A photograph of Rev. Henry Boehm, from an original in the A photograph of Rev. Henry Boehm, from an original in the archives at Old St. George’s Church, . According archives at Old St. George’s Church, Philadelphia. According to information written on it, the photo was taken in to information written on it, the photo was taken in Philadelphia in 1867 when Boehm was 91 or 92 years old. Philadelphia in 1867 when Boehm was 91 or 92 years old.

Rev. Henry Boehm: Rev. Henry Boehm: A Methodist Life A Methodist Life

by Rev. Helen Adams (2010) by Rev. Helen Adams (2010)

Editor’s Note: Helen Adams is a licensed local pastor, and has served as Editor’s Note: Helen Adams is a licensed local pastor, and has served as the pastor of the Stehman Memorial in Millersville, the pastor of the Stehman Memorial United Methodist Church in Millersville, since 2008. She is also a student at Evangelical Theological Pennsylvania since 2008. She is also a student at Evangelical Theological Seminary in Myerstown. This article is based on a paper she submitted there for a Seminary in Myerstown. This article is based on a paper she submitted there for a course on Methodist history. course on Methodist history.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) may well have been an 18th-and Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) may well have been an 18th-and 19th-century Forrest Gump; like the movie character, he seems to have 19th-century Forrest Gump; like the movie character, he seems to have been present at critical moments in history – in Henry’s case, the history been present at critical moments in history – in Henry’s case, the history of the Methodist movement in America. In recent years, he has been of the Methodist movement in America. In recent years, he has been esteemed mainly as a chronicler. United Methodist historians value his esteemed mainly as a chronicler. United Methodist historians value his memoir, Reminiscences, for its insights into the character and work of memoir, Reminiscences, for its insights into the character and work of . The Boehm’s Chapel Society turns to Henry for Bishop Francis Asbury. The Boehm’s Chapel Society turns to Henry for one of the few written portraits we have of his father, Rev. Martin one of the few written portraits we have of his father, Rev. Martin Boehm, a co-founder of the United Brethren in Christ. Boehm, a co-founder of the United Brethren in Christ. Yet Henry is more than just someone who happened to be there Yet Henry is more than just someone who happened to be there – more than a recorder of history, more than someone who had the good – more than a recorder of history, more than someone who had the good fortune to live to 100 years old and be celebrated for longevity. Henry fortune to live to 100 years old and be celebrated for longevity. Henry Boehm, the records indicate, was himself a gifted preacher and Boehm, the records indicate, was himself a gifted preacher and evangelist. He was a bridge between the German-speaking “Methodists” evangelist. He was a bridge between the German-speaking “Methodists” and the English-speaking heirs of . And Henry is a bridge and the English-speaking heirs of John Wesley. And Henry is a bridge between the earliest Methodist evangelists and the transformation of the between the earliest Methodist evangelists and the transformation of the Methodist Episcopal Church into a settled denomination by the time of Methodist Episcopal Church into a settled denomination by the time of his death in 1875. As Henry wrote in the preface to his memoir, a year his death in 1875. As Henry wrote in the preface to his memoir, a year before ’s 1866 centennial celebration, “[T]his volume is a before Methodism’s 1866 centennial celebration, “[T]his volume is a

31 31

32 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 32 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference connecting link between the present and the origin of our Church.”1 For connecting link between the present and the origin of our Church.”1 For clarity’s sake, in this paper I will use first names to refer to Henry and clarity’s sake, in this paper I will use first names to refer to Henry and other members of his family. other members of his family.

A JOURNEY TO FAITH A JOURNEY TO FAITH

In some ways, Henry was an unlikely Methodist. Born June 8, In some ways, Henry was an unlikely Methodist. Born June 8, 1775 – at the dawn of the – Henry was the youngest 1775 – at the dawn of the American Revolution – Henry was the youngest son of Martin Boehm and Eve Steiner Boehm. His father Martin, a farmer son of Martin Boehm and Eve Steiner Boehm. His father Martin, a farmer in the Pequea settlement of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, was in the Pequea settlement of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, was Mennonite, chosen by lot in 1756 to be a preacher at Byerland Church.2 Mennonite, chosen by lot in 1756 to be a preacher at Byerland Church.2 The Boehms were descended from a Swiss family; one of Henry’s The Boehms were descended from a Swiss family; one of Henry’s ancestors, Jacob Boehm (Böhm), had fallen under the influence of ancestors, Jacob Boehm (Böhm), had fallen under the influence of , converted, and subsequently escaped across the border to Mennonites, converted, and subsequently escaped across the border to France while being escorted to a Swiss prison (by his brother!) after France while being escorted to a Swiss prison (by his brother!) after conviction on a heresy charge. From France, Jacob made his way to the conviction on a heresy charge. From France, Jacob made his way to the Palatinate in Germany, and emigrated from there to Pennsylvania Palatinate in Germany, and emigrated from there to Pennsylvania probably about 1712.3 probably about 1712.3 Born after his father first encountered German Reformed Born after his father first encountered German Reformed minister at Long’s Barn, and about the time minister Philip William Otterbein at Long’s Barn, and about the time Martin was excommunicated by the Mennonites for his evangelistic and Martin was excommunicated by the Mennonites for his evangelistic and ecumenical tendencies, Henry credits his parents for giving him a firm ecumenical tendencies, Henry credits his parents for giving him a firm spiritual foundation, and had an early conviction of God’s call. But the spiritual foundation, and had an early conviction of God’s call. But the preacher’s son had a tendency to fall away from faith. Henry notes that a preacher’s son had a tendency to fall away from faith. Henry notes that a member of his father’s family – unnamed in the memoir – had only member of his father’s family – unnamed in the memoir – had only negative things to say about the Methodists. “This had a soul-withering negative things to say about the Methodists. “This had a soul-withering influence on me,” Henry writes. “I lost my tender feelings, and neglected influence on me,” Henry writes. “I lost my tender feelings, and neglected the means of grace… Sinners enticed me to sin and I consented.”4 the means of grace… Sinners enticed me to sin and I consented.”4 At age 15, Henry went to work in a grist mill, where religious At age 15, Henry went to work in a grist mill, where religious influence was virtually nonexistent. It is instructive to recall that, as influence was virtually nonexistent. It is instructive to recall that, as historian Mark Noll has noted, “well under 10 percent of the population historian Mark Noll has noted, “well under 10 percent of the population

1J. B. Wakeley, The Patriarch of One Hundred Years; Being Reminiscences, Historical and 1J. B. Wakeley, The Patriarch of One Hundred Years; Being Reminiscences, Historical and Biographical, of Rev. Henry Boehm (New York: Nelson & Phillips, 1875), 6. The first edition Biographical, of Rev. Henry Boehm (New York: Nelson & Phillips, 1875), 6. The first edition was released in 1865. was released in 1865. 2Abram W. Sangrey, The Temple of Limestone: A History of Boehm’s Chapel, 1791-1991 2Abram W. Sangrey, The Temple of Limestone: A History of Boehm’s Chapel, 1791-1991 (Lancaster: Boehm’s Chapel Society, 1991), 32. (Lancaster: Boehm’s Chapel Society, 1991), 32. 3Jacob L. Beam. “A History of the Beam Family,” in The Daily New Era (Lancaster, 3Jacob L. Beam. “A History of the Beam Family,” in The Daily New Era (Lancaster, Pennsylvania), September 25, 1919; available online at http://freepages.genealogy. Pennsylvania), September 25, 1919; available online at http://freepages.genealogy. rootsweb. ancestry.com/~boehm/data/History_of_the_Beam_Family.pdf; and Wakeley, 10. rootsweb. ancestry.com/~boehm/data/History_of_the_Beam_Family.pdf; and Wakeley, 10. 4Wakeley, 16. 4Wakeley, 16.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 33 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 33

