Essex South was established in 1827 and North Association was established in 1827 from a group of Salem Association ministers. Their objective was “promote the extension of the Redeemer’s Kingdom, by more frequent intercourse of Christians interested in increasing benevolent influence of the gospel amongst its members.” (v. 1, B 16) The two groups merged in 1983. In 2015, Essex and Andover Associations merged to form the Northeast Association. The Essex South Branch of the Woman’s Board of Missions was established in 1878 after three years of debate as to whether there was warrant for such an organization. While several officers were named between 1875 and 1878, Its first president was Helen (Mrs. Walter E. C.) Wright of Danvers. For further information about the formation of the group, see “Twenty Five Years of Radiant History” (B15 F2)