From their labors the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States gradually came into being. Dr. Coke was preëminently useful in establishing missions in various places This society was organized in 1817.West Indies.—A peculiar providence marked the commencement of this mission. Dr. Coke, with three preachers, was proceeding to Nova Scotia, in September, 1786, but was driven, by stress of weather, to Antigua. Finding a number of serious persons there, he preached Jesus to them, and by his labors laid the foundation for extensive missions.British North America.—About 1779, several Methodist emigrants were the means of awakening many souls. Among these was Mr. Black, who, after laboring for some time with zeal and success, was appointed the superintendent of the mission in British North America. This mission embraces Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, Newfoundland, and Honduras.Missions in Asia.—The plan of establishing missions in Asia originated with Dr. Coke; and, in 1813, he sailed, with Messrs. Harvard, Clough, Ault, Erskine, Squance, and Lynch, for Ceylon. Unfortunately, he died on the passage. The brethren, after many trials, reached Ceylon, and commenced their labors at Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Matura. From Ceylon, the society directed its attention to continental India, where their labors have become very extensive.Missions in South Africa.—These missions were begun in 1816, by Rev. Barnabas Shaw, among the Namaquas, a tribe of Hottentots. These missions have subsequently spread over large portions of this benighted land.Missions in the South Seas.—These missions include the Friendly Isles, New Zealand, New South Wales, &c. They were commenced at the latter place, in 1815, by Mr. Leigh, who began his duties and labors at Sydney, with favorable auspices and good success.Missions in the Mediterranean.—These were commenced in Gibraltar, in 1804, by Mr. McMullen, who died a few days after beginning his labors. The mission was then suspended until 1808, when Mr. William Griffith was appointed to its charge. Besides this mission, the Methodists have stations at Malta, Alexandria, and Zanto.Missions in Europe.—These missions embrace the labors of the society in Sweden, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Norman and[pg 344]Shetland Isles. Notwithstanding many obstacles, arising from intolerance, ignorance, or superstition, the good work progresses at these missions.Summary.In 1840, this society had, in the West Indies, fifty missionary stations; in British North America, eighty-four stations; in Asia, twenty-two,; in the South Seas, twenty-five; in Africa, thirty-one; and in Europe, forty-two stations. In all these countries the society had two hundred and fifty-four stations, six hundred and twenty-three missionaries and teachers, seventy-two thousand seven hundred and twenty-four communicants, and fifty-six thousand five hundred and twenty-two scholars.
Scarcely had Mr. Wesley raised the standard of Methodism in England, before he turned his attention to the wants of other lands. America presenting a vast field for missionary labor, he sent over Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmore, in 1769. These were the first Methodist missionaries. From their labors the Methodist Episcopal church in the United States gradually came into being. Dr. Coke was preëminently useful in establishing missions in various places This society was organized in 1817.
West Indies.—A peculiar providence marked the commencement of this mission. Dr. Coke, with three preachers, was proceeding to Nova Scotia, in September, 1786, but was driven, by stress of weather, to Antigua. Finding a number of serious persons there, he preached Jesus to them, and by his labors laid the foundation for extensive missions.
British North America.—About 1779, several Methodist emigrants were the means of awakening many souls. Among these was Mr. Black, who, after laboring for some time with zeal and success, was appointed the superintendent of the mission in British North America. This mission embraces Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, Newfoundland, and Honduras.
Missions in Asia.—The plan of establishing missions in Asia originated with Dr. Coke; and, in 1813, he sailed, with Messrs. Harvard, Clough, Ault, Erskine, Squance, and Lynch, for Ceylon. Unfortunately, he died on the passage. The brethren, after many trials, reached Ceylon, and commenced their labors at Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Matura. From Ceylon, the society directed its attention to continental India, where their labors have become very extensive.
Missions in South Africa.—These missions were begun in 1816, by Rev. Barnabas Shaw, among the Namaquas, a tribe of Hottentots. These missions have subsequently spread over large portions of this benighted land.
Missions in the South Seas.—These missions include the Friendly Isles, New Zealand, New South Wales, &c. They were commenced at the latter place, in 1815, by Mr. Leigh, who began his duties and labors at Sydney, with favorable auspices and good success.
