What follows is the autobiography of Ben Ober, a 19th century pastor, which details his family’s trials in Texas in the middle 1800’s as missionaries. Starting his mission work in the waxing years before the Civil war, tensions were high, and the strange group of “Winebrennarians” were viewed with suspicion from the very start. When the Texan people realized Ober’s home denomination espoused abolitionist sentiments, his very life and that of his family's, hung in the balance. Ben Ober’s life is tumultuous, like a roller coaster careening on and off it’s tracks, his ministry efforts swing wildly from success to failure and back again. His story, told with remarkable clarity and brevity, let’s each triumph, each disaster, and each melancholic moment rest lightly next to each other, and paints a picture of a man altogether humble or perhaps humbled by his manifold experiences. Likewise, afterward, we allow the contemporaries to speak to the life of Rev. Ober. This is a long post, but well worth your time.
Directly below, read Jim W. Moss Sr.'s introduction to the initial publication of Ben Ober's autobiography. Jim W. Moss Sr. passed away March 4th, 2024.
(This chapter has been included because it tells the story of a 19th century church planter. It needed to be shared. Ober cites the planting of 15 churches in this work. In addition, I have found at least two others he doesn't mention here. People frequently ask, "Wasn't it easier to start churches in times past?" After reading this chapter, I believe you'll answer ''No" with me. It may have been different but not easier. Let me suggest that Ober wasn't typical. But then, church planters don't tend to fall into a single mold. Only modest editorial changes have been made to make the text more readable. G. W. Seilhammer, a slightly younger contemporary, wrote of Ober on October 18, 1893, "It was a great satisfaction to our Maryland brethren to see and hear one whose record as a pioneer missionary is unequaled by any living man in the body. He should be honored by every good man and woman that can appreciate self-sacrifice for the extension and building up of the Church of God. And now as the shadows of life are lengthening, and he is nearing the setting of the sun, he should have many evidences from the brethren of their appreciation of the long and useful life devoted to the Church and her interests." It would have surprised Seilhammer to know that Ober would live and work another 18 years. Ober wrote this autobiography in 1902 and died in 1911. This text was taking from a roughly typed copy in possession of the Churches of God Archives taken from Ober 's handwritten copy. I am expressing my appreciation to Ben Ober by including this so the story continues to be read I believe this to be the first formal publication of this complete document. JWM)
I was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania January 8, 1824. My grandparents on my father's side came from Switzerland. They were among the earliest settlers of the Pennsylvania Colony. Their first title for land came from King James and was signed by one of the Penns. The family was very wealthy in Switzerland. There is at this time a legacy of over six million dollars due the family. They were members of the old Mennonite Church. My grandfather and five uncles on my father's side were ministers in the Reformed Dunkard Church which was known as the River Brethren.
My grandparents on my mother's side were of French descent. One uncle on Mother's side was a member of the same church and continued in that faith until his death. Father died at the age of 76 and mother at the age of 85 years. She was father's second wife. I was the eldest of nine children. All are dead except myself and two sisters (1902). There were also two children by my father's first wife.
My father moved to Indiana County, Pennsylvania when I was in my 12th year (1836), which was at that time a rough frontier country. He bought an unimproved farm there. I attended school only nine months of my life, but I was fond of books and studied at every opportunity. When in my 12th year, I read the Bible very thoroughly for a youth.
I also read several theological books. The latter however were not very orthodox. One Emmanuel Suedeberg's, System of Religion. Another, Pros and Cons of Universalism. I was of a religious mind and from my youth desired to be a servant of God. To attend church and hear the teaching of the Bible was my greatest delight. I criticized closely what I heard from ministers and Christians and became greatly interested in becoming a Christian. But I kept this matter to myself and studied the Bible very closely, especially the doctrine of the different churches. I found all wanting in some parts of doctrines taught by the different ministers; were contradictory, differing one from the other. This confused me greatly and skepticism presented itself very strongly in my mind, but as I continued to study God's word I was soon cured of skeptical views. I knew there must be Bible doctrine taught somewhere and again searched for church doctrine to compare with that taught by Christ.
After some weeks I heard of a strange, persecuted people called "Winebrennarians." I had become disgusted with different sects and concluded this was another one sprung up to delude the people. Hearing one of those ministers was to preach about 6 miles from where I was, I concluded to attend. Arriving there I found a large number, who like myself had assembled to hear the “strange doctrine.”
The minister was introduced to us as Elder J. M. Kline, who delivered a fine sermon. I could find nothing strange in his sermon as he did not preach church doctrine, but remarks were made that were different from those I had ever heard. I tried to criticize them but found them to agree with the teaching of Christ.
About two months later, I heard that a camp meeting was to be held by that same "strange people.” When the time came, a company started for the meeting on Saturday afternoon. We arrived just as Brother Elder D. Wertz commenced preaching, from the text O house of Israel, why will you die? It proved to be a good revival discourse. A large number were converted. The next day, Elder Jos. A. Dobson delivered a powerful sermon from the text, The Straight Gate. This sermon was different from anything I had ever heard before.
In the afternoon, sermons were delivered by Elders S. Engle, and J. M. Kline. The former's text, Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? The latter's, Fear not little flock. The latter sermon was delivered in German. Kline's theme was the union of all the children of Christ. Both were good sermons. This enlightened me some on the cause that produced sectarianism. For the evening, Elder Jacob Linninger preached from the text, If the righteous are scarcely saved. A large number were converted during the day. I could remain no longer than the evening sermon. So I walked the 10 miles home. This meeting was held in 1843.
After that my mind was settled pertaining to the Sectarian question. Those ministers mentioned nothing of the basis of church order, but contended for the Bible alone. There were no comments or definitions as a rule of faith and practice.
This left me without an excuse. I resolved to give my life to the service of God. Yet there always seems to be a conflict when a person resolves to do right. The evil side presents itself. There may be some misunderstandings that will make us ashamed of ourselves for a time. At that time, the subject of religion was considered of little importance in the neighborhood in which I lived. I did not attempt to make a public profession.
I went home from Indiana County to Bedford County where I found an organization of the Church of God under the pastorate of Elder Jacob Linninger. I attended services there as well as at other denominations. In January of 1844 I attended prayer meeting services in a small private dwelling conducted by David Hoover. Hoover is now in Iowa. At this meeting I resolved to do my Master's will, arose without an invitation and asked the prayers of God's people. I soon found that peace which comes to the mind if sought for. I made a public confession and at once realized that with the heart we believe unto righteousness. With the mouth confession is made unto salvation. After my conversion the greatest difficulty in my way was the effort made to proselyte me by the different sects. I concluded not to unite with any organization until I understood the New Testament to agree with some organization. By so doing I became convinced that the ordinances of baptism, feet washing, and communion were plainly taught and again that very few of the ministers taught all three observances.
Being raised under the Dunkard faith I investigated that entire church government and could not understand it to agree with the teaching of the Bible. The main thing being the triune immersion. I learned by reading the New Testament that baptism was the emblem of the burial and resurrection of Christ. It was not the door to the church as taught by them and other denominations. I then became convinced it was my duty to be baptized if I could find someone who would baptize me as I understood it.
I attended services in Woodbury, where a young lady was to be baptized. A place had been prepared where the ice was cut in the shape of a tomb. The ice was about 12 inches thick. After examining the baptism site, I went to the house where the minister, A. J. Linninger, and candidates were. Before the services, he asked me if I was not willing to obey the Lord in baptism. I answered that l was, and explained my understanding of it as before stated. I was informed that the Church of God did not teach baptism to be a door to the church. After being informed of this I yielded and was baptized and greatly blessed. Some time after I united with the Church of God at Woodbury, Pennsylvania taking the Bible as the only rule of faith and practice. I would practice it the same as I understood it and be known as a member of the Church of God.
At this time the church was sorely persecuted. Members of the Church of God had to face the opposition of Sectarianism. Most of them were poor in the things of this world. It required great courage to be numbered with the despised Nazarenes.
