History of George Street United Church

“St. John’s Oldest Surviving Methodist Church”

Compiled by Devon Griffin, George Parsons, and Ava Bullen

George Street United Church August 22nd, 2019

Table of Contents SELECTING THE CHURCH LAND: ...... 1 CORNER STONE CEREMONY: ...... 1 BUILDING OF THE CHURCH: ...... 3 MASTER BUILDER WILLIAM CAMPBELL (1823 - 1886) ...... 4 THE TRAGEDY OF MASTER MASON RICHARD ATWILL (1828-1873) ...... 5 A FINISHED PRODUCT: ...... 6 DEDICATION SERVICE ...... 7 THE BOND BELL ...... 8 THE MINISTERS OF GEORGE STREET CHURCH: ...... 8 CLASS MEETINGS:...... 9 EARLY PEOPLE OF THE CONGREGATION: ...... 10 The Early days: ...... 13 District subdivide ...... 13 Early Sunday school ...... 14 George street band of hope ...... 15 GEORGE STREET MISSION BAND ...... 16 EARLY DAYS OF THE CHOIR ...... 17 MOMENTS IN TIME FROM THE NEWSPAPERs: ...... 19 TEMPERANCE MEETINGS ...... 19 THE REIGN OF THE FIVE GEORGES ...... 19 WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY: ...... 20 THE ORGAN THROUGH THE YEARS: ...... 22 TURN OF THE CENTURY: ...... 24 SOUTHSIDE CHURCH ...... 24 THE FIRST CHURCH EXPANSION ...... 25 WORLD WAR I AND THE ROARING TWENTIES 1910-1930: ...... 26 FROM THE TRUSTEES REPORTS OF THE 1920s ...... 29 THE GREAT DEPRESSION YEARS AND THE GREAT WAR: ...... 30 FROM THE TRUSTEES REPORTS OF THE 1930s: ...... 30 THE RAPID POST-WAR EXPANSION: ...... 31 SECOND BUILDING EXPANSION IN 1959/1960: ...... 33

CONGREGATION HIGHS 1960s: ...... 36 Young People’s Union ...... 37 Men’s Service Club: ...... 38 Young COUPLEs Club: ...... 38 ANNUAL SERVICE FOR PEOPLE OF THE SEA: ...... 39 LATER WOMEN’S GROUPS: ...... 40 The 1970S - celebrations and changes: ...... 43 Centennial 1973 ...... 43 Action Teams: ...... 43 1970s TIDBITS: ...... 44 1970s Donations: ...... 45 1980-2000 Continued worship: ...... 45 1980s TIDBITS: ...... 45 1990s TIDBITS: ...... 46 2000 to Present, Outreach Work & Time of Transition: ...... 47 Church’s Response to the 9/11 Tragedy: ...... 47 JIMMY PRATT MEMORIAL OUTREACH CENTRE ...... 48 21st CENTURY TIDBITS: ...... 48 NEW BEGINNINGS: ...... 49 Stories from Long-Time Congregation Members: ...... 50 Don Bradbury ...... 51 Roger Angel: ...... 55 Pauline Murrin: ...... 61 Eric Winsor: ...... 65 Reg Rumsey: ...... 68 Photographs throughout the Years: ...... 71 References ...... 73

SELECTING THE CHURCH LAND:

Riverhead Area of St. John's Pre-1892

On February 11, 1862 Methodist minister Rev. Edmund Botterell, the Hon. J.J. Rogerson and Captain the Hon. Edward White were appointed on a Methodist church committee that was to search out possible sites for a new church and Sunday School in the Riverhead area. This was in the West End along the Waterford River. Eventually it was discovered this particular area was overflowing and there were many problems in securing a site. In response to the growing Methodist population, Sunday School was held in the meantime at Miss Hamlin’s Day School on Pleasant Street along with prayer meetings on Thursday evenings.37

It was not until almost a decade later, in 1871, when the committee was able to secure land on George Street in a dilapidated residential area where several old houses owned by the Hutchings family were being torn down. The houses were subsequently removed, and the vacant lot was surrounded by blacksmiths' forges, sailmakers' and coopers' premises. It was deemed to be suitable for a mission church.23A lease was then signed for ten pounds sterling a year for the land as well as for an adjacent property owned by Johnston’s of Greenock in the busy mercantile district. It was Pre-1913, Flanked by Ships & Businesses eventually bought by the generous congregation in the years following. Excavation by hand began in the Spring of 1872 as soon as the frost had melted away37. CORNER STONE CEREMONY: The stone used in George Street United Church was a gift of the Hon. Stephen Rendell, a prominent St. John’s merchant, the MHA for Trinity, and later a member of the Legislative council.2 On

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Monday, May 27th, 1872, with flags and banners waving, a procession marched west from “Mother Church” to Buchanan Street and George Street. The cornerstone, as told by original mason Henry Gollop years later, was carried on the shoulders of a man called Noseworthy and was laid by Rendell.23

In a paper written by the resident minister in 1898, Rev. JT Newman31, a picturesque depiction of the laying of the cornerstone is given. He explains, “the efforts of the friends were successful in securing the site on which this church stands, and on Monday May 27th, 1872, the ceremony of laying the cornerstone of this George St. Church was performed. At 10:30 am a large

Hon. Stephen Rendell number of friends met in Gower St. Church. Rev. S.T. Teed Gave out Hymn 540 & Rev. J. Hall (The Congregational Minister) offered prayer. As this was the time of District Meeting all the ministers with the Presbyterian & Congregational Ministers, Trustees of New Church, Sunday School Teachers & Elder Scholars & members of the congregation walked in procession (to the west) to the proposed site. Rev. James Dove who was then the superintendent of the circuit gave out the Hymn 787. Prayer was offered by the Rev. J.S. Peach & the Rev. S.T. Teed read from 1 Chron. 29. At the laying of the cornerstone, Rev. James Dove read a list of what was put in a canister under the stone – a parchment scroll declaring date of ceremony, the year of the reigning Sovereign and the Governorship of the present Island at that time, all the local journals, a copy of the provincial Wesleyan, the organ of the East British American Conference, The Watchman & Recorder, and a copy of the Ministers of Conference & samples of the current coins of the country. Stephen Rendell Esqr. MHA, was then introduced by the superintendent and he proceeded to lay the stone in the usual way. After laying the stone he spoke a few encouraging words & wished the friends success. Rev. T. Harris chairman of the district congratulated the Trustees in having secured so good a site. He also spoke of the good old Methodist doctrines which would be preached in the church. Rev. W. E. Shenstone, then stationed at Brigus, Rev. Thomas Harris in Later Years Presbyterian Rev. Moses Harvey, and Rev. James Dove also gave brief addresses. The collection was there taken and the amount realized was $708.50. In addition, J.J. Rogerson Esqr, and Rev. J. Hall Congregational also gave short addresses & the proceedings were brought to a close by the singing of an anthem after which the Rev. W.E. Shenstone pronounced the benediction.”31

LARGE GATHERING FOR THE EVENT

Large Numbers gathered 10:30 am at Gower Street Church. Rev. Teed announced the 540th hymn, and appropriate prayer. A procession was then formed.

The procession included: 1. Wesleyan ministers assembled from District session. 2. Members of Congregational and Presbyterian Churches. 3. Trustees of the new church

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4. Sabbath School teachers 5. Elder Scholars 6. Members of the congregation

The procession then moved to the site of the proposed church. The Order of Addresses were as follows: 1. Rev. James Dove, Superintendent, Circuit gave out hymn #739 2. Prayer by Rev. J.S. Peach, Brigus 3. Lesson I Chronicles 29 was read by Rev. S.T. Teed. 4. Rev. James Dove enumerated contents of canister 5. Stephen Rendell proceeded to lay the stone in the usual manner. 6. Rev. Thomas Harris, Chairman of District, congratulated the Trustees on their success in obtaining a site. 7. New church will be 91 feet from north to south, to seat 500 people 8. Large Sunday School 9. Collection realized $708.50 10. Rev. J.J. Rogerson, Esq. M.H.A. briefly addressed the association. 11. Rev. T. Hall (Cong.) expressed his privilege and honor to have any connection with laying the stone. It was much needed for the outports.33

BUILDING OF THE CHURCH:

In the winter of 1873, Captain Ed White’s sealing crew, while on preparing to leave for the ice in the Neptune, pulled the stone for the church on heavy drays from the South Side Hills at Job’s Quarry where it had been extracted.7 It was then transported in lumber boats by Capt. White’s crew. In its entirety, 100 ton of stone was donated by Hon. Stephen Rendell. The Building Committee included several prominent St. John’s residents by the names of C.R. Ayre, John Steer, J.J. Rogerson, Edward White, George Gear and John Woods. According to long-time congregation member Arthur White in several undated letters, the construction of the church proceeded rapidly and the architect who had a gothic-style vision for the church was Elijah Hoole. Hoole was England-born and a resolution at the time stated the church "... be built of rough Newfoundland stone — the exterior layered with cement, the Looking down from the Southside Hills, Pre-1900 windows trimmed with brick, and the roof covered in Newfoundland slate.”23

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MASTER BUILDER WILLIAM CAMPBELL (1823 - 1886)

The master builder for the wooden structure was William Campbell, joiner, of Queen`s Road. Campbell was contractor behind various 19th century churches and other structures in St. John`s37. He was born in Bonavista, the son of Archibald and Susanna (Beaumont) Campbell and moved to St. John's when he was young. After learning the builder's trade, Campbell operated a workshop on Allen Square while living nearby at 88 Queen's Road. Although he would later open a lumber yard in the West End (Campbell Lumber Company) and, a few years before his death, expand his interests to include building supplies (Campbell's Builders' Supply Store), Campbell is best remembered for his participation in the building of the George Street church, The New House on the Southside, the penitentiary, and a number of lighthouses.33

Some of Campbell's earliest building contracts were in conjunction with the stonemason Alexander Smith. Together the two formed a successful partnership which included the building of the lighthouses at Dodding Head (or Great Burin) at Burin (1856) and Offer Wadham Island, Hamilton Sound, Bonavista Bay (1858). Unfortunately, the houses at both Dodding Head and Offer Wadham Island have been removed; but an excellent example of Campbell's later work exists at the Ferryland Head lighthouse that he built in 1871 in conjunction with the stonemason Thomas Burridge. The house, a two-storied wooden structure, has been designated a municipal heritage site by the town of Ferryland.33 Ferryland Head Lighthouse, undated. With all these achievements in mind, William Campbell can be considered as one of Newfoundland’s most successful builders and building supplies merchants. Both he and Richard Atwill will be remembered as their legacy are buildings, such as the George Street Church, that continue to grace the landscape of the city of St. John's.33

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THE TRAGEDY OF MASTER MASON RICHARD ATWILL (1828-1873)

The master mason of the church was Richard Atwill, pewholder at Gower Street Church. 37 Atwill was born October 22, 1828 in Broad Hempston in the county of Devon, England. He came to Newfoundland 20 years prior to the construction of the church.23 His headstone reveals some information which, when supplemented by a search of city directories and newspapers of the day, provides us with a slim profile.33

One might imagine that he came shortly after the Fire of 1846 when the city was in need of stonemasons to help with rebuilding St. John's. If this is true then one can also imagine that he came with all the hopes and dreams of a young man starting a fresh life in a new world. He became a pew holder at the Gower Street church, "a skilful mechanic, a good citizen and an upright, worthy man" and a member of the Order of the Sons of Temperance. In 1855 in St. John’s, he married Emily Jane Andrews and started a family.33

Atwill oversaw the stonework of the new church and was joined in his work by a number of masons who were recruited from Dorset by George Gear and Charles R. Ayre. Two of these men were first cousins, Henry Gollop and Edwin Clarke. In addition, there were George Staples, John Hallett, and Alfred King who worked on the church. The number of masons engaged, at least six, attests to the extensiveness of the project and Atwell was chosen to supervise the masonry work is evidence of the regard in which he was held for his industry and skill. Most of these masons subsequently stayed in Newfoundland Edwin Clarke & George Staples became members of the George Street Church congregation.37

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Richard Atwill. On Thursday, October 16, 1873, he "rose and proceeded to the new Wesleyan Chapel, which he had been engaged in building the past summer; there he ascended a scaffold Henry Gollop which from some cause fell, precipitating him to the ground, and causing him a vital injury.”33 This scaffold was in the porch of the church.11 Atwill died on October 19, 1873 leaving his wife Emily and at least one child, William.33

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A FINISHED PRODUCT: The church took 19 months to build and was dedicated on the 14th of December 1873. The Reverend George Bond later described it as "... a massive stone church with foundations like those of a fortress, with a beautiful auditorium, a splendid organ, a lofty and spacious basement for Sunday-school and lecture-room purposes, and a thoroughly modern equipment.”37 The building measured 84 by 50 feet and could seat approximately 500. It was near perfection with only the church bell donated by John Bond being an issue which produced a muffled tone because of a design fault in the tower openings.23 The cost of building the structure was seven thousand, five-hundred-and-forty-pound sterling, which is approximately $37,000.37 Written over the George Street entrance of the church is the designation George Street Methodist Church, 1899 “1873 AD Wesleyan Church.” This is the only church in the city designated like this and provides a link with the Wesleyan Revival of which the founders and builders were directly influenced.26

When George Street Church opened there was a significant cost of the church building looming over it. In response to this overwhelming debt, wealthy congregation members including Hon. James J. Rogerson and John Steer, Esq. contributed large sums of money to help pay off the debt. A surplus over current expenses every year enabled the Trustees to pay off the debt quickly. When Rev. George bond became George Street Circuit Superintendent the debt was nearly $5400, and not long after this was brought closer to $1500. This was for the most part completed by the giving’s of the congregation as it did in the years after.37

Hon. James J. Rogerson John Steer Esq. As the church continued to operate through the early years, it began to receive bequests which are inheritances from an estate, usually from a deceased member of the congregation. One particularly high bequest was from the Guzwell estate. Eventually by 1890, the debt was virtually removed.37

How was it paid off?

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1. A Ladies’ Aid Bazaar in late 1873 raised 1000 pounds. 2. Annual pew rent. 3. Donations from members of the congregation.33

DEDICATION SERVICE George Street Church was opened and dedicated to public worship on Sunday, December 14, 1873. An article from The Courier on December 20, 1873 reproduced in Story’s 1973 history of the church gives a great depiction of the Dedication Day of the church:37

“George Street Wesleyan Church was opened last Sabbath for public worship. Owing to the unfavourableness of the weather many who had expected to attend were prevented from being present, among whom were His Excellency, Gov. Hill and Lady. Nevertheless, the congregations were good morning and afternoon, and many went away in the evening unable to get seats. Among those present were many of other denominations, anxious to show their kind feeling and respectful regard for the Wesleyan body, numbering 34 ministers in this colony, or to have the pleasure of worshipping in the new church said to be the neatest in the Island, and to compare favourably with any in the Lower Provinces.

The dedicatory service in the morning was very simple, but solemn and impressive, and many have spoken of it as beautiful and most appropriate. It was conducted by Rev. Thomas Harris, Chairman of the Carbonear District, Rev. J. Dove of the Carbonear District, and Rev. George S. Milligan, M.A. Chairman of the St. John’s District. After the conclusion of the dedication, Rev. Mr. Harris preached an able discourse from Rev. 2, 23v: “and I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.” His theme being the conflict of the Christian life and its certain and glorious reward, a theme which the Rev. Gentleman showed to be the most animating and encouraging to all servants of the Lord Jesus.

Mr. Dove’s sermon in the afternoon from 2 Cor. 3:6 (‘who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament, not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life’) on the necessity and important of the work or influence of the Holy Spirit in the Church, a subject most timely, and by the preacher thoughtfully and suggestively elaborated.

In the evening the Rev. Joseph Pascoe conducted the preliminary Service, and Mr. Milligan preached from 2 Chron. 3:6 (‘And he garnished the house with precious stones for beauty: and the gold was the gold of Parvaim’). Thanksgiving and Granulation at the dedication of Solomon’s temple. Collection for the day was €118.”37

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THE BOND BELL In 1872 John Bond, father of both Rev. George J. Bond and Sir Robert Bond, donated the church bell. The only defect noted was an arrangement of the tower openings which lent to the bell a muffled tone. The spire was too much enclosed which caused the bell not to be heard at a distance. Unfortunately, he passed shortly after donating the bell and did not get to hear it played. The chimes were first played at the 11 am December 24, 1878 service dedicated January 7, 1879. The Trustees reports reveal the bell was removed in 1943 when it was given to United Church in Joe Batt’s Arm.33 John Bond THE MINISTERS OF GEORGE STREET CHURCH: Rev. John Pratt 1875 - 1877 Rev. William Kendall 1877 - 1879 Rev. Job Shenton 1878 - 1881 Rev. George P. Story 1879 - 1880 Rev. C.J. Duffill 1881 - 1882 Rev. T.H. James 1881 - 1883 Rev. George Boyd 1883 - 1886 Rev. George J. Bond B.A. D.D. 1886 - 1889 Rev. A.D. Norton D.D. 1890 - 1893 Rev. Humphrey Pickard 1893 - 1896 Cowperthwaite M.A. Rev. J.T. Newman 1896 - 1898 Rev. George B. Heale 1899 - 1900 Rev. J.L. Dawson B.A. 1900 - 1902 Rev. W.T.D. Dunn 1903 - 1905 Rev. Charles Hackett 1905 – 1909 Rev. J. W. Barrett 1909 – 1914 Rev. N. M. Guy 1914 – 1917 Rev. D. B. Hemmeon 1917 – 1921 Rev. Robert Fairbairn 1921 – 1925 Rev. Charles H. Johnson 1925 – 1929 Rev. Ira F. Curtis 1930 – 1936 Rev. A. Allison Rogers 1936 – 1940 Rev. A. F. Binnington 1940 – 1944 Rev. A. R. Baggs 1944 – 1952 Rev. A. J. McKim 1952 – 1957 Hon. P. J. Hommerson 1957 – 1961 Rev. Naboth Winsor 1961 – 1968 Rev. B. B. Snow 1968 – 1979 Rev. W. A. Coish 1979 – 1996 Rev. John Bursey 1996 – 1998 Rev. Melvin Ralph 1998 – 2000 Rev. Wayne Cole 2000 – 2004

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Rev. Wendy Cronhelm 2004 – 2005 Rev Kelly Hudson 2005 – 2008 Rev. Miriam Bowlby 2009 – 2009 Rev. Susan White 2009 - 2015 Rev. Frederick John Adams 2016 - 2017 Rev. Peter Bartlett 2017- 2019

CLASS MEETINGS: As told in the History of Methodism 1765-1925 by Rev. Naboth Winsor and George M. Story, 1973.37,41

“The first ever class meeting on this side of the Atlantic was held in Newfoundland. Normally restricted to between five and twelve members, roughly a penny a week was contributed each. The term class in the beginning meant division of people but eventually grew into having actual classes wherein there was a ‘Class Leader’ who advised other members.

