Rev. Hugh Boyd and Rev Joseph Boyd

It has often been brought to my mind that I ought to put on record a few facts concerning my father, but a few months ago my elder brother asked me to do so. I am thankful that he made the request for although I am conscious that I can give no perfect portrait I am convinced that I can tell a story of great interest to those who may come across the record. Better still I have a conviction that my grand children may be led by the record of Gods goodness to those of whom I write to live for the good of men and the glory of God.

I commence with a short reference to my grandfather because he had much to do with the formation of my fathers character and although I do not think he was one of the noblest men yet he influenced me for good and my father thought very highly of him.

I present this effort to my brothers sisters children and grandchildren and pray we all may be as good and true as was my father.

Hugh Joseph Boyd

Hugh Boyd

My grandfather was very reticent as to his family and early life. It was only by occasional anecdotes and remarks casually made that his children learned of his past. From these I gather that he was of the Earl of Kilmarnock family. His father was an active Jacobite and had to flee the country to save his head. The boy was sent to London and placed under the care of his uncle Sir Hugh Humphrey whose benefactors are still existing in the city. His uncle died before Hugh Boyd was of age but leaving the lad a very large property. The White Lion Wharf being part of the estate. At this time the young man lived a ------- life. On his becoming a man a feast was provided and what with drinking the health of the king and sundry other toasts he went to bed dead drunk. From that hour he made haste to ruin. As a medical student he had snatched bodies from their graves and been known for his love of jokes. He married at 22 a Charlotte Evans by whom he had 2 sons twins, one was drowned at sea the other was a victim of Cholera at 5 years of age. The marriage was most unhappy because of my grandfathers evil life. The property was wasted in gambling and drinking, at length so low had he fallen he enlisted in the army and was sent to Malta. After serving a short time the surgeon finding him to be a qualified practitioner had him discharged to his regret. Being sent to London for a time he earned a livelihood by odd jobs he obtained at hotels and in the streets, it was a degraded existence. He tells that one evening the ------ spoke to him telling him to go to a church in Canon street to worship. He went and found the door closed. Forthwith he set off to some other church and found it closed, a third church he visited with like result. Standing by the door of the sanctuary he asked has God forsaken me? then resolved to Canon street and see if that church was open, should it be closed he should know he was lost, it was getting late but when he reached the church to which he had been sent he found the doors open he entered and the first words he heard were if there is a back slider here I have a message from God bidding him return the message found one who was weary and heavy laden. Directly service was over he went off to the house in which he had lodged, took his few belongings and found a resting place with better surroundings. His life was not easy but the logos to use his own words bade him drink no wine or strong drink and from that day he was an abstainer. This was a tower of strength to him, keeping him from temptation. He constantly listened for divine inspiration and among other things he left behind was an old bible carefully preserved. In it we have this statement.