Missions in the Mediterranean.—These were commenced in Gibraltar, in 1804, by Mr. McMullen, who died a few days after beginning his labors. The mission was then suspended until 1808, when Mr. William Griffith was appointed to its charge. Besides this mission, the Methodists have stations at Malta, Alexandria, and Zanto.
Missions in Europe.—These missions embrace the labors of the society in Sweden, France, Germany, Ireland, and the Norman and[pg 344]Shetland Isles. Notwithstanding many obstacles, arising from intolerance, ignorance, or superstition, the good work progresses at these missions.
Summary.
In 1840, this society had, in the West Indies, fifty missionary stations; in British North America, eighty-four stations; in Asia, twenty-two,; in the South Seas, twenty-five; in Africa, thirty-one; and in Europe, forty-two stations. In all these countries the society had two hundred and fifty-four stations, six hundred and twenty-three missionaries and teachers, seventy-two thousand seven hundred and twenty-four communicants, and fifty-six thousand five hundred and twenty-two scholars.
Missions Of The Methodist Episcopal Church.I.Foreign Missions.1.The Liberia Missionwas commenced in 1833, by the Rev. M. B. Cox, who, in a few short months after, was called to his eternal reward. His dying language was,“Though a thousand fall, Africa must not be given up.”Five other missionaries have fallen in the same field. The Liberia mission now includes an annual conference of seventeen preachers, all colored, except the superintendent and the two brethren recently sent out. It has a membership of nearly one thousand, of whom one hundred and fifty arenatives. There are thirteen day schools, in which from five hundred to six hundred children are instructed, (of whom about forty are natives, preparing for future usefulness,) fourteen churches, eight mission-houses, three school-houses, one academy, (a stone building,) and one printing-office. Total of missionaries, male and female, twenty-four.2.The Oregon Mission.—This mission was commenced by Rev. Messrs. Jason and Daniel Lee, and now numbers twenty-one missionaries, including preachers, teachers, physicians, farmers, mechanics, &c. The greater part of these were sent out in 1840, making, with their wives and children, about fifty souls—the largest missionary expedition going, at one time, from this country. They are now laying the foundations of their future work.3.The Texas Missionwas commenced by Rev. Dr. Ruter, assisted by two young preachers, who accompanied him to that country in 1837. An annual conference was established in this mission field in 1840, which now includes three regular presiding elders' districts, and eighteen stations and circuits. It numbers twenty-three travelling preachers, thirty-six local preachers, (i. e., lay preachers, who support themselves, and preach as they have opportunity) and two thousand[pg 345]seven hundred and ninety-five members. There is a college at Rutersville.II.Domestic Missions.1.German Missions.—The first German mission was established in Cincinnati, in 1835, by Rev. William Nast. There are now seventeen German missions, containing about one thousand members, in the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and New York. A German paper is published at Cincinnati, calledThe Christian Apologist, having eleven hundred subscribers.2.Indian Missions.—There are eighteen missions, and one manual labor school, among the Indians located within the bounds of Rock River, Michigan, Holston, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas conferences. These now include two thousand six hundred and seventeen native church members.3.Missions among the Slaves.—There are forty-seven of these missions in successful operation, including twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-three in church fellowship.4.Missions in Destitute Portions of the Country.—There are one hundred and eight domestic missions of this kind, which embrace twenty-three thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight church members.Aggregate.Foreign missions—sixty-three missionaries, four thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.—Domestic missions—one hundred and seventy-eight missionaries, forty-one thousand church members.—Total—two hundred and forty-one missionaries, forty-five thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.The whole amount of missionary money collected for the year ending April 20, 1842, is one hundred and five thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars; expended, one hundred and forty-nine thousand and sixty-five dollars.
I.Foreign Missions.
1.The Liberia Missionwas commenced in 1833, by the Rev. M. B. Cox, who, in a few short months after, was called to his eternal reward. His dying language was,“Though a thousand fall, Africa must not be given up.”Five other missionaries have fallen in the same field. The Liberia mission now includes an annual conference of seventeen preachers, all colored, except the superintendent and the two brethren recently sent out. It has a membership of nearly one thousand, of whom one hundred and fifty arenatives. There are thirteen day schools, in which from five hundred to six hundred children are instructed, (of whom about forty are natives, preparing for future usefulness,) fourteen churches, eight mission-houses, three school-houses, one academy, (a stone building,) and one printing-office. Total of missionaries, male and female, twenty-four.