In the spring of 1844, I was married to Elizabeth Barnett who was one of the first members of the Church of God at Woodbury. I continued to worship at this place about one year. During that time a church house was erected of limestone rock in which good revivals were held. The ministers were Elders G. A. Ham and C. Price.
From this place I moved to Martinsburg, Pennsylvania where I remained a year. I attended church with Elder J. H. Bamberger as minister. During my stay there I heard a number of the old pioneer ministers and formed an organization with Father John Winebrenner. He was the first man who spoke to me on the subject of entering the ministry. I mentioned that I had to support my family and that my education was limited. He told me to trust in the Lord, do my part and I would be qualified for the work before me. Those kind words spoken by that good man still linger in my memory.
From the time of my conversion, I took upon myself the duty of studying the fore-part of the night. I often walked one mile into the mountains by starlight, chopped wood, went home by starlight and studied until midnight. In this way I qualified myself to commence the ministerial work.
From Martinsburg, I moved again to Indiana County, Pennsylvania and united with the Church of God at Grass Hill of which Elder J. M. Kline had charge. Without request they granted me a Church License and I was urged to pastor and others to exhort in public which I felt unqualified to do as I did not want to undertake to teach others in matters I could not explain. By continuing my studies I soon ventured to speak in public. A year later I attended the Eldership in what is now Barkeyville, Pennsylvania, where I was granted a license. I was appointed to travel with Elder J. Hickernell on the Westmoreland County Circuit which included parts of Indiana, Fayette, Cambria, and Summit Counties. There were only two very common churches in the entire circuit. Old Bethany was called the metropolis of the Church of God on our work. During the first year we had very interesting meetings and many conversions. The next year, Elder Hickernell, W.M. Vance, and I were appointed to travel the same circuit. During that year's work, I opened appointments at Mill Creek and Hoover's Furnace. I organized churches at both places. Mill Creek was the place Elder W. J. Davis united with the Church of God and the fall of the same year received a license at the Eldership. I was appointed to the W. Virginia Mission work opened by Elder D. Wertz, including the church work at Winder Gap, Pennsylvania. I moved on this circuit in the spring. We lost all our clothing on the steamboat going there.
The first year I organized two churches. I was young in the ministerial work. It was difficult to follow older and more qualified ministers as I was under. I was in this work 18 months and resigned. It had ten appointments. A number of the places I preached for occasionally. Owing to my neglect in collecting and others in paying, my subscriptions (salary) were not received. I had spent about $700 of my own earnings to do church work and my family were almost out of clothing and the necessities of life. I prepared to work and pay off my debts.
I worked at the shoe trade I had learned before. Mrs. Ober taught a term of school, afterward attended a small store, which was attached to our dwelling. In a short time we had paid our debt. During that time I opened what was known as the Wheeling Mission. I also filled four regular appointments. I often walked ten miles on Saturday afternoon, preached in the evening, two sermons on Sunday and walked home from where I preached on Sunday night. Several times I walked to the church at Antioch, the distance was 25 miles. I organized two churches, the one at Antioch and one at Proctor, W. Virginia.
My health was too poor to do so much indoor work. I decided to move to Antioch and work at the nail keg business. There was a large interest manifested in the mission work at that place. I was presented by Jos. Marple, with property enough to erect a small house on. By this time I had obtained enough to prepare me for travelling. I had my family comfortably located.
The first church was erected at Antioch, W. Virginia. After that the mission work demanded all my time and for several years after that I made preaching my exclusive business. I organized a church in Moundsville, W. Va., and one at Harrisville, Ohio. At that time the mission work was in a flourishing condition and I was well supported. There were 100 substantial members. A few of them still survive. Several churches have since been established.
How I rejoiced to hear of prosperity in the different elderships, especially by the fields I once labored on and have not forgotten. When I first became a member of the church there were only two elderships in the U.S., but I have lived to see the time when the Church of God is prospering and which I hope will gain a far wider appeal. Now (1902), seventeen elderships of my knowledge are meeting each year.
From that place I went to Texas as a missionary, appointed by the Board of Missions of the East Pennsylvania Eldership in 1856, the particulars of which will appear in the following pages.
In 1854 letters appeared in the Church of God Advocate asking that a missionary be sent to Texas by the church. The first letters were written by Father Jos. Cunningham, who with his family moved to Texas some time before. All were members of the Church of God except his son David, the only one now living. He was later converted and is now a member of the church. In 1855 another company of church members moved to Texas from Pennsylvania. During that year urgent letters again appeared in the Advocate for a missionary in Texas. This led some of the brethren of the East Pennsylvania eldership to subscribe a certain amount of money, agreeing to pay it annually for five years to help support a missionary in Texas. The names and amounts subscribed can be found by referring to the Advocate in 1855. A call was made for someone to volunteer as missionary to Texas. I received a letter from Elder Winebrenner asking me to go. In answer, I informed him that I was arranging to go to Iowa in a year or two and did not think I was suitable for a missionary, but would give the matter thought. In a short time, I received another letter urging me to accept the appointment, which I agreed to do on the following conditions: I. My expenses were paid to get there. 2. The Board of Missions were to make up what was yet needed for support for five years. 3. And if, at any time during the five years they wished to discontinue me as missionary they would pay expenses back if I wished to return. These conditions were accepted by the East Pennsylvania Eldership. I made an effort to secure someone to go with me to be of assistance and company. Elder Winebrenner had informed me that part of his expenses would be paid if an assistant could be secured. Elder E. Marple agreed to go on those terms. I told him to prepare as I would be ready after making a visit to the East. I needed to converse with the Board on the subject of slavery, which already existed in Texas, and other things pertaining to the mission work. However, I failed to see any except Elder Winebrenner who was chairman of the Board. I succeeded in getting the amount for Elder Marple and insisted on Brother Winebrenner to use his influence in having Elder Marple appointed as a missionary in Texas. This was done at the General Eldership, May 6, 1856.
We bid adieu to friends in the city of Wheeling, W. Virginia. We then took passage on the steamer Exchange owned by Mr. T. Fink. His wife was a member of the church I organized in Grail Bottom, W. Va. He showed liberality by taking us to Cincinnati for half-fare. As we moved out in the Ohio river, our two eldest daughters sang "Farewell to Old Wheeling" to music suited for the occasion, which aroused emotions that will never be forgotten by me. As we sailed slowly down the beautiful river, I realized the distance of our field of labor from home and friends, and began to review the great responsibility, the many deprivations, and the sacrifices we would have to make. It was only by relying on the promise of God who said, Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end, that gave me courage in the trying hours then begun. After a while, my attention was attracted by the beautiful scenery that came to view as we moved down the Mississippi River to the Crescent City, in the sunny South.
We went from Cincinnati on the steamer Landes, a mailboat to New Orleans. Just before reaching the city an accident happened. The cylinder head of the boiler blew off killing the engineer and seriously injuring another man. The midsummer fruits of the South were quite a contrast to the chilly winds of the North we left only a week before. In that city, persons from all civilized nations could be seen and all languages heard spoken. For the first time we saw a ship landing from the Mother Land. (Germany)
After spending two days waiting for a boat and enjoying the scenes of the city, we took passage on the steamer Catherine Hays under the charge of Capt. Weigh of Indiana. We ended our course up the Red River. No accidents happened and that was considered a pleasant trip.
From Shreveport, Louisiana, we had to travel by private conveyance. In that dusty and dirty city we began the hardships of southern frontier mission work. After spending the night in the city at a boarding house conducted by a French Creole lady, who had a number of slaves. We succeeded in getting a hack (horse-drawn taxi) to take us to Jefferson City, Texas, which was 50 miles distant. We made the trip in two days. There, I preached my first sermon in Texas. The next morning Elder Marple went to a livery stable to get a conveyance to take us to Paris, Texas. This was our place of destination. He was informed that no conveyance could be had until the next day and was quoted a price we could not pay. That left us in difficult circumstances in a strange country. We all felt discouraged. But after thinking and secret prayer, we decided that all would be right. I went to the proprietor of the livery stable and explained our circumstances. He at once agreed to take us to Paris and said he would wait for the money until we could get it. After dinner we started for Paris in a more happy frame of mind. We had found a friend in that strange land. We arrived in Paris at eleven o'clock on June 1, 1856. Our trip from Paris to Shreveport cost us $100.50. That took all our money and left us some in debt and our goods 100 miles away. The Board advanced us $100.00 and Elder Marple $80.00.