Tickets were given to the members of the classes each quarter at which time tickets were refused to those that were judged to be not continued as members. The ticket was testament of character and certification of membership. It was required for admission to a “love feast.”

The holder of a ticket was admitted to classes and societies, other than those of which they were a member. The ticket, a small card, had on it a pointed text of Scripture, and often also a symbolical engraving; an anchor of hope, a guardian angel, a bible encircled by a halo, Christ washing the feet of his disciples. It was dated and was inscribed with the name of the bearer.

There were classes for men and classes for women. In Newfoundland the classes played a very important part in and were a great source of strength to early Methodism. After a revival on a Circuit, the new converts became members of existing classes or new classes were formed for them, to provide for them spiritual nurture and strengthening fellowship. A group of classes were called a society.

At class, members prayed together, received a sermon from the leader to relate to one and another’s experiences, to watch over one and other in love, & to help one another.

The ‘Class Leader’ was required to see each person in his class at least once a week to advise, reprove, comfort, or exhort, as the occasion required. Terms of membership were rigorous and there was strict segregation of male and female, married/unmarried individuals. You were given full membership in Methodism “on trial”. Belief and behaviour reached into nearly every aspect of life and created a dynamic society distinguished by simplicity of dress and manners, devotion to good works (and to work), strict observance of the Sabbath and temperance. After close examination and questioning and at every weekly meeting the following were asked:

1. What known sin have you committed? 2. What temptations have you met with? 3. How were you delivered? 4. What have you thought, said, or done, of which you doubt whether it be sin or not?

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5. Have you nothing you desired to keep secret?”

From the very beginning of the Church in 1874 up until the turn of the century, the ‘Class’ structure was demonstrated in full form. Meetings were usually held in “class” rooms in the basement or in private residences. In its heyday as many as 20 classes functioned, including juvenile members. They met once each week with at least one or two classes going ahead every day except Saturday. EARLY PEOPLE OF THE CONGREGATION: The laymen whose vision and energy took concrete form in the existence of George Street Church from its beginning are vast and numerous. The records in the Church archive are important for an understanding of the lay leadership of the church. The first Trustee Board consisted of the following members: Hon. Charles R. Ayre, Hon. Edward White, Hon. James J. Rogerson, John Steer, Campbell MacPherson, Arthur W. Martin, Edwin Knight, William J. Mews, George Taylor, Simeon Avery, Robert Miller, James Angel, John Angel, William Withycombe, Henry Duder, and Alfred Parsons. Most of these people had originally come from the Trustees Board at Gower Street Church. All were among the most prominent citizens of St. John’s with many owning various businesses and involved with politics.7,37

The oldest among them, Edward White, had been born at Tickle Cove, Bonavista Bay in 1810. He had been converted to Methodism as a young man in Bonavista, had risen from the sailing of small vessels on the Labrador Coast and foreign-going trade to become a part-owner and master of Job Bros’ sealing ships and by 1873 was one of the leading sealing captains and shipbuilders in Newfoundland and a member of the Legislative 33 Council. He made his home on the Southside of St. John’s. Captain Hon. Edward White

Hon. J.J. Rogerson was born at Harbour Grace in 1820 and became prominent in both the commercial and political life of Newfoundland, being Receiver-General in both the Carter and Whiteway administrations. With Stephen Rendell he was a leading figure in the ‘Methodist political coup’ of 1874 which brought Prime Minister Whiteway to power. He lived over his mercantile premises on the corner of Queen Street and Water Street. He was a known as a renowned humanitarian who oversaw many charitable projects in St. John’s. He founded a Ragged School in the 1870’s where children would be offered coffee and buns by Rogerson and then taught the elements of religion. Isabella Whiteford, who later became his second wife, greatly aided him in his charitable duties both in the church and in society. Devoted to George Street Church, he spent nearly 50 years in its service.7

Isabella (Whiteford) Rogerson 10

Several members of the McNeily family came from Northern Ireland to Newfoundland in 1849. Alexander James Whiteford McNeily, often noted as A.J.W. in early Church documents, and Isaac R. McNeily were the sons of the founding couple and became heavily involved with the Church from its founding. A.J.W. married Jessie Rogerson, daughter of the aforementioned J.J. He was a King`s counsel and acted as legal advisor to the church along with a being a prominent politician.7 Judge D.W. Prowse described him after death as “a wonderful all-around man – a profound student of the law, a most eloquent and attractive advocate, a nature lover, an enthusiast about music, withal a keen sportsman both with rod and gun.”35

The founder of the Angel family in Newfoundland had come to St. John’s from England via Halifax in the 1840’s: his two sons A.J.W. McNeily John and James Angel feature prominently in the early years of George Street and were leaders in the business life of the community through the family engineering and foundry works.7 Throughout the years the Angel’s were involved in almost all committees over the church’s life and have continued to do so to present day.1

Campbell Macpherson, one of the younger Trustees, was a liberal benefactor of St. John’s Methodism. Married to his wife Emma, a member of the Duder family, he Hon. James Angel was a Water Street merchant, who took his father’s place in 1868 as a participant in the establishment of the new church. He eventually became the first secretary of the George Street Sunday School. In addition, Macpherson was the father of Dr. Cluny Macpherson who was an early inventor of the gas mask. In 1963, during the 90th Anniversary of the Church celebrations many years after Campbell had passed, Dr. Cluny Macpherson took part in the cake cutting ceremony as one of the first to be baptised in George Street Church.19

Henry Duder was a member of an expansive

merchant firm which in the ‘sixties flew its house-flag on Campbell Macpherson Manager of Royal Stores Ltd, 1905 more vessels than any other firm in Newfoundland and supplied the Notre Dame Bay area. Charles R. Ayre and John Steer, both west end residents, had been born in Devonshire, at Exeter, and by the middle of the century had established themselves, first in partnership and then independently, among the leading general merchants on Water Street, thus giving rise to the verse:7

“Be a good Methodist, say your prayers, Buy your goods at Steers and Ayres.”

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As told by Rev. Curtis in 19337, “Hon. C.R. Ayre gave not only of his substance but of his very self and in unstinted measure to the erection and maintenance of [George Street Church] building. He supervised the details of its construction with a personal care and watchfulness that evidenced his intense interest in the enterprise. He was one of the first Chapel Stewards. He was as devoted to the spiritual as to the business welfare of the church. He met in class regularly for upwards of a half century, week by week, every Tuesday night, being the leader of the class. Most of the young men who came out from England to serve in the ministry in years gone by made their first acquaintance with the country and with their work as they met Mr. Ayre in person and visited his hospitable home. His gifts were many and made too many objects. It was his bequest that built the Methodist Orphanage. Hon. John B. Ayre, his eldest son, was another whose interest in this church formed an essential part of his life. Having a keen

John Bray Ayre interest in architecture, of which he had made a study, he has left his mark here in many details of the building and its furnishings, and not only here but in many other church buildings throughout the country. He it was who designed and gave the scroll work bearing the inscribed commandments hanging on either side of this rostrum. He was a man with great music in his soul and was the first organist of the church and served for many years in that capacity. The original organ was greatly enlarged at his personal expense. Not only could he operate the keyboard of the organ after it was installed but his training enabled him to install it as well and his services in this regard were availed of by many churches throughout the country.”

In his letters which are in the church archive, Arthur Martin gives the reader a clear depiction of the church’s early years. Rev. Curtis explains in 19337 that “Mr. Arthur W. Martin, then a young man, one who, to their good judgment, had all the qualities of a potential Trustee Board Secretary. Mr. Martin was induced to hold the officer and some thirty years afterwards I was privileged, with the Hon. C.P. Ayre and the pastor at that time, Rev. Charles Hackett, to present to Mr. Martin a gold watch as a recognition of thirty years of faithful service to the Trustee Board of the West Circuit and on that occasion a well-worded address was read and the presentation made. Mr. Martin still lives and has a wealth of memory covering all the past years of Arthur W. Martin the history of this church. His loyalty and devotion to George Street Church and later to Wesley are well known and admired.”

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Letter from Arthur Martin to Mr. Horwood, 1933

Linked by varied business connections, and often related through marriage, they formed a formidable emerging group in Newfoundland, a new urban Methodist elite with a substantial power base in the Methodist city population of the northeast coast. There are many names worthy of note that made the church what it is today and some of their descendants today still come to worship in the same place their ancestors did. From its humble beginnings, the people of George Street Church formed a close-knit group of lay leaders which endured the ongoing life of the church. The Early days:

District subdivide Beginning in 1873, George Street Church remained part of the St. John’s District and its superintendent clergymen were those of the mother church at Gower Street: Rev. G.S. Milligan, Rev.

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Thomas Harris and Rev. Job Shenton.37 In the following year, Newfoundland became a Conference of the Methodist church in Canada, the first assembly at that time being held at George Street. At the District meeting in 1879, the largest influx into the St. John’s Methodist community led the way for a proposal to sub-divide the districts, shortly thereafter in 1881 George Street Church became the centre of a new St. John’s West Circuit which included the Southside and Topsail as well as outports west of George Street.37 The first minister of the new Circuit being Rev. T.H. James affectionately referred to as Father James. This rather large circuit was further divided when Topsail was made its own circuit in 1886 but continued to receive aid from George Street.37

Early Sunday school

As was the case with every denomination in Newfoundland at the time, a Day School and a Sunday School was run by the church. For about fifteen years before the building of George Street Church there was a Sunday School in action on Water Street West located in a building in which the Misses Radford taught a Day School. Alexander Whiteford was the Superintendent of this School. Later, another Sunday School was held in Miss Hamblin’s School on Lazy Bank (now Pleasant Street) with E.M. Archibald as Superintendent.37

Upon the opening of the Church, a Sunday School also established. The first Superintendent was J.E.P. Peters who was noted as a very devoted man to his position, who although was not a member of the congregation, served as Superintendent for 12 years from virtually the beginning in 1874 to 1886, a total of twelve years.7 He was subsequently succeeded by one of the Trustees, Mr. William J. Mews. The first Secretary of the Sunday School was the aforementioned Campbell Macpherson and for several years the Treasurer was Mr. Colin Campbell. The spacious basement of the church first served as the principal Sunday School.7

In the minutes of the George St. Methodist School Committee in 188216, a clear depiction of the weekly attendance is described as follows, “Oct 4 1882, the number of scholars on the roll the beginning of the Quarter was 130 male and 130 female, with 5 male and 3 female withdrawing the quarter. Total at the Evening Telegram, July 26, 1882 end of the quarter was 252 scholars. Average attendance of 115 with 31 teachers.” An addition entry from September 30, 188617 describes an annual outing day

14 organized by the Methodist School: “The Annual Treat was held at Manuel’s near Topsail by rail. There were a large number of scholars, teachers, and friends of the school present. A fine day made it very enjoyable.”

In 1884 a prominent minister in St. John’s, Rev. George Boyd, persuaded the trustees to purchase a small school house half a mile further West than George Street, to establish it as a Sunday School and make it a teaching place on Alexander Street.13 During its heyday, it had 280 Scholars on the roll, and raised $ 117.00 for Foreign Missions. Arthur W. Martin was at the time, its Superintendent. By 1887 this extension of George Street church, on Alexander Street, was duly constituted as a Church. In 1904 it was made a separate circuit, which later became known as Wesley Circuit.37

Later there were others on Alexander Street, the Southside on Springdale Street, and at Topsail. The church and its members ran these institutions for years successfully in the early days, including Centenary Hall (off Springdale Street), which was prominent west-end institution also used as a night school during the winter months for adults. Church reports and records indicate that much financial support was given to Mount Allison University in New Brunswick, originally a Methodist Church institution. This was propelled by the significant concern that the Methodist community was involved in education as much as other religious denominations. By 1894, St. John’s West Circuit had five such schools with 124 officers and teachers, 37 1212 scholars, and 2158 volumes in the Sunday School Library. Evening Telegram, October 15, 1892

George street band of hope

From its inception in 1874 the George Street congregation had a growing Band of Hope with its Fife and drum Band. 1884 the officers of the Band of Hope were: President: J.W. Nicholls 1st Vice President: J.E Peters 2nd Vice President: Charles R Ayre Secretary: G.J. Milligan Committee: John B. Ayre, Miss Milligan, Miss Cole

Originally started in the mid 1850s as a way to teach British children about sobriety, the Band of Hope provided activities for young people to help them avoid getting involved with activities that included alcohol.27 As explained in an article from the Evening Telegram on June 25, 18894, “the children who gather in [the] Bands of Hope are the future legislators, doctors, clergymen, merchants, fathers and mothers of the coming generation. It is important then that the training of those children should be the best. A child becomes a member of the Band of Hope; he is there deeply imbued with the principles of temperance and goes forth into the world to influence for good, directly or indirectly, thousands of his

15 fellowmen. The parents should assist by their presence, at least at the public meetings, if not at the weekly ones, should see that their children attend regularly, and should interest themselves in the preparation of their recitations, dialogues, etc. The superintendent should have a few adult helpers. To make the Band a success, every child must have something to do. Let the children conduct the meetings, write minutes, make motions and propose members. Their skill and industry in preparing dialogues and recitations should be praised. Let the boys make speeches, and the girls, too, if they will. It is necessary to have an entertainment of some kind always in prospect, for which the children can work week by week to give zest and spirit to the meetings.”

In 1880, over 500 had enrolled in the Band of Hope and had abstained from alcohol. Several young boys and congregation members had formed similar bands in the outports, and one of the members of George Street Band had formed two during the past midsummer holidays.3

According to various Evening Telegram articles throughout the late 19th Century, the Band of Hope was in full swing. By 1888 the fife and drum band of George Street Band of Hope was doing exceptionally well and in 1891 Mr. G.S. Milligan is hard at work in the George Street Band of Hope. On Saturday evening March 15, 1891, he convened a public meeting at which recitations, solos and duets were given, and addresses were delivered by James J. Rogerson and others. The members of the Drum and Fife Band also gave a selection of music. A plan for a lively concert was set at the Concert Hall, to be held shortly thereafter.

GEORGE STREET MISSION BAND

Music has always been a part of George Street Church since its inception. One of these musical activities was involvement in the George Street Mission Band. This was operated by the Women’s Missionary Society. The annual entertainment and sale of work, in connection with the George Street Mission Band, happened in the basement of the Church.

Evening Telegram, Sept 24, 1915 Evening Telegram, January 14, 1889 Evening Telegram, April 24, 1916

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EARLY DAYS OF THE CHOIR In addition to the Mission Band, the choir offered a welcome lively addition to the church. As stated by Curtis in 19337, the choir was a very essential part of the church’s worship and George Street’s choir became noted throughout the city in the very early years of the church`s life.

“George Street Choir: A Retrospect and an Appreciation” by Stephen Tucker in 193039, gives a clear depiction of the Choir’s early days:

“From its inception, in 1873, [the choir] never lacked an abundant supply of good voices. With John B. Ayre at the cabinet organ, and later at the magnificent Pipe organ, a position which he ably filled for about forty years and the late Emile Handcock as [first] occasional choir-master and conductor, who also looked after Gower Street Choir, the Choir, recruited largely from the families of the Ayres, Duders, Steers, and Whites, made splendid progress. Among the Basses at that time were John Angel, Richard White, and J.R. McNeily. Among the tenors were Arthur W. Martin and Alexander J.W. McNeily. The latter being a composer of no mean ability, having complete knowledge of Theory, Harmony, Counterpoint and Fugue.

There were many splendid sopranos, and foremost of them all I have no hesitation in naming Miss Annie Duder, later so known as a singer, under her married name of Mrs. James C. Rogerson. I say this freely, without any fear of arousing one spark of jealousy in the hearts of any of her confreres, for if any of them are still with us I feel confident that they would be among the very foremost in granting her the palm. Her beautiful, well-modulated, silvery soprano has often thrilled the hearts of the largest audiences who crowded to hear her whenever her name appeared on a programme. As a gentleman friend of mine once remarked, there was nothing he could compare it to so much as “a dropping of Pearls into a pitcher of silver.”

Then the altos were a host: Miss Jane Duder (Mrs. Chas Harvey), Miss Mary Duder (Mrs. Chas LeMessurier), Miss Janet Duder (Mrs. C.R. Steer) and others. I doubt if this trio, for range timbre, complete control and perfect expression could be duplicated in this city today. The first- mentioned lady afterward became a professional and made a name for herself in other lands.

Somewhere about the year 1881 or 1882, Mr. James Walker now of Montreal came out from England as one of the masters of the College, and he joined himself to the George Street Choir as Choirmaster and Conductor. He was a professional music teacher, and under him the choir made rapid progress. He was fortunate in attracting to the choir such splendid bases as Hinkling, Dunham and the two Thomases; all splendidly trained singers with magnificent voices. At this time there were at least fourteen basses in the choir and eight tenors, with contraltos and sopranos in Emily (Woods) Bulley, one of the first proportion. Altos at George Street

17

During this period when this large choir was doing its best work, Dr. Power O’Donahue, a composer of some standing, from the other side of the water, paid us a visit, after touring the United States and Canada, and after hearing this choir sing, said that, for the number of voices, he had never heard anything to equal it. After he went home, he sent out a Christmas Anthem of his own composing, entitled “There were Shepherds,” which the choir took up and rendered at the succeeding Christmas service.

Some of us old fogies may be prejudiced or carried away with the reflected glamour of a past and faded glory, but the way to prove if this was not the best Christmas Anthem this choir ever sang is to resurrect it and put it on by the present choir.

After Mr. Walker left and went to Montreal, which I understand, he still lives, the Hon. John B. Ayre carried on as organist and conductor both, a combination, which as many of our organists know, does not make for the best results and imposes a burden almost too heavy for one person to bear.