Boehm’s Chapel, built on land owned by Henry’s father in 1791. Boehm’s Chapel, built on land owned by Henry’s father in 1791. ------

belonged formally to local congregations, and many areas on the frontier belonged formally to local congregations, and many areas on the frontier were entirely devoid of ” following the Revolutionary War.5 were entirely devoid of Christianity” following the Revolutionary War.5 Henry fell “into bad company” until Martin confronted his youngest son: Henry fell “into bad company” until Martin confronted his youngest son:

His quivering lip, tearful eye, and tremulous voice showed how His quivering lip, tearful eye, and tremulous voice showed how deeply he felt for me. Shame crimsoned my cheeks. His counsel was not deeply he felt for me. Shame crimsoned my cheeks. His counsel was not lost, but it terminated in deep conviction for sin… When my father left lost, but it terminated in deep conviction for sin… When my father left I went into the upper loft of the mill, and on my knees, in an agony of I went into the upper loft of the mill, and on my knees, in an agony of deep distress, I cried, “God be merciful to me a sinner.” …[I]n a moment deep distress, I cried, “God be merciful to me a sinner.” …[I]n a moment I felt my heart strangely warmed. My conscience was assured of its I felt my heart strangely warmed. My conscience was assured of its part in the atoning blood, and God sent forth the spirit of his Son into part in the atoning blood, and God sent forth the spirit of his Son into my heart crying, “Abba, Father” This was in February, 1793.6 my heart crying, “Abba, Father” This was in February, 1793.6

Notwithstanding his very Wesleyan conversion experience – Notwithstanding his very Wesleyan conversion experience – one that also echoed Martin’s own warmed heart while plowing a field one that also echoed Martin’s own warmed heart while plowing a field years before – Henry continued on a convoluted path to ministry. He fell years before – Henry continued on a convoluted path to ministry. He fell into “a sad error” of deciding he didn’t need the support of the church into “a sad error” of deciding he didn’t need the support of the church and did not unite with one. “I lost my spiritual enjoyment. My course and did not unite with one. “I lost my spiritual enjoyment. My course

5Mark A. Noll, 1992, A History of Christianity in the and Canada (Grand 5Mark A. Noll, 1992, A History of Christianity in the United States and Canada (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992), 166. Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992), 166. 6Wakeley, 16-17. 6Wakeley, 16-17.

34 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 34 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference was zig-zag… I told no one I was converted. Instead of letting my light was zig-zag… I told no one I was converted. Instead of letting my light shine before men I resolved to hide it.”7 This went on for five years. shine before men I resolved to hide it.”7 This went on for five years. Despite his zig-zag course, Henry had imbibed Methodism from Despite his zig-zag course, Henry had imbibed Methodism from his earliest days. For years Martin had opened his home to itinerant his earliest days. For years Martin had opened his home to itinerant Methodist preachers. Henry grew up hearing Robert Strawbridge, Methodist preachers. Henry grew up hearing Robert Strawbridge, Richard Whatcoat (who supplied the plan for construction of Boehm’s Richard Whatcoat (who supplied the plan for construction of Boehm’s Chapel), Richard Webster, Joseph Everett, William Jessop (buried in Chapel), Richard Webster, Joseph Everett, William Jessop (buried in the Boehm’s cemetery) and Jesse Lee. In 1780, the noted early preacher the Boehm’s cemetery) and Jesse Lee. In 1780, the noted early preacher Benjamin Abbott described his preaching there during a revival: Benjamin Abbott described his preaching there during a revival:

When I came to my application the power of the Lord came in such a When I came to my application the power of the Lord came in such a manner, that the people fell all about the house, and their cries might manner, that the people fell all about the house, and their cries might be heard afar off. This alarmed the wicked, who sprung for the doors in be heard afar off. This alarmed the wicked, who sprung for the doors in such haste, that they fell one over another in heaps… Mr. Boehm, the such haste, that they fell one over another in heaps… Mr. Boehm, the owner of the house, and a preacher among the Germans, cried out, “I owner of the house, and a preacher among the Germans, cried out, “I never saw God in this way before.” I replied, this is a pentecost, father. never saw God in this way before.” I replied, this is a pentecost, father. “Yes, be sure!” said he, clapping his hands, “a pentecost, be sure!” Prayer “Yes, be sure!” said he, clapping his hands, “a pentecost, be sure!” Prayer was all through the house, up stairs and down.8 was all through the house, up stairs and down.8

Henry, who was present at the service Abbott describes, says, “I heard Henry, who was present at the service Abbott describes, says, “I heard him, and beheld the strange scenes he relates. It was more like Pentecost him, and beheld the strange scenes he relates. It was more like Pentecost than anything else I ever saw.”9 than anything else I ever saw.”9 In 1798, Henry wrote that a revival broke out at Boehm’s Chapel In 1798, Henry wrote that a revival broke out at Boehm’s Chapel (built in 1791) at a quarterly meeting led by Thomas Ware. As the Spirit (built in 1791) at a quarterly meeting led by Thomas Ware. As the Spirit filled the chapel, and Henry saw his niece Nancy Keaggy praying for filled the chapel, and Henry saw his niece Nancy Keaggy praying for grace, “my heart was melted, my eyes were filled with tears, and again I grace, “my heart was melted, my eyes were filled with tears, and again I knelt down and there ‘gave my wanderings o’er by giving God my heart.’ knelt down and there ‘gave my wanderings o’er by giving God my heart.’ There God restored to me the joy of his salvation. Then I united with the There God restored to me the joy of his salvation. Then I united with the church,” and was admitted by Ware.10 Reluctantly, Henry accepted church,” and was admitted by Ware.10 Reluctantly, Henry accepted leadership of a class meeting at Soudersburg – another step on the road leadership of a class meeting at Soudersburg – another step on the road to Methodist ministry – but only after a manifestation of Spirit power at to Methodist ministry – but only after a manifestation of Spirit power at family devotions the night before he was expected to begin. In 1799, after family devotions the night before he was expected to begin. In 1799, after a health crisis, Henry attended a quarterly meeting at Barratt’s Chapel in a health crisis, Henry attended a quarterly meeting at Barratt’s Chapel in , and made a covenant with God that if the Lord restored his Delaware, and made a covenant with God that if the Lord restored his health, he “would do the work of an evangelist.” He recovered, and in health, he “would do the work of an evangelist.” He recovered, and in

7Wakeley, 17-18. 7Wakeley, 17-18. 8John Ffirth, The Experiences and Gospel Labours of the Rev. Benjamin Abbott (New 8John Ffirth, The Experiences and Gospel Labours of the Rev. Benjamin Abbott (New York: Emory & Waugh, 1830), 73; also quoted in Wakeley, 20-21. York: Emory & Waugh, 1830), 73; also quoted in Wakeley, 20-21. 9Wakeley, 24. 9Wakeley, 24. 10Ibid., 33. 10Ibid., 33.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 35 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 35