The city of Paris, Texas, then was a mere village. Present-day missionaries should ponder over the past. High notions prompted us not to give up.
After we ate our dinner and procured a room for our families in the Newby Hotel, Elder Marple and I started into the country where we were informed that a few of the church members dwelt. After we had walked 7 miles, we found them in the neighborhood of North Sulphur. We stayed with Elder J.E. Cunningham one night. We returned to Paris and Monday and Tuesday evening I delivered my first sermon in my mission work in a brick house belonging to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church which had just been completed. I delivered the last sermon in that house. It soon fell (closed) and for several years Paris was without a church.
On Wednesday, accompanied by our families, we went into the country where the brethren of the church lived. There we found another friend in the person of K. McClean who loaned us some money to get our goods and assisted us until we could get money from the Board. We located in the country as no house could be secured in Paris. On the third Sunday in June 1856, we organized the first Church of God in Texas. It was 7 miles southwest of Paris, Texas, in a log school house named Liberty. The following were the first officers and members: J. E. Cunningham, elder; John Stankard, deacon; Mrs. Eliza Vincent, Elizabeth Rogers, Elizabeth Ober, Elder Marple and wife, and myself.
Our first revival meeting was held in a grove near the Liberty School house. It began on the first Saturday in July 1856 at which a number were converted. At this meeting, Elder James M. Brackeen, one of the best citizens of Lamar County and a former class leader of the Methodist Episcopal Church, united with the church. All the new converts united with us and the membership numbered 35. During the first year, a church was also organized at Round Prairie, in the forks of Sulphur Creek and in Fannin County. These were our first appointments. There was splendid interest manifested and prospects for our success were good until the spring of 1857 when letters appeared in the Church Advocate on the subject of slavery which were copied and published in papers over the State of Texas. That roused fierce opposition against us and hedged our way and made it unsafe for us to go away from home for some time. Had it not been for the defense of our position by Elder J. Winebrenner, we would have lost our lives by mobs. Sectarians used their influence to make the people more opposed to us.
The editors were unwilling to publish anything to defend us against the misrepresentations of the church doctrine without being paid very high publicity rates. In the "T of Paris" I had published the date when I would defend myself and the church doctrine. I was notified that if I came to town to fill this appointment l would be hanged. My friends advised me to stay away. I felt that if I did not go, I would be compelled to leave the country and then be followed by the mob and in the end, killed.
So I concluded to go, as I would rather die defending God's work than to be a coward. On the Sunday morning of the date appointed, I started away from my home with a strange feeling and thought which I can never forget. As my family stood in the door watching me as far as eye could discern and I looked back before leaving their sight and seeing my companion with four helpless children waving their hands, my courage for a time almost failed. But, then out of sight, I lifted my hands and stood for a moment in silent prayer to Him who doeth all things well. I asked him to direct my steps and my family and if it were His will to be spared with them. This aroused new courage to do right and I started on. Just as I reached the outskirts of town, I was overtaken by Elder Cunningham, Father S. Hunter who was not then a member of the church but afterwards united with us and remained steadfast to the end, and Mr. Wm. Miner and wife. These brethren tried to persuade me not to go any farther, but I did not yield. I shall never forget these true friends who have now entered the Spirit Land.
When I reached the town, I stopped at a hotel but the landlord would not let me come in, nor hitch my horse at his place. He said there was an excitement of some kind among the people against me. He wished in no way to be implicated in it. When the time came for my appointment which had been set at 3:00 p.m., Mr. Miner rang the bell when I reached the house. There was a large, excited crowd around it and it was locked. I was notified to leave or I would lose my life and that I should not attempt to speak. I told them I would speak whatever the cost might be and if the house were not unlocked I would speak on the steps.
By this time the Rev. Bradley, who was minister of the Presbyterian Church, came with the key and told me as a friend he would not advise me to speak. However, I was determined to do so. He opened the door and I went inside. The crowd followed. The room was so full that even all the standing room was crowded. Rev. Bradley was principle of the school taught in that house. He proved to be a true friend. I preached from the text, "Let these men alone.” I was prepared and gave a full history of the church I was defending, also her doctrine concerning slavery with some publications of Brother Winebrenner and the resolutions offered in our behalf at the General Eldership.
After I finished speaking, I stated to the crowd that if I were hanged, I had only one request to make, which I hoped would not be denied, that I would leave the New Testament that I then placed in my pocket. Ever let it be remembered that I died defending the same, as I understood it. Then I told the mob I was ready to go with them. I was not disturbed.
After that, the Texas papers gave us favorable notice and matters calmed. The church near home progressed. A good bethel was built 7 miles west of Paris. An Eldership was organized in the summer of 1857.
But the excitement kept growing in regard to the slavery question. We dared not venture far from home. In addition to all those difficulties, our support was withheld from us and we were again left penniless. As we were compelled to make a support for our families, I went to Paris to look for work of some nature. I did not like to engage in anything that would prevent me from church work. I met the editor of the paper who had first assailed us. He offered the outfit to me and a Mr. L. S. Gooding, a practical printer, at what we termed reasonable rates. We made the purchase and started a family paper which proved to be a good investment that gave us an opportunity to defend ourselves. The church work progressed and I traveled anywhere with perfect safety. Quite a number were added to the church and many new preaching points were opened for us.
In 1860, I was compelled to take sides in politics or others would have been published. As I was determined not to become involved with the exciting political issues, I sold my paper, with the privilege of publishing a small semi-monthly religious paper called "The Bible Advocate." This was not particularly a church paper but as a personal enterprise to defend ourselves with.
The war was soon upon us and things became very dull financially in Paris. About that time we were in the midst of a revival in the Forks of Sulphur Church which was one of my appointments. The members insisted on me to move my family among them. I realized that hard times and a terrible war were before us.
I sold all my real estate in Paris on credit, most of which I lost, purchased a farm, which consisted of 140 acres in the Forks of the Sulphur. I paid $100.00 down when I got possession, the balance of $700.00 was to be paid in one, two, and three years. As I had $1000.00 due from the paper, I concluded I could readily pay for the farm. Before the first payment was made, “the Stay Law" was passed and no debts could be collected. I was out a home and no way to make a support for my farilily. There was a great demand for boots, shoes, and bridles for army purposes. I concluded to work at that and soon succeeded in paying the first payment then took possession of the farm. I attended four appointments, (churches) the most distant was 25 miles and the closest was 6 miles away. I worked in the shop and soon paid for my home.
Confederate money was issued after the Confederate government was formed. There was quite a financial flush and everything was calm. Church work moved along without interruption for a time, but soon the Southern army met with defeat. The minds of the people became excited. All classes of people came to Texas for refuge. Mobs gathered at different places. Persons were hanged who were charged with disloyalty.
I lived in the prairie at the edge of a dense forest, which was a hiding place for mobs. As that place was principally settled by people from the North, the mob came frequently and inquired for them and pretended to watch different ones. People were arrested and tried by the leader of the mob. Sure death followed if the leader wished to take the person's life. Henry Thomas, James Howard, Henry Howard, and two brothers by the name of Henby were hanged within 2 miles of our place.
Henry Howard united with the church but a few weeks before his death. He was formerly a member and licensed minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He expected to get a license at the next meeting of the Standing Committee of the Church of God. Thomas Howard was the father of the Elder M. Howard, a member of the Texas-Arkansas Elderslμp.
I attended the trial that condemned them. That was the only mob-trial I ever attended during my stay in Texas. I would not have been present had I understood what was happening. The day of the trial, a neighbor came by and urged me to accompany him. He told me who the men were. As business compelled me to go there in a few days, I concluded to go. When we got to the village, we were informed the trial would be in a house near the Sulphur Bridge. We went to the place with the impression that is was a legal trial.