In 1899, the Trustee Board appointed Mr. S.J. Tucker as Chorister and Conductor, under the direction of the organist Hon. John B. Ayre, a position which he filled acceptably until 1902 when he resigned.

Many of those mentioned above have passed to their eternal reward and some are still with us in the flesh; though they cannot now sing for us their children and even some of their grandchildren are carrying on their work. Mr. C.R. Steer who boosts a fifty-three-year membership in the choir is the only one of the old guard who is still on active list.

During the interval between Hon. John B. Ayre’s resignation, through ill health, and the coming of the present organist, the position was most creditably filled by Mrs. Reuben F. Horwood. But, as I once heard the late A.J.W. McNeily say “no matter how great a musician a lady may be, the pedal-organ, after all was a man’s job.”

In the year 1913 Mr. Gordon Christian, L.R.A.M. after spending two years in London studying for his degrees, came out and accepted his present position of organist and choirmaster. First and foremost, last and all the time Mr. Christian is a musician from the word “go” and you may spell it with a capital M too! As an organist, I shall put it as mildly as I can by saying that at least he has no superior in this country.

One thing has always characterized George Street Choir, and that is the choice of the best classical music for its special occasions. The present incumbent is wisely adhering to this tradition, and despite the strong pull for so-called popular music, Gordon Christian, long-time Organist & he will have none of it but the best. The present Easter Choirmaster programme as rendered at George Street yesterday was a splendid exemplification of what I have just written. Handel, from whose works the most of yesterday’s

18 programme was taken, was a Prince among composers of choral work, and in this, his special branch he excelled all others, and was on a par with Beethoven in the latter’s special aptitude for orchestration.”

MOMENTS IN TIME FROM THE NEWSPAPERs: TEMPERANCE MEETINGS TEMPERANCE MEETING, 1889 “On the afternoon of Sunday, December 29th, 1889, a special temperance meeting was held in Alexander Street Church. The meeting was presided over by Rev. G.J. Bond, and addresses were delivered by Revs. W.H. Adams, S.J. Russell, Hon. James Angel, and Messrs. Isaac Morris and Walter Clouston. The success of the meeting was enhanced by the singing of several choruses by the choir. Mr. A.W. Martin, the general superintendent of the Sunday School, attended as leader of the choir. There were also three solos rendered by Mrs. W.A. Thompson, Miss Maggie Mullins, and Miss B. Fogwell. The Church was filled by an intelligent and representative audience and the collection at the close, made on behalf of the Sunday School, amounted to thirteen dollars.”33

TEMPERANCE MEETING, FEBRUARY 1891 “On Sunday afternoon January 18th, Alexander Street Church was filled by a representative audience assembled in the interests of temperance. The occasion was the quarterly temperance meeting of the Sunday school. Through the exertions of Mr. Martin and his confreres, an excellent program had been prepared, and the meeting was an unqualified success. Space does not allow an outline of the speeches delivered by the Revd’s T. Hodgekinson and G.P. Story, Hon. J.J Rogerson and Donald Morison, Esq., MHS, but it is sufficient to say that they were both excellent and interesting. E ach speaker, moreover, remembered that he had a large percentage of children in his audience, and sought to cultivate brevity. The result was that there was a sleepy or restless child in any part of the large congregation, and when the end arrived many were surprised at the lapse of time. A good collection was taken up in behalf of school funds.”33 THE REIGN OF THE FIVE GEORGES From 1873-1900 the first five full-time ministers of the George Street congregation had the name George. The reign of the five Georges’ is frequently referred to as a period of interest in George Street church due to its new beginnings.33 These were:

Top L-R: Rev. George Heale, Rev. G. Fraser. 19 Bottom L-R: Rev. G. Bond, Rev. G. Milligan, Rev. G. Boyd. WOMEN’S MISSIONARY SOCIETY: According to an address by Mrs. Sally Winsor in 198742, the beginning of women’s groups at George Street Church began with the Missionary Society of the Methodist church. This organization was founded at Hamilton, Ontario in 1881 and in the next year an auxiliary was formed at George Street, nine years after the laying of the cornerstone. This was organized by both the George Street and Alexander Street Churches of the St. John`s West Circuit, until Alexander Street separated in 1905.

The Women’s Missionary Society was first organized by Rev. T.H. James in the winter of 1882 with 25 names on the list, and its first President was Amelia (Ayre) Steer.12 The first Secretary was Julia Milligan who married Rev. George S. Abraham and lived most of her adult life in the United States. The first Treasurer was Anne (Nightingale) White, wife of William White. Other very prominent early members were Jessie (Rogerson) McNeily, Mrs. William Mews, a charter member, and Malvina Angel, wife of James. In addition, there was Mary Hannah Ayre, wife of Charles R., who Curtis in 19337 described as “staunchly seconded Mr. C.R. Ayre`s efforts in our church life until incapacitated by illness.” Mrs. William Campbell was Vice President of the WMS and the last president of the Parsonage Aid. Elfrida Whiteway was a WMS member and general helper. Annie (Buchanon) Cowperthwaite, wife of Rev. Dr. Cowperthwaite, was associated especially with the WMS work along with Mrs. (Rev. Dr.) Dove, mother of Mr. Wilfred Dove, Mrs. G.E. Turner, a Vice President of the WMS, and a devoted worker in the Parsonage fund and Mrs. William Withycombe, who led a class for years, in addition to working in the WMS. Mrs. (Dr.) Kendall, who did a work in the Primary department that matched that of Mr. C.P. Ayre in Sunday School work generally. Mrs. J.B. Ayre was living in England at the time of the Diamond Jubilee in 1933 but it was said by Curtis7 that she “put her hand to all possible tasks in the church. The inscription over the great gothic arch at the Southern End of the Church was one of her last provisions and speaks the attitude of her mind towards the church. She had a good deal to do with the Old Ladies Home and worked hard for the convalescent wing of the hospital.” Lastly, Elizabeth (Steer) Story was WMS President for sixteen years, a Parsonage Aid worker, a class leader and a First Ladies Sewing Circle Sunday School Teacher.”7

According to Winsor42, as the years past, “an Evening Auxiliary for mothers and working women, The Mission Circle, CGIT (called the NGIT until 1949), the Mission Band for five to nine-year old’s and the Baby Band for the youngest group. The Senior Group met in the afternoon. All other groups were subordinate, reported to the Senior group, which provided leaders and advisors. The Women`s Missionary Society as the name implies, was concerned mainly with missions. The programme being laid out by the Mission Board. Members called ‘Heralds’ were to report on some aspect of the missionary work of the church, every four months. The material was drawn from a selection called `Watch Tower` in a magazine entitled the ‘Outlook.’ In September of 1911, for example, there were reports on China, the French Colonies, Japan and Indian Missions. Letters were regularly sent to students around the

20

Island, with the hope to interest him or her in Missionary work of the church. Funds were raised through free will giving.”

Winsor42 continues, “in deference to the need for women`s interest in home, church and community various groups were formed – The Ladies Aid, Sewing Group and others. The Ladies Aid being the most effective the forerunner of the WA. Many of the ladies who directed the groups were prominent names in the city and led numerous and varied necessary useful pursuits, in the home, church, and community. Funds were raised through work projects and the meetings were held in the afternoon and spent working on items to be sold at the various stalls in the fall. A source of fundraising. And now an interesting item. A note of comparison to the modern day. Minutes of the Ladies Aid of fifty (1937) and seventy-five years ago (1912) reveal that the meetings, concerns, interests, even the sales and teas differed very little from those of the present-day successors. The prices charged and the amount raised, present however as one would expect, a striking change.

In 1938, still a late depression year, the Ladies Aid was able to hand over one thousand dollars to the Trustee Board. Since there were no social services of note, the needy of the community looked to

21 the church for help. Who better to be caring and sharing, than the women, who themselves knew the needs of home and children? Since women were denied access to Administrative Councils, Ladies Aid and other groups provided both a sense of participation in its work and accomplishments and a means by which they could join with others in a spirit of fellowship and mutual concern, within the orbit of a religious community.”7 THE ORGAN THROUGH THE YEARS: One of the biggest mainstays of the George Street Church has been its organ. Aiding the church choir, the strong and overwhelming warm sound of the church organ has been filling the sanctuary since the church opened in 1873. According to an Official Board minute dated March 18th, 1873, they appointed John B. Ayre to the position of the first organist at the new church at George Street, a position he filled for the next forty years.38 He began with a cabinet organ of which the first hymn played on that organ in public worship was “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow”11 Shortly thereafter in the next year, James Murray a prominent St. John’s manufacturer and merchant, presented the church with a pipe organ. This organ was built by Bevington in London, England, from plans supplied by Mr. Ayre. Its cost was $4000 and was shipped to Newfoundland at no cost by the steamship S.S. Eagle by donation from the Bowring Brothers.8 It was placed in the south gallery.38

As described by Tucker in 1930, “it was erected in two sections; one part east, and the other part, containing the console, west of the south window, so that this beautiful window was left in full view from the inside and the light from the outside was in no way obstructed by the erection of the organ. The two parts were connected under the floor of the gallery. The bellows was in the east section and was operated by manpower.” The donor of the organ was very regular attendant at the Sunday Services in this Church, despite not being Methodist. In addition, a brass presentation plate, describing that the organ was donated by Murray, was put on the front of the organ.38

For just over three and a half decades, the pipe organ was played each week until 1908. During the renovations and enlargement of 1908, it was believed that the organ should also be overhauled. This, it was played for the last time on March 29th, 1908. The extension of the church to the north provided accommodation for a choir and organ gallery located in that section. Subsequently the old organ was re-erected on the original plan, turned around in the operation and brought the console on the east side of the gallery, with the blower was on the west, all operated by manpower.38

This did not last long as in 1913 Hon. John Bray Ayre donated a large pipe organ for the church. Comparatively to the organ that preceded it, it was also built by Bevington in England and erected by them in 1913, with the assistance of Walter Vey. The old organ was incorporated into the new pipe organ as per the request of Ayre.38 After a short illness by Ayre which lead to his replacement, Mrs. N.F. Horwood served as organist. Shortly thereafter, Hubert Christian, L.R.A.M became Organist and Choirmaster.22

By 1929, the console was brought forward and choir re-arranged so the organist and choirmaster wouldn’t be back on to the choir. Further maintenance and repair work were also executed at this time not limited only to the organ, which received a motor in 1930, but also the organ loft was

22 supported by new beams, girders, and other supports to limit slumping. All of this being completed by the organ-builder Walter Vey.8,38 Shortly before New Years on December 29, 1935, beloved Organist Hubert Christian passed away suddenly after 23 years of service to the church. It was said by the Evening Telegram that his choir and congregation “suffered almost unbearable shock and heartbreak” over his loss.22

During the Great Depression and the midst of a runup to an incoming world war in 1937, Walter Curtis was appointed organist. A very competent English organist, he was employed with one of the Government Departments. After serving for eight years at the church, he returned to England upon the end of the Second World War. In response, a Mr. Hannason who was in St. John’s with the Canadian Armed Forces occupied his position for 3- or 4-months following Curtis’ move back to England. Eventually Margaret Pelley was appointed organist in 1945.22 She played the organ for six years before leaving her position as she didn’t have adequate time to perform her duties. In the following years she continued to have an interest in the choir and musical parts of the church and often assisted the resident organist. Captain Richard E. Smout, an American stationed at Pepperrell Air Base, then occupied the position on a temporary basis. He was a noted accomplished musician and was transferred to McAndrew Air Force Base at Argentia, after serving at Pepperell for only a short period. He travelled between Argentia and George Street Thursday nights for practice and on Sundays, until the harsh winter driving conditions forced his resignation. Evan Whiteway then took the torch for a year and a half. He resigned eventually in June 1953. It was during Whiteway’s tenure however that the musical talents of Allister Kinsman were being used at Wesley church.22 After there became an opening for organist in the summer of 1953, Allistair Kinsman was shortly appointed supply organist in August 1953. Within the next month, he officially became organist and choirmaster.11

In 1954, the aging pipe organ was replaced by the Allen Electronic Organ.8 A special service was held at 8:30 p.m on February 26th,1954 in George Street United Church of the dedication of the Memorial Organ. The service opened with the invocation by Rev. J. A. McKim, and the church organist Allistair Kinsman, presided at the organ. In addition, previous George Street minister Rev. I. F. Curtis graced the sanctuary in which he had preached twenty years prior to give a historical account of the former organs.11 Allistair Kinsman playing the George Street Organ, 1992 From this point on, Allistair Kinsman played the organ devotedly for the next 48 years. By 1992, the Allen organ was severely aged and had reached the end of its usefulness.8 An Organ Fund Committee was subsequently established, and an organ was chosen. According to the Organ Fund Committee minutes in 1992, the Rodgers 945 Organ was selected and was a comprehensive, 3 manuel instrument of 59 speaking stops and 21 couplers. This was all housed in a lighted drawknob console with solid wood keyboards and toe

23 stud bolsters. In addition, parallel digital imaging technology is used to go beyond digital sampling to create the realism of a pipe organ. It can tuned piece by piece and has the capability to accept real organ pipes, which the committee agreed to do by adding 4 supplemental ranks of real pipes to the organ to add a beautiful tone. Despite many sufficient organs at the time costing over $500,000, the George Street organ was purchased for $146,386 and was at the time one of the largest East of Toronto.8 Beginning in 1990, a fundraiser to help pay for the costs of acquiring the new organ, the committee with the help of the congregation created a format wherein individuals or businesses could “purchase” one of the organ’s 686 parts. By the time of its dedication on March 29, 1992, $56,000 had been raised by the congregation.8 In late June 2001, Allistair Kinsman retired as organist and choirmaster.33 TURN OF THE CENTURY: From the early years of the George Street Church, membership rolls, minutes of various committees and board survive fully intact and provide an interesting and comprehensive overview of the church proceedings. Around the turn of the century, the membership rolls for the time indicate that the congregation was quite obviously west-end heavy, but also included many members from outside St. John's including people from other significant Methodist strongholds such as Burin, Bonavista, Wesleyville, Twillingate, and Grand Bank as well as many others. In addition to the aforenoted prominent St. John's surnames listed earlier in this history, there were also multiple families with the names Ebsary, Noseworthy, Chaplin, Murray, Ash, Butler, Snow, Withycombe, King, Burt and others.15,37

SOUTHSIDE CHURCH

With the mounting Methodist population especially in the Downtown area of St. John's in the late 19th Century, there became a need for a church on the Southside where many fishermen, sailors, sealers as well as other men and women of the sea occupied and frequented. In 1881, the Southside Church opened as an offspring of George Street Church.34 The Methodist leaders of that time had seen a need for mission work to be done especially amongst the sealing crew each Spring and it was seen to be essential.

Evening Telegram, December 29th, 1898 24

At the peak of its heyday, the Southside Mission was running seamlessly and local ministers from George Street assisted in the daily upkeep and organizing of the church. In 1895, a school chapel was erected on the Southside at a cost of $3000.31 It had at the time 73 children in Sunday School. Because of its immediate location with all the visiting 'people of the sea,' the ministers and lay people were able to spread the Methodist word of gospel to the visitors.34

Unfortunately, by 1902 the overall cost of operating the Southside Church had outweighed its revenues from the congregation’s giving’s and was having serious strain on the finances back at George Street. The ministers and congregation at the time, despite the dire financial situation, rejected the closing of the Church due to its believed importance in the Downtown fishing scene.37 Nevertheless, the Southside Church and Mission School ended up eventually closing nine years later in February 1911.34

THE FIRST CHURCH EXPANSION

Rev. Charles Hackett delivering a sermon at George Street, circa 1908.

As the church established a great foothold on the Downtown scene, more and more worshipers had been coming through its doors. By 1902 the church was packed for every church service and at some points overflowing with visitors.23 To put this in perspective, in 1888 there were 274 registered full members in the congregation, which did not include children or new people in a sort of trial period. Flash-forward to 1900, just twelve years later and there were 568 full members. It was said every church pew was occupied and it was beginning to become uncomfortable to attend church service.37

In response to the overwhelming amount of people flooding the church every Sunday, the resident Rev. J.L. Dawson, with consultation with J.B. Ayre, submitted a comprehensive proposal to

25 enlarge the church in February 1902. A building committee was formed of Reuben Horwood, James Angel, Charles R. Steer, James J. Rogerson, Charles P. Ayre and Captain Green.37

As the church was flanked by several row-houses, these first had to be removed before any expansion could begin construction. These dwellings on New Gower Street had been bought previously by the church in 1886 along with a small wooden school. The houses were removed in 1906 and the school was preserved and moved to Horwood Lumber’s premises on Springdale Street.23

In April 1907, the building committee had completed the designs and were approved. Ernest J. Martin was the contractor and work began shortly thereafter.23 The work included taking out the north end and extending the Reuben F. Horwood side walls toward New Gower Street with a cross section extending from Buchanan Street to Hutchings Lane on the west.38 This enlargement added two transepts and galleries with additional rooms for choir members and meetings with choir rooms located behind the choir gallery. In addition, this expanded seating capacity from roughly 650 to 1200 people at a total cost of $20,000.37 It is believed it was at this time that the pulpit and choir were moved from the south to the north end of the church.23 The rededication service was held on Thursday evening June 11, 1908 conducted by Rev. Dr. Cowperthwaite.37

In this same year, two stone-like tablets with the Ten Commandments etched in writing were carved in wood by Thomas Pottle, a well-known craftsman and worker of the Horwood Lumber Company and placed on either side of the choir loft.23

In the following years very minor alterations and changes were incurred until the 1950s. These included heating, lighting, and general maintenance. Once the 1930s came around and the Great Depression ravaged Newfoundland, church upkeep was more of maintaining the church and the status quo while they waited for monies to become available. As such, heating was only available on Sundays and this took a significant toll on the church and the pipe organ was reeling in its effects. At that time, the exterior was made of stucco and had begin to deteriorate year after year, and the beams which supported the church had become weak.37

WORLD WAR I AND THE ROARING TWENTIES 1910-1930:

100th ANNIVERSARY OF METHODISM: In June 1915 the Newfoundland Conference of the Methodist Church celebrated the 100th anniversary of the introduction of methodism to St. John’s. Specifically, on Sunday June 20th, services were held in the morning and evening in all St. John’s churches. During the afternoon large mass meetings of the city Sunday Schools were held at George Street and Gower Street. The George Street

26 meeting was presided over by Arthur Martin, long-time worker at Wesley, and the speakers were Rev. J. Pincock and Rev. T.B. Darby.11

WORLD WAR MEMORIAL PLAQUES: There are two memorial plaques dedicated to the memory of those who died in the two great world conflicts. On the east wall is the memorial tablet erected: “To the Glory of God and in Grateful Remembrance of those members of this Congregation who laid down their lives in the Great War 1914- 1918.” Below the list of names are the words “That the inhabitants of our island may in peace and quietness serve Thee our God.” Placed on the wall, within the sanctuary, near the Buchanan Street entrance is a plaque in memory of those from the congregation who died during the Second World War.11

George Street Women’s Bible Class, 1918:

STEER AND ANGEL PATRIARCHS LAID TO REST: On the Night of Sunday March 2 1919 at George Street Methodist Church, the pastor Rev. D. B. Hemmeon delivered an address from the text "The life of the upright exalte of the city," and made explicit mentions of two esteemed and prominent members of the George Street congregation who were laid to rest, then recently, John Steer and Hon. James Angel. The George Street church mourned the loss of those two men who had helped formed the foundation of the church.14

JANET DUDER STEER DIARIES 1920s: During the roaring twenties, not much is known about life at George Street Church due a lack of significant happenings despite a turbulent political scene, however the Janet (Duder) Steer diaries, reproduced here from Story (1973)37, fill in some details of the decade after the First World War. The

27 following are some excerpts from her diary from Christmas 1922 when she was feeling too ill to attend church service: “Dec.23- Mr. Fairbairn in to tell me that they are putting a phone wire in connecting me with the church so I shall hear the services

Dec 24- Heard the service at George quite plainly. Rev. Mr. Joyce preached in the morning. Text ‘And His name shall save His people from their sins’ (Mat.1:2). He spoke of other great men who have lived, what their names meant and what they had done. Jesus Christ the greatest. What has He not done for us. Mr. Fairbairn preached at night from the text ‘And all the promises of God are Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus’ (2 Cor.1:20). A most inspiring and helpful sermon. He spoke of Man’s quest for God through all ages. The quest, the desire, the search inspired by God is the promise of God and is fulfilled in the incarnation of Christ. Our personality-- God a person-- comes to us in the peace of Christ. It was a wonderfully clear message for the time we are living in.”