January 1800 began preaching on the Dorchester Circuit on ’s January 1800 began preaching on the Dorchester Circuit on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, then part of the Philadelphia Conference. Eastern Shore, then part of the Philadelphia Conference. Even this step was taken with much hesitation. Henry writes Even this step was taken with much hesitation. Henry writes that he found himself deeply depressed and considered quitting and that he found himself deeply depressed and considered quitting and going home: “I was fearful I had mistaken my calling.” He was reassured going home: “I was fearful I had mistaken my calling.” He was reassured by the wife of Methodist Harry Ennalls, who warned him that such a by the wife of Methodist Harry Ennalls, who warned him that such a misstep might imperil his soul. Henry returned to the harvest field.11 In misstep might imperil his soul. Henry returned to the harvest field.11 In 1801, he was received into the Philadelphia Conference. On May 8, 1805, 1801, he was received into the Philadelphia Conference. On May 8, 1805, Asbury wrote in his journal: “We ordained elders Henry Boehm, James Asbury wrote in his journal: “We ordained elders Henry Boehm, James Aikins, James Polemus, John Wiltbank, Asa Smith, and Benjamin Iliff.”12 Aikins, James Polemus, John Wiltbank, Asa Smith, and Benjamin Iliff.”12 From 1801 to 1808, Henry preached on the Eastern Shore of From 1801 to 1808, Henry preached on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, in Delaware, New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. He is best Maryland, in Delaware, New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. He is best known for his years as Asbury’s traveling companion, from 1808-1813. known for his years as Asbury’s traveling companion, from 1808-1813. Even before that, however, he had ridden with Asbury. In 1803, Asbury Even before that, however, he had ridden with Asbury. In 1803, Asbury asked Henry to accompany him on a trip. Henry notes – ironically or not asked Henry to accompany him on a trip. Henry notes – ironically or not – “so I left all, for in that day the bishop said, ‘go, and he goeth; come, and – “so I left all, for in that day the bishop said, ‘go, and he goeth; come, and he cometh.’”13 They rode as far west as Berlin, Somerset County, but then he cometh.’”13 They rode as far west as Berlin, Somerset County, but then Asbury decided that Henry should return and “preach to the Germans” Asbury decided that Henry should return and “preach to the Germans” while Asbury continued west. Henry was appointed to the Dauphin while Asbury continued west. Henry was appointed to the Dauphin Circuit that year, where he remained through 1804. Asbury appointed Circuit that year, where he remained through 1804. Asbury appointed him a missionary in Pennsylvania in 1807, before once again soliciting him a missionary in Pennsylvania in 1807, before once again soliciting Henry as a traveling companion in 1808. Henry as a traveling companion in 1808. When his five years with Asbury were over, Henry served as a When his five years with Asbury were over, Henry served as a Presiding Elder from 1814 to 1821 on the Schuylkill, Chesapeake, Presiding Elder from 1814 to 1821 on the Schuylkill, Chesapeake, Delaware and Milton Districts. The subsequent 14 years found him Delaware and Milton Districts. The subsequent 14 years found him returning to circuit riding in eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey – returning to circuit riding in eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey – including the Lancaster Circuit in 1823 – before he retired to New York. including the Lancaster Circuit in 1823 – before he retired to New York. Henry married Sarah Hill in 1818; they had four children. Joseph Holdich, Henry married Sarah Hill in 1818; they had four children. Joseph Holdich, who served the Lancaster Circuit with Henry in 1823, wrote of the who served the Lancaster Circuit with Henry in 1823, wrote of the Boehms: “[Henry] was always like a father to the young preachers under Boehms: “[Henry] was always like a father to the young preachers under his care. Mrs. Boehm was an inestimable woman, gentle, intelligent, and his care. Mrs. Boehm was an inestimable woman, gentle, intelligent, and deeply pious, a perfect model for a minister’s wife.”14 deeply pious, a perfect model for a minister’s wife.”14

11Wakeley, 60. 11Wakeley, 60. 12Elmer T. Clark, ed., The Journal and Letters of Francis Asbury, 3 Vols. (Nashville: 12Elmer T. Clark, ed., The Journal and Letters of Francis Asbury, 3 Vols. (Nashville: Abingdon, 1958), 2:468. Abingdon, 1958), 2:468. 13Wakeley, 100. The quote is an allusion to Matthew 8:9. 13Wakeley, 100. The quote is an allusion to Matthew 8:9. 14Joseph Holdich, “Riding Lancaster Circuit in 1822,” in Annals of Eastern Pennsyl- 14Joseph Holdich, “Riding Lancaster Circuit in 1822,” in Annals of Eastern Pennsyl- vania, No. 3 (2006), 42. vania, No. 3 (2006), 42.

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Even in retirement, Henry “itinerated,” often visiting places Even in retirement, Henry “itinerated,” often visiting places where he had served or preached. Sangrey notes that Henry returned to where he had served or preached. Sangrey notes that Henry returned to Lancaster County in 1856, 1867, 1868 and 1871 – at age 97. On this last Lancaster County in 1856, 1867, 1868 and 1871 – at age 97. On this last visit, he helped to lay the cornerstone for a Methodist Church in visit, he helped to lay the cornerstone for a Methodist Church in Lancaster city. The 1867 trip included presiding at the adult baptism of Lancaster city. The 1867 trip included presiding at the adult baptism of Benjamin K. Maynard on the Safe Harbor Circuit. In 1868, he married a Benjamin K. Maynard on the Safe Harbor Circuit. In 1868, he married a couple at the National Camp Meeting in Manheim. Sangrey wrote that couple at the National Camp Meeting in Manheim. Sangrey wrote that in 1943, he met 93-year-old William Bishop, who remembered seeing in 1943, he met 93-year-old William Bishop, who remembered seeing Henry in 1867, when Bishop was 17. “He was a tall, strong-looking old Henry in 1867, when Bishop was 17. “He was a tall, strong-looking old man with white hair, not one of which was missing,” Bishop told man with white hair, not one of which was missing,” Bishop told Sangrey. “He was as straight as an arrow.” Henry preached that year at Sangrey. “He was as straight as an arrow.” Henry preached that year at the Methodist Church in Strasburg.15 the Methodist Church in Strasburg.15 Henry was a witness and participant in key moments not only of Henry was a witness and participant in key moments not only of Methodist but of American history. In 1800, Henry attended the General Methodist but of American history. In 1800, Henry attended the General Conference in , at which Whatcoat was elected Bishop. Days Conference in Baltimore, at which Whatcoat was elected Bishop. Days later, he attended the Philadelphia Conference, notable for a great revival later, he attended the Philadelphia Conference, notable for a great revival that fell; “one meeting in the church continued forty-five hours without that fell; “one meeting in the church continued forty-five hours without cessation.”16 In 1805, he attended the first Peninsula camp meeting at cessation.”16 In 1805, he attended the first Peninsula camp meeting at Smyrna, Delaware. He was a caregiver when Bishop Whatcoat died in Smyrna, Delaware. He was a caregiver when Bishop Whatcoat died in 1806. Hurst writes: “Two days before [Whatcoat’s] last he burst into 1806. Hurst writes: “Two days before [Whatcoat’s] last he burst into tears in the presence of Henry Boehm, the kind preacher of that circuit. tears in the presence of Henry Boehm, the kind preacher of that circuit. Recovering himself, he said, ‘I have been thinking of the many pious Recovering himself, he said, ‘I have been thinking of the many pious people I have known in Europe and America, and what a glorious time people I have known in Europe and America, and what a glorious time we shall have when we meet in heaven.’ On July 5, 1806, he died.”17 It we shall have when we meet in heaven.’ On July 5, 1806, he died.”17 It appears that Henry and Asbury experienced the first shocks of the great appears that Henry and Asbury experienced the first shocks of the great New Madrid earthquake on December 16, 1811, in Missouri but were New Madrid earthquake on December 16, 1811, in Missouri but were preserved from harm.18 Henry attended the 1844 General Conference at preserved from harm.18 Henry attended the 1844 General Conference at which Southern Methodists withdrew from the MEC over slavery: “I which Southern Methodists withdrew from the MEC over slavery: “I wept when, in 1844, we were rent asunder.”19 He visited the National wept when, in 1844, we were rent asunder.”19 He visited the National Camp Meeting gathering in Manheim, Lancaster County, in 1868, at age Camp Meeting gathering in Manheim, Lancaster County, in 1868, at age 94.20 Simpson’s Cyclopaedia of Methodism says of Henry: 94.20 Simpson’s Cyclopaedia of Methodism says of Henry:

15Sangrey, 46, 83-84. 15Sangrey, 46, 83-84. 16Wakeley, 47. 16Wakeley, 47. 17John Fletcher Hurst. The History of Methodism, 7 vols. (New York: Eaton & 17John Fletcher Hurst. The History of Methodism, 7 vols. (New York: Eaton & Mains, 1902), 5:596. Mains, 1902), 5:596. 18Wakeley, 367. 18Wakeley, 367. 19Ibid., 529. 19Ibid., 529. 20Sangrey, 60. 20Sangrey, 60.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 37 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 37

Left: Rev. Thomas Ware (1758-1842), under whose leadership Henry Left: Rev. Thomas Ware (1758-1842), under whose leadership Henry recommitted his life to Christ, joined the ME Church, and accepted recommitted his life to Christ, joined the ME Church, and accepted appointment as a class leader. Right: Bishop Richard Whatcoat (1736- appointment as a class leader. Right: Bishop Richard Whatcoat (1736- 1806), whom Henry cared for during his last hours. 1806), whom Henry cared for during his last hours. ------

He was a self-trained man of twenty-five when he became an He was a self-trained man of twenty-five when he became an itinerant preacher of the ME Church, traveling circuits in Maryland, itinerant preacher of the ME Church, traveling circuits in Maryland, , and the regions beyond. Later he served in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the regions beyond. Later he served in Pennsylvania, introducing Methodism into Harrisburg and Reading. Boehm was able to introducing Methodism into Harrisburg and Reading. Boehm was able to preach in both English and German. Before 1810, he had preached in preach in both English and German. Before 1810, he had preached in German in fourteen different states. At Francis Asbury’s’s request he German in fourteen different states. At Francis Asbury’s’s request he superintended the translation of the 1805 Methodist Discipline into the superintended the translation of the 1805 Methodist Discipline into the German language, printed in 1808 at Lancaster, Pa. As traveling German language, printed in 1808 at Lancaster, Pa. As traveling companion of Bishop Asbury for five years he visited annually not only all companion of Bishop Asbury for five years he visited annually not only all the states along the Atlantic coast, but all the frontier settlements and the states along the Atlantic coast, but all the frontier settlements and many of the isolated homes. After he ceased to travel with Bishop Asbury many of the isolated homes. After he ceased to travel with Bishop Asbury he was appointed to various important districts of the rapidly growing he was appointed to various important districts of the rapidly growing denomination needing skilled leadership, and then to pulpits of denomination needing skilled leadership, and then to pulpits of commanding influence in Pennsylvania and New Jersey until old age commanding influence in Pennsylvania and New Jersey until old age compelled him to ask release from regular ministerial duties. After his one compelled him to ask release from regular ministerial duties. After his one hundredth birthday he preached several times, and only a few days before hundredth birthday he preached several times, and only a few days before his death on Dec. 28, 1875, he gave a formal address.21 his death on Dec. 28, 1875, he gave a formal address.21

21Matthew Simpson, ed. 1878. Cyclopædia of Methodism (Philadelphia: Louis H. 21Matthew Simpson, ed. 1878. Cyclopædia of Methodism (Philadelphia: Louis H. Everts, 1878), 289-290. Everts, 1878), 289-290.

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What, then, were Henry’s contributions to Methodism? I What, then, were Henry’s contributions to Methodism? I suggest the following: suggest the following:

A BRIDGE TO GERMAN “METHODISTS” A BRIDGE TO GERMAN “METHODISTS”

Henry had a natural ability to relate to Germans because of his Henry had a natural ability to relate to Germans because of his heritage and education. He was a bilingual preacher, and this skill made heritage and education. He was a bilingual preacher, and this skill made him a bridge between the English-speaking Methodists and like-minded him a bridge between the English-speaking Methodists and like-minded believers who spoke German – particularly the United Brethren, of believers who spoke German – particularly the United Brethren, of whom Martin Boehm was a co-founder and a Bishop. Henry credits his whom Martin Boehm was a co-founder and a Bishop. Henry credits his schoolmaster, Henry Rossman, a former Hessian mercenary, for teaching schoolmaster, Henry Rossman, a former Hessian mercenary, for teaching him proper German.22 In 1800, when the United Brethren organized, him proper German.22 In 1800, when the United Brethren organized, Henry was actually listed as a minister, but he writes, “I did not belong Henry was actually listed as a minister, but he writes, “I did not belong to them.”23 Henry was drawn to the superior organization and discipline to them.”23 Henry was drawn to the superior organization and discipline of the Methodists. His father Martin was enrolled in a Methodist class of the Methodists. His father Martin was enrolled in a Methodist class meeting in 1802 – a point of much contention with United Brethren meeting in 1802 – a point of much contention with United Brethren historians, but one that Henry insisted upon. The United Brethren and historians, but one that Henry insisted upon. The United Brethren and “Albrights” were sometimes called “German Methodists.” “Albrights” were sometimes called “German Methodists.” Asbury’s journals frequently note that “Brother Boehm” Asbury’s journals frequently note that “Brother Boehm” preached or exhorted, often in German, following the Bishop’s sermons. preached or exhorted, often in German, following the Bishop’s sermons. One 1809 entry reads, “On Monday we took the path to Berlin One 1809 entry reads, “On Monday we took the path to Berlin [Pennsylvania], and had a cool ride... Brother Boehm preached to them in [Pennsylvania], and had a cool ride... Brother Boehm preached to them in high Dutch… We gave away religious tracts, German and English. We high Dutch… We gave away religious tracts, German and English. We have disposed of many thousands of these.”24 have disposed of many thousands of these.”24 Henry also was a key figure in having the Methodist Discipline Henry also was a key figure in having the Methodist Discipline translated into German. Asbury wrote in an 1807 letter to Jacob Gruber, translated into German. Asbury wrote in an 1807 letter to Jacob Gruber, a Presiding Elder in the Baltimore Conference, that “Dear Henry” was a Presiding Elder in the Baltimore Conference, that “Dear Henry” was “about to print our disciplines in Dutch”25 Henry notes that this “about to print our disciplines in Dutch”25 Henry notes that this translation – published in 1807 – was done at the request of Asbury and translation – published in 1807 – was done at the request of Asbury and the Philadelphia Conference. Henry employed for the work a Dr. Romer, the Philadelphia Conference. Henry employed for the work a Dr. Romer, a German from Middletown, Pennsylvania, and assisted in the actual a German from Middletown, Pennsylvania, and assisted in the actual translation. This accomplishment moved forward the possibility of a translation. This accomplishment moved forward the possibility of a union between the Methodists and Brethren, Henry wrote.26 union between the Methodists and Brethren, Henry wrote.26

22Wakeley, 13-14. 22Wakeley, 13-14. 23Ibid., 388. 23Ibid., 388. 24Clark, 2:611-612. 24Clark, 2:611-612. 25Ibid., 3:372 25Ibid., 3:372 26Wakeley, 174. 26Wakeley, 174.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 39 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 39