There was a large, excited crowd at the bank of the creek at a secluded spot by a log fire. There were 7 men under arrest and the trial had just begun, conducted by a mob. We were placed under guard as soon as we reached the place. No one was allowed to leave until evening. Two were ordered into the army. Five were sentenced to be hanged at 11 :00 p.m. the next day. They were arrested on Thursday, sentenced on Friday and executed on Saturday without giving them an opportunity to give testimony in their favor. I was called as the last witness. I tried to be excused. But, if a man refused to be examined, a rope was placed around his neck and he was made to testify under those circumstances.
I took the witness stand. The last question asked was, "Do you consider these men dangerous to our country?" Other witnesses had just answered in the affirmative. I could not truthfully do so. I tried to avoid answering it. But, was asked for a 'plain yes or no. I answered in the negative. When the prosecuting attorney used some authority by asking me why I had answered different from all the rest? I told him, "I had heard no testimony to prove them dangerous." That answer put my life in danger.
The next day I went back, thinking perhaps the excitement might have calmed down. I hoped to plead for a new trial as some of the men had said they would call on me. But all their courage failed at the appointed time. To offer help without being called would mean certain death. The five men were driven under the gallows in a wagon which was prepared by propping a pole against two tres standing close together by two forks about ten feet high. A flat joist about six inches wide was placed the same way a little above the wagon bed. The ropes were put around their necks by a noted horse thief and murderer who had broken jail to escape justice. When all was ready, twenty minutes were given for them to make any statement they wished. All spoke of their innocence. They requested that their small children be told they died innocently defending the cause of the union which they deemed right. After they all talked some time, Henry Howard began praying. When I supposed him to be about half through his prayer, the men were dropped. The last sentence spoken by that martyr was a prayer for his enemies.
That was one of the saddest scenes I ever witnessed. Some of the men's wives had come a few hours before their execution but were driven away without being able to see their loved ones. The bodies were removed from the gallows by men who were cursing and swearing. I have never been able to erase that horrible sight from my mind.
That same night the mob met and my name was mentioned with four others for arrest. Fortunately, a friend notified me that I was accused of disloyalty because of the testimony I gave. A friend of the other four was permitted to see them. If they went to war immediately, they could be saved. Three of them went to the army. That left Elder J. A. Connady who was accused of being a coward because he was a young man and would not enter the Southern army at the direction of the mob.
It also left me in a perilous condition as I was compelled to leave or try some means to disband the mob. If I succeeded in getting away from them, my family would be in a strange country with no means of support. I concluded to try to disband the mob.
On Friday before they were to meet the following Monday, I went to an appointment I had at Old Bethel near Paris where W. B. Miner lived. He was a Justice of the Peace at that time. I stated the case to him and he agreed to go with me on the day the mob was to meet if I succeeded in getting a sufficient number of men to go along and arrest the mob should they resist. I recruited sufficient men. Mr. Miner ordered the mob to disband and not to attempt to make any more arrests. They disbanded and that stopped any further trouble in that vicinity as far as mobs were concerned.
We had peace for a short time. A church was organized in Woods Prairie. Times had become so turbulent in the Forks of Sulphur that I sold my farm and moved back to Paris. I lost nearly all the money made by the transaction. I was paid in Confederate money and it was all called in by what was known as a bonding account. Bonds were given to be paid in a new issue but were never paid.
We made all our clothing that we wore during the war. We carded the wool and cotton on hand cards which cost $10.00 in gold and $25.00 in Confederate money.
I lived near Paris one year and preached most of that time. In 1865 we moved to Woods Prairie. The Churches of God at that time numbered more than 200 (in Texas). About 400 were fellowshipped from the time the Texas Mission opened until the close of the war. Up to that time 12 were licensed to preach. The names of two were dropped, one died, two left during the war and were never heard from.
At the end of the war, finances were extremely poor. I had lost all that I owned in Texas but still had a little land in West Virginia. I wished to know something about it and the thoughts of the people in the North regarding the church work in Texas.
At the General Eldership previous to the war, the Board agreed to pay me back dues amounting to $500.00. I had only received $170.00. I arranged for the care of my family. I left Shreveport, Louisiana, on November 11, 1865. I traveled through New Orleans arriving in Cincinnati after 22 days on the water. From Cincinnati, I went to St. Paul, Indiana. I had relatives living there before the war. I then learned that two brothers and two uncles had died during that time. Two brothers and two uncles were still living. My father was almost helpless from paralysis. I preached at St. Paul before a large congregation.
From St. Paul, I went to West Virginia near the city of Wheeling. I held a short meeting at Antioch, where I had left for Texas ten years before. Some of the members had died. Others had moved away, while a few had made shipwreck of their faith. Elder AC. Rasar was pastor in charge at the time.
A report had come to them that I had been hanged during the war. They all thought it true until they saw me at their church house. From there I went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, stopping for a few days with J. Hickernell. I then went to the old home in Indiana County, Pa. My father was in a helpless condition and very childish. He remembered me after being told who I was. Mother was enjoying good health. I also saw three sisters who lived there.
I preached a few times in the old Baptist Church that stands about two miles from my father's old homestead. The old-fashioned church house was built of hewed logs with an old-fashioned pulpit built against the wall midway between the ceiling and floor. That was the second church house I ever attended Sunday School while yet a small child. I can never forget the kindness of Father Arthur, Supt. of the school. I also heard many of the pioneer ministers of the Baptist Church of West Virginia in that church. They were Thomas E. Thomas, Morris Bell, and Dr. Van Shadwick. The latter's son Rev. H. Shadwick was united in marriage to my sister during my absence in Texas. He was a minister of the old Twolick Church referred to. There is now a well-finished church house at that place and the old one is left as a momento of older times.
I remained with my parents a short time and tried to comfort Father. During my stay in the East, I assisted Elder Thomas in a meeting at Bainbridge in which a number were converted. He was editor of The Advocate at that time. I also preached at Elizabethtown, Mechanicsburg, Middletown, and Highspire. I was kindly treated everywhere I visited and spent one of the most pleasant winters of my life.
I visited the city of Washington before I returned home. I had a pleasant conversation with Andrew .Johnson, the President of the United States. Congress was in session. I saw a number of distinguished statesmen and heard a few talk. The Capital was the highest building I ever saw. I went as far as the winding dome would carry me. The Treasury and Post Office were the buildings that interested me most. The most disgusting thing was to see intoxicating liquors sold almost anywhere you looked.
After leaving Washington, I returned home encouraged by all the brethren in the East and a few I saw passing through the West. I was expecting the Texas Mission to be recognized at the next General Eldership.
After being away six months, I didn't return to the Mission work until after the meeting of the Eldership. Elder E. Marple was appointed delegate to attend. We sent a letter stating that on account of finances he could not be with them but hoped the Texas Eldership would be recognized. The matter was laid on the table and not referred to again. That left us in a critical condition as we had lost nearly everything during the war and nothing could be expected by way of support from the brethren in Texas for some time. It was too late to raise a crop and I failed to get what was due me which I expected from the Board. I was left penniless and in debt which I paid by giving some of my home's furniture.
After seeing our non-recognition in the Journal of the General Eldership, my courage almost failed me for a time. I did not know what to do. By praying and considering, my courage was restored. I had always given my thoughts to the ministerial work first. I only went into other work when compelled to do so on account of the necessities of my family and then chose a work that would not interfere with the ministry. Brother Marple's health was then very poor. He had more appointments than he could attend.
I concluded to go into the printing business again and by doing so I could still help in the ministry. I edited a paper called the Texas News in Bonham. It is still in circulation but is now known as the Bonham News. We continued the ministerial work every Sunday and opened new appointments also. I met with good success with the paper and church work. The paper was a success and continued so until the military government was established in Texas and the politicians were determined to have a political paper. I felt sure that government matters would be confused and that public printing would be turned over to favorite papers. As I stated before, I did not want to meddle with political matters and so I sold the outfit.