This particular entry is explained by Story (1973)37 as being some of the first uses of telephones to hear church services to those who couldn’t attend for various reasons. The year after the radio station VOWR was established for this same reason, which continues to broadcast to this day.

PASSING OF LONG-TIME CHURCH SEXTON:

Evening Telegram, October 12, 1925 28

FROM THE TRUSTEES REPORTS OF THE 1920s 1922, Brass Plates & a New Library:

“Several church members stated that brass plates would be too expensive and that cards had been placed on the book boards instead. The girls interested themselves in the class and helping her & all trying to help build up our new library that was started last spring.”

1922, Founding of a Women’s Guild:

“Chairman reported that he had suggested to the ladies of the congregation the necessity of a women’s society in connections with the church work and had called together a number of the ladies. The result was that they formed the Women’s Guild. Work had been taken up heartily and already a very successful tea meeting had been held. The ladies were preparing for other work also. They claim that they should work to assist Church requirements that were to be undertaken, rather than raise money to pay for expenditure that had already been incurred.”

1922, Women’s Guild get Active in Church Improvements: “Ladies complained about the lack of facilities, for heating water for public gatherings. The ladies suggest that gas rings with slot meter should be installed. They also requested that a suitable cupboard be provided in which sewing machines and work could be properly kept. This was resolved as a committee consisting of Robert F. Horwood and Eli Russell be appointed to look into the best way of carrying out the requests of the women’s guild. The Committee was empowered to act as they considered best.”

April 26, 1923, Parsonage Property: “The Chapel Stewards reported that they had been unsuccessful in effecting a readjustment of the boundary of the Personage Property with the Wesley Board. It was therefore ordered, that the Stewards be instructed to move the boundary fence back to its original position after first obtaining permission from the Wesley Trustee Board to enter their property.”

1926, The Founding of the G. & W. Choral Society: “Charles R. Steer reported that the choirs of George Street and Wesley Churches had together formed a Choral Society and requested the use of the Sunday School Room on alternate Monday nights during the Winter and Spring months. This request was granted.”

Evening Telegram, June 1, 1925 29

September 17, 1926, a New Building on New Gower Street: “A meeting was called to consider the erection of a building on New Gower Street. A plan showed a building 82’ 6” x 80’ 0”. The site would be 25’ from the church. The plan was moved, seconded and carried.”

March 1, 1927, The Methodist Guards Executive: “H.J Russell and H. Maddick stated that they were authorized by the Executive of the Guards Association to inform the Board that the Guards were prepared to rent rooms in the proposed building on New Gower Street.”

1928, Significant Bequest: Mary (Mackay) Pitts, wife of James Pitts. Long-time George Street “A bequest of the late Mrs. Mary Pitts, in the amount of $1,000.00.” Congregation Member.

THE GREAT DEPRESSION YEARS AND THE GREAT WAR:

Church Sexton Robert Moores in front of the North Entrance, 1939

FROM THE TRUSTEES REPORTS OF THE 1930s: February 23, 1931, Appointed Ushers: “A Friendly Committee of ladies and gentlemen was appointed to extend greetings to visitors when they come into church.”

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January 8, 1936, Guzzwells Estate Fund: “The Treasurer, Mr. Angel, produced the account of this fund for 1933, 1934, and 1935. The account as of December 31st, 1935 shows $4000.00 invested, and a balance of $939.94 in the Newfoundland savings Bank, out of which the contribution to education for the year will be paid and the balance invested.” Daily News, October 14, 1959

Farewell Dinner at George Street for Members of the Armed Forces, 1939 June 28, 1942, Renting to the Canadian Army: “Agreement was submitted by Mr. Pratt covering lease of vacant Church property on George Street to Canadian authorities for duration of War and six months after. The board approves the agreement covering lease of land to Canadian authorities at rate of $420.00 per year.”

January 28, 1943, Church Bell Given to Joe Batt’s Arm: “Consideration was given to request of United Church, Joe Batt’s Arm, for Church bell removed from George St. Church. It was agreed to offer bell to them free of cost in its present condition. They to pay the cost of deliveries, etc.”

THE RAPID POST-WAR EXPANSION:

After the conclusion of the Second World War, the Downtown St. John’s area began to see a rapid expansion of businesses and people. According to the Trustees Minutes of 1949, a house was purchased on Cornwall Avenue for $18,000 to be the new manse. This explosion of growth went hand in hand with George Street, which responded in turn by creating a new range of activities for the congregation especially for the youth of the church.37 In October 1952, the George Street United Church began experimenting with a nursery idea in connection with Church attendance. Toddlers under four-

31

year-old were brought to the basement of the church while the parents attended church service on Sundays and left in the care of a certified nurse.32 This practise continued for some time afterward.

According to Official Board documents located in the church archives in 1955, George Street Church ran the following organizations within it`s facilities: The Three M`s Club, The Men`s Service Club, Young People`s Union, Young People`s Fellowship Hour, Sunday School, Young Men`s Bible Class, Young Ladies Bible Class, Junior Congregation, Film Committee, Progressive Evening Auxillary, Mission Band, Girl Guides, Brownies, Girl Guide Committee, Boy Scouts, Wolf Cub Pack, George Street Boy Scout Group Committee, and Ladies Auxillary. The congregation was a boom of bustling members participating in these many committees and groups with something to interest everyone. Church service on Sunday was full twice a day including the galleries. It was essentially a renaissance period for the church.

With the increasing expansion of the Downtown area and swift changing tide of a new generation brought upon by mass media and prosperity of the western world Daily News, January 30, 1956 after the Second World War came significant social problems. Those included an increase in consumption of alcohol, gambling, broken marriages and families, as well as what was perceived as a careless regard for the church.6 Conference Committee in Evangeline and Social Services explains in its minutes on March 7, 1954 a prevalent problem facing the church for the first time in its history:

“Social Problems: Marriage- Judge Roberts brought to the attention of the Committee the increasing problem of broken marriages, and unsuccessful marriages into which young people under 21 have entered. He pointed out that the matter has been studied thoroughly by the church in past years and raised the question as to how these previous recommendations could be implemented. He felt the church should be particularly concerned in the matter of counselling, and in observing the legal requirements of marriage strictly.”

Correspondingly a letter to the Chief of Police Pittman of St. John’s on November 27 1958 from the resident minister describes an increasing occurrence of vandalism and drunkenness at the church and the frustration felt by the lack of support from enforcement at the time; “you know we have had a considerable number of windows broken by children who appear to think it’s alright to damage the church in that way. We have had about 75 windows broken by acts of vandalism during the past few months and the time most damage occurs is during the lunch hour, and when the children return from school in the afternoon. Also, during the evening hours, many windows are broken. It is our impression also, that the law states there shall be no drinking in the public street, but this occurs very frequently around our church, and those drinking invariably break the bottles against the side of the building. Surely something can be done to curb these acts. We feel that if an example were made of a few, there be less of this in the future. We have just gone to the expense of erecting a new extension to our church, and it

Daily News November 1,32 1957 contains much expensive glass. We are therefore quite concerned that the conditions as they exist now be improved.”

Shortly thereafter, the Chief of Police responded by stating that this behaviour is on the rise in St. John’s, especially Downtown and they are attempting to curb the problem but have come up short so far. Furthermore, he states that the church is an unfortunate location for intoxicated persons, and they will act if they see any vandalism happening at the church, however they were unable to provide extra patrols due to their resources being stretched. Although the police couldn’t assist the church further, they were not discouraged, and the church began several social programs arising from the many committees to combat these social problems starting within their congregation. In the List of Subscribers of George Street Church in 1957-1959, it was stated, “The work of [the] United Church Community Centre continues its main features being: 1) Social welfare work among United Church people. 2) The operating of Emmanuel House Residence for young girls. 3) Assistance in the work of Christian Education through our summer camp programme and through teaching religion in Summer school. The office is a clearing house for our ministers who can refer needy people there at any time. In 1957, 12 families were helped by the George Street Church.” By slowly combating the problems that impoverished families were feeling at the time, the Church helped alleviate the stress on the Downtown area.

SECOND BUILDING EXPANSION IN 1959/1960:

As the aging facilities and expanding congregation numbers problems began to mount at the church. The issues of the church building began to become paramount by the mid 1950s. In late 1955, prominent congregation member C.C. Pratt issued the following plea to the George Street United Church Congregation: “Do you know that twenty (1935) or thirty years ago (1925), George Street United Church had more space available for its church activities than it has today? There was a time when a small church hall called the Buchanan Street School stood on the land which is now a lawn in front of the church. This building was used for regular Church activities and in particular, for the Sunday School. If you walk along George Street as far as Springdale Street, you may see this old building in the yard of the Horwood Lumber Company, where it is now used for storage. The Church sold it with the intention of some day building a bigger and better hall. In fact, a number of years prior to its removal, the George Street Institutional Building Fund was started and throughout the years a sum of nearly $30,000 was raised which we have today as a basis for our present building program. Because sufficient funds were

33 not realized, however, George Street Church never did rebuild its Church Hall, and today it is the only United Church in St. John’s without an auxiliary building. Wesley, in contrast, has Wesley House which used to be the old George Street Manse. We need to build facilities especially for our youth. Increase giving’s!”

By November 1956, a George Street building committee was actively reporting to the Official Board on the structural needs of the church and its various organizations and it was at this time that they first recommended, together with alterations to the building, that a new addition be built on the north side.37 A year and a half passed by and in 1958 the committee reported to the Official Board recommending that the Allied Construction Company be awarded the contract for the Church Extension and Alterations, with Robert F. Horwood as Architect. The estimated costs at the time were $94,000 for the contract with a further $16,000 for the furniture and accessories along with the architect fee. The Official Board then brought this to the Trustee Board who made it their project.18

A 2019 interview with Roger Angel1, a congregation member at the time and who’s father John B. Angel was Secretary-Treasurer of the Trustee Board, provides significant context in the time that the extension was proposed. He explains, “the extension to the church was a Trustee Board project. It was opposed at the time by the Committee of Stewards, but the Trustee board was responsible for building and they took it on as a project… there were people at the church [at the time] who worried about expenses. The trustees took it on anyway and they got the support of the congregation to do so. They had to go out and fundraise money and they decided to hire a professional fundraiser which was the Wells Organization and these people would come and they had a way to go about a financial campaign. It's not cheap and they would charge a fee for their services so that was more money to fork up but that's what they Daily News, June 21, 1960 decided to do. They had created a list of where they might go to look for donations and part of the strategy is to get a prominent person to be the lead first investor with a significant amount of money that will then perform a model which others can support the project. I remember my father telling me that it fell to him to go knock on the door of this designated first person to make that first contribution and that [happened to be] Mr. C.C Pratt, and the Pratt family were members of this congregation. Dad knew Senator Pratt, but he was from an older previous generation. Dad's responsibility because he was on this committee, was to make the first call and contact to get the city support from the Pratt family. As I became involved as a young person on the boards there were people already on the boards who earlier had gone through this expansion campaign and they would speak to me of very good memories that they

John B. Angel 34 had out of that activity and at the end of the day it didn't take long to pay the bill. It got done quickly and there wasn't an outstanding mortgage or anything of that nature.”

Subsequently the addition was constructed in 1959 and it was officially occupied on April 5th, 1959 costing right on par with the construction estimate.18 It consisted of a one-story extension and basement measuring 82 feet by 49 feet with long corridors leading to archways cut on either side of the church to allow easy access on the main room. With the addition of Sunday School classroom space from the extension came a small but well-equipped Gymnasium that doubled as a meeting place for youth programming and served as modular classrooms for the Sunday School Programs. The old ABC room in the basement was remodelled to serve as a nursery, and a brick and concrete vault was installed nearby to house church records. The extension also included several meeting rooms labelled ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’ to accommodate the many church committees operational in the facility along with a kitchenette.18

In 1960 the repairs to the main structure of the church were authorized and the work was tendered and eventually undertaken by the Tower Company. Many of the windows were replaced and wired-glass storm windows installed. Much of the original plaster was replaced and the entire exterior was sand-blasted, the cement and stucco were removed and replaced by one-inch coat of “Gunite” anchored by a wire mesh. Extensive repairs were made to the aging east tower. In addition, a new hardwood floor and carpeting was provided by the Men’s Service Club with new wiring and lights installed and the Minister’s vestry and choir room were renovated. The total cost of all this was $220,000.37 After all this was completed, the church was officially opened in 1960 with a ribbon cutting ceremony officiated by Mr. Wilfred Whiteway long time member of the congregation and affectionately known by many as “Pop Whiteway.”33

George Street United Church in 1973 showing the New Building & Extensions

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CONGREGATION HIGHS 1960s:

Fresh out from extensive renovations, a new building, and an extension, the church continued to have an abounding congregation. Throughout this entire decade a series of generous donations were given to the church including:

1960 - Bible Class donated 6 Communion Trays to the Church.

1961 - Men’s Service Club donated and laid a birch floor in the sanctuary of the Church.

1961 - Mrs. Una Nightingale donated 3 complete Communion Tray Sets, in memory of her parents, William and Elizabeth Harris.

1962 - Mrs. George Coish, St. John’s, but living in Toronto, gave a generous contribution to George Street United Church.

1963 - A gift of $1,000.00 from Mrs. Gertrude Dawe, to pay for pulpit, collection plate table and baptismal font.

1963 - The United Church Women contributed $1,000.00 towards banquet tables and chairs.

1963 - A Revised Standard Version of the Bible was donated by Mr. Ronald Ayre.

1963 - The United Church Women provided new gowns for Junior Choir.

1963 - Mrs. Frances Brown gave a literature table in memory of her late husband, Charles Brown.

1963 - Mrs. Mary T. Courtenay gave $1,000.00 in memory of her father, Mr.Leonard J. Taylor, towards the cost of communion table, pulpit chairs, etc.

1964 - From the estate of the late Senator Calvert C. Pratt, the sum of $2,500.00.

1965 - Mrs. Jennie Way donated $1,000.00 for a new communion rail, in memory of her late husband, Captain Eugene Way.

1966 - Miss Pearl Templeman gave an organ and bench in memory of Mrs. Frances Brown.

1966 - Mrs. Victoria (George) Coish gave a piece of land located at No.98 LeMarchant Road to the Church.

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1966 - A pamphlet rack and guest book stand were purchased from money donated by Mrs. Frank Penney.

1969 - Fort Amherst United Church congregation gave their organ to George Street United Church.

1969 - A bequest of $429.90 from the Estate of Herbert Carnell.

1968-1969 - Mrs. William Lovelace donated a wall clock for the Lecture Hall, in memory of her late husband, William Lovelace, who passed away November 12th1967.

Young People’s Union

Daily News, December 24, 1960

In the late 50s the George Street Young People`s Union was established which became a popular group for the young people of the congregation throughout the 1960s. An example of their numerous activities and causes comes from the George Street Young Peoples Union 1961 Annual Report25: “Our

37 activities for the year included the selling of Christmas cards, home delivery of turkey teas and church calendars which we sold for the Women’s Association. These are our only sources of income. This year as usual, bowling teams have been formed and all of our members have taken an interest in this sport. Our union also took part in many inter-union activities. Hockey and Basketball proved to be interesting to the members of both the male and female teams. In December the annual Presbytery Variety Show was held at Pitts Memorial Hall and again this year our union took an active part in its planning and presentation. We were also successful in winning the shield for the best skit on this show. This is the second time we have won the shield. On October 3rd the Union held its meeting at the Boy Scout cabin on the Bauline Line. This fellowship was greatly enjoyed by all. On the weekend of November 10th of our member along with members of other unions around the province attended a Y.P.U. Convention at Glovertown. In November four of our members conducted the Evening Service in connection with National Young Peoples Week. Members of our Executive were installed at this Service. We wish to thank the members of the congregation who throughout the year helped us in our many projects.”