Connections among the Methodists and their German brethren Connections among the Methodists and their German brethren were close in the early 1800s, even after the formation of the United were close in the early 1800s, even after the formation of the United Brethren in Christ and the “Albrights.” Surely some of this friendly Brethren in Christ and the “Albrights.” Surely some of this friendly feeling resulted from the linkage to Martin Boehm via Henry. On the feeling resulted from the linkage to Martin Boehm via Henry. On the Dauphin Circuit in 1803-04, Henry wrote, “we held union, or what were Dauphin Circuit in 1803-04, Henry wrote, “we held union, or what were called ‘friendly meetings,’ where the Methodists and the United called ‘friendly meetings,’ where the Methodists and the United Brethren in Christ met in harmony, and the ministers took turns in Brethren in Christ met in harmony, and the ministers took turns in preaching.”27 In his review of Reminiscences, Peck noted, “Indeed there preaching.”27 In his review of Reminiscences, Peck noted, “Indeed there was constant communion and interchange of pulpit labor at that day was constant communion and interchange of pulpit labor at that day between the Methodists and the United Brethren, and there was strong between the Methodists and the United Brethren, and there was strong talk of uniting the two bodies into one.”28 In 1813, Henry and William talk of uniting the two bodies into one.”28 In 1813, Henry and William Hunter were named delegates to the United Brethren. Although the Hunter were named delegates to the United Brethren. Although the prospects of merger faded away after 1813, the fellowship of the “warmed prospects of merger faded away after 1813, the fellowship of the “warmed heart” did unite – at last – in 1968, when Evangelical United Brethren heart” did unite – at last – in 1968, when Evangelical United Brethren and Methodists came together to form the United Methodist Church. and Methodists came together to form the United Methodist Church.

AN INTERPRETER OF ASBURY AN INTERPRETER OF ASBURY

In 1808, Asbury recruited Henry as his traveling companion – a In 1808, Asbury recruited Henry as his traveling companion – a position he held for five years, longer than anyone else. That in itself is a position he held for five years, longer than anyone else. That in itself is a testimony to Henry’s faith; Asbury was an indefatigable itinerant despite testimony to Henry’s faith; Asbury was an indefatigable itinerant despite advancing age (he was 63 in 1808) and failing health. Henry writes that advancing age (he was 63 in 1808) and failing health. Henry writes that he and Asbury logged 40,000 miles in five years.29 Both Reminiscences and he and Asbury logged 40,000 miles in five years.29 Both Reminiscences and Asbury’s journals record a litany of illnesses, accidents, travel hazards Asbury’s journals record a litany of illnesses, accidents, travel hazards and bad weather that befell the pair as they covered Asbury’s far-flung and bad weather that befell the pair as they covered Asbury’s far-flung territory – from Maine (and Canada in 1811) to Georgia, from New Jersey territory – from Maine (and Canada in 1811) to Georgia, from New Jersey and Delaware to Kentucky and Tennessee. Henry’s writings expand on, and Delaware to Kentucky and Tennessee. Henry’s writings expand on, and explain, Asbury’s journals of his travels and preaching. and explain, Asbury’s journals of his travels and preaching. There is no denying Asbury’s dedication, but at times a tone of There is no denying Asbury’s dedication, but at times a tone of martyrdom creeps into his reflections. In July 1809, Asbury wrote, “I martyrdom creeps into his reflections. In July 1809, Asbury wrote, “I preached in Silas Bliss’s barn, in Zanovia [New York], on Thursday; we preached in Silas Bliss’s barn, in Zanovia [New York], on Thursday; we had a profitable meeting. My bed was on the floor at night – it was had a profitable meeting. My bed was on the floor at night – it was cooler thus, and I accommodated my friend. Next day, I again held forth cooler thus, and I accommodated my friend. Next day, I again held forth in a barn in the village of Pompey. Here brother M’Kendree left me to in a barn in the village of Pompey. Here brother M’Kendree left me to

27Wakeley, 106. 27Wakeley, 106. 28Luther W. Peck, “Reminiscences of Rev. Henry Boehm,” in Methodist Quarterly 28Luther W. Peck, “Reminiscences of Rev. Henry Boehm,” in Methodist Quarterly Review 88 (July 1866), 388. Review 88 (July 1866), 388. 29Wakeley, 459. 29Wakeley, 459.

40 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 40 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference serve alone. The evening brought us up at Paddock’s, in Manlius. I lay serve alone. The evening brought us up at Paddock’s, in Manlius. I lay along the floor, in my clothes. There was a lady in the corner, and brother along the floor, in my clothes. There was a lady in the corner, and brother Boehm in bed, like a gentleman. The female could not possibly occasion Boehm in bed, like a gentleman. The female could not possibly occasion reproach, so I was persuaded; but I wished I was somewhere else: my reproach, so I was persuaded; but I wished I was somewhere else: my fear was not commendable.”30 Unfortunately, Henry’s memoirs fail to fear was not commendable.”30 Unfortunately, Henry’s memoirs fail to shed light on this singular occasion! But Henry points out that when shed light on this singular occasion! But Henry points out that when Asbury was incapacitated, Henry had to “lift the bishop out of bed, Asbury was incapacitated, Henry had to “lift the bishop out of bed, bathe his limbs, dress his blisters, and nurse him like a child.”31 bathe his limbs, dress his blisters, and nurse him like a child.”31 So Henry had no easy road as Asbury’s companion; sometimes So Henry had no easy road as Asbury’s companion; sometimes frustration bursts into view. Asbury, for instance, wrote in his journal on frustration bursts into view. Asbury, for instance, wrote in his journal on April 23, 1809, “Ah! how many Marthas there are, and how few Marys!” April 23, 1809, “Ah! how many Marthas there are, and how few Marys!” Henry riposted, somewhat tartly, “I might inquire, What kind of a world Henry riposted, somewhat tartly, “I might inquire, What kind of a world would we have if all the women were Marys? Has not injustice often would we have if all the women were Marys? Has not injustice often been done to Martha?”32 Henry, it seems, was often a Martha. been done to Martha?”32 Henry, it seems, was often a Martha. On July 23 that year, in Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania, Asbury On July 23 that year, in Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania, Asbury recorded: “Brother Boehm upset the sulky and broke the shaft.” Henry’s recorded: “Brother Boehm upset the sulky and broke the shaft.” Henry’s commentary: “It was well I was in the sulky instead of the old bishop, or commentary: “It was well I was in the sulky instead of the old bishop, or he might have fared hard. He might have had something worse than a he might have fared hard. He might have had something worse than a ‘broken shaft’: a broken limb or a broken neck.”33 Henry was on the road ‘broken shaft’: a broken limb or a broken neck.”33 Henry was on the road with Asbury when his father Martin died in 1812; Asbury preached the with Asbury when his father Martin died in 1812; Asbury preached the funeral sermon, but the pair was back on the road three days later. funeral sermon, but the pair was back on the road three days later. Henry’s salary for this life of hardship was $100 a year.34 Henry’s salary for this life of hardship was $100 a year.34 Yet Henry was a staunch defender of Asbury, despite a tendency Yet Henry was a staunch defender of Asbury, despite a tendency in later Methodism to consider the bishop something of a tyrant. Henry in later Methodism to consider the bishop something of a tyrant. Henry backed Asbury’s controversial (and unilateral) decision to create a new backed Asbury’s controversial (and unilateral) decision to create a new Genesee Conference in upstate New York, for instance. And Henry’s Genesee Conference in upstate New York, for instance. And Henry’s portrait of the bishop in Reminiscences is warm; while acknowledging portrait of the bishop in Reminiscences is warm; while acknowledging Asbury’s “rough exterior,” he adds, “under that roughness and sternness Asbury’s “rough exterior,” he adds, “under that roughness and sternness of manner beat a heart as feeling as ever dwelt in human bosom.” He also of manner beat a heart as feeling as ever dwelt in human bosom.” He also wrote that he loved Asbury “as I loved my own dear father.”35 It is note- wrote that he loved Asbury “as I loved my own dear father.”35 It is note- worthy that Henry did not marry until 1818, two years after Asbury’s worthy that Henry did not marry until 1818, two years after Asbury’s death; the Bishop often decried marriage as ruinous to the career of an death; the Bishop often decried marriage as ruinous to the career of an itinerant Methodist preacher. itinerant Methodist preacher.