This Bible is a wonder of the Holy Logos. He graciously directed me sometime back to buy it mentioning the force. On Wednesday January 25 1804 he commanded me by the soft still voice to go to M---- and on my way hither to buy the book which he told me I should find marked 5 shillings. Remembering the shop which I supposed in Middle Row when I came there I was disappointed but remembered the place. I stopped at every shop but saw no Bible more especially the price was fixed at 5 shillings. At last I came to the window I had in my mind and there behold the Bible with the price marked on it and no other of that price. I went in to buy it and did not like it came out and stood a few minutes considering but was compelled to go in again. The Holy Logos said your Saviour desires you to buy it. I did so. But it not being what I expected to have found a neat pocket Bible. I could not but pray the Holy Logos graciously to disclose the cause of leading me to such a book it being a common and indifferent print, a shabby spot on the title page though in uncommon binding. God explained to me this bible is bought as a memorial of yourself. You shall be taught to love it and indeed there was something about it which I could not help liking a peculiarality. The title page blotted and spoiled, represents your early life disgraced, your title to God in Heaven spoiled by your back sliding, yet such is the infinite mercy of Jesus Christ that as turning over the title page you yet see is dedicated to the king, so are you through the unchangeable love brought back and now dedicated to the king of kings. In that it is common paper, so are you in common with your fellow men a child of wrath by nature and of the coarsest ----. Here and there a letter mistaken marks your imperfections mistakes and ignorance. Its handsome cover marks my righteousness in which you are clothed. The gilt letters on the back denote the new name written upon you by the Holy Spirit. This Bible shall be much blessed to you. When you open it you shall read your self in it. It shall make you humble. I may here note that my grandfather affirmed to the end of his life that the voice of the Holy Logos was a distant sound to him, certainly it was very real for it affected his whole life for good. After his return to God he obtained a situation as porter for the East India Company which then largely governed India. One day whilst sweeping the floor the voice told him that he was to be prepared for some better work and shortly after a principal clerk asked the porters if any of them could copy a letter. My grandfather was the only one who could do so and did it so well that he was at once appointed as clerk. Step by step he rose until he once again became possessed of a good income and an influence for righteousness worthy of a child of God. He was early sought as a lay preacher and on the Sabbath as he was going to preach the Logos told him he should see his future wife at service. The only unmarried woman present was so unlike what he desired that he made up his mind that for once the Logos had made a mistake. Never the less she became his wife and was a gift from God to him and I thank God for giving me such a grandmother quiet, retiring, patient, firm and true she made her children to love God, all of them were drawn to the Saviour. She was known for her moral courage. A neighbour having died, next day the handle of the door of the room in which the corpse was laid was seen to move. No one dare go near until Mrs Boyd was fetched and she at once entered and found only a cat, though how it moved the handle was never explained. My grandfather erected a wooden chapel in Swan Lane Rotherhithe, living in the house adjoining, in this chapel I first appeared as a reciter giving a rhyme my grandfather had written I received a prize one of the very few prize I have obtained. Before the end of his life he was co-pastor with a Baptist minister at Bermondsey for a short period, the arrangement did not work well. He visited my father at Hull in 1838 or 1839 and also at Whit--- in 1840. I remember him well as kind but commanding, I thought his sermons dry and long. I used to think my fathers were long but I considered him the cleverest minister in the world and that his sermons ought to be long. The end of the grandfather was somewhat unexpected. It had been his habit to rise in the night and compose some verses expression of his sense of Gods love or his own need. One night he heard the Logos tell him that this must be his last song. He carefully collected his pens and papers and placed them quite orderly on his desk. No one thought the end was near but it was and after a few days sickness he fell on sleep. My grandmother lived a few years longer and then entered into her rest. I believe she was a riper Christian than the grandfather though it was a miracle of Grace that he was --- --- to God. I ever honoured him and do today and --- that his grandchildren may be --- to the end as he was.

Joseph Boyd

In writing of my father I write as a blind lover does of the object of his affections. I know that as a man he must have had imperfections but I never saw them. To me he was a perfect upright man one who feared God and eschewed evil. I am glad to say this and the older I get and the more I know of human nature the more wonderful does his life appear to me.

When he was born the national life was much different to the present condition of things. He was early sent to a school kept by an old sea captain, he was an autocrat and made his scholars aware of it. He kept a log book and had one day for punishment, if the lad was poorly that day the account was carried forward and had to be duly paid with any addition that might justly or unjustly have been awarded. On the Thursday evening one of the delinquents was bidden to put the strap in pickle and at once brought into school a pail of water and placed the hardened leather in the water to soak. Then on Friday the master took off his coat called each by name and had him hoisted on to some lads back and laid on the leather where the body was softest. Joseph Boyd had his fair share of this discipline for he was full of life and ready for mischief I do not think he loved his teacher though I have heard him laugh heartily over these tender experiences. As a lad he loved animals and had an owl for an hour or two would have had it longer had it not bitten his fathers fingers very severely. He had a goat which after doing much mischief hanged himself by jumping over the banister to which he had been tied. Pigeons he had till they flew away. He used to tell with relish of how he had lighted a fire in a cupboard and was found by his excited mother who wished to know whether he was going to burn the house down. He also told of his wonder when having set to nurse his brother Ebenezer he found nothing in the bottom of the long clothes with which the baby was dressed and what a pleasure he had in carrying the lad head downwards over his shoulder until his mother gave him something to consider. He was often the companion of his father when he went to the office or on preaching engagements. After leaving school he was a clerk for a time, at the early age of 18 he married and soon found the cares were weighty, he was by some means led to the Borough road training college, my mother keeping herself, helping him by the shoe binding art in which she excelled. After being trained for 4 months he was appointed Master of the Toxteth Park British School Liverpool, it was a long coach journey but in due course was accomplished. In going there the coach ran through Huddersfield in which town I spent twenty happy and useful years, of course at that day I had no idea of any such thing. My sister Mary Mercy was born in Liverpool. She was one of Gods angels of mercy, beautiful and holy she made life fragrant. It was here that I clearly began to remember events, I was scalded here. It was here I received my first public chastisement for every boy who came late to school without excuse had a strike or more from the cane. I had a note given me by my mother but it had no reference to me and my being late and so my father would have nothing to do with it and I stood with the disgraced and had two cuts across the hand. It was here too that I learned that the husband is the ruler of the house for my mother who I know now was cumbered with many cares wanted to house a load of coal. She was not in a fit condition to do so and my father seeing her shoveling them in after he had left home for school realized and locked her in the house. He had no sooner gone than she got out the window I remember his returning and instead of joking as he had before spoke very seriously and the dear mother promised not to do anything more with the coals. The sense of the imperative duty of doing as my father desired has never left me.