Further records state that the first meeting of George Street YPU for the year 1960-1961 was held at Barney’s restaurant on Tuesday, October 4th with 22 members present. President of the Young Peoples Union Don Bradbury at the time, requested on April 27th, 1961 that baskets be erected in the gymnasium for basketball games. Boys aged 12-17 were extremely interested in the activity and Official Board Members Dingwall and Sparkes approved the request provided the Young People would pay for it.21 Christmas Cards were sold by the youth group from 1959 throughout the early years of the 1960s to great success. In addition to the aforementioned activities, one of the group’s main duties was to provide ushering services every Sunday.21

Men’s Service Club: Another very active group during this time was the Men’s Service Club, primarily made up from veterans of both World Wars who wished to give back to their church community. According to the official minutes of the Men’s Service Club in 196229, the primary objective of the club in the previous year (1961) was to beautify the interior of the sanctuary which included laying of a new hardwood floor, removal of the pews, and the varnishing of the organ loft pulpit and pews. Additionally, new carpets on the aisles and main vestibule of the church were laid. In contrast to the various renovation efforts made by the Club, a Fish & Brewis Supper, a Spring Sale and Flipper Dinner, the home delivery of Turkey Teas as well as a moose dinner and Harvest Sale were organized and conducted. The Men’s Service Club continued their much-needed work for decades until they disbanded in 2016.40

Young COUPLEs Club: By the late 1960s, a new group arose from the abundance of young couples in the congregation named the ‘Young Couples Club.’ Beginning in April 1966, the Young Couples Club was formed at George Street Church with a membership of 20 including both married and unmarried couples. The annual reports of the time reveal that the purpose of the club was to relate men and women to God as revealed in Jesus Christ, to one another and to the life and work of the Church. Some activities include summer outings, tours, tobogganing, bowling, a visit to the Agnes Pratt Home for a Christmas service, a Sunday night singsong and entertaining student nurses from the Grace Hospital.1,5,33

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As the long-time members of the Young Couples Club began to grow older, get married and start families the name changed to the ‘Couples Club.’ In full swing from the 1970s to the 1990s, its annual reports throughout the years described its purpose and activities as the following:

Family Orientated - Doing things together as a family.

Friendship and Fellowship - Come and make new friends and renew acquaintances, meet couples from other churches.

Worship - Church services and bible study.

Fun - Weekend camps at Burry Heights Church Camp, volleyball tournaments, bowling, tobogganing.

Fund Raising - Home delivery of Turkey Teas.

Community Service - Visits to Senior Citizens Homes, delivering of Christmas Hampers, help to the needy.

Guest Speakers - Talks on interesting topics.

The Couples Club at Burry Heights in February 1998. The Couples Club on one of their Outings

ANNUAL SERVICE FOR PEOPLE OF THE SEA: Beginning in 1963, an annual special service of worship for Men of the Sea was started by Rev. Naboth Winsor at the church.40 Winsor had come from Wesleyville, Bonavista Bay where an Annual Sealers Service was held. This was due to the fact that sealing was a large part of the life of people from the area and he thought a similar service was needed at George Street for the fishermen of the Downtown scene.30 Since it began, invitations are sent out to various political and Newfoundland business leaders to attend the service including the Lieutenant Governor and Premier. In addition, various prominent Captains are invited to attend as well as fishermen and sailors to the special service.40 The name of the service has changed several times over the years from Men of the Sea to Men That Go

39

Down in the Sea in Ships to People of the Sea as well as various variants. Every year the United Church Women do the reception after the special service and provide tea, coffee, and food to those who attend.30

George Street Church Decorated for the 'People of the Sea' Service, 2015

LATER WOMEN’S GROUPS: Following the Church Union in 1925, the Women`s Association was organized. It was a continuation of women’s work in the home, church, and community but organized into groups and under the Constitution of the United Church of Canada as well as the governing body of the Dominion Council of Women.42 This organization along with the Women’s Missionary Society, and various groups including the Ladies Aid and Women’s Sewing Group functioned for many years within the church. By 1956, the Official Board agreed the new name of the Women`s Sewing Group shall be “The Curtis Fellowship Group.”20 The Curtis Fellowship Group of Ladies entertained, worshipped and developed activities and outings for the church. In the next year, a very extensive collection of delicious Newfoundland recipes was compiled by the George Street United Church Women’s Association for $1.75.43 By 1959, The Curtis Fellowship Group was under the leadership of Mrs. A Pippy and one particular outing entertained the ladies of Sunset Lodge. The program consisted of devotional, readings, favourite singsongs, and a delicious supper all organized by the group.10

According to Sally Winsor in 198742, “her 1961 Report to the Newfoundland Conference of the United Church, Mrs. J.E. Butler, the last President of Conference Women`s Association said and I quote, ‘The vision of one organization of the women of the United Church is slowly but surely coming to a reality. We have studied and planned for this one organization over such a long period, we are now

40 ready and looking forward to it.’ In January 1962, all the women`s groups in the church will be forming the new organization, to be called the United Church Women.” This essentially removed the various women’s groups and made one large group with six units. The inaugural meeting of the George Street United Church Women was held at the church on January 17th. The Leader at the time was Mildred Winsor, the wife of Rev. Naboth Winsor. The Minister conducted the election of officers and his wife the Devotional Service assisted by Anne Hunter.28 It took about 10 years of deliberating and careful review before the final constitution was established and amalgamation took place.42

According to a United Church Women’s report from 1967, the six units were in full swing and had made 4252 visits to the sick and disabled in hospitals, homes and institutions that year. The women organized for underprivileged families to be given clothes, layettes and gifts. In addition, that fall a birthday party was held for the guests at the Agnes Pratt home. Highly organized, they took on many projects such serving meals for events, creating fundraisers for the church, and helping the community.24

Throughout the next four decades, the George Street United Church Women became a staple in the Downtown St. John’s scene with its reputation as being dependable and willing to help those in need. An interview with long-time United Church Women member Pauline Murrin in 201930 provides a keen look into the world of the George Street United Church Women since 1979. She explains over the years the various units took on projects of their own each targeting a specific group or cause. Unit Six had become to be known to take on projects with the Naomi House which like the Iris Kirby House for Abused Women and Children needed significant attention. Murrin explains “at Christmas time, in particular, they did a basket for each of the residents with items such as nail polish, things that they

41 wouldn't buy [normally]. When we had units there was a UCW General where every two months or so we would meet all the units together and discuss. Each of those general meetings a certain unit would take the devotions or probably bring in a speaker… All of our supporters would help us with our teas, our fundraisers and our projects.” The United Church Women also by the mid 1970s began to sponsor foster children abroad and started sending clothes to needy children across the province.30

By the time Pauline Murrin had become heavily involved with the United Church Women, most of the Units had leaders that were in place for some time and continued their positions up until the early 2000s. She explains that “unit three came on track in the late 70’s I think with Mildred Tucker and they were about ten years younger than the members of Unit two where Unit two had members of all ages. Unit four I think that was Florence McNeily’s group and Unit five was Phyllis Blackmore. Each of these units had officers, presidents, secretary, and conveners. In fact, in 1962 when the UCW formed the list of executive and conveners were more than we have as active members today [2019]. Ruth Butler had been a membership convener since 1988 until about two years ago [2017] when we decided we didn't have enough members for that.” There was also a Flower Committee which took care of the abundance of flowers that were left in the sanctuary after a church service. These bouquets were taken to a senior’s home or an ill member of the congregation. In addition, there is an annual District meeting at the United Church Burry Heights Camp on Salmonier Line and a retreat there every fall for the George Street United Church Women.30

By the 21st Century, membership in the George Street United Church Women began to decline as did church membership. Eventually several units shut down completely due to lack of members and some units amalgamated into another unit. Today, there is only one unit of women of which Murrin states there are about 44 members, but explains “there's a lot of home members and… if you've been given life membership in the UCW you remain on the books even if you leave this church.” Sick visits have been phased out but have been replaced by a new activity dubbed ‘Contacts.’ This includes minimal visiting but also now includes calling, writing cards, and emailing individuals who are debilitated in hospitals, at facilities or at home. Furthermore, currently the United Church Women is divided into eight or nine areas. Murrin is the current [2019] president of St. John’s area. She explains that she finishes “next year and we take on two-year terms. So, this is my fifth year. Locally I became president in 2011. So, this is my tenth year. So right now [2019], there's our executive and our vice president Yvonne Bradbury.”30 Despite the decrease in membership, the George Street United Church Women are still a founding institution at the church and are an example of a successful good-hearted church organization which makes a difference in the lives of many.30

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The 1970S - celebrations and changes:

Centennial 1973:

As early as 1969, a Centennial Committee was created to organize events to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the opening of the church. After a few years of careful planning, several special services and activities were held in the church over the entire year of 1973. Committee member Don Bradbury (2019)5 states that they did this on purpose as they desired to space out the events out over the year. In December 1973, the congregation officially recognized its one hundred years of service since it officially opened on December 14th, 1873. The occasion was marked with a celebration banquet which took place at the Canon Sterling Auditorium in St. Mary’s Anglican Church in St. John’s. More than four hundred people attended with Chesley Ebsary serving as master of ceremonies. It featured a combined choir from various United Churches in the city and surrounding communities including the Junior Choir. The Music was provided by the CLB Band. The church service was packed and members of the RCMP also attended as it was also one hundred years since they were established.5,33

Action Teams: In the mid 1970s, there became an idea that there should be a change in the church’s governmental structure to ensure all areas of the church community and church activities were addressed. After some deliberation and research this became the Action Teams. Roger Angel (2019)1 explains the background to this decision; “a bunch of us who were in the Young Couples club got invited to be on the Committee of Stewards and this was a committee at the time that had maybe twenty-five or thirty men and a couple of women. At that time, we all had young families, so we had Sunday school

43 coming, so Sunday school was important, and so we wanted to support it, so it went well. There was an idea that we needed to make changes in the governments and the governments model which had been in place for many years was the Official Board which was composed of the Committee of Stewards and the session and there were some ideas that we needed to make some changes. So, the next thing there was a committee created to look at reorganization and I found myself recording [as secretary] the notes for that meeting and in 1973 the congregation voted to change the government structure.”

After it was approved, the framework of the church changed drastically as committees were developed to access and tackle each part of the church. Angel continues “we had six committees and we invented names for these, but these would be groups that would be active in the church and we invented the term Action Teams. One of them was doing work that used to be done by the Committee of Stewards and the Committee of Stewards used to be looking after a couple of things such as the property and paying the bills. So, there was a Finance Action Team, Property Action Team, Christian Education Action Team, Spiritual Action Team, Fellowship Action Team and Community Concern Action Team.” Despite the drastic change, Angel explains that there was a “tremendous show of support by the older people in the congregation for what this young crowd was trying to do. Wonderful support for younger people.” These action teams continued to work very successfully throughout the years right up until the late 1990s when some eventually became outreach committees which continue to this day and others became defunct.1

1970s TIDBITS: The publication “George Street United Church Friendship Corner” was started June 1975 by Anne Hunter. Anne continued until 1977. There was a short break until March 1979 when George Meadus accepted the position of editor. George continued this publication until December 1995.11

On December 24th, 1978, the chimes of George Street United Church were played for the first time, and on January 7th, 1979 they were officially dedicated. The chimes were presented to this church by long- time congregation members Captain Chesley Winsor and his wife Mabel.11

Some of the Fellowship Action Team Responsibilities in the mid-late 1970s involved the arranging of greeters and ushers for all services, cards of communication for special occasions, creating the Friendship Corner, organizing an Open House held regularly one afternoon each summer since 1979, and conducting tours after morning worship or by request.11

In 1976 the children of the George Street Sunday School were continuing to save “Pennies for Needy Children”. The collection for that year amounted to $33.00. These pennies are sent to children in need in around the world.11

From the Annual report in 1979, the United Church Women continue to support two foster children. One child in the Philippines and one in India.11

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1970s Donations: 1976 - Mr. Leslie R. Curtis gave a “free grant” to the Church for the land on which the Manse is located.

1976 - Mr. Anthony Baldwin donated carpet for the Kindergarten.

1976 - A bequest of $5,000.00 from Estate of Mrs. Gertrude Dawe, part of which paid for a new dais in the Church.

1977 - A gift of 10 Bibles in memory of Mrs. Gladys Coombs from grand-daughter, Mrs. Harold Hayward.

1977 - A donation of 300 copies of the Psalms (Service Books) from Mr. Carl Monk.

1976-1977 - A donation of 2 large wooden collection boxes from Mr. Alva Butler. Dedicated by Rev. B.B. Snow.

1978 - A donation of a new outdoor hymn-board made by Messrs. E.R. Noel and Leslie Churchill.

1978 - Mr. George Burry and son, Lloyd, donated a Brass Stand for a Bible in memory of Mrs. George Burry.

1979 - Captain Chesley Winsor donated Chimes in memory of parents, Captain Joshua and Mrs. Winsor

1979 - A bequest of $500.00 from Mrs. Isabella (Chesley) Belbin.

1979 - Mr. E.R. Noel donated a memorial book cabinet.

1979 - Mr. Carl Monk donated 100 Songs of the Gospel Hymn Books

1980-2000 Continued worship:

1980s TIDBITS:

January 13, 1980, Bible Donation: 150 Bibles were presented to George Street Church and dedicated during the morning worship service. These Bibles were in memory of grandparents, Max and Jean Chaplin, and were contributed by their grandchildren: Dawn, Lynn, Christopher, and Christa Chaplin. Also, during the same service ‘100 Songs of the Gospel’ were presented by Carl Monk.11

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1980, VOWR Broadcasts: Six Sunday worship services from George Street were broadcast over VOWR during the year. Rev. Coish also conducted morning devotions over VOWR for three separate weekly broadcasts.11

1980, First Lady Moderator of George Street: Rev. Lois Wilson became the first lady moderator of the church in 1980.11

1982, A New Caretaker: Fraser Moore, who has been caretaker of the church has resigned effective September 15th. Fraser was employed for four and a half years performing various duties. The new caretaker, who assumed his duties on September 6th, 1982 was Reg Rumsey. As of the date of this history [2019], Reg continues to be the church caretaker.11

October 24, 1983: 110th Anniversary and Communion Cloth: This week had been set aside as a week of special services at George Street Church, in keeping with the 110th Anniversary. The theme was Commitment to Christ and Spiritual Renewal. The speaker was Rev. Gordon Hunter, a United Church minister. Special music was provided by the Senior Choir, the Choirs from Topsail and Mount Pearl, the Silver Chord Singers, and the Gower Youth Band. During the Worldwide Communion Sunday service that week, a cloth for the communion table, donated by Mrs. Susie Fradsham was presented. This cloth, hand-done by Mrs. Fradsham, was dedicated in loving memory of her husband, John Fradsham, who died August 18, 1974. Mrs. Fradsham took much care, time and interest in the preparation of this cloth for her church. In this crocheted cloth there is intricately patterned a motif of Christ in the attitude of prayer. Underneath are woven the words of the Lord’s Prayer. Crocheted flowers also adorn the border of this beautiful work of art. This cloth is still in this church today in the sanctuary.11

1984, Memorial Fund: George Street United Church established a Memorial Fund, whereby people may donate memorial gifts to the church restoration fund, formerly called repair fund.11

1990s TIDBITS: Report of The Christian Children’s Fund of Canada 1992: George Street United Church supported Paul Gosh of India from whom translated letters were received expressing his gratitude and progress. A new adoptee child by the church in 1992 was Herod Gallego. A monthly cost of $44.15 supports each child. A Christmas card with $20.00 enclosed is also sent to each child every year.11

Report of the “Supply and Social Assistance” Committee 1992: The Supply and Social Assistance Committee accepted clothing and other household items and distributed it to places in St. John’s. Throughout the year quite a few packages of clothing and other items were sent to Kirby House, Naomi House, The Association of New Canadians and the Good Will

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Centre. Some items were left over from the different rummage sales held in the church. 31 large cartons of clothing and household items were shipped to Labrador that year.11

George Street Senior Choir September 16, 1993: The Executive of the choir met on Thursday, September 16, 1993. One of the topics discussed was the importance of having uniformity in the appearance of the choir. All agreed that the focus is on the music they present and having this uniformity would add greatly to the dignity of the choir and maintain a worshipful atmosphere which would be conveyed to the congregation. The uniform would be Black or navy shoes should be worn with the gowns, Boots were not allowed, Skirts should not be longer than the gown, or, if they are longer should be of a dark colour, Slacks should not be worn, If earrings are worn, they should be small and inconspicuous.11

The Passing of Long-Time United Church Women Member, Sally Winsor 1998:

The passing of Sally Winsor was announced. Sally was instrumental in bringing the Fellowship of the Least Coin to George Street United Church Women.11

Mrs. Sally Winsor

2000 to Present, Outreach Work & Time of Transition:

Church’s Response to the 9/11 Tragedy: On the afternoon of September 11th, while tragic events were still unfolding in Washington and New York, the George Street United Church was enlisted to help stranded individuals in St. John’s by providing meals and volunteering assistance.11 As many planes had been stranded at St. John’s airport due to the grounding of all planes, many people were left to fend for themselves while they waited for the airspace to reopen. On the Afternoon of September 11th, and night, and throughout the following week, a group of people from the George Street congregation volunteered many hours. These people worked with The Delta Hotel preparing meals and providing other assistance for some of the airline passengers who were staying at The Delta Hotel, Mile One Stadium and the Convention Centre.11 A volunteer at the time, Eric Winsor (2019)40 explains that they had a couple hundred cots erected for the stranded individuals to sleep in and the church volunteers made sandwiches to bring down as well as providing support for the families. Roger Angel (2019)1 specifies that the Red Cross got involved with the effort and it was highly organized.