2.The Oregon Mission.—This mission was commenced by Rev. Messrs. Jason and Daniel Lee, and now numbers twenty-one missionaries, including preachers, teachers, physicians, farmers, mechanics, &c. The greater part of these were sent out in 1840, making, with their wives and children, about fifty souls—the largest missionary expedition going, at one time, from this country. They are now laying the foundations of their future work.
3.The Texas Missionwas commenced by Rev. Dr. Ruter, assisted by two young preachers, who accompanied him to that country in 1837. An annual conference was established in this mission field in 1840, which now includes three regular presiding elders' districts, and eighteen stations and circuits. It numbers twenty-three travelling preachers, thirty-six local preachers, (i. e., lay preachers, who support themselves, and preach as they have opportunity) and two thousand[pg 345]seven hundred and ninety-five members. There is a college at Rutersville.
II.Domestic Missions.
1.German Missions.—The first German mission was established in Cincinnati, in 1835, by Rev. William Nast. There are now seventeen German missions, containing about one thousand members, in the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and New York. A German paper is published at Cincinnati, calledThe Christian Apologist, having eleven hundred subscribers.
2.Indian Missions.—There are eighteen missions, and one manual labor school, among the Indians located within the bounds of Rock River, Michigan, Holston, Missouri, Mississippi, and Arkansas conferences. These now include two thousand six hundred and seventeen native church members.
3.Missions among the Slaves.—There are forty-seven of these missions in successful operation, including twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-three in church fellowship.
4.Missions in Destitute Portions of the Country.—There are one hundred and eight domestic missions of this kind, which embrace twenty-three thousand nine hundred and fifty-eight church members.
Aggregate.
Foreign missions—sixty-three missionaries, four thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.—Domestic missions—one hundred and seventy-eight missionaries, forty-one thousand church members.—Total—two hundred and forty-one missionaries, forty-five thousand three hundred and seventeen church members.
The whole amount of missionary money collected for the year ending April 20, 1842, is one hundred and five thousand two hundred and eighty-one dollars; expended, one hundred and forty-nine thousand and sixty-five dollars.
Seventh-Day Baptist Missionary Society.The operations of this society are confined to the occasional assistance of destitute churches at home. It employs six agents and missionaries. Its receipts for 1838 were one hundred and eighty-six dollars.The Seventh-Day Baptists have also aSociety for the Promotion of Christianity among theJews, at home and abroad. It was organized in 1838.
The operations of this society are confined to the occasional assistance of destitute churches at home. It employs six agents and missionaries. Its receipts for 1838 were one hundred and eighty-six dollars.
The Seventh-Day Baptists have also aSociety for the Promotion of Christianity among theJews, at home and abroad. It was organized in 1838.
French Protestant Missionary Society.This society was formed in 1822, at the house of S. V. S. Wilder Esq., an American merchant, then residing in Paris. It has a seminary for the preparation of students. In 1829, it sent out three missionaries to their first field of labor, among the French emigrants of South Africa, and among the surrounding tribes. It had, in 1839, in South Africa, seven stations, twelve missionaries, about one hundred converts, and five hundred scholars.
This society was formed in 1822, at the house of S. V. S. Wilder Esq., an American merchant, then residing in Paris. It has a seminary for the preparation of students. In 1829, it sent out three missionaries to their first field of labor, among the French emigrants of South Africa, and among the surrounding tribes. It had, in 1839, in South Africa, seven stations, twelve missionaries, about one hundred converts, and five hundred scholars.
Netherlands Missionary Society.The principal labors of this society are expended in Dutch India and in Siam. In Dutch India they have eighteen missionaries, at thirteen stations. Of the success of this society, little is known in this country.
The principal labors of this society are expended in Dutch India and in Siam. In Dutch India they have eighteen missionaries, at thirteen stations. Of the success of this society, little is known in this country.