30Clark, 2:608-09. 30Clark, 2:608-09. 31Wakeley, 193. 31Wakeley, 193. 32Clark, 2:599-600; and Wakeley, 230. 32Clark, 2:599-600; and Wakeley, 230. 33Clark, 2:610, and Wakeley, 252-53. 33Clark, 2:610, and Wakeley, 252-53. 34Wakeley, 228. 34Wakeley, 228. 35Ibid., 451, 427. 35Ibid., 451, 427.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 41 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 41

Whether Asbury returned Henry’s devotion is hard to determine Whether Asbury returned Henry’s devotion is hard to determine from the laconic and/or cryptic entries in his journal. In his funeral from the laconic and/or cryptic entries in his journal. In his funeral sermon for Martin Boehm, Asbury described Henry only as “a useful sermon for Martin Boehm, Asbury described Henry only as “a useful minister of the Methodist connection,” because of his ability to preach in minister of the Methodist connection,” because of his ability to preach in German and English.36 But Asbury did reassign Henry to be Presiding German and English.36 But Asbury did reassign Henry to be Presiding Elder of the Schuylkill District in 1813, so he would be nearer to his Elder of the Schuylkill District in 1813, so he would be nearer to his widowed mother, and told that year’s Philadelphia Conference, “[Henry] widowed mother, and told that year’s Philadelphia Conference, “[Henry] served me as a son; he served me as a brother; he served me as a servant; he served me as a son; he served me as a brother; he served me as a servant; he served me as a slave.”37 Some smiled at the description; it would appear to served me as a slave.”37 Some smiled at the description; it would appear to be more accurate than humorous! Asbury’s confidence in Henry is be more accurate than humorous! Asbury’s confidence in Henry is demonstrated in the Bishop’s naming Henry, along with William demonstrated in the Bishop’s naming Henry, along with William McKendree and Daniel Hitt, as executors of his will. Asbury also McKendree and Daniel Hitt, as executors of his will. Asbury also commissioned those three in his will to administer a $2,000 bequest for commissioned those three in his will to administer a $2,000 bequest for publication of Bibles and other religious tracts.38 “Henry Boehm,” publication of Bibles and other religious tracts.38 “Henry Boehm,” Sangrey writes, “probably knew Bishop Asbury more intimately and Sangrey writes, “probably knew Bishop Asbury more intimately and more profoundly than any other person.”39 more profoundly than any other person.”39

OPPONENT OF SLAVERY OPPONENT OF SLAVERY

As did many of the early Methodists, Henry preached against As did many of the early Methodists, Henry preached against slavery and preached the gospel to the “colored people.” He writes, for slavery and preached the gospel to the “colored people.” He writes, for instance, that while serving the Annamessex Circuit in 1801, “We instance, that while serving the Annamessex Circuit in 1801, “We preached against slavery, and persuaded our brethren and those who preached against slavery, and persuaded our brethren and those who were converted to liberate their slaves, and we were often successful… were converted to liberate their slaves, and we were often successful… Many slaves were made ‘free’ by ‘the Son.’” On one of Asbury’s tours in Many slaves were made ‘free’ by ‘the Son.’” On one of Asbury’s tours in , Henry preached to “the Africans:” “We never forgot North Carolina, Henry preached to “the Africans:” “We never forgot these sable children.”40 these sable children.”40 In 1803, he met “Black Harry” Hosier, who was traveling with In 1803, he met “Black Harry” Hosier, who was traveling with Asbury and . Henry records with regret, however, Asbury and Freeborn Garrettson. Henry records with regret, however, that Hosier fell “under the influence of strong drink” later in life, until he that Hosier fell “under the influence of strong drink” later in life, until he was restored to faith before his 1810 death.41 In 1864, Henry attended the was restored to faith before his 1810 death.41 In 1864, Henry attended the General Conference at which delegates from the African Methodist General Conference at which delegates from the African Methodist Episcopal Church were welcomed fraternally in Philadelphia. In his Episcopal Church were welcomed fraternally in Philadelphia. In his

36Quoted in Wakeley, 375. 36Quoted in Wakeley, 375. 37Ibid., 414. 37Ibid., 414. 38Clark, 3:472-3. 38Clark, 3:472-3. 39Sangrey, 57. 39Sangrey, 57. 40Wakeley, 69, 274. 40Wakeley, 69, 274. 41Ibid., 92. 41Ibid., 92.

42 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 42 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference

Left: Bishop Francis Asbury; Right: “Black Harry” Hosier. Left: Bishop Francis Asbury; Right: “Black Harry” Hosier. ------remarks to the conference, Henry said that while he and other remarks to the conference, Henry said that while he and other Methodists felt the AME split in 1816 was unfortunate, “I have been very Methodists felt the AME split in 1816 was unfortunate, “I have been very much affected in hearing our colored brethren testify here… I admire the much affected in hearing our colored brethren testify here… I admire the providence of God in this instance.”42 providence of God in this instance.”42

A SKILLFUL SHEPHERD A SKILLFUL SHEPHERD

Henry spent 74 years in ministry – productive years. Sangrey Henry spent 74 years in ministry – productive years. Sangrey describes Henry as “a beloved pastor and… an effective spiritual director describes Henry as “a beloved pastor and… an effective spiritual director in his circuits.”43 William Capers, a younger contemporary who later in his circuits.”43 William Capers, a younger contemporary who later became a Bishop of the ME Church, South, wrote that Henry was “one of became a Bishop of the ME Church, South, wrote that Henry was “one of the purest and best of Methodist ministers.”44 Henry was a Presiding the purest and best of Methodist ministers.”44 Henry was a Presiding Elder – the equivalent of a District Superintendent – after his five years Elder – the equivalent of a District Superintendent – after his five years with Asbury, and by all accounts was an effective administrator. with Asbury, and by all accounts was an effective administrator.

42Wakeley, 490. 42Wakeley, 490. 43Sangrey, 43. 43Sangrey, 43. 44William May Wightman, Life of William Capers, DD, One of the of the 44William May Wightman, Life of William Capers, DD, One of the Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, Including an Autobiography (Nashville: Barbee & Smith, Methodist Episcopal Church, South, Including an Autobiography (Nashville: Barbee & Smith, 1902), 111. 1902), 111.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 43 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 43

Henry also seems to have supplied the impetus behind Henry also seems to have supplied the impetus behind construction of the first Methodist place of worship in Germantown, construction of the first Methodist place of worship in Germantown, outside Philadelphia, after Methodists were forbidden to continue outside Philadelphia, after Methodists were forbidden to continue meeting in the local schoolhouse. He wrote in his journal in 1803, that he meeting in the local schoolhouse. He wrote in his journal in 1803, that he had begun to raise a subscription for a meeting house. In Reminiscences, had begun to raise a subscription for a meeting house. In Reminiscences, looking back over the years, he adds with satisfaction, “The Methodists looking back over the years, he adds with satisfaction, “The Methodists have there two churches: 483 members, and 116 probationers; in all, 509, have there two churches: 483 members, and 116 probationers; in all, 509, and Church property worth $36,000.”45 and Church property worth $36,000.”45

AN UNDERAPPRECIATED PREACHER? AN UNDERAPPRECIATED PREACHER?