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JIMMY PRATT MEMORIAL OUTREACH CENTRE:

The outreach centre began operations in January 2002 with financial Assistance from Kathy LeGrow, who named the centre after her late brother, and Elinor Gill-Ratcliffe. The kitchen was remodelled with new equipment and the dining area refurbished with new flooring and the addition of an internet access centre. It is operated entirely by New Kitchen at Jimmy Pratt volunteers representing the George St. Church Congregation, and corporate sponsors. Additionally, there are a number of volunteers from the community at large that help out on a regular basis.33

In addition to the soup kitchen operation that offers a Friday lunch to needy individuals and during the winter a hot Monday morning breakfast, the centre offers also senior’s inclusion program once a week. The program includes fitness, lunch and afternoon games as well as occasional entertainment. The centre also includes internet access, used clothing and reading materials. New expansions for 2011 include a reading/quiet room and a new seniors program dedicated to “cooking for one.” The success of this outreach program would not be possible without the financial and volunteer support and a strong team effort all round.33

The outreach centre provides many opportunities for its patrons to feed the body and soul. The facilities are now fully utilized and there is the possibility that some additional services may be incorporated. Utilization of rental space and benefit dinners as well as concerts has been instrumental in allowing stable operations.33

Senior's Fitness Program

21st CENTURY TIDBITS:

ORGANISTS: After the resignation of long-time church organist Alistair Kinsman in 2001, several well-abled organists followed in both temporary and permanent positions including Glen Keefe, Heather Snow, Andrea Powell, Bill Greene and the current [2019] organist is Carolyn Sturge Sparkes.

RENOVATIONS TO THE NURSERY: In 2003, Nursery renovations were completed and the following year the Kindergarten Room was renovated. Two of the men who did the painting of the nursery were Reg Rumsey who laid the floor and Eric Winsor who was the artistic talent behind the clouds. They were assisted by several young people of the church.11

SUNDAY SCHOOL: From the Christian Development Action Team Minutes in 2006, a glimpse at the many programs of the Sunday School is given “Youth Programming Sunday School, our Sunday school is divided up into two sections: nursery and multi-age. Our nursery program is for children up to

48 UCW Members Cooking at a Mug-Up age 5 and is led by Diane Angel with the assistance of Jane Deal, Marcia Porter, Jocelyn Tucker, Sandra Noble and Emma Fitzpatrick-Sauer. We have about ten nursery members with a regular attendance of five. Our multi-age program is for children and youth ages 4-14. Our older youth act as teacher assistants in the Multi-age classroom and we are very grateful to them for their leadership. We have 15 members in regular attendance.”

TRADITIONAL MUG-UP: From the Outreach Action Team Annual Report 2007: “In August, the Outreach Action Team partnered with Bridges to Hope in a “Traditional Mug-Up” fundraiser. The event was well attended, and we were pleased to have musical guest, Fergus O’Byrne. The soup kitchen benefitted from ticket sales to the dinner theatre, ‘Miracle on George Street.’ The event was a great success with additional donations of $2000 for Outreach. The event also raised awareness in the community about the work of our Soup Kitchen.”

NEW BEGINNINGS:

2014 was an important place in time for the church and the Jimmy Pratt Center. Many positive changes occurred throughout the year. One of the biggest changes in the last decade occurred when the Salvation Army New Hope Community Centre relocated their operational services to the church. This move was necessitated due to their normal location received major flood damage, resulting in their programming having to relocate until a new facility is built. The New Hope Centre provides people in need with a wide range of services and opportunities for growth and improvement in life despite difficult circumstances. Some services are similar to those offered by the Jimmy Pratt Centre and include a Friendship Corner meal program, a Coffee Quest breakfast program, an Early Bird program, opportunities for fellowship and spiritual guidance, social work services, addictions counselling, and employment training.33

Similarly, this year also involved several changes and additions to the Husky Energy Breakfast Program which involved the Jimmy Pratt Center, NALCOR, and the Salvation Army partnering up to start the NALCOR Summer Breakfast Kitchen Volunteers Program. Comparatively to the Husky Energy Breakfast Program, the NALCOR Breakfast Program provides breakfast to those in need of a healthy meal. The program serves about 80 patrons on average per week thanks to the help many devoted volunteers from the church and sponsors. The program offers breakfast services every Monday from the middle of June to the middle of September each year.33

2015 was a big year for George Street United because it sparked the beginning of a new era of change and transition. Due to declining congregational numbers and at times, unfortunate circumstances, it became clear that it was time for some changes, not only in the leadership of the church and the George Street United

Dining Room

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Family, but also in the programs and outreach we provide and offer. The changes that were inspired by the events of 2015 came into play in the years that followed.33

Similarly, the year of 2015 was crucial for the Jimmy Pratt Center. In the fall, the Jimmy Pratt Center not only became incorporated, but also reached a charitable status in the community. Because of this, the Jimmy Pratt Center can now provide tax receipts for donations and corporate sponsorships. Also, these two factors allow the Center to apply for funding from certain organizations when usually, they don’t provide funding and grants for religious based organizations.33

The church itself also changed significantly in 2015. During the annual general meeting in 2015, a transition committee for the church was appointed. This committee was started so that a select group of leaders in the congregation could look towards the future to help the church in any way they can.33

The major events and occurrences that took place in the church in 2016 happened mainly because of the gradual adjustments to all the changes that occurred throughout the year as we prepared ourselves to grow and evolve. For the first half of the year, we had temporary ministers as we struggled to find a new leader for our congregation. However, in September of 2016, Rev. John Adams accepted a temporary position as the minister of George Street United until August 2017.33

There were also changes that helped the church from an economic standpoint. For example, in 2016, funding was granted to get a new furnace for the building to replace the aging 60-year-old one. That summer, a new, eco-friendly furnace was installed, resulting in lots of cost savings and help for the environment.33

In August of 2017, Rev. Peter Bartlett was appointed as the new Interim Minister of George Street United Church. In May, the church renewed the referendum of understanding with the Salvation Army for office space and use of our kitchen facilities for their New Hope Community Program. This MOU has been of considerable benefit to both the church and the army and has served to be a very worthwhile partnership for both parties. It provides an excellent example of how two organizations can work together for the wellbeing of all.33

Stories from Long-Time Congregation Members: Over the course of eight weeks a series of interviews were conducted with several long-time members of the George Street United Church congregation. Despite the many records, minutes and dates recorded for this period, it is only brought to life by the stories of George Street’s people. Their

50 memories, which they all consider fond of the church, provide a vivid picture in the life of George Street United Church from the mid 20th century until present day.

Don Bradbury

Don is a long-time member of the George Street Congregation and participated in several committees, activities, and organizations from a young age. When I ask him his earliest memories of the church he explains “I've been around George Street Church all my life since I was maybe two years old. I remember coming down to Sunday School when I was about three or four. My earliest memories of our Sunday School are we always had a big Sunday School and we used to go downstairs in what was called the Lecture Hall which is now the Jimmy Pratt Memorial Outreach Center and that was kids of all ages. I remember distinctly there was a Mrs. Wiseman who was the superintendent of the Sunday School and she lived next door to me on Pennywell Road where I grew up. There was a couple of highlights of the Sunday School but Mrs. Wiseman had a brother Lester Burry and he was a United Church missionary in Labrador and once a year he’d come home and always brought with him a series of what we called Lantern Slides and he would show them on the screen for us all the see the life in Labrador. Another Sunday School Highlight was the Church picnics we used to have great church picnics. We would all go out in the back of a truck to some field and spend a whole day there.”

I explain that we had found a couple of records that used take the long trip to Manuels River at that time. He says “yes, in the back of truck. One of the highlights of the Church picnics was the candy toss and there was an elderly gentleman in the congregation Wilf Whiteway and we always shouted “Over here Mr. Whiteway” and he’d be throwing some candy around us and the races, of course, were a highlight.” Wilf had been born in Harbour Grace in 1880 and lived on nearby Springdale Street. His mother Elfrida was one of the first members of the Women’s Missionary Society (“Enjoys Working,” 1962).

Upon asking if the Sunday School came upstairs later on he explains that Sunday School would meet in different sections of the church Wilfred Whiteway, 1962 as he got older. “Yes it eventually came upstairs. I remember the Sunday School would meet in different sections of the church there would be a class up in the gallery and a class in the back of the church and that was in Reverend McKim's day. I'm not exactly sure when he came but it had to be the late 50’s.” Yes, he was short-term like many of the other ministers of the day, four or five years? “Reverend McKim sort of spearheaded the building of this extension to the church with the gym and the classes for the Sunday School. I remember well the day we all formed up in the church and paraded up and cut the ribbon there by the door on Buchanan Street.”

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Was Reverand McKim the first minister that you can remember I ask. “The first minister that was here that I can remember was Rolan Baggs. See in those days you would have a morning service and an evening service and I think the evening service had better attendance than the morning service.” So you attended the evening service mostly? “I came to both. I came to morning church, Sunday school in the afternoon, and then church in the evening. I lived up on George Street Choir at Christmas 1946, Rev. Baggs in middle. Pennywell road and we never had a car so I used to walk down to the church from my house. As I grew older in Sunday School when Reverend McKim came in the 50s so I was in my late teens and Reverend McKim was a very musical man he played the trumpet so he started a Sunday School Band. Both I and my brother played in the CLB band playing the clarinet and I still do and I took over the band.” Did you go to competitions? “Not really just played for the church. I don't know how many years we had that band but I'm going to say twenty years. It was interesting to see the kids would grow older and when they stopped coming to Sunday School they would get out of the band so it was a rotation. Bonnie Crawford, back then Bonnie Horwood, was the first pianist for the band and she was about 12 or 13 years old when she played piano for me.” So we're talking twenty years from the 50s till the 70s or? “Well I was born in 1936 and I would have had to be at that age maybe sixteen or seventeen. I guess in the 50s. We had it for a lot of years and it was a lot of fun. There were times you'd get discouraged because it was a small band and numbers were getting low. Some little kid would come up to me and say ‘Mr. Bradbury can I play in your Sunday School Band?’ and you’d spark right up. Then after that time the Sunday School started to decrease and fewer people coming to Sunday School and we just couldn't do the Sunday School band anymore.”

Moving forward in years as I remember Don’s early work with the George Street Young People’s Union, he speaks about the organization from his standpoint, “The Young Peoples Union in Canada was strong and in Newfoundland very strong and I guess it was because in those days you often didn't have much to occupy your time and once you get involved in the church your main source is doing things. We had a great Young Peoples Union here and so did Gower, Wesley, and Cochrane. We would get together Sunday nights for years and have a fire and have a speaker and a cup of tea. It was the place to go [and] it was a commonplace where everyone met and that's where I met my wife Yvonne.” So they met Sunday nights. Did they do any small fundraising or anything like that for the church? “Sunday nights after church and sometimes you rotate around different churches. No, it was just fellowship hour no fundraising.”We had seen in the records that you were the head of the Young Peoples Union in 1959 I think and the next year it was Josh Shea and he was there for a while. “Yes it was the same bunch of us though. We did different things we used to have camped out at Burry Heights for a weekend. Burry Heights was down in Shoe Cove then almost to Pouch Cove.”

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Wanting to get a full picture of the extent of the organization among the young people in the church I ask how many people he thinks were in the Young Peoples Union in 1959. He replies “here at George Street we would have at least 30 or 40 people.” Did you ever go on activities with other Young Peoples groups? “Yes, in addition to the Sunday evening fire we had conventions in Glowertown, Cornerbrook or Grandfalls and we would go on a bus with a big busload of people for the weekend. That was a common thing and extremely popular event in the church.” I remind him that he was sent away to Nova Scotia for a leadership conference at the time, he replies “yes, Tatamagouche in Nova Scotia,” which leads into a fond memory he has from during that time; “I remember we had the Young Peoples Union and we would meet once a week and read the minutes and that kind of stuff and Stella Burry ran the Emmanuel House down on Cochrane Street and it was a place where girls, who came to town, would board there until they found a boarding house and my wife Yvonne came in from Bonavista when she was about sixteen and she stayed at the Cottage Residence on Longs Hill first and went to Prince of Wales College and she worked at the department of education and stayed at the Emmanuel House. Stella Burry always had social events for the girls and this Sunday night she had a social event for the newly arrived girls from out of town so George Street Church sent down a representative and no one else wanted to go so I went and there I met my wife Yvonne.”

Realizing the significance of this group in the life of the church and perhaps the younger years of Mr. Bradbury, I wonder out loud how long he was in the Young Peoples Union? “At least ten or more years I suppose. The Young Peoples Union right across Canada fell apart so they stopped having it. So we started in the church what we called the Couples Club and it was much the same bunch who were involved in the Young Peoples Union and there was probably thirty of us and we’d meet on a regular basis it was more of a social club and we would meet at somebody's house or the church. In the summertime we would plan a vacation together we even went as far as Florida driving together and we had the walkie talkies in the cars to talk to one another and we did the vacation for five or six years. Eventually, we just didn't do as many things and people got involved with their families and kids started to come around so you couldn't go on vacation. Now and again we used to get together but it wasn't like it used to be. To this day we're still good friends and get together for a game of cards. But to me growing up in the church in addition to a good congregation there was a good bunch of people who prepared to be the leaders in the church who always come forward to do things.”

Around this time the congregation was getting larger and larger by the year, the amount of activities and committees were numerous and the leaders of the church were looking to enlarge the church’s facilities. I ask, So you were here when the church extension took place in 1959-1960. What do you remember from the building here and was the congregation for it or against it? “The congregation was for it. The church extension took place in Rev. McKims day. We had a Sunday School that was overrunning and it was the active days of the Couples club so we used the gym a lot. We had a Volleyball team and so did Gower and the Salvation Army.” Club Volleyball Games

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So did you guys play against each other? “Yes, there's a trophy downstairs from when we used to compete. We would go to their gyms or they would come here to our gym so there was a lot of interaction between the churches. The office in the nursery and the nursery used to be the gym.” They had said that there were so many Sunday School members and so many activities and people were competing for time in a room so they needed this extension. “There was no place to have meetings really. The Sunday School pushed the building extension a lot because they were meeting all over the church.” Did you ever go to Bible class here? “Yes, there was a girls bible class and a boys bible class. This was at the time that Pepperrell Airforce Base was at its heyday and some of the people from Pepperell came up to George Street Church and there was a Dr. Harnett. Him and his wife got involved in the Bible classes he taught the guys and his wife taught the girls and he was with us for a number of years. This was in the early 50s.”

“We had a strong Men’s Service Club.” Yes, the Men’s Service Club only ended a couple of years ago. “Yes they were good and strong. I remember in the church the old floorboards in the church were getting rough and old and Jim Hussey said we had to fix that so we took all the men who volunteered and his own workers and we took up the pews and put down the hardwood floor and some of us didn't have a clue what we were doing,” he says with a laugh. “So that was a good bunch of men who would take on things and do it and that died off and the members were just not there to take over the same work.” Do you remember when you put down that floor? “At least thirty years ago or more. I remember all the seats had space for say eight or ten people and there was a divider so when they took up all the pews they weren't going to put back the dividers and the pews weren't steady enough so we put iron brackets down to hold the seat which we got from a blacksmith down on George Street.” People used to rent pews right? “Yes and you didn't sit in anybody else’s seat and people were actually told to move [if they were sitting in someone’s seat]. At the end of the year they would publish an annual report and in the back of the report was all the names of the people in the congregation and how much they gave to the church.” No doubt this would be a controversial thing to do if it were today.

Moving forward in years I ask about his involvement as member of the 1973 Centennial Committee. George Street was celebrating 100 years of establishment and no doubt this was a monumental event in the church. “I think rather than try to one big event we tried to do something each month over that whole year. See we started George Street Church the same year the RCMP started in Canada. So when we had our 100th Anniversary we invited the RCMP to come down for our service and they came down and filled the 1973 Centennial Service church there's a picture out in Room C of that. Often certain people got involved in almost everything that went on. The church provincially had Presbytery Conference and George Street would always send people to it and for years and years it was the same people going.”

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Ending the discussion I bring up that there was a large scale change in the church’s governance, so I ask Don about the Action Teams which developed in the mid 1970s. He explains “The action teams were formed to try and reorganize the boards. There were five or six of us, Roger Angel, myself, Ray Pickett, Catherine Halliday’s son, so we set up the structure for the action teams. There was a Christian Education Team, Spiritual Action Team, Fellowship Action Team and more. The Fellowship Action Team had a good strong team and they looked after things like ushering and that kind of stuff and they had publications that they put out called The Friendship Corner. George Meadus was a teacher at Curtis Academy and he used to print The Friendship Corner’s. The actions would meet on their own and report to the Board. I was mostly involved in the Spiritual Action Team. There was a Property Action Team too. Was the Property Action Team a break off from the Committee of Stewards? “Yes.” Were you ever on the Committee of Stewards? “Yes. Once a year after the congregation meeting they elected chairs of the teams and we had an induction service in the church and everybody that was on the team was called to there.”

Roger Angel:

A descendant of the very early poineer Angel family at George Street Church, Mr. Angel has been involved with the church since he was born. In his formative years, his father John B. Angel was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Trustee Board of the church and was heavily involved in the happenings of the church. Noticing his family’s long history with George Street, I begin by asking about John and James Angel who were on the very first Board of Trustees at the church. The first people we see in the records are James Angel and John Angel are they relatives of yours?

“Yes. My great grandfather and his brother.”We were looking at the first choir and I believe James (or John) Angel was one of the ones in the first choir and both of them were some of the first Sunday school teachers here. “I'm not sure about the choir I would have thought John rather than James but I don't know for sure.” Taking a quick look at the written record I discover that John Angel was one of the basses at the time in the choir. Were you ever told any stories from when they started here or what their involvement was when they first came here or did they donate anything? “No I'm not familiar with any stories like that just that they were part of the group that formed Gower and became the original board for George Street.”So they were on the initial board? “From my understanding Gower I guess made a decision to establish a church in the West End and there was created an initial board from Gower Members.”I read that John and James's father came from Halifax he was born in Halifax I don't know if he came from there or not. “They had come from England via Halifax.”

Over the years we had different Angel’s that were Treasurers, Sunday School Teachers, and head of boards. I think your family and the McNeilly family has been here for a long time and the White’s are one of the oldest families that were involved and are still involved. Of course, you have been involved with the church since you were born. Were you living here when you were born? “Yes, we as a family would come to church on Sunday mornings. I was aware that there was a Sunday evening service but we

55 didn't participate in it. In those days the Junior Congregation would leave during the service and go downstairs and there was also Sunday School in the afternoon.”