Scottish Missionary Society.This society was established, in 1796, by the members of the Episcopal church in Edinburgh. It has had missions in Tartary, Asia, and the West Indies. Some of them are still sustained.
This society was established, in 1796, by the members of the Episcopal church in Edinburgh. It has had missions in Tartary, Asia, and the West Indies. Some of them are still sustained.
German Missionary Society.This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Bâsle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by aukasefrom the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations,—Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.
This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Bâsle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by aukasefrom the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.
In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.
They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations,—Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.
Church Of Scotland Missions.These missions appear to be of recent date. Most of their labor is expended on Asia.Calcutta, Bombay, Poonah, and Madras, are their principal stations. Their missionaries devote a large portion of their efforts to the promotion of education.
These missions appear to be of recent date. Most of their labor is expended on Asia.
Calcutta, Bombay, Poonah, and Madras, are their principal stations. Their missionaries devote a large portion of their efforts to the promotion of education.
Rhenish Missionary Society.The successes of the London Missionary Society inspired the pious inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine with an ardent wish to imitate their zeal. Under this impulse, a society was formed, in 1828, at Barmen, on the Rhine, by a union of the previously-formed societies of Barmen, Elberfield, Cologne, and Wesel.Messrs. Gottlieb, Leipold, Zahn and Wurmb, were among their earliest missionaries. Wurmb was formerly a soldier. He fought in the battle of Leipsic as lieutenant, and obtained two medals of honor. He next studied medicine, and gained a diploma; and when he became a subject of religious influence, he laid all his honors and learning at the foot of the cross. He began his labors at Wupperthal, in South Africa, in which country are several missionaries, and four stations.
The successes of the London Missionary Society inspired the pious inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine with an ardent wish to imitate their zeal. Under this impulse, a society was formed, in 1828, at Barmen, on the Rhine, by a union of the previously-formed societies of Barmen, Elberfield, Cologne, and Wesel.
Messrs. Gottlieb, Leipold, Zahn and Wurmb, were among their earliest missionaries. Wurmb was formerly a soldier. He fought in the battle of Leipsic as lieutenant, and obtained two medals of honor. He next studied medicine, and gained a diploma; and when he became a subject of religious influence, he laid all his honors and learning at the foot of the cross. He began his labors at Wupperthal, in South Africa, in which country are several missionaries, and four stations.
Missions Of The Roman Catholic Church.We regret that it is not in our power to record the missionary efforts of the Roman Catholics. Suffice it to say that their missions extend to all countries, and that they are ardent in their zeal, indefatigable in their labors, and unsparing in their expenditures, in the propagation of the doctrines of this ancient church.
We regret that it is not in our power to record the missionary efforts of the Roman Catholics. Suffice it to say that their missions extend to all countries, and that they are ardent in their zeal, indefatigable in their labors, and unsparing in their expenditures, in the propagation of the doctrines of this ancient church.
Jews' Missionary Society.This association was formed in England, in 1808. It is patronized chiefly by ministers and members of the established church. It has forty-nine missionaries and agents, who occupy twenty-three stations in Asia and Europe. Of these missionaries, twenty-four are Jewish converts. Its receipts in 1839 were upwards of eighty thousand dollars. Three or four thousand Jews have been converted, by this and other instrumentalities, within a few years.[pg 348]In England, there is an institution for the purpose of receiving Jewish converts, and teaching them a trade. A considerable number have enjoyed its privileges.
This association was formed in England, in 1808. It is patronized chiefly by ministers and members of the established church. It has forty-nine missionaries and agents, who occupy twenty-three stations in Asia and Europe. Of these missionaries, twenty-four are Jewish converts. Its receipts in 1839 were upwards of eighty thousand dollars. Three or four thousand Jews have been converted, by this and other instrumentalities, within a few years.
In England, there is an institution for the purpose of receiving Jewish converts, and teaching them a trade. A considerable number have enjoyed its privileges.