Soon after I was informed that an assistant assessor of the Internal Revenue was wanted at a salary of $6.50 a day. I accepted. This was the first work I had ever engaged in that interfered with the ministry. I did, however, preach every Sunday at whatever point on my district I would be. I continued in that work over one year. I then resigned and invested the money in a tract of land which consisted of 1,122 acres with good buildings. The place was known as Pine Woods and sawmill country. A good mill house was still on the place. There had also been a post office there. There were about 600 acres of timber on the place when I bought it. Lumbering was at that time a good paying business. I was induced to open a mill that would give me 1/3 profit. I concluded that would give me means to educate my children, do mission work, and perhaps build church.
I had bought some of the machinery and opened the mill with good prospect. I was absent from my home when thieves came. They took three horses, saddles and bridles. One horse was valued at $100. 00. This was done in the presence of my family who were powerless to resist. That loss alone would not have amounted to so much, but they left a notice for me to leave in 20 days or they would return and take my life. A number of persons had been driven from their homes under such circumstances. That so intimidated my mechanic that he left and as he was my main dependence.
I was again left in debt and plans delayed. My creditors became uneasy and presented their claims. I had to sell some land to meet expenses. I was robbed again by men who went through the country pillaging. All the citizens were unarmed. The militia was our only protection. They did little as they were stationed at the fort and we were too far distant from there. Soon afterward, the citizens armed themselves and the robbers were driven away. I rebuilt and repaired the mill. I thought the best plan through financial difficulties would be to lease it. A man whom I thought solvent proposed to lease the mill. He was to pay the debts due and after one year turn it back to me if he was not in a situation to buy it. The church needed my services so I leased the mill. After he took possession, I learned that previous to our agreement he had made an assignment. I talked to him concerning that and he told me that he would make everything right as he agreed. But at the end of the year, I had a great deal of trouble getting the property back. He had not paid any of the debts and kept me in a lawsuit for three years. The suit was lost and I was again ruined financially and it gave sectarian enemies something to argue on to sink my influence as a minister. I considered mill work and government work as one of the greatest mistakes of my life.
I assisted Brother Marple in a protracted meeting. I had the pleasure of seeing a number converted and fellowshipped with the church. As I was financially ruined and worn out physically, I agreed to attend to some business for a man in Missouri. On my journey I passed through Arkansas and stopped with some of the church members that had gone there from Texas. I preached both going and returning to Texas. I had a great interest while there and was insisted to hold a revival service for them. I was still a delegate appointed by the Texas Eldership to the General Conference. I agreed to stop on my way there in the following spring and conduct a meeting.
When I was returned from my trip to Missouri, I began making preparations for the trip to the Eldership. Unfortunately, a few days before I was ready, my horses strayed away and could not be found. I had promised faithfully to be present for the meeting in Arkansas. So, I started with one pony to travel 240 miles over land mostly inhabited by Indians. After travelling one day we stopped with a Wm. Pickens who proved to be a friend in need. He was not a member of any church but his wife was a member of the Church of God. He would not let me travel on until he had supplied me with a pony and saddle. We carried our provisions. We slept 8 nights in the open prairie on our saddle blankets. We had to swim streams and at one stream my son almost lost his life as the pony refused to swim when it first entered the water. He clung to the bridle and mane and it swam ashore.
We arrived at the appointment one day after the date arranged. We were delayed on account of high waters. The meeting was held in Franklin County in the school house. It proved a success as a church was organized there. This was the first Church of God in Arkansas.
The nearest point to a railroad from there was along the Kansas line. I knew I could not reach the General Eldership in time for the meeting. I stayed in Arkansas for some time conducting services. I found the prospects good for a mission work there. I concluded to spend the time in Arkansas and at the end of a year make my contemplated visit. If the mission work proved a success, I would try and get someone to take the work.
I left my son with a friend, as he was old enough to work for himself, and returned to Texas. I assisted in some meetings and when ready to start, the pony that was given me was stolen. Fortunately, I found a mule that had strayed away some time before. My wife and I started for the mission work in Arkansas in August 1872 with $2.50 and made the trip in 9 days. We slept every night with the buggy cushion for a bed. Our clothing was carried in a basket tied to the bag part of the buggy. Our meat was fried on a stick held over a fire. We continued the mission work about 18 months. We supported ourselves with the work we did and the help received from the brethren. Part of the time we took charge of a hotel for a friend. He then boarded us free for 7 months. There were church of God members in Franklin county, Arkansas. There were good prospects for the work to continue. I made preparations to meet the Texas Eldership. If I could get no one to take the work in Arkansas, I would return and then go North.
While preparing for this, sad news reached us that our daughter had died and left a baby for us to care for. We repaired an old hack for us to take the trip. We started back to Texas in October 1873. Unfortunately, our buggy broke twice, which took most of our money to pay for having it repaired. We traveled through the rough mountains of Arkansas and the Choctaw Indian Nation and before we got among friends our provisions and horse feed were all gone. We traded a few things to be ferried across streams. The grass was too dry in that season for horses to live on. We did not know what to do under those circumstances as we did not want to beg. We were slowly traveling and praying. We found some corn scattered along the road. It had been dropped by someone when hauling it. We gathered enough to feed our horses that night and the following day but still had another night before we would get among friends. By that time we were entirely out of provisions but felt safe that we would be alright if we could obtain feed for the horses.
That night we stopped in an old house. Nearby was a farm house. It commenced raining and the people invited us to come in and eat supper and breakfast with them, which we did. That day we arrived among acquaintances-and in the evening we got to our daughter's where our little grandchild was. A few days after our arrival, the Texas Eldership met in Lamar County in the Old Bethel. There were eight licensed ministers at this time in Texas. I tried to persuade someone to take the Arkansas Mission work but could get no one to consent.
I agreed to spend half my time in Arkansas and half in Texas rather than let the work go unsupplied. The family had to be in Texas. I made a trip to Arkansas and stayed one month. I returned and was prevented from going back on account of ill health. When I left the church in Franklin County, two more could have been established with very little work.
At the next Eldership, Elder G. T. Bell was appointed to the Arkansas Mission. There was a small appropriation from the Texas Home Mission fund. Soon after his appointment his wife was taken ill. He could not leave and made but one or two trips. The cause made very little progress for some time. I spent over $100.00 opening the Arkansas Mission work.
I remained in Texas that year but accomplished very little as health would not permit. The General Eldership met in 1877 in West Salem, Ohio. I began making plans to go and about the time I was ready to start, I received news that my brother was not expected to live. He was about 50 miles from us so we turned our course and went to see him. He died about one hour before our arrival. We stayed until after the funeral and then started for the nearest place to the railroad.
The second night we stopped at a dismal place where both our horses were stolen from us and we were 14 miles from a place of real safety. We were near a shanty of an Irishman whose countenance did not recommend him favorably. Nothing could be proved. I hunted for our horses until almost noon and did not find them. I looked for an escape when I got to the main road that led to Boston, Texas. I found two men on their way there. I insisted on them to take our hack with the trunks the 14 miles to Boston, which they did. We smile to think of our hack tied to another wagon with my son, wife and me seated on the trunk going to the General Eldership of the Churches of God.
We stayed four days when we reached Boston. The sheriff tried without success to find our team. Our plan had been to sell our traveling outfit which would have brought at least $150.00. Fortunately, we got a man to take our trunk to Texarkana for $5.00. We sold the hack for $15.00 and gave the saddle to the men that took us to Boston. By the kindness of the agent in Texarkana, I secured a ticket for Mrs. Ober to Carrollton, Illinois. I had a brother living there and had him send money to Little Rock, Arkansas, as there was no way of getting it in time. There was no bank at Texarkana. We concluded that by the time money got there we could walk part of the way and save expenses and time.
My son Herschel and I started on foot to walk 140 miles. After traveling several days, my health would not permit me to go farther and I had to stop and rest. I knew I could not reach West Salem, Ohio, in time for the General Eldership, which was a bitter disappointment. I was more than anxious to meet the brethren in a General Eldership but had to be content by writing as I had in the times previous.
The Texas Eldership was received as one of the elderships of the Church of God at that General Eldership. During our trip I preached at four places on our way. At Melvin, Arkansas, we were invited to spend the night. An old man asked my reason for tramping. I related to him what had happened and that as soon as we reached Little Rock we would receive money to travel the rest of the way by rail. I was impolite to him and I had seen him at the gambling table and had heard him using profanity which I considered the devil's unbated hook. He was a man of some human feelings. He said he was interested in our welfare. The next morning he had made arrangements for our fare to be paid to Little Rock.
