Bethel Baptist Institutional Church of Jacksonville, Florida, the oldest Baptist church in the state, is claimed by both white and black members. As related by one historian: “Instituted in 1838 by James McDonald and Ryan Frier, who served as co-pastors, Bethel Baptist’s congregation numbered six charter members including two slaves called Bacchus and Peggy. Church…
Today the New England Freedmen’s Aid Society convenes in Boston for its annual meeting. Founded on February 4, 1862, the northern, Christian-based Society provides teachers to educate freedmen. Initially based out of Port Royal, South Carolina, the Society in the ensuing years established schools in other Union-controlled areas such as the District of Columbia; Beaufort,…
The 112th New York, comprised of men from Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties, was organized in September 1862. The 112th New York is now commanded by Colonel Jeremiah C. Drake, formerly pastor of the Westfield Baptist Church, New York. Born in 1824 and a native of Herkimer County, at the age of 16 Drake felt called…