REV. EDWARD MANNING'S VISITS TO ST. JOHN IN 1800 OR 1805.
THE REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL in his autobiography says: “After the organization of the church at Waterborough, in the autumn of 1800, Mr. Manning on returning from a visit up the St. John River stayed some time in St. John and baptized converts.” He also thought that Mr. Manning organized a church here, and if so, our history goes back to 1800 instead of 1810. It is therefore probable that it was in the autumn of 1800, instead of 1805—the year named by Dr. Bill—that the first baptisms took place here. At the time of Mr. Manning’s first visit, there was no Baptist place of worship or Baptist family in the city. Mr. Manning had been directed by a friend to call on Mr. George Harding, son of Captain William Harding. He did so, and was most kindly received. Mr. George Harding lived at the lower end of Germain street, and invited the young minister to preach in his house. His father, Captain Harding, who lived on Dock Street, also placed his house at Mr. Manning’s service. Captain Lovitt, Mrs. Harper, Mr. A. Magee, and a colored sister—Amy Nickson—all opened their houses to the preaching of God’s word. As a result of these services, a revival followed and many began to inquire what they should do to be saved. The preacher pointed them to the Lamb of God as the only remedy, and several professed conversion. Two of Captain Harding’s daughters and his son George were among the number—the latter being the first person baptized by immersion in this city.