We arrived there on Friday. There was a delay in the mail reaching us so we had to remain there over Sunday. I held services on Sunday. I had an interesting meeting and made many acquaintances who insisted on my opening work there. I was anxious to do so and immediately wrote the Board of Missions but received no encouragement. I still think if I could have had some help, there could be a reliable church interest in Little Rock at the present.
We arrived in Carrollton, Illinois, on Wednesday, June 11, 1879. Several church members who were living in Greenfield, Illinois, insisted on my coming there to establish a work. I went and preached several times and found two houses that could be used for regular preaching services. But I concluded not to make any propositions to the Board.
I noticed in the Church Advocate an account of a number of revival meetings in the Illinois Eldership. There was a dedication of a church house at Plain River. I decided to spend the fall in Illinois and then go east and remain for a time. I would take charge of a work if health would permit. After forming the acquaintance of a number of ministers and brethren in Illinois, I was encouraged to take a work there. The following are places where I preached before the Eldership: Plain River, Mt. Carroll, Lemark, Sharon, Decatur, Boiling Springs, Fairview, and Warrensburg. I met many acquaintances in Decatur and at Boiling Springs. The first Eldership of the Illinois Churches of God was held in Father Riff's dwelling where I had the pleasure of stopping for some time. I attended the Illinois Eldership which met in 1875 at Fairview, where I expected to be appointed to work in Illinois. All the places were filled before my name was mentioned. I was asked if I would take a mission work in Greene County which I agreed to do for $150.00. One-half was to be paid in advance, 1/3 at the end of six months, the balance at the end of the year.
I was appointed to the work by the Stationing Committee of the Illinois Eldership. I told them I would have to go to Texas first to attend the Texas Eldership and bring back our baby which would take over one month. I got my transfer and sent it to the Stationing Committee. A card was waiting for me reprimanding me, for not being on my mission work when I returned to Illinois. I then sent my resignation and asked for the transfer. My resignation was accepted. The transfer was held and a license was sent me. The advance money was demanded.
I had many friends in old Pennsylvania. I went there and visited friends in Westmoreland County. That was the first circuit I traveled. I spent the winter and the spring within the limits of the West Pennsylvania Eldership where I was first licensed to preach. I assisted in holding meetings at the following places: Mt. Pleasant, now called Overton; Stoner's, Mt. Pisgah, Pittsburgh, and West Newton. I preached 60 times at those places. Mt. Pleasant and Mt. Pisgah were in the charge of Elder P. Loucks. Stoner's was in the charge of Elder J. Grimes. During those meetings, there were over 50 conversions. Elder R. F. Bolton had charge of Pittsburgh and W. Newton. The kindness received from people from these places will never be forgotten by myself and my family. The ministers, brethren, and sisters leave one of the brightest memories in the history of our lives. We received in presents, money, and clothing that amounted to over $130.00.
I also visited Old Bethany, where Elder J. Hickernell lived and where the main church work was once located. I found the Elder in good health and comfortably located near the spot where I first met him and traveled the Westmoreland circuit with him. It took us about four weeks to travel the circuit. We would cover from 12 to 40 miles per day. We preached almost every night and from two to four discourses on Sunday. Our greatest anxiety at that time was how to advance the work of the Savior. When I look at the hoary head and long, flowing beard of the Elder, I remember the many words of encouragement he gave me when in my younger days. He was truly a father to me in the ministry.
My dear young brethren, do not forget the dear old fathers who sowed the seed. They wept through toils and hardships. You are now reaping the fruits of their labors. Speak your words of encouragement to them while they are living that they may know the honor.
I also visited the elders in charge of Somerset County. I preached there and was kindly treated and compensated for my service. While there I met a number of persons who were converted in a camp meeting I assisted with while Elder Wm. J. Davis had charge of that work. Some of the converts have since become able ministers.
I then visited J. W. Davis who had charge of the Armstrong County Circuit. I found him an able minister. He was a small child when I fellowshipped his father at Cambria County where I had organized the church.
In May 1876, I bid farewell to the brethren at Stoner's. Perhaps we would never meet again until we met on the "other shore." One of my Christian friends and brother ministers, who did so much for me by his influence, has been called from his labors on earth to the Royal Place above. His kindness and that of Elder B. F. Bolton, Brother D. Fox, and W.W. Stoner and their families will never be forgotten by us. We will also remember the brothers and sisters of Mt. Pisgah and Stoners in the sickness of our son.
From there we went to the Woodland Circuit, West Virginia. We had been there prior to the appointment of the Texas Mission. We spent the summer in what was then known as the Fisk Creek Circuit, which included all the work in West Virginia and Green County, Pennsylvania. This was the second circuit I traveled after entering the ministry. I preached at most of the appointments. I was very delighted at the progress the church had made in the twenty years I was absent. In place of three very common churches there are now 11. Since that time several more have been built. We had a very pleasant time among old acquaintances.
In the fall we started to Illinois, stopping near Canton, Ohio, where a brother of Mrs. Ober lived. Her father and mother had died during our absence in Texas. I had to go to meet the Illinois Eldership of which I was a member. I informed Elder T. James who had charge of the work in the vicinity of Canton of the prospects of establishing A church near Middle Branch. He afterward succeeded in organizing and building a church near there.
We then went to Smithville, Ohio and assisted in holding some meetings and then went to Mansfield and Shenadoah. While there I met G. W. Wilson and found him to be a genial and sociable gentleman of powerful intellect. From there I went to Upper Sandusky and preached in a house where Elder J. Winebrenner had preached his last sermon before the General Eldership in which he defended the Texas Mission. He was our faithful friend until his death. I have in my possession the last letter he wrote and one that was dictated by him a few days before his death written by Mrs. Winebrenner when he was unable to write.
From there I went to Findlay, Ohio which has since become the center of education for the Church of God. From this college, I hope many able ministers may go forth to uphold the Banner of the Church. We hope that many of our wealthy brethren will help the worthy educational enterprise which is so much needed. While at Findlay, I had the pleasure of meeting the Ohio Eldership. I preached two discourses to large and attentive congregations and delivered two lectures. One was on "Sunday School Work" and the other on "Mission Work in the West." They remembered me kindly with a donation of $16.00.
I left Findlay on Monday for Buda, Illinois. Mrs. Ober and our little grandchild met me at Ft. Wayne, Indiana. We stopped at Chicago where I had the pleasure of hearing the distinguished Moody speak. The features I most noticed were his earnestness and business tact. I discovered that his success was due to contacting the minds of all the religious people and ministers on the important subject of justification by faith. He invited all the ministers present who could sanction his speaking by saying "amen" to step on the platform, in which several responded. Short talks were made by a few of them. The Rev. Lyman Beecher made very appropriate remarks on the subject mentioned. He stated that Paul's instruction was to believe with the heart unto righteousness. Confession with the mouth was made salvation.
On Sunday morning we arrived at Buda, Illinois and was appointed by the Eldership to the Macon Center appointment with the appropriation that the Board advanced the year before. A number were converted during my first year on this field. We had the cooperation of all except a brother of influence and money. The money was withheld and used against us because he could not be first in everything.
I went to work trusting God and succeeded in the work of the election of officers, etc. Everything appeared to move pleasantly the first year. I also had appointments west of Macon and in Shelby County. During the year, seven new appointments were added to the work. One new church was organized with the addition of ii: minister. E. L. Turner did a good work for the Illinois Eldership. He shortly afterward held a meeting assisted by Elder M. S. Newcomer. During the meeting the church at Round Grove was organized. This is now a prosperous church. I would have been pleased to have remained in the Illinois work, but there seemed to be some dissatisfaction against me in the Eldership. I concluded to go where I might be more useful.