So you had Sunday School downstairs. “Well in those days in the 1950’s there was young people up to the age of 12 about the time of confirmation but these are the age group that left the church during the service and went to what was called Junior Congregation and that was held in the room that is now the offices for the Salvation Army downstairs. I remember sitting in the back of that room and sometime during the time we were there would be some men go through that room and go through one door and go out the other and they were the men the ushers that took up the offering upstairs and it was the only way they could get to the back of the church was to go through there. I guess it was called the ABC room and later on it got called the Kindergarten room or other names. I never knew why it was called the ABC room but I always thought it had something to do with the young people how they learn their ABC’s. It was the only meeting room in the church there was a lecture hall beyond and upstairs there was the Ministers study and an office next to it.” So with no meeting rooms this is why this building came in effect? “Yes, well it was a project of the Trustee Board in the late 1950s to seek more space and the original name on it was the Christian Education Expansion. The name tells you something about why it was built it was built for the young people that's why there was a gym. They needed meeting rooms so there were three meeting rooms a small one, a medium one, and a large one named Room A, Room B, and Room C.”

Who is the first Minister that you remember here? “I know from my Baptism Certificate that I was baptized by Reverend Baggs. So he was followed by Reverend McKim. I remember the day that Reverend McKim came and did his first service.” Do you remember anything special about the day that he came? “At that time my Father was on the Selection Committee. For some reason he was involved with that process so he knew that he was coming. Our family pew was in the back gallery and our normal process on any normal Sunday was we would leave the back gallery and go down the stairs to George Street but on this particular Sunday I remember Dad taking us downstairs because the Minister had left the pulpit and gone to the west entrance to stand by that door which was the least used door in those days. The main entrance is up off George Street and people came in off Buchanan Street but very few people used the west entrance but the minister would normally stand by one of these entrances as people left the church and on that particular day that was the entrance he chose to stand beside. We were all ushered up to the West Entrance to say hello and give our greetings. Any other Sunday you would go out a door and if the Minister happened to be there then you would give your greetings but you wouldn't go out of your way to go to the door where the minister had been.”

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Do you know how long Reverend McKim was here? “It's in the written record but it was for three years in the late 1950s maybe 1957 to 1960. Reverend McKim came from Ontario and he had a farming background so he was quite a change from the previous experience in the congregation and quite frankly I don't think the congregation was ready for it at the time and that's one of the reasons it was a short pastor. The thinking of the selection committee at the time was to look for a younger minister because they were in the process at the time of building the Christian Education Expansion so they wanted someone to appeal to that. Many years after when Reverend McKim came to Rev. McKim cutting his Anniversary Cake during later years in worship at the church sixty years later the people he the Church had the strongest connection with were the younger people of the church when he was the minister.”So he came back sixty years later and was fondly remembered? “Yes, later on, he and Mrs. McKim had worshipped at the church regularly in their later years. Reverend McKim was buried from this church. When he left the church he stayed here in St. John’s and he had a growing family and he became the United Church Minister at the school which was sponsored by the church and run by it. The teaching staff that taught the courses was a minister and for many years there was Rev. Curtis who was succeeded by Rev. McKim and one of the duties that that minister had was being in charge of the residence on Longs Hill and that's where he lived and taught classes there for the school system of the United Church Board.”

Noticing in the records prior to the discussion that the years which Mr. Angel grew up in the church were some of the largest in congregation numbers, I ask him about this. He reponds “Yeah, it was the time when St. James got created and they took other people from downtown congregations to create this new church on Elizabeth Avenue in 1957 or around there. There were families that left George Street to transfer to the new St. James. I know that George Street used their facilities for volleyball games at one point and I know the Angel’s donated the land for the Curtis Academy. “That was

Curtis Academy 1956

57 the James Angel that you referred to earlier. The family home was in that area near the family business and I think as part of his will he made land available as long as they built a school on it and that school became Curtis Academy. I heard one time that there was some delay between the sod turn and the actual start of construction of that school and that's because I think in the will there's a stipulation that he’d make this land available as long as they use it in a certain time frame. So they had the sod-turning then it was sometime later before they were actually given enough money to do the school on.”

So you don't remember George Street ever using that school? “No, but it's interesting that among the youth groups around in those days Scouts was a big thing and George Street was one of the churches that had a scout group the 11th St.John’s and the colours for the 11th St.John’s were white and blue and later on Curtis Academy had a scout group that met there and they had the same colours. So the group that used to meet here probably met in the gym at Curtis Academy before we had a gym here in the expansion so I'm talking in the 1950s.” I believe that the scouts used to have a cabin out in Bauline that they would meet at. “I'm not quite sure but a number of scout groups had cabins on the Bauline line. Most scout groups among their traditions were to have their own cabin. It wouldn't have been a church cabin it would have been a scout cabin.” Was it non-denominational or was it just opened to members of the church? “No all the churches had their own youth groups and scouting was part of that but in addition to that there were church groups too. Later on, the Young People’s Union came out of that. The Scout Group I joined was at the school Prince of Wales.”

Hastily moving on in the years I ask when he began to become involved in committees at the church. After some quick thought he remembers, “after I had finished university and came back home and I was engaged about that time so that would have been around 1970. Through the 1960s I spent a lot of time away and in 1970 I returned to town.” Do you remember the first committee you were on? “Yes, I remember in preparation for the annual meeting there was a Trustee Board and I remember being asked to be on session. About the same time, I was becoming involved with the Young Couples Club and it was normal practice in those days in the 1970s that the club would look after ushering for one of the months of the year and the men would look after the ushering. I remember in March after a service one day a couple of people from the Committee of Stewards came down to approach a group of us these young guys in the Couples Club to invite us to be on the committee of stewards and that happened around the same time I was asked to be on session.”

I found a brochure from the summer of 1971 An Early Couples Club Dinner and 1972 that said a vacation school was held in the church. It said children from George Street United Church and the neighborhood enjoyed the activities and the brochure I found said to contact you about it. “I'm not sure why my name got on it I guess I was on the committee but one of the people that made that work was my wife Diane. There were several years when we operated this vacation bible school for

58 one or two weeks during the summer and she was asked to be one of the teachers she had just recently graduated with an education degree and she was helping out with Sunday School. So she became involved with that and my involvement was more in the background I wasn't a Sunday School teacher at the time. The young couples club were starting to have children and these children were in the church whether it be Sunday school or invited by them. Now shifting to the early 1970s by then the Sunday School had a meeting in the afternoons and was merged into the Junior Congregation group that would meet during church in the mornings.”

I ask, Is there anything in particular that sticks out to you at that time in the church whether it be the vacation school or one of the committees? “We made a big thing of the 100th Anniversary.” Right you were in the 1973 centennial committee. What did you guys do to get ready? “It was an official board project. The government structure was that the members of the Committee of Stewards and the members of session would together form the membership of the official board. So this centennial project was an official board project. The spearhead of that at that time was Ches Ebsary he was the person that would provide leadership for that activity and I guess the board had several people as a committee a four or five person committee and I was one and the other Leaving Church Service after the 1973 Centennial Celebration young person at that time was Don Bradbury and he was older than I. I think I was secretary of the stewards I don't know how that happened but I went to the first meeting and they decided to change the officers and the next thing I was writing minutes. I had no prior background as a secretary but maybe it came naturally in the sense that my father in his time he generally filled the role of secretary or treasurer in the boards and committees he was in. He was secretary of the Trustee Board and the School Board so I was aware of the kinds of things he got involved in just from being at home.”

What was the first committee that you were the secretary for? “Committee of Stewards.”It says you were also secretary of the Pastoral Relations Committee in 1978. “Yeah the Pastoral Relations Committee was created out of the Official Board and I think Ches Ebsary was chair of that committee.”

59 George Street Couples Club

Do you remember what their duties were or what their goal at the time was? “Among the things that we were looking for in a new minister. Visitation was one of the most important things someone would go and visit the sick and shut-ins. Someone who would appeal to young families was important. Those were the two main things that stick out in my mind. I don't know if there's any written record of what the state of objectives was. It wasn't an open advertising thing it was a committee sitting in a room and going down through do we know anybody that we could invite to come.” Was the committee only active when you were looking for a Minister? “Yes, it was called Pastoral Relations but in these days it would be more of a Search Committee. Also because I was functioning as secretary of that committee it fell to me to make the actual presentation to the congregation to present the name of someone who might be our minister. There was a meeting out in the sanctuary and you stand up in front and give a verbal report. Which is still done today the job of the committee then as it is now is to bring forward a name for consideration by the congregation and the congregation says yes or no.”

Does anything stick out in your mind from looking for ministers? Anything that happened? “Our search at that time led to Reverend Coish, at that time he was serving at Grand Bank. Among the research that the committee did was to talk to people within the church that would know some knowledge on Reverend Coish.” He remembers with a laugh, “we spoke to this minister from Fortune and he told us the people used to say, ‘Why can't you be more like Rev. Coish he's always out visiting?’ So this became part of the argument supporting his invitation because he fit the criteria because the congregation wanted someone who would visit and he had the reputation for it. He had it when he came and he had it when he left. Reverend Coish also at that time had a young family.”

You were involved with the Christian Development Action Team. So is that a different team? “Yes it was a different team and I wasn't involved with that in the early days for me that came later. It came the year they were looking for someone to take the older boys and by then it was called Bible class and these were 12, 13, 14 year olds. Bible class was a group that in the earlier era when Sunday School met in the afternoons people who were older would be in a class taught by a Minister and this was the Bible class.” Was this separated by Male and Female? “No it was together. The first Bible classes that I attended as a youth was male and females. It was taught by the Minister and that's one of the reasons it couldn't be taught during church hours it had to be held some other time. In the days when Sunday Schools met at two thirty in the afternoon the Minister would have the older people visit Bible class at the same time but when Sunday School became merged with Junior Congregation it met during church in the mornings. Bible class needed to find a new time to meet so they met before church at ten o’clock with the minister in Room C and this became a way that the Minister could still be the Bible class teacher. Moving later when all this is happening during church on Sunday mornings the minister could no longer do it so the older young people would have to find a Sunday School teacher to take the Bible class and I found myself as a Bible class teacher but I think what is was is Sunday School never had a lot of teachers and a lot of these teachers wanted to stay a Sunday School teacher but in terms of running a committee that had more responsibility than just the Sunday School.” Was this recent? “It had to be in

60 the 80’s. I found myself on behalf of the board becoming chair of the Christian Education team and it was mostly Sunday School teachers. So that group was satisfied to let me represent them at the official board. When the Bible class became bigger it split off into a Senior Bible Class and a Junior Bible Class and my wife Diane took the Senior Bible Class as the people there got older and stayed with the group. I took the younger ones and some Sundays we would combine together as co-teaching.”

Finishing the discussion, I ask about the more recent activities of the church. Recognizing Roger is a member of the Senior’s Group, I ask if it is organized by George Street Church. “It is a program of the church. George Street used to do Saturday evening activities downstairs for the seniors before the Jimmy Pratt Center. When we had the search for Reverend Sue White and George Parsons coming on addressing the needs of the congregation at that time this objective of serving the needs of the Seniors came about. Among the things that George brought on was this proposal to seek some funding to develop and create a program to the seniors of our congregation and anyone who wanted to participate. The Senior’s Program and the Husky Monday Breakfast came in later thanks to George Parsons.”

Pauline Murrin:

A long-time member of the United Church Women, and its current President, Pauline Murrin came to George Street Church from her home community of Wesleyville at the age of 16. Pauline has significant memories of her time in the church and her passionate work with the UCW which have been glow in the heart of the church for over fifty years. To begin, I ask about the circumstances surrounding her first involvement with George Street United Church.

“I came to St.John’s when I was sixteen and I went to Bible School here. When I came to town in 1951 I lived with [my first cousin] Eric Winsor and his family and I went to Mrs. Evelys Bible class and we met in the church over under the east gallery. When I was attending the fellowship group for the young people we used to meet up at Curtis Academy. We would be down in the kindergarten room but often we would be up in the gym of Curtis Academy. Curtis Academy I think at some point it was decided that they would build this United Church school rather than put money into building down around here.” She continues, “I was working at a retail outlet downtown until I was old enough to go in Nursing Training. Then I was involved with the Friendship group. I remember coming down here at 6 o’Clock one morning for Communion because we were working at 7 o’Clock and it was Reverend McKim then. Then after I started having children and so on and I was away then I wasn't very much involved. My children were all christened here and we were married here by Reverend Dawe who was filling in at the time. Then I worked and I was busy and then eventually I had time to come back and be in the UCW which might have been in the late ’70s or early ’80s. Then a few short years after that when my husband retired we were gone all winter and gone most of the summer so my involvement was sporadic. However, I was still a leader of Unit two.”

61 The Senior's Group on an Outing, 2018 “In 1962, there were about 200 [women], this is when UCW started because of the other women you've probably read that the other women groups combined.” I respond, yes there was a Women's Guild and the first time it started was 1922 and then eventually obviously there's no Women's Guild now. “No, because they all came together and even in my hometown where there was a Guild and a Ladies Aid.” She explains that because there was often difficulties with scheduling, “the decision was made, throughout with consultation with provinces, that there would be one women's Mildred Winsor & Rev. Naboth Winsor at the group in the church. So in George Street, it was the Women's Missionary Society [prior 1948 Newfoundland to the UCW]. Before 1962 I was not involved, but they called it the United Church Conference of United Church Women. Rev. Naboth was the man who started the seaman's service or at that time it was called the sealers service he being from Wesleyville and that was a big part of Wesleyville the sealers and the fishermen. Rev. Naboth's wife was a nurse and she was the first president of George Street United Church women.”

When did you see the biggest decline in the congregation? “I think it was gradual. When my second daughter was about seven or eight we came to one of the Seamen services and we had to sit up in the gallery because the church was packed. Now that was a special service but now I come to the Seamen Service and you can pick your seat but there were certainly more then we get on a Sunday Morning. So I don't know when to say that the decline went on because I think it was very gradual.”

Moving on her work with the United Church Women, I ask what year did you join the United Church Women? “I think it was 1979 or 1980. I know it was when I finished work and I had attempted to join at some point and I came down to a founding meeting of the UCW but then I was working so I couldn't come to meetings so I got one call and then I didn't get asked again in 1962 when they were beginning it. I can remember a member of Unit two sort of challenging me at some tea after a certain service and saying ‘Why are you not in UCW?’ Now I had lots of time but I was in all types of committees outside church eventually I decided I would come off all those committees it lasted for three years and then I became busier then I had been.”

She explains in the early days of her involvement there was a Flower Committee which was removed in later years. “We did away with the Flower Committee. We used to have a load of flowers here after the service and then there was always a Flower Committee who would see that these bouquets were taken someplace to a seniors home or an ill member of the congregation.” In addition she adds, “we had foster children. We were sending clothes to needy settlements in the province. We used to come down and we would have all the clothes in the gym and then we would pack it and a lot of it would go north and they would use it in their thrift shops.” She recalls a humerous instance wherein the volunteers of the United Church Women were packing up clothes to send to Labrador. “Doris Snelgrove had come down with a lovely raglan on and when she went to put it on [after all the boxes were filled] it was nowhere to be found because someone must have packed it. So then we had to unpack everything and we [eventually] found it.”

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I guess they would call it sick visits because I remember in some of the older UCW documents they used to say how many sick visits were made. “Since my presidency, there was one year we did 800, but now since we've all become older and driving less that visit includes calling, writing cards, emailing, so now we call it Contacts. When we have our meetings in Salmonear at the United Church Camp it's a big deal to get people to go because there all looking for rides.” So you still use Burry Heights? “Yes, that's for our District meetings. We have an annual meeting there each May and then we have a gathering in October and that gathering used to be called a retreat and it used to be two days now as we come forward thirty years the thirty-year-olds didn't mind sleeping in the bunks but the seventy-year- olds don't want to sleep in the bunks so, therefore, the attendance went down especially from the St. John’s area. Then when they started the one day [gathering] a couple of years ago and the attendance shot back up again. So this year I think at our annual meeting I think I had five from George Street and most years it's just me. The other thing that we do for the area is a rally and we had a lot of participation from George Street.”

Intrigued by the involvement of Burry Heights, a long-time United Church institution, I ask do you remember when Burry Heights first opened? She reminisces, “I remember Burry Heights being down in Bauline when my brother in law was a boy scout. So I think that was in the late ’50s so it was after that that Burry Heights [of today] first started. One time the UCW used to get notified and asked for contributions to the sale table and for baked goods. I can recall going around and picking up cookies from members and bringing it here to the church so that whoever was going up would take it. Nowadays we don't seem to be notified specifically to the UCW for Burry Heights [events].”

Were you involved with The Turkey Teas? “No the takeout that was more of the Couples Club. We didn't do Turkey Teas in the UCW we did auctions and cold plates. Our social director then said she couldn't [oversee that anymore] so we decided to give up the auction and the cold plate and just have afternoon teas. This year we are doing a tea in October but no spring one. The previous year I think we did exceptionally well that we were able to give eight thousand dollars or so to the church. We gave fifteen hundred to M&S. The outreach we do is for Stella's Circle, Bridges to Hope, The Jimmy Pratt Memorial Outreach Centre but that might not be in dollars but it is in time and goods. We also contribute to school health and we used to do outreach to a lot of seniors programs but as a group, we felt we couldn't be contributing that much as our membership decreased. Our budget is short and simple so much goes to the church and then we contribute to a fund set up for members in Labrador

UCW Members at a UCW 'Newfie Mug Up' Dinner. Today the Name of the Dinner is ‘Traditional Mug Up.’

63 that have to come to the island to a meeting so that's called the Labrador Travel Fund. All the locals of the island will give to that and we give to the Native Healing. Up until about two years ago, we were giving to a fund for Student Ministers but then the fund got so big we had no candidates and it was just sitting there. We used to give a portion to Burry Heights for the camp program and then so much more to chaplaincy which we thought were two good uses.”

I ask if the United Church Women were involved with the response to 9/11 in the Downtown area. She explains, “not as a group but individually the women were making meals and taking them to the people over at Mile One. It was a big effort.” This reminds her of other receptions and meals that the UCW have been involved in over the years, to which she explains “every year we’re involved with the People of the Sea service and we do the reception. Another important service we did was the Cougar Memorial Service. The people that came were so appreciative of somebody remembering that they had lost family because of this [tragedy]. Also for the UCW fiftieth anniversary in 2012 our UCW hosted a concert. A choir from a church in Ontario wrote a song to commemorate the anniversary of the UCW. The Men's Choir of our church also took part in the concert.”

Moving forward to present day, Pauline explains that “its forty-four members we have now but of these, there's a lot of home members and some of them support us and some don't but if you've been given life membership in the UCW you remain on the books even if you leave this church. The UCW is divided into areas, there are eight or nine areas. I am president of St. John’s area. I finish next year we take on two-year terms. So this is my fifth year. Locally I became president in 2011. So this is my tenth year. So right now there's our executive and our vice president Yvonne Bradbury.”