Not only as a shepherd was Henry effective: his memoirs and Not only as a shepherd was Henry effective: his memoirs and Asbury’s journal indicate that he was also effective as a preacher. One Asbury’s journal indicate that he was also effective as a preacher. One suspects he would give the glory to the Holy Spirit rather than taking suspects he would give the glory to the Holy Spirit rather than taking the credit himself, but he did do “the work of an evangelist” (2 Tim. 4:5) the credit himself, but he did do “the work of an evangelist” (2 Tim. 4:5) that he had pledged to do in 1799. Consider this note in Reminiscences that he had pledged to do in 1799. Consider this note in Reminiscences about street preaching in Lancaster, a notoriously difficult venue for about street preaching in Lancaster, a notoriously difficult venue for Methodists, in the early 1800s: Methodists, in the early 1800s:

Once while I was preaching, and there was some disturbance, I saw a Once while I was preaching, and there was some disturbance, I saw a man coming toward me from the tavern. He seemed to be full of wrath, man coming toward me from the tavern. He seemed to be full of wrath, and pressed through the crowd toward my pulpit, which was a and pressed through the crowd toward my pulpit, which was a butcher’s block. I kept on preaching, throwing out some hot shots, butcher’s block. I kept on preaching, throwing out some hot shots, when suddenly he stopped, his countenance changed, and the lion when suddenly he stopped, his countenance changed, and the lion became a lamb, and I was preserved from the harm he no doubt became a lamb, and I was preserved from the harm he no doubt intended I should suffer. intended I should suffer.

Henry concludes that he finally succeeded in establishing a class Henry concludes that he finally succeeded in establishing a class meeting in Lancaster in 1807.46 While serving in 1801 on the Annamessex meeting in Lancaster in 1807.46 While serving in 1801 on the Annamessex Circuit, Henry wrote of his evangelistic work, “Indeed the whole circuit Circuit, Henry wrote of his evangelistic work, “Indeed the whole circuit had a wall of fire around it and a glory in the midst.”47 In Reading – most had a wall of fire around it and a glory in the midst.”47 In Reading – most likely in 1823, since Holdich records the same incident – Henry likely in 1823, since Holdich records the same incident – Henry

45Wakeley, 95. Henry’s role in establishing the church in Germantown in 1803 45Wakeley, 95. Henry’s role in establishing the church in Germantown in 1803 is confirmed in Robert Thomas, A Century of Methodism in Germantown (Philadelphia: is confirmed in Robert Thomas, A Century of Methodism in Germantown (Philadelphia: Germantown Independent, 1895), 4-5, which includes the interesting remark that Germantown Independent, 1895), 4-5, which includes the interesting remark that previously, “Henry Boehm… had occasionally preached in Germantown, as his father had previously, “Henry Boehm… had occasionally preached in Germantown, as his father had before him.” This is the origin of today’s First United Methodist Church of Germantown. before him.” This is the origin of today’s First United Methodist Church of Germantown. 46Wakeley, 114. This is the origin of today’s First United Methodist Church of 46Wakeley, 114. This is the origin of today’s First United Methodist Church of Lancaster. Lancaster. 47Wakeley, 70. 47Wakeley, 70.

44 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 44 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference encountered a young man who mocked the Methodists, offering to show encountered a young man who mocked the Methodists, offering to show his companions how the Methodists behaved in their meetings by falling his companions how the Methodists behaved in their meetings by falling down on the floor and mimicking being felled by the Spirit. “[A]fter he down on the floor and mimicking being felled by the Spirit. “[A]fter he had lain for some time, [his companions] wondered why he did not get had lain for some time, [his companions] wondered why he did not get up. They shook him in order to awake him. When they saw he did not up. They shook him in order to awake him. When they saw he did not breathe they turned pale, and sent for a physician, who examined the breathe they turned pale, and sent for a physician, who examined the man and pronounced him dead.”48 This Ananias-like incident had the man and pronounced him dead.”48 This Ananias-like incident had the dual effect of halting persecution in its tracks in Reading and winning dual effect of halting persecution in its tracks in Reading and winning the Methodists favor with the people. the Methodists favor with the people. Asbury also provides hints of Henry’s effectiveness. In November Asbury also provides hints of Henry’s effectiveness. In November 1808, Asbury wrote of a tour in Cooper’s Gap, North Carolina: “On the 1808, Asbury wrote of a tour in Cooper’s Gap, North Carolina: “On the Sabbath brother Boehm spoke in the morning at eight o’clock; I preached Sabbath brother Boehm spoke in the morning at eight o’clock; I preached from Matt. viii, 5; exhortations followed, and brother Boehm ended our from Matt. viii, 5; exhortations followed, and brother Boehm ended our Sabbath labours by preaching at night, when there was a considerable Sabbath labours by preaching at night, when there was a considerable move. We came away on Monday by Rutherford court house to G. move. We came away on Monday by Rutherford court house to G. Moore’s. At Moore’s Chapel on Tuesday I preached from Colossians ii, 6. Moore’s. At Moore’s Chapel on Tuesday I preached from Colossians ii, 6. Henry Boehm spoke at night; verily we had a shout!”49 Henry Boehm spoke at night; verily we had a shout!”49 At an 1806 camp meeting in Dover, Delaware, at which Henry At an 1806 camp meeting in Dover, Delaware, at which Henry preached, he recalled, “there were reported one thousand three hundred preached, he recalled, “there were reported one thousand three hundred and twenty conversions and nine hundred and sixteen sanctifications.”50 and twenty conversions and nine hundred and sixteen sanctifications.”50 As Presiding Elder of the Schuylkill District in 1813, he held a camp As Presiding Elder of the Schuylkill District in 1813, he held a camp meeting in Dauphin County at which many were converted, including meeting in Dauphin County at which many were converted, including the daughter of the eminent scientist and Unitarian Joseph Priestley, of the daughter of the eminent scientist and Unitarian Joseph Priestley, of Northumberland.51 Northumberland.51

A BRIDGE TO THE PAST A BRIDGE TO THE PAST

Henry Boehm turned 100 in 1875, his faculties little diminished. Henry Boehm turned 100 in 1875, his faculties little diminished. Ten years earlier, the Rev. J. B. Wakeley had first overseen the Ten years earlier, the Rev. J. B. Wakeley had first overseen the publication of Reminiscences, recording the early history of American publication of Reminiscences, recording the early history of American Methodism for a new generation – especially important considering that Methodism for a new generation – especially important considering that Methodism observed its centennial in 1866. In a review of the first Methodism observed its centennial in 1866. In a review of the first edition, Peck wrote, “It is not often history calls upon the stand a more edition, Peck wrote, “It is not often history calls upon the stand a more important witness than Henry Boehm… The Church has reason to rejoice important witness than Henry Boehm… The Church has reason to rejoice that Providence has spared so interesting a representative of her early that Providence has spared so interesting a representative of her early

48Wakeley, 109; Holdich, 48-49. 48Wakeley, 109; Holdich, 48-49. 49Clark, 2:582. 49Clark, 2:582. 50Wakeley, 151. 50Wakeley, 151. 51Ibid., 417. 51Ibid., 417.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 45 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 45

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Henry Boehm in later Henry Boehm in later life, from a painting life, from a painting hanging at Old hanging at Old St. George’s Church, St. George’s Church, Philadelphia. Philadelphia.