I was better known in the East and intended to go among old acquaintances but while visiting in Indiana, I learned there was an opening for ministers in that Eldership. I was encouraged to take a work there. As our son was going to attend the medical college in Ft. Wayne, I thought it a good opportunity to assist him in securing an education by moving there. I took my transfer to the Indiana Eldership and was appointed to the Blue River Circuit. I was given a cordial welcome by the ministers and brethren of Indiana. I preached two years and nine months on that circuit and one year on the Roanoke circuit. I was supported well while there. During my labors on the Blue River Circuit there was a fine brick church house built at Sugar Grove that cost $3,0000.00. There were over 50 conversions and additions to the church at different appointments. At the Roanoke circuit there were eight converted and united with the church.
During my stay in Indiana, I visited White County and preached at Idaville, and other places among a people that left the German Baptist who called themselves the Church of God. They differ very little from us in faith and practice. They were very kind to us. The church at Idaville has since united with the Indiana Eldership. The General Eldership of 1902 was held there.
I would have preferred to stay in the North and enjoy some of the comforts of preaching in good churches. However, our daughters were in Texas and as we wished to visit them, I was again appointed missionary to Texas by the Board of Missions.
We arrived in Paris, Texas, in May 1882. At once we entered the work. I found it in a deplorable condition. There were no regular services. None had been held except at one place for several years. I did all I could to rally the forces. I preached all the time and held protracted meetings. I baptized six and had six added to the church. The second year of my work was a failure. The Board appointed Elder Allen as General Missionary over all the work in Texas. He failed to come and no protracted meetings were held that year which gave the cause another setback. In November I was appointed to the work again with the apportionment of $150.00 which I accepted for the interest I felt in the work. I sacrificed a position that would have otherwise supported me with less hardships. The time was past for holding protracted meetings as they were held in the south in late summer and fall. I was still desirous of a minister to take the work with me as an assistant. I attended some new appointments that I had opened.
I proposed to the Board that if they could not give me the amount agreed on and support another man to give all to a minister to take charge of the work. I would do other work to support myself and assist in preaching as much as I could. At their next meeting Elder J. T. Kimmel was appointed to take the work. I received no money until late in the spring when I was appointed to assist in the work with an apportionment of $100. 00.
I accepted the work. I kept four regular appointments. They were 25 , 20, and six miles from home with one near home. Elder Kimmel came rather late but we organized a church at White Borrow with 12 members and had some conversions and baptisms at other places. The prospects for this work to prosper were good, but the drought took the crops and the people were compelled to leave the place, except a few which discontinued the work.
I think Elder Kimmel was a good man but he became discouraged and resigned, which I think was a mistake. I had again spent all I had and was compelled to sell my traveling outfit and my little home and surrender the work. I did not know what to do as times in that part of Texas were dull.
We were on the edge of the drought country of which you have all read. In Eastern Texas, crops were good and we moved to Caddo Mills in Hunt County where I was encouraged to start a prohibition newspaper. I began the publication of the paper. At the time my services were most needed, I met with an accident in which my knee was severely injured and I could do nothing for some time. We were compelled to abandon the paper. At the time I became able to work Mrs. Ober was taken very ill and was at the point of death for some time. When she recovered, we went back to Kingston, stored our goods in a room back of the store where we stayed one week. I picked cotton to pay a month's rent and rations for over Sunday, worked at my trade during the winter, only preaching a few times.
In the spring we moved to Lamar County. I put in a small crop, worked at my trade and made enough to build a small house on eight acres of land six miles west of Paris. During that year I preached at two regular appointments near home.
In the spring of 1888, I planted a large crop for a man of my age. I kept one regular appointment in church work. In 1889 my health would not permit me to attend regular appointments, but I still preached at different places. I attended the Eldership in Uniontown, Arkansas. Friends persuaded me to remain a while there. I decided to spend the winter there.
I assisted J. W. Riddle at the following places: Oak Ridge, Price's Springs, and Enterprise, Arkansas. I also preached at Waldron and Camp Creek in the Cherokee Nation where there were some converts. I baptized some and had several unite with the church.
I then returned home and spent a month. Elder Riddle and the brethren urged me to take. a work in Arkansas. I went back and stayed six weeks. I could not see the way of their raising my support and again returned home and made arrangements to raise a crop. In March I received a letter from Hempstead, Arkansas, near the Texas line. They asked me to make them a visit as they had been left for some time without preaching from any of our ministers. About that time I received a letter from Enterprise, Arkansas, insisting on me to come and preach for them. I also received a letter from Elder D. G. Nelson who lived about 60 miles west from us requesting us to pay him a visit. He stated that he was preaching Church of God doctrine and wanted someone for instruction on it. He had formerly been a minister of the Missionary Baptist Church. As all of these places were near railroads, I agreed to visit them.
When the Board of missions met they appointed me missionary of Texas with an appropriation of $150.00 which I accepted. We erected a new bethel at Enterprise. I was also appointed in 1892 during which time the work prospered under our labors. That fall at the age of 69 I went 400 miles to attend the Eldership and drove a team of mules over the mountains more than half the distance. At this Eldership, I was appointed to represent the Texas and Arkansas Eldership, which I had organized in 1857, at the General Eldership in 1893 which met in Findlay, Ohio.
Just before leaving for the General Eldership, we buried our daughter whom we expected would comfort us in our old age. But God's ways are not our ways. Our daughter was a devoted Christian and a great worker in the Church of God.
From Findlay, we went to Canton, Ohio, where I preached a number of times to large congregations. I gave one lecture to the Women's Temperance Union. From there I went to the Westmoreland Camp Meeting near Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Through the kindness of G. W. Sail, I met the following ministers of the East Pennsylvania Eldership: Elders J. 0. Farling, B. F. Beck, F. S. McGuire, G. W. Getz, and J. R. Graring. The following were from the Maryland Eldership: Elders H. L. Selby, J. W. Rodkey, M. K. Cross, A. J. Saxton, J. A. Stubb, and others. We had a good meeting, some were converted and baptized. After the meeting closed, I preached at Uniontown and Frizzelsburg. The kindness shown me there will never be forgotten.
From there I went to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and preached once in the new mission church house on 11 1/2 Street which was dedicated on the Sunday before.
I formed an acquaintance with- F. L. Nicodemus and stayed one night with him. I also stayed one night with our old friend George Sigler, D.D. I stopped a short time with Dr. C.H. Forney, editor of the Church Advocate. I met quite a few brethren in our book-store which appears to be the headquarters for the brethren of the Church of God.
From there I went to Highland (Enhaut) and preached there once and formed many acquaintances. From there I went to Roaring Springs, Pennsylvania, and preached several times to large audiences. I was kindly remembered by the church and friends in a financial way. This was the place where our esteemed brother D. M. Bare lived.
In the year 1845, Brother John Mart and myself had frequently visited that place then known as Three Forges. We held prayer meetings there in an old school house. There are but a few church members at the Forges. Elder J. H. Bamburger was their minister at that time.
The next day I visited the old graveyard where many of our ancestors were buried and also visited my grandfather's old stone and frame house which was 100 years old. It was built out of blue limestone rock on the old homestead and many services were held in it. My grandfather died very suddenly at the close of a sermon he had preached in that house. He was a bishop of the River Brethren Church.
In the evening I preached in the Water Street Bethel, which was a short distance from Woodbury. I stopped with Brother Woodcock and was kindly treated by them and well compensated by the church.
From there I went to Altoona and spent a day with Elder Grissinger and was very pleasantly entertained from what is now Altoona. I hauled from the old Allegheny Furnace 50 years before.
From there I crossed the Allegheny Mountains and went to Alverton, Pennsylvania, which was one of the appointments of the Westmoreland Circuit. This was the first circuits I ever traveled with Brother J. A. Hickernell in 1848-1849. I preached two sermons at Alverton and only a few of the old pioneers were living. Elder R. H. Byrns had charge of the work there. I stopped with S. G. Yahn, who had charge of the work in Mt. Pleasant and is one of our promising young ministers. I met with old friends of H. W. Stoner who send us money every year as a present. From there I went back to Canton, Ohio, where I had left Mrs. Ober with relatives. I preached a number of times in and around Canton and assisted in getting the first church building in that town.
