Council minutes, 1670, 1853
Scope and Contents
This collection contains a manuscript reproduction of an ecclesiastical council declaration called in 1669 and 1670. The original was made in the hand of Rev. John Woodbridge and the copy was produced by Joshua Coffin in 1853. The council was called to advise the Newbury church on a proposal to change their church governance from a Council of Elders to a more democratic system. The response of the council was overwhelmingly negative; they claimed that such a process was against the Congregational way and promoted popery. Despite this, by 1683, Newbury First had no ruling elders.
Dates
- Record Keeping: 1670
- 1853
Restrictions on Access
Access to this collection is unrestricted and open to the public.
Extent
From the Collection: 1 Folder
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Digital Copies
These ecclesiastical council meeting records were digitized as part of the New England's Hidden Histories project. Digital reproductions are available to view online.
Creator
- From the Collection: First Church of Newbury (Newbury, Mass.) (Organization)
- From the Collection: Woodbridge, John, 1613-1695 (Person)
Repository Details
Part of the Congregational Library & Archives Repository