I have seen her name she was the secretary for a bunch of different groups at times? “She was church secretary from the starting in the 80’s I believe. Then the immediate past president of ten years ago is Mildred Tucker so because I haven't changed the immediate past president hasn't changed but we have had a change in secretary because first when I started it was Grace Boyd, and then Joan Tiller, and now its Marilyn Letto.”

“Recently the UCW does not zero in on specific projects. One time we were responsible for giving specific items whereas now we just give the sum for what the church sees fit. Mrs. Winsor was the first president of the UCW. In 1882 the WMS (Women's Missionary Society) at George Street Church was the first one. Every year the UCW or the women's group of a church will sponsor the World Day of Prayer. The first World Day of Prayer was at George Street Church. I'm not sure if it was 1936 but it was back in the 30’s. Our last World Day of Prayer service was in 2016 and Kathy Winsor was our guest speaker and she involved her Sunday School children.”

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At the end of our discussion she reflects on the attendance and membership of the United Church Women. “The attendance for general meetings was 48 in the 60’s, 27 in the 70’s, 29 in the 80’s, and 25 in the 90’s. Now we don't have general meetings we only have one UCW, not units anymore, [so no] need for General Meetings. Most of our meetings are held during the day at noon and there's no one that we need to accommodate because they’re working but we do have some home members who work.” Overall, it is clear Pauline believes that the United Church Women, have contributed much to

George Street Church and continue to do so as a 50th Anniversary of the United Church Women Celebration, organization of volunteers. 2013

Eric Winsor: The son of Captain Chesley Winsor and grandson of Captain Joshua Winsor, Eric has been involved with George Street United Church since he was about a year old when his grandfather brought the family to St. John’s from Wesleyville, Bonavista Bay. From his beginnings in the church from a congregation member, to his time in Bible Class, to being on various committees and being a Sunday School Teacher, Eric has been involved in church activities extensively during the period of time he has lived in St. John’s albeit spending some of the 1970s and 80s in Labrador.

Daily News, September 8, 1961. Captains Joshua, Earl & Chesley were all involved with fishing the Labrador as were many of George Street's Congregation. The Winsor's were well-known members of the congregation and contributed much to the life of the church. 65

I begin by asking about his grandfather, your grandfather was the one who brought your family here? “Yes, my grandfather Captain Josh Winsor was declorated as a member of the British Empire for his work in Labrador.” Did he bring his crew to this church? “No, they would be fishing in the summertime. I do remember though when we lived up on Adams Avenue and it was a duplex our father and our family was on one side and my grandfather was on the other side. In the spring of the year when his crew came up they would take off the storm windows off the house. In those days when you went to a church you rented a pew so more or less you rented your seat. Your name was on the pew. My grandfather and my father's brother Earl Winsor… Aunt Mabel and my brother and my sister and myself had the pew.” Do you remember around the time that they stopped renting pews? “I couldn't say for sure but I’d say probably the 50s or 60s. Then everybody was given church envelopes to support the church but I can't remember when that started. This day in age a number of people are on Par and the money just comes out automatically.”

Do you remember the first minister that was here that you can remember? “Rev. A. R. Baggs (1944-1952).” Was he here for a while? “Yes, I don't know how many years but he was the first one that I can remember.” Who were any of the prominent members of the church? Like in the 60’s the people that were organizing everything that was going on? “Well as far as business you had the Pratt Family and Steers. You had the Russels and the Campbells and the Campbells still have Campbells supplies. The Russels have Terra Nova Motors.”

So just say 1950s, how many people do you think would show up to the church service every Sunday? “This church would have a morning service at 11, an evening service at 7 and most of this church would be filled.” How many people would you say come now? “On a good Sunday you might get 100. But right now I’d say 70 or 80. If you have a christening that brings in 10 or 15 people.” When do you think that you saw the decline in people like when did it stop being full capacity all the time? “Well I was away for 7 or 8 George Street United Church, 1973 years. When I moved back here from Deer Lake in 1982 I went to Cowan Heights United Church for a bit. So I would say in the 2000’s [it declined dramatically]. Younger people don't come anymore basically.”So it's almost like the generation had dropped? “Well with us now it's five generations. My grandfather, my father, myself, my daughter, and her children.”

Moving along with his involvement in the church, Eric explains that “in the 1960s I was in with the young people and we used the gym for volleyball.” Were you in the Young People's Union? “Yes.” Was it doing fundraisers? “No not much of that just a bunch of young people getting together and doing different events. We had a hockey team we’d play say Wesley Church at Prince of Wales Arena and that's when we started to get some rinks here in the city.” So the churches would play against each other? Did they have teams? “Well it wasn't organized. Just for fun.”

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Don Bradbury was president of the Young People's Union and then the year after it was Josh Shea. This is 1959-1960. Were you involved during that time? “Oh yes, because really what happened was you had the Couples Club so that was really when like Don and Josh and [their peers] got married and they started the Couples Club. And the Couples Club they had a big fundraiser [which was] turkey sales.” Turkey Teas? I ask. “Yeah It was a turkey dinner. They would spend a whole Saturday preparing it and it would be delivered to different people to their house and some people came down to eat it.”

I have noted here that in 1979 Captain Chesley Winsor donated chimes in memory of his parents. The chimes I don't know where those are. Do you ever hear or know where they are? “The chimes now are not bells its automatic or recorded. He donated several things to this church when he was alive.” Do you remember anything else that was donated? “He donated the large fridge down in the soup kitchen and several other things.” Eric remind us that “in 1994 the organ cost 3 or 400,000 dollars and that was paid off in a year. Now the price of an organ would be up in the millions.”

Remembering his return to the George Street Church in the 1990s, he says “when I came back in 1995 there was always the Men's Service Club and they always had fundraisers they normally had before the Flipper Dinner they had Roast Beef Dinners in the spring and the fall. The United Church Women they would have spring tea and in the fall they would have another tea and cakes and baked goods for sale. When I came here in 1995 I became president of the Men's Service Club and I was president until only a few years ago when we really didn't have enough people to keep it going. So now we mostly have people from the soup kitchen to help out. We’d have a Flipper Dinner in the Spring and we’d also have one in the fall but we only have the one now in the Spring.” Preparing the Roast Beef Dinner So today it's just the soup kitchen? You don't have an official name? “Yeah well it's just basically the church like members of the congregation mostly from the soup kitchen.” So the Couples Club is gone now and the Men’s Service Club is gone and the Young People's Union. I think the first one to go was The Young People's Union out of those three. “Yeah in 2016 more or less around that time that the Men's Service Club ended. We always had support anyways from people of the church.”

Turkey Teas Fundraiser 67

Thinking to recently, I bring up that In 2003, the nursery renovations were completed and he was noted as having drew the clouds on the ceiling. He responds, “Yup, I would change them because it’s like they’re just pasted on but it’s hard up there trying to paint them. I was on scaffolds or a ladder.” Reg did the floor and you did the ceiling? “The office you see is changed around. A lot of this stuff The Clouds painted by Eric Winsor that still grace the ceiling of the Church Nursery. has been recent. [The present day Nursery] is more or less part of the gym area. Where the Salvation Army Officers office is used to be the church office. When the Salvation Army building next door got flooded and damaged, Rev. Sue White offered our middle of the church for them to use and that was a few years ago.”

Concluding the interview I ask Mr. Winsor is there any specific event that sticks out to him that the church has been involved in over the years. He explains that it is the People of the Sea Service that he consider an important event held at the church every year. “We have always had an important service for the men that go out to sea. That was started by Rev. Naboth Winsor and he’s originally from Wesleyville.” Do they invite people like captains? “Oh yes, most of the clergy would be invited and premiers and people from the government. Like the Lieutenant Governor Judy Foote who is a member of our church. The service usually takes place in the spring of the year.”

Reg Rumsey:

Reg Rumsey was baptized at George Street United Church and has been caretaker since 1982, a period of 37 years at the time of this writing. Reg has been around a significant number of events and services held at the church over this period, spending time caring for the church structure and beautification of its facilities. He has seen many members of the congregation come and go, as well as different ministers and committees. During the interview he described some humorous instances during church events.

Remembering a story, I had heard previously, I begin by asking him about the Men’s Service Club whom were a staple George Street organization. He says they were a strong group of people and leads into the aforenoted story; “the Men’s Service Club was having a Moose Dinner [as they would often do each year] and the Delta cooked the meat so when I came over from the Delta there was no gravy so they sent myself and Bob McNeilly down to the Hotel Newfoundland and we got a five gallon plastic bucket of gravy. When we got back to the church Bob or someone laid the bucket of gravy on the hot grill and someone noticed smoke coming out of the bucket so they went over and picked up the bucket by the handle and when they hauled it up the bucket stretched apart and the five gallons of gravy went all over the floor. So they looked at myself and Bob and said ‘Go back to the hotel and get another bucket of gravy,’ so we went back to the hotel and got another bucket of gravy and came back.”

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Chuckling while describing the humorous instance, he says “instead of mopping up the gravy they threw flour on it so it wouldn't be slippery, and you could imagine the mess that was on the floor.” No doubt after cleaning the facilities of the church for so many years this was not a welcome sight but is amusing looking back.

This leads into another story about a moose supper at the church; “Another time we had sent moose over to the Delta to be cooked and the chef forgot it. So, when we called over to see if the moose was ready it was still in the freezer at the time of the supper! So, the chef said he would cook it in the convection oven and it would be cooked in 25 minutes to a half hour and it would get to us in forty five minutes or an hour. So, to deal with the 150 or so people waiting on their food, Malcolm Noseworthy went up telling jokes to stall the people until the moose came over.”

“Another time I was downstairs with Malcolm Noseworthy and Lou Halliday and the Men’s Service Club was having a Ham and Baked Bean Supper and they were making the baked beans themselves and they were putting molasses and mustard in it and different things and they used to call me over to taste it so I ate about a five gallon bucket of baked beans that day.” Laughing he continues, “I guess I was their Guinea Pig. That was back in the 80s. I used to stay here all night after. Say if the dinner was over around eight, I would stay until the dishes were done and the place was cleaned up so I wouldn't get out of here until around five o’clock in the morning.”

Moving along, I ask How did you become caretaker? “Ed Thistle told me that they were looking for someone so that's how I ended up here.” 1982? “yes, 1982.” So, Frazer Moores was here before you and what happened that he had to leave? “We used to have bad winters back then and there was no snowblower he had to shovel it all and he found that very difficult. He lived in Bay Roberts and he used to drive in every day. In the wintertime used to have to stay and sleep on the couch in Room A. Stormy weather, he couldn’t drive home and he’d stay here.” Without a doubt, due to the conditions of being caretaker here while living almost two hours away in the middle of winter in Newfoundland contributed much to his decision to leave. Church records indicate he was a very abled caretaker and took much pride in his work every day he was employed here.

Remembering another peculiar instance, I ask Reg about when they did some renovation on a wall in the church office about two years ago [2017]. As the church office is a part of the church extension from 1959/1960 there was bound to be something found from that time from renovating.

When were you out there that you found the bottle in the wall in the office now? I ask. “It was only two years ago. The bottle I’d say was put there when they built it on because when it was looked up the bottle was from the 1950s or 1960s.” So right around the extension. “So, whoever was building the room drank a bottle of Pepsi and put it on the stud of the wall.” The bottle that was discovered is now displayed prominently in the display case outside the office.

Similar to Pauline Murrin’s story of the mistaken coat which had to be unpacked, I ask Reg about who it was that he was helped when he was packing charity bags to be brought to impoverished families in Labrador. “The UCW. It was myself and Bob McNeilly and Sam Bailey and someone put Sam’s coat in the box so we were loading the boxes on to the truck and after it was loaded on and myself and Bob

69 were getting ready to the dock to ship it off and Sam couldn't find his coat so his coat was packed in one of those boxes so we started unpacking all the clothing boxes until we found his coat. That was probably 1984 or 1985.” Thankfully they had noticed his coat missing much like Mrs. Doris Snelgrove’s, or they would have had to go home without one!

Moving on to church renovations and different projects I ask, so in general to the church was there any major repairs done? “Yes, there was a lot. That staircase out in front that wasn't always there and that was a big job. We did up a drawing to send to the fire commissioner and when he saw that there were spiral staircases, he didn't like that, so we cut that staircase. One time the church used to go right back to that back wall then they petitioned it off back in the 60s because they didn't need all those pews. There was a stage downstairs so that's where the stage used to be so they lost their stage because that's where the staircase would come down. If we didn't put the spiral staircase in, they were limiting the place to so many people. So, if you still wanted to fill the church we had to put in the staircase.” So, around this same time was when you put the removable beam between the door? “Yeah around the same time maybe the next year because you couldn't get a casket in here. That was around 1987 or 1988 there's a plaque on the door out there telling about it. Art Stanley donated the brass plate to go inside and that was the same year. It’s probably in the official minutes of the Board because I did see it written down.”

Who do you remember when you first started were the prominent people that were in the church? I know that Don and Josh were involved a lot. “When I came Josh was away Josh was in New Brunswick. Don Bradbury, E.R Noel, Ches Ebsary, Frank James and Art Stanley.”

When did they close off the Gym? “Four years ago. First, when I came here the Young People's Union then called the Couples Club used to have Volleyball tournaments in there. Also, there were rummage sales here and we rented the gym to Shawn Silver for dance classes.”

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Photographs throughout the Years:

1973 Centennial Service The Couples Club

George Street United Church Today George Street at Christmas Time, circa 1970

Early Couples Club Dinner

George Street A Winners. Seated L-R: Don Oldford, Harry Rodgers. Standing L-R: Max Howell, B. Pippy & Art White 71

UCW Mug-Up

Remembrance Day Service Daily News, October 5, 1962. Newspaper article on long-time George Street Congregation Member & Sunday School Teacher.

Plaque commemorating the work of Organist Allistair Kinsman, 135th Anniversary of the Church, 2008 presented to his on Paul.

George Street United Church, 1973

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References 1. Angel, R. (2019, July 30). George Street United Church [Interview by D. Griffin & A. Bullen]. 2. Ball, J. (1998). A Gift of Heritage: Historic Architecture of St. John's, Newfoundland (2nd ed.). St. John's, NL: Newfoundland Historic Trust. 3. Band of Hope. (1880, October 21). Evening Telegram,p. 1. 4. Band of Hope Work. (1889, June 25). Evening Telegram, p. 4. 5. Bradbury, D. (2019, August 1). George Street United Church [Interview by D. Griffin & A. Bullen]. 6. Conference Committee in Evangeline and Social Services. (1954). In Minutes of the Conference Committee in Evangeline and Social Services 7 March 1954. P.61 7. Curtis, Rev. I.F. (1933) Some Facts in the Life of George Street Church. 8. Dyckson, E. (1992, March 21). New organ to summon United Church parishioners. Evening Telegram. 9. Enjoys Working at 82. (1962, October 5). The Daily News, p.3. 10. Entertained at Sunset Lodge (1959, November 13). The Daily News, p. 6. 11. Friendship Corner. (n.d.) 12. Friendship Corner. (1998, Fall). 13. George St. Methodist Church. (1899) Wesleyan Magazine. 14. George Street Church. (1919, March 4). The Daily News, p. 10. 15. George Street Methodist Church. (1902) Membership Rolls. 16. George Street Methodist School Committee. (1882). In Minutes of the George Street Methodist School Committee 4 October 1882. George Street Methodist Church. 17. George Street Methodist School Committee. (1886). In Minutes of the George Street Methodist School Committee 30 September 1886. George Street Methodist Church. 18. George Street United Church Annual Report 1959. (1959). St. John's. 19. George Street United Church Annual Report 1963. (1963). St. John's. 20. George Street United Church Official Board. (1956). In Minutes of the George Street United Church Official Board March 8 1956. George Street United Church. 21. George Street United Church Official Board. (1961). In Minutes of the George Street United Church Official Board April 27 1961. George Street United Church. 22. George Street United Church. (1973, October 5). Evening Telegram. 23. George Street United Church. (1983). Decks Awash, 12(1). 24. George Street United Church Women Annual Report 1967. (1967). St. John’s. 25. George Street Young Peoples Union 1961 Annual Report (1961). St. John's. 26. Historical Reflections. (1980, December 21). Friendship Corner. 27. History of Hope UK. (2008, May). Retrieved August 5, 2019, from https://www.hopeuk.org/wp-content/uploads/History.pdf 28. Inaugural Meeting. (1962, January 25). The Daily News, p. 6. 29. Men’s Service Club (1962). In Minutes of the George Street United Church Men’s Service Club March 7 1962. George Street United Church.

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30. Murrin, P. (2019, July 18). George Street United Church [Interview by D. Griffin & A. Bullen]. 31. Newman, J., Rev. (1898). Paper Read at the Semi-Jubilee of George Street Methodist Church [Letter]. 32. Nursery in Church. (1952, October 27). Western Star. 33. Parsons, G., King, R., & Shea, J. (2017). GEORGE ST. CHURCH 1873 – 2013. 34. Southside Church. (1899) Wesleyan Magazine. 35. Smallwood, J. R., Poole, C. F., Cuff, R. (1991). Encyclopedia of Newfoundland and Labrador (Vol. 3). St. John's: Newfoundland Book (1991). 36. Smallwood, J. R., Pitt, R. D., Horan, C., & Riggs, B. G. (1984). Encyclopedia of Newfoundland and Labrador (Vol. 2). St. John's: Newfoundland Book (1967). 37. Story, G. (1973). George Street Church 1873-1973 (Rep.). St. John's, NL. 38. Tucker, S. (1930a) George Street Church History. 39. Tucker, S. (1930b). George Street Choir: A Retrospect and an Appreciation. 40. Winsor, E. (2019, July 18). George Street United Church [Interview by D. Griffin & A. Bullen]. 41. Winsor, N., Rev. (n.d.) History of Methodism 1765-1925. 42. Winsor, S. (1987). George Street United Church Women 25 years 1962-1987, Address by Mrs. Sally Winsor. Address presented in George Street United Church, St. John's. 43. Young, E. (1957, September). Newfoundland Books. Atlantic Guardian, 14(9), 27-27.

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