From there we went to Ranking, Indiana, to visit my only living brother. I preached several times in Anderson where Elder Covert had charge of the work and who is one of our true friends. I preached at several of the surrounding towns, then went to Texas on business. I stopped one Sunday at Idaville, Indiana, and preached and was kindly received. I stopped and preached one night in St. Louis for Elder Spiraea, who is a great worker for the Master. We then went directly to Texas to attend my work and returned to Franking, Indiana.
On Thanksgiving evening 1894 we arrived in Columbia City, Indiana, and assisted Elder I. W. Marcel in some revival services until April. I had the pleasure of seeing a number converted. That was one of the circuits I had formerly traveled. I preached at Thom Creek Bethel where Elder J. Comp had charge. I also assisted Elder J. McColley in his work at Oak Grove and Evergreen Bethel, which was another of my former circuits.
From Indiana we went to N. Liberty, Iowa where we stayed one week. The church at North Liberty is one of the most flourishing churches of the West. I preached one Sunday for Elder Burch who had charge of that work. While there we had the pleasure of stopping with Elder J. Linninger who had baptized both Mrs. Ober and myself. He had also performed our wedding ceremony 50 years ago.
We spent a very pleasant week, being well entertained by all. From there we went to Mecksburg, Virginia, to visit a brother of Mrs. Ober's that we had not seen for 40 years. We stayed there one week, during that time I preached twice in the M. E. Church and delivered one lecture on frontier customs and life. We then started farther west and went to Kansas City. We stopped with a nephew, Dr. Barnett, one week. I preached once in the M. E. Church house in Topeka, Kansas. We stayed a short time with Elder Turpin, then to Ft. Scott and stayed two nights. I preached in the Church of God Bethel and met Elders Wm. Cross, A. Miller, J. C. Fomcrook, Wm. N. Yates, and A. Renford, who was the pastor of a mission work. We were kindly treated by him and the brethren. From there we went to Inglevale where we met friends from Texas and Pennsylvania that we had not seen for many years. Brother D. Engle and wife were old schoolmates of ours in Pennsylvania.
From there we went to Ark City and spent one week with Brother E. C. Turner. We were seven miles from the city and had the pleasure of seeing Elder Crose again, who had charge of the work there.
From there we went to the Oklahoma Territory, expecting to meet our son who was a doctor. But in two days after reaching home received the sad news of his assassination in the Indian Territory where he had went from Texas with some stock intending to go to the Oklahoma Territory after disposing of them. That was the saddest shock we had ever met with as he was a very successful physician in the midst of life and health. He was only 39 years old. He had graduated from Ft. Wayne Medical School in Indiana a few years before his assassination. This was a cruel and cowardly act. That sad bereavement left us in a strange country, penniless. We went into a dugout, made a scaffold to sleep on and lived on a dust floor. We spent one of the hardest years of our lives. We did not have means to move elsewhere and so we went to work, trusting in God.
By industry and economy and assistance of friends we managed to live that first year there. The names of the persons who gave us assistance were Dr. G. Sigler of Harrisburg, Pa.; H. W. Stoner, Mt. Pleasant, Pa.; D. M. Bare, Roaring Spring, Pa.; Mrs. Bitner of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; the brethren of Findlay College; the Church at North Liberty, Iowa; the· brethren at Uniontown, Md.; and friends at McKinney, Texas; and Joe Peters of Canton, Ohio, in all about $50.00. It seems we can never express our thanks to those true friends who proved themselves friends indeed.
I opened appointments and preached every Sunday in dugouts and groves to the few that would come and hear. As the country was sparsely settled. I often made long journeys on foot to preach the gospel that year at the age of 71. I give God the glory for my health and my commission will not end as long as I can tell of the Savior. Let come what may, I will tell of his love. The second year the brethren and friends presented me with a horse and buggy. Then I could attend my appointments regularly. Emigration was coming fast and some school houses were built and we began to have interesting services. The third and fourth year, the Board of Missions gave me an appropriation of$ 100. 00 a year.
About the time the mission work began to progress, Mrs. Ober's health began to be very poor. I dared not leave her for a sufficient time to hold pastoral meetings. She had a stroke of paralysis which rendered her helpless for some time.
I have never found it best in mission work to commence by holding sensational meetings. I believe such work to be of short duration. I have never seen any permanent work done except by first instructing the people.
Our church work began to prosper and the country to be more thickly settled. Sensational preachers of every sort came into the country and tried to drown or destroy the mission work first established. I continued preaching as much as I could. At this time prospects for church work are better than at any time since I came to this country.
The year 1899 brought to us another sad bereavement by the death of our last child which left us alone and childless. Our eldest daughter died in the month of August. She was 54 years of age and the mother of seven children. Two had preceded her to the grave, which left five to mourn the loss of a very devoted mother. But no doubt our loss is her gain as her life seemed to be one of hardships and sorrows. She was converted at the early age of 14 and united with the Church of God.
This ends the historical part of this book up to April I, 1902, and makes me 78 years and three months old and 57 years since I preached my first sermon from the text, John 5:40, 'And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.' Amen.
(Benjamin Ober died September 26, 1911 at Butler, Oklahoma in the home of his granddaughter Mrs. Millard Wisely.)
The Death of Ben Ober was announced in The Church Advocate on October 4th, 1911. His obituary reads as follows.
Elder Benjamin Ober, of the Oklahoma Eldership, passed to the better world on Tuesday of last week. Elder H. W. Allen, from whom the report comes, sends this information, under date of September 27th:
"Rev. B. Ober passed away suddenly at Butler, Oklahoma, yesterday afternoon a 1:30. He was at the home of his granddaughter, Mrs. Millard Wisely. He was apparently in his usual health. He ate a hearty dinner, and at about 1 o'clock started for the post office, but on the way he fell and live only a few moments."
During the past year Elder Ober ad the pleasure of visiting quote a number of the churches in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Indiana and Illinois, and renewing old acquaintances and making many new ones. A more extended account of this life will appear next week.
The following week, on October 11th, 1911, The Church Advocate ran an editorial about Ben Ober. Below are some excerpts from this editorial which paint a glowing picture of the man, as if often the case in near post mortem articles:
"The life of Elder Benjamin Ober, whose death was announced in last week's ADVOCATE, was remarkable both for its length and its activity. He had passed the age of four score and seven years, and was the oldest minister of the churches of God, having spent sixty four years in the sacred office, and having outlived all the preachers of his day and generation. To say that he was vigorous is but to quote a word which he invariably used in his correspondence and in writing for THE ADVOCATE when referring to his health and strength. This man, so signally free from ills of the flesh during a long lifetime, was even spared the pain and suffering which usually precede death. He was in his usual health until the last, and had started out for a short walk to the post office. Suddenly the footsteps faltered, and the once steady form tottered and fell, and life's journey was ended. Thus, without any prolonged affliction or occasion for dread, he passed through the ordeal that awaits all men. Like Enoch of old he kept journeying on till the last, 'and he was not: for God took him.'"
Elder Enoch Marple, who a missionary and close friend of Ober, left this in the following week's Advocate, on October 18th, 1911:
"It may be that no one will regret the death of Elder B. Ober more than I do. I was baptized by him in the clear, running waters of West Virginia, in August, 1852. He secured my license to preach, the ensuing Fall, from the West Pennsylvania Eldership, and from that time on, during the greater part of our ministerial work, we were together. Our love was mutual, and we became fast, confidential friends, which was never marred or severed.
"He was in some respects an extra ordinary man, and always looked at the bright side of life, though confronted with many difficulties, and manifested great zeal for the doctrines of the Church. Intellectually he was far above the average preacher, and I think, when in his prime, that he was the best self-made, natural preacher that it has ever been my privilege to hear. But in other respect he was like other men, and not without fault.
"He lived to see all his family buried, but leaves many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many close friends behind to follow on. It is a great consolation to know that the world has been made better by his life, some of whom have gone on before him to their great reward. Now he is laid low, and his tongue is stilled in the grasp of death; but he has gone to his heavenly and eternal home, forever to be with his Lord."
CGGC eNews—Vol. 19, No. 5
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