I think it was at this time the deep love I have for animals started out strongly. My father bought a young puppy a spaniel with long ears and gave it to me, it was black with long ears and brown feet, it was in my eyes a beauty. Before long it died and my father took up a flag in the backyard, buried the animal who was sincerely mourned then cut the word Frank on the stone which was replaced. I do not remember much more of the Liverpool life. I know from hearing my mother sometimes talk of the subject that all the time we lived in Liverpool we were hampered with money cares. The minister at Toxteth park persuaded my parents to take a larger house and furnish it then let apartments he promised to lend the money but persuaded --- forced my father afterwards to give promissory notes, fortunately the minister met them as he promised but if he had failed the home would have been ruined.

During this period a crisis in my fathers religious life occurred, he met with friends who contested his religious belief and for a while thick --- hung over his mind. He at once commenced an earnest study of the bible, those who knew him in later life will bear witness to his deep knowledge of the letters and many of us believe he had caught to true spirit of its teachings. He became what is called calmistic in his creed. I purpose at the close of my memories to give the doctrines held by him as written out with his own hand. This study lead him to desire to devote his life to the teaching of religious --- , hence when he heard of the Hull Town mission needing missionaries he applied for an appointment and was elected. He removed to Hull --- was not accomplished without difficulty, where was the money to come from to pay for the removal of wife, children and goods. My father was sure worried about the matter. A few days before the time --- for departure my father went to the pier and walking to and fro remembered that he had not --- this care in God as he ought, he --- behind a large pile of timber standing on the pier and cast his burden on the Lord. On returning home, near the house he met a lad of seventeen years who said Mr Boyd I have been thinking you will need some money with which to go to Hull and here are ten pounds. If you can pay me back I shall be glad and if not I give it to you. This was one of Gods answers to his prayers. The Hull town mission paid a portion of --- all the traveling expenses and so the generous gift or loan was soon returned to the lad who was Gods messenger at a time of distress. I do not remember anything connected with the removal. One of the first Hull memories was that of a policeman calling about 10 oclock in the morning to require the snow to be swept from the front of the house. He called twice before my father came for dinner and I remember the reluctance with which six pence was paid for having the pathway cleansed, about this time my Aunt Harriett mothers sister had come to be with us for a short time. I distantly remember her enquiring of mother what we were to have for dinner, to this mother replied the lord will provide Several times during the morning my aunt questioned the mother and close on 12 oclock she said she thought God would help us best if she went to the shop. I remember well the thought running through my mind as to whether God would help us. But whilst the last conversation was taking place there come a knock at the door. Sneeringly aunt said perhaps the Lord has sent the dinner when the door was opened a lad with a basket enquired whether Mr Boyd lived here, on being told that he did he said I have brought these things for him and I am not to say who sent them there was a large pork pie, bread, butter, sugar and tea. I have never forgotten Gods care of us then and when my faith has wavered a thought of his providence has made me say to my doubting spirit give to the --- --- --- God shall lift up thy head Not long after this my brother who has asked for these mementoes was born. The event is referred to in my fathers diary. He says Sunday January 28 1838. Left home at 10 oclock to preach at Hedon. I felt assisted in the first service though not in the second except in prayer. I returned home in company with Mr Smith and much to my surprise and not a little to my gratification found that a little son was added to my family in my absence. The Lord has been very gracious to my dear Sarah and we render thanks for a gift which must increase our responsibility, may the Lord direct us to nurse --- it for him and cause it to be his below and ultimately his above in glory. And on February 9 following there is following. When reading some poetry of my fathers upon the birth of my third son with which I was much pleased. I was led to seize a few minutes for private prayer, that I might dedicate my children to God and such were my feelings while exercised in this pleasing duty that I could not help saying. My willing soul would stay in such a frame as this etc. Only God will bless my children with all spiritual blessing in heavenly places in --- Jesus. I know he will hear and answer my petitions, unworthy though I am for he said open wide thy mouth and I will fill it I have been thinking about a name for my little new born son and so signal have been our mercies and so many times has God greatly favoured us that I intend to call him Eldad which signifies Favoured of God and that he may favour us still more by favouring the child I most earnestly pray for Jesus sake. I may say that the prayers were heard and answered. Whilst at work in the Hull town mission my parents