Chronicles of the Cape Fear River 1660 1916

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1916. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... Alfred Hargrave was a ruling elder, and when the clergy of another denomination occupied the colored churches during their convention, or conference, here, a fervid preacher with great lung power conducted the Chestnut Street Church service. As his voice rose in a "powerful" prayer, so rose a feeling of great disgust and resentment in the mind of our dignified colored elder, who did not like such "doings," as he expressed it. When the voice of the preacher could be heard two blocks away, old Alfred Hargrave arose and with great dignity marched up to the pulpit, and, laying an accusing hand upon the shoulder of the astonished shouter, said loud enough for all the congregation to hear, "My brother, the Lord ain't deef," which had the desired effect. I have referred to the great revival in Wilmington, which included all classes and denominations, in the year 1858. The daily morning prayer-meetings of our church on this occasion were held in the lecture-room, already described, immediately after an early breakfast, before the opening hour of the secular schools, and I remember that we carried our schoolbooks with us and sat in awed silence through the mysterious manifestation of God's holy presence. The building was crowded to the door, and the whole congregation was deeply moved by emotions which can not be described. One morning a stranger in our assembly arose and made the most beautiful address I have ever heard. I think he said he had missed his railroad connection, and that while he was aimlessly walking on Front Street he was drawn to our meeting by the sound of the sacred music, and that he too had felt the power of that mysterious presence of the Spirit which was moving upon the hearts of us all. This stranger proved to be the Rev. Dr. J. L. Girard...