Indians.As great efforts are making, by almost all classes of Christians to spread the benign influence of the gospel among the red men on our borders, it may not be amiss to state their locations, numbers, &c. &c.Mr. McCoy, in his valuable“Annual Register of Indian Affairs,”published at Shawanoe, in the Indian Territory, makes many important statements respecting this highly-interesting people.He says that the number of Indians north of Mexico may be fairly estimated at one million eight hundred thousand. He estimates the population of the tribes east and west of the Mississippi as follows:—Tribes East Of Mississippi River.Indians in New England and New York4,715Indians from New York, at Green Bay725Wyandots, in Ohio and Michigan623Miamies1,200Winnebagoes4,591Chippewas6,793Ottawas and Chippewas of Lake Michigan5,300Chippewas, Ottawas, and Putawatomies8,000Putawatomies1,400Menominees4,200Creeks23,668Cherokees10,000Chickasaws5,429Choctaws3,500Seminoles2,420Appalachicolas340Total81,904Tribes West Of Mississippi River.Sioux27,500Iowas1,200Sauks of Missouri500Sauks and Foxes6,400Assinaboines8,000Crees3,000Camanches7,000Crows4,500Arrepahas, Kiawas, &c.1,400Caddoes800Snake and other tribes within the Rocky Mountains20,000Gros-ventres3,000Arrekaras3,000Cheyennes2,000Minatarees1,500Mandans1,500Black Feet30,000Tribes west of Rocky Mountains80,000Total201,300[pg 349]The above tribes, although within the territory of the United States, are not within what is commonly called the Indian Territory.Mr. McCoy states the names and numbers of the indigenous and emigrant tribes within the Indian Territory, so called, as follow:—Indigenous Tribes.Osage5,510Kauzau, or Kansas1,684Otoe and Missouria1,600Omaha1,400Pawnee10,000Puncah800Quapau450Total21,444Emigrant Tribes.Choctaw15,000Cherokee4,000Creek3,600Seneca and Shawanoo of Neosho462Wea225Piankasha119Peoria and Kaskaskias135Ottawa81Shawanoe of Kauzau River764Delaware856Kickapoo603Putawatomie444Emigrant26,289Indigenous21,444Total47,733Among the population of the emigrant tribes are included thirteen hundred and fifty negro slaves.Mr. McCoy estimates that, of the one million eight hundred thousand Indians in North America, about seventy thousand may be classed with civilized man, having in greater or less degrees advanced towards civilization.By the Indian Territory is meant the country within the following limits, viz.: Beginning on Red River, on the Mexican boundary, and as far west of the state of Arkansas as the country is habitable; thence down Red River, eastwardly, along the Mexican boundary to Arkansas; thence northwardly, along the line of Arkansas, to the state of Missouri; thence north, along its western line, to Missouri River; thence up Missouri River to Puncah River; thence westerly as far as the country is habitable; thence southwardly to the place of beginning.
As great efforts are making, by almost all classes of Christians to spread the benign influence of the gospel among the red men on our borders, it may not be amiss to state their locations, numbers, &c. &c.
Mr. McCoy, in his valuable“Annual Register of Indian Affairs,”published at Shawanoe, in the Indian Territory, makes many important statements respecting this highly-interesting people.
He says that the number of Indians north of Mexico may be fairly estimated at one million eight hundred thousand. He estimates the population of the tribes east and west of the Mississippi as follows:—
Tribes East Of Mississippi River.
Tribes West Of Mississippi River.
The above tribes, although within the territory of the United States, are not within what is commonly called the Indian Territory.
Mr. McCoy states the names and numbers of the indigenous and emigrant tribes within the Indian Territory, so called, as follow:—
Indigenous Tribes.
Emigrant Tribes.
Among the population of the emigrant tribes are included thirteen hundred and fifty negro slaves.
Mr. McCoy estimates that, of the one million eight hundred thousand Indians in North America, about seventy thousand may be classed with civilized man, having in greater or less degrees advanced towards civilization.
By the Indian Territory is meant the country within the following limits, viz.: Beginning on Red River, on the Mexican boundary, and as far west of the state of Arkansas as the country is habitable; thence down Red River, eastwardly, along the Mexican boundary to Arkansas; thence northwardly, along the line of Arkansas, to the state of Missouri; thence north, along its western line, to Missouri River; thence up Missouri River to Puncah River; thence westerly as far as the country is habitable; thence southwardly to the place of beginning.