were brought into close and pleasant relationship with Mr Archibald Dick who superintended the work. He was a fine Christian and his wife one of the women who bless everyone who bless everyone who comes within their reach. In 1847 I became assistant master to Mr Dick in the college schools, Otley road Bradford, and I believe in 1859 or 1860 Mary Dick their eldest daughter became the wife of my brother Eldad, the work Mr Dick and my father did at Hull was abundantly blessed. On March 28 1838 Messrs --- Bowdon and Robinson three active workers on the mission committee called on my father to ask him to take charge of the junior department of the Hull college for a fortnight, on April 26^th he was appointed master of the preparatory school. This was not a successful venture. On June 19^th 1839 his work at the college ended, for some time his lot was an anxious one. He applied to Dr Raffles of Liverpool for the position of missionary to his church and was requested to go for one month on trial. At the end of the month the committee desired him to accept another month trial but this he did not accept. At that time a Mr Allen was home missionary at Reedness and sought a change. He leaving my father was appointed by the committee at a request of Mrs Bell who had months before urged him to apply to the committee for the post. This he could not do as at that time she desired that her name should not be mentioned, Mr Allen left Reedness on September 27 no one saw him off except my father which caused me he says to meditate on September 28 he says I now enter in my 30^th year I just enter on the ministry as a home missionary on Sunday 29^th September he preached in the morning at Reedness from the text 2 king 4.26. It is well with thee. The people were attentive but it was not well with me as a speaker, I could scarcely find words to speak, afterwards however Mrs Bell told me that she had never heard me preach better than then. In the afternoon I preached from John 13.1 I felt much liberty, in the evening from Rom 8.26 And we know etc. I do not remember ever having preached with more ease, or having felt more alive to the work. On October 2 he packed his furniture October 5 about 12 oclock we took leave of our dwelling Mrs Boyd, Hugh and Eldad went to Mr Sweeting and the other children Selina and Mary Mercy to Mrs Hydes and I went to Reedness. On Sunday October 6 preached at Reedness congregation 20 --- Afternoon and evening at Rusefleet congregation 13 and 20. On Tuesday 8 October I returned to Hull and with much labour bought my goods by the Calder to Whitgift. They were hurried on board and hurried on shore where no one but myself expected so soon to see them but the people were very kind several houses were open to me and in about 2 hours my things were safely lodged in one of Mrs Bells cottages --- is to form half of my dwelling, only one or two things are broken. The house was miserable the bricklayer had to relay the floor. On Sunday had a prayer meeting after service to which 15 persons stayed but only myself engaged in prayer, on October 30 after giving the usual instruction to the children I took in hand a job I never before attempted that is the hanging of the parlour with paper. October 31 finished hanging the paper it is a tiresome job, I do not much like it. From this date till December 21 the diary record work done, disappointments met with and sacrifices made, on this day it is recorded that Mrs Boyd between 6 and 7 in the evening was taken ill and near 12 oclock a son was added to my family. I regard it as a gift from God and with all my heart I place it in his hands and pray let it be --- of God even from the womb and for ever. Who can tell whether this little helpless babe who has just come into the world will be of little or much use to it. Let us pray for the latter. God has heard tat prayer. On December 26 Mr Dick visited Whitgift bringing a girl who had been saved from the streets to commence service. A meeting was held in the cottage that Mr Dick might preach to them. About 20 persons were present. On April 9^th 1840 my grandfather visited Whitgift. On Tuesday April 21^st a church was formed at Ousefleet. Mr James Sibree of Hull, W. Bruce of Howden and my grandfather were the instituting pastors. My father, mother, Mrs Bell, Miss Harrison, Mrs Peat, Mr Jackson were the members formally organized, Mr Sibree presided. He asked the following questions requesting them to show their assent by joining hands so as to form a circle. Will you accept God as your father, Jesus Christ as your saviour, the Holy Spirit as your comforter, and walk together in unity with the word of God as your guide. This being done Mr Sibree said In the name of God the father Jesus the son and the Holy Ghost the comforter I pronounce you a Christian church. Then a hymn was sung and Mr Bruce addressed the members on the nature of a Christian church and duty of the members. On May 8^th the grandfather returned to London by The Gazelle from Hull, on June 9^th it is recorded. In the morning instructed the children as usual poor Hugh is rather dull I find much patience needful. On August 20^th news came of grandfathers dangerous illness and on August 24^th the news was received that the old man had gone hence, my father went to London and after spending a fortnight returned to his charge. The next fact that is referred to as of interest is dated October 29^th It pleased God this morning to add to the number of my family a little son- John Williams the last entry in the diary is not complete, it reads as follows.

