REV. W. S. ALEXANDER, D.D.
The death of Dr. Alexander removes one who, in other years, occupied an important position in the mission service of this Association. Dr. Alexander was president of Straight University during a difficult and important period. He made his impression upon the institution, developing the work internally both intensively and extensively. He was an earnest student and encouraged scholarship among the students. His large influence was felt among the churches of lower Louisiana. He became something of a bishop in the Congregational work in that state. His judgment was wise and wholesome and his counsel always helpful. His name is held in esteem, almost in reverence, by many of the colored people of that region even to this day.
Dr. Alexander was born in East Killingly, Conn., August 29, 1835. He was a graduate of Yale College and Andover Theological Seminary. He held important pastorates in Connecticut and Wisconsin prior to the war. He served under the Christian Commission with the Army of the Potomac. He went abroad in 1872 and took charge of twelve free churches in Italy. Returning from that country, he accomplished fruitful missionary service in the South. In 1886, he became pastor of the North Avenue Congregational Church, in Cambridge, Mass., and served in this capacity until 1890. Since retiring from active pastoral duties he has ministered to churches in various cities, most acceptably to the people and with fruitful results.