This small but interesting community was formed in 1838. It has received ministerial assistance from the Missionary Society at different times, although deprived of the services of a settled pastor.
Elihu Robinson officiated as licentiate in this place for a short period.
EXTINCT CHURCHES.
In 1820, a branch of the Berlin Church was organized in Fox Township, Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, which continued for several years in a flourishing condition. In 1822, John Bliss was ordained to the work of the ministry, and subsequently Jeremiah Bliss was returned as licentiate. But many evil influences were at work, which this church, always weak and feeble, was unable to withstand. Its decline may be dated from 1832, since which period it gradually sunk, its members removed into other parts, and finally it ceased to exist.
It may be conceded that neither legal enactments, penal statutes, nor popular customs, can suppress the course of truth, or prevent the exercise of its legitimate effects upon the minds of men. The progress of our denomination, notwithstanding the adverse circumstances and many disadvantages under which we have laboured, has been steady and unceasing; and although many of our churches are in a state of infancy, their numbers are respectable, and their influence considerable.
Many ministers who have arisen in these fraternities, have removed thence into other parts. Ministers distinguished for evangelical enterprise and fervent zeal, some of whom have been among the first pioneers of the gospel in the western regions.
In connexion with these churches are some very efficient High Schools, and one Literary Institution of a higher class. It is true that these institutions are not of a theological character; nevertheless, they are important appendages of the denomination, and, if well managed, will become what is most needed, and will confer immense benefits upon the community at large. The general diffusion of knowledge will elevate the moral and intellectual standard, and will be the sure forerunner of higher ministerial attainments, and the better management of the churches.
SECTION VI.
WESTERN ASSOCIATION.
The churches embraced in this Association, are situated on what was formerly considered missionary ground, although some of them are at present among the most efficient bodies in the denomination. The principal ornament of this section is the Alfred Academy, a very flourishing literary institution, of a high classical character. It appears to have originated from a High School, and went into operation two or three years previous to the De Ruyter Institute.