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founders to see the centenary year, and afford us at least one link by founders to see the centenary year, and afford us at least one link by which we may connect the present with the glorious past.”52 Peck’s which we may connect the present with the glorious past.”52 Peck’s review contrasted current Methodist views of the itineracy, the review contrasted current Methodist views of the itineracy, the episcopacy, church organization and the General Conference – usually in episcopacy, church organization and the General Conference – usually in an unfavorable fashion – with Henry’s memories of Methodism’s early an unfavorable fashion – with Henry’s memories of Methodism’s early days, indicating that at the start of its second hundred years, the days, indicating that at the start of its second hundred years, the Methodist movement was growing increasingly aware of its Methodist movement was growing increasingly aware of its disconnection from its roots. Peck referred to Henry as “Father Boehm” – disconnection from its roots. Peck referred to Henry as “Father Boehm” – the same title accorded to Henry’s father Martin in his day. the same title accorded to Henry’s father Martin in his day. In 1864, Henry noted in Reminiscences, the Methodist Episcopal In 1864, Henry noted in Reminiscences, the Methodist Episcopal Church had nearly 7,000 traveling preachers and more than 900,000 Church had nearly 7,000 traveling preachers and more than 900,000 members – not counting the Methodist Episcopal Church, South – yet members – not counting the Methodist Episcopal Church, South – yet when he was ordained, there were 266 preachers and 65,980 members. when he was ordained, there were 266 preachers and 65,980 members. “Church edifices were scarce, and parsonages comparatively unknown. “Church edifices were scarce, and parsonages comparatively unknown. We had no colleges or seminaries; no Biblical Institutes, no periodicals, We had no colleges or seminaries; no Biblical Institutes, no periodicals, and were almost without a literature; indeed wholly so, except a Hymn and were almost without a literature; indeed wholly so, except a Hymn Book, Discipline, and a few tracts and other small publications.” And yet: Book, Discipline, and a few tracts and other small publications.” And yet:

52Peck, 389-390. 52Peck, 389-390.

46 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference 46 Journal of the Historical Society of the EPA Conference

In some matters I cannot but think that, as a Church, we have In some matters I cannot but think that, as a Church, we have retrograded. The people and preachers in that day were patterns of retrograded. The people and preachers in that day were patterns of plainness; we conform more to the world, and have lost much of the plainness; we conform more to the world, and have lost much of the spirit of self-denial they possessed. Our fathers paid great attention to spirit of self-denial they possessed. Our fathers paid great attention to Church discipline, and their preaching was more direct; they aimed at Church discipline, and their preaching was more direct; they aimed at the heart, and looked for more immediate results than we of the the heart, and looked for more immediate results than we of the present day.53 present day.53

That latter description, of course, was a portrait of Henry That latter description, of course, was a portrait of Henry himself. But he added, “If we remain true to Methodism, ‘walking by the himself. But he added, “If we remain true to Methodism, ‘walking by the same rule and minding the same things’ our fathers did, then our future same rule and minding the same things’ our fathers did, then our future will be grand and glorious as the past.” will be grand and glorious as the past.” As Henry’s 100th birthday neared, the Newark and New York As Henry’s 100th birthday neared, the Newark and New York annual conferences staged two celebrations before the date – Sangrey annual conferences staged two celebrations before the date – Sangrey suggests wryly that the conference leadership might have been suggests wryly that the conference leadership might have been concerned as to whether Henry would live to see age 100 – and an concerned as to whether Henry would live to see age 100 – and an anniversary party was held on the actual date, June 8, 1875, by the anniversary party was held on the actual date, June 8, 1875, by the Newark Conference. Henry preached or presented remarks at all the Newark Conference. Henry preached or presented remarks at all the events. Celebrated hymn writer Fanny Crosby composed two hymns for events. Celebrated hymn writer Fanny Crosby composed two hymns for the official centennial, and the mother of US President Ulysses S. Grant the official centennial, and the mother of US President Ulysses S. Grant came to town specifically for the occasion.54 On June 27, Henry preached came to town specifically for the occasion.54 On June 27, Henry preached a second centennial sermon at John Street Methodist Church – the a second centennial sermon at John Street Methodist Church – the oldest Methodist minister speaking in the nation’s oldest Methodist oldest Methodist minister speaking in the nation’s oldest Methodist church.55 church.55 And while Henry labored at a time when theological education And while Henry labored at a time when theological education was scarce in Methodism, he bequeathed all the money raised in was scarce in Methodism, he bequeathed all the money raised in celebration of his centennial to fund scholarships for Methodists celebration of his centennial to fund scholarships for Methodists preparing for the ministry at Drew Theological Seminary. This living preparing for the ministry at Drew Theological Seminary. This living representative of the Methodist past, this “self-trained” man, in representative of the Methodist past, this “self-trained” man, in Simpson’s phrase, recognized the changes that had occurred in the Simpson’s phrase, recognized the changes that had occurred in the movement over a century, and was looking toward the future. movement over a century, and was looking toward the future.

53Wakeley, 491-492. 53Wakeley, 491-492. 54Accounts of all these celebrations (which had been “phonographically 54Accounts of all these celebrations (which had been “phonographically reported”) may be found in the 1875 edition of Wakeley, 500-577. Ironically, Rev. J. B. reported”) may be found in the 1875 edition of Wakeley, 500-577. Ironically, Rev. J. B. Wakeley, who edited and published Henry’s memoirs, and led efforts to commemorate Wakeley, who edited and published Henry’s memoirs, and led efforts to commemorate the multiple 100th birthday celebrations, died himself on April 27, 1875, less than two the multiple 100th birthday celebrations, died himself on April 27, 1875, less than two months before Boehm’s actual centennial on June 8. months before Boehm’s actual centennial on June 8. 55Wakeley, 579. 55Wakeley, 579.

Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 47 Rev. Henry Boehm (1775-1875) 47

HIS LAST DAYS HIS LAST DAYS

Henry Boehm died on December 29, 1875 (contra Simpson, who Henry Boehm died on December 29, 1875 (contra Simpson, who placed the date at December 28). In his itinerant career, he had traveled placed the date at December 28). In his itinerant career, he had traveled more than 100,000 miles. One of his most poignant trips was his 1856 more than 100,000 miles. One of his most poignant trips was his 1856 visit to Lancaster County: visit to Lancaster County:

I went to the old Boehm’s Chapel and the old house where I was born. I went to the old Boehm’s Chapel and the old house where I was born. My eye lighted upon the place in the gallery where in 1798 I gave my My eye lighted upon the place in the gallery where in 1798 I gave my heart to God… What sermons had I heard in that chapel! The venerable heart to God… What sermons had I heard in that chapel! The venerable forms of Asbury, Whatcoat, M’Kendree, and others I had heard preach forms of Asbury, Whatcoat, M’Kendree, and others I had heard preach came up before me. It was Easter Sabbath, and I preached on the came up before me. It was Easter Sabbath, and I preached on the resurrection of . It was forty-four years that day since my father resurrection of Jesus. It was forty-four years that day since my father died. From the window I could see his grave and those of my mother died. From the window I could see his grave and those of my mother and the other loved ones… My feelings well nigh overcame me. The and the other loved ones… My feelings well nigh overcame me. The friends of my youth were gone. There were none of my name remaining friends of my youth were gone. There were none of my name remaining in that neighborhood. Generations had passed away, new ones had in that neighborhood. Generations had passed away, new ones had risen that knew me not. I wandered among the tombs in the old risen that knew me not. I wandered among the tombs in the old burying-ground, then bade adieu to the old grave-yard, to the old burying-ground, then bade adieu to the old grave-yard, to the old chapel, to the old homestead.56 chapel, to the old homestead.56

Sadly, it would appear that even more new generations have Sadly, it would appear that even more new generations have risen in Methodism since 1856 that know him not – an oversight that the risen in Methodism since 1856 that know him not – an oversight that the church should consider correcting. Henry Boehm was not only a friend church should consider correcting. Henry Boehm was not only a friend of the giants of Methodist history. He was one of those giants himself. of the giants of Methodist history. He was one of those giants himself.

56Wakeley, 482-483. 56Wakeley, 482-483.