May 11^th 1843. Although I have kept no record of importance or unimportant facts during the past year I feel that I must take notice of what is now transpiring around me, it is now about 3 years and 6 months since I left Hull for Whitgift in September last I was informed by Dr Mattheson and here it ends. I suppose that the events that it referred to were those leading to his removal to Burley in Wharfsdale which were effected about this time. As there are no other records, what I now say are reminiscences of my own.

Whilst at Whitgift I remember my father going to outside places to revive worked that had earlier failed. One occasion as he crossed a wild common he was stopped by four men. My father asked what they wanted and one of the four said it is Mr Boyd and let him go. A farmer was stopped and sorely beaten because they could not find the money they expected.

By his bold rebuke of sin my father had offended a rich man who was a great sinner and who threatened which he would to Mr Boyd when he met him. One afternoon as my father was going to his --- he was met by the --- farmer, who seeing him approaching called out that now he would half kill the --- parson. Stopping his horse and seizing his whip he hastily got down from the gig but in doing so caught his shin on the step and so wounded himself that he fainted and my father had to attend to his needs, help him into the gig and drive him home. When he left Whitgift many there grieved over his departure.

At Burley my father was brought into contact with Dr Macleod who was the chief of Ben Rhydding a new and well conducted Hydropathic establishment, there being no nonconformist place of worship nearer than Burley the patients used to come on the Sunday morning to worship at the chapel. At that time the services at Burley were a 7 oclock prayer meeting, service at 10.30 a cottage meeting near Ben Rhydding at 3 oclock to which my father walked, service at the chapel at 6. At the request of many patients Dr Macleod asked my father to take service for an hour at 8pm on Sunday. A conveyance took him from the chapel to the establishment and often the father slept there, in this way he was brought into contact with many leading men, John Bright MP was one of them. W.S Forster MP bought the mills at Burley and with him my father had much to do and was brought into contact with Richard Cobden and other radical members. Forster by the influence of his wife was very churchy and helped the clergymen not a little in his efforts to control the education of the young. Spite of him however my father had a day school opened when the clergymen refused to admit children to the day school if they did not also go to his Sunday school. Not only were services held at cottages and chapels in adjacent villages but a night school was carried on by him for some time. A number of young men were taught in the study, one of whom became a successful minister and died at Loughborough having gained the warm esteem of all who knew him. With the multiplicity of work in 1849 his health failed, Dr Macleod was very good to him and treated him without fee. Mr --- Gill a churchman would have him consult Dr --- of Leeds and paid the fee of four pounds. These medical men insisted on a six months rest and Mr Jonathon Clyde 9 Hoxton Lane Chapel Bradford by his active interest secured this by obtaining the help of the ministers in Bradford and Leeds who filled the pulpit during his compulsory absence. Dr Hamilton Leeds, Professor Scott Bradford, and others filled my father with thankfulness. When Forster and Fison bought the mills hundreds of villagers left the place to find work in Cotton Mills. The new firm was in the worsted trade, the result was that the chapel was almost emptied. It was a hard time monetarily for the father and mother, thank God they weathered the storm. At Burley Ruth Longstaff was born and Sarah Elizabeth and William Ebenezer our sister Mary Mercy was terribly burned. I was privileged to put out the blaze, I shall never forget the sight nor the calm and quiet care taken by my father to save her life, the nearest Dr was 3 miles away. When Lilly was born I expressed my sorrow at the event. Some how my father heard of this and in the evening took me to walk with him quietly he said I hear your sister is not welcome to you no I said I do not see how we are all to live on one hundred pounds a year. I had reduced this sum to so much per head and it looked very small. The dear father however quietly asked me whether I had to find the money? On my saying no he said never forget Hugh that God cares for you and loves you and all of us and will not forget to feed us. That talk has often made me smile but it has far oftener revived my faith and helped one to trust in the Lord and wait patiently for him. In 1855 my father was called to West Melton at Rotherham, the church was in a very sad condition because of personal dissensions. Still all we --- in the call, in a few weeks by careful and earnest effort the leading disputants met and were reconciled. The work prospered greatly and to the end of my fathers life there was peace and joy among those who worshipped at the chapel. If I were asked to name the best work my father did there I should say that the healing of the dispute was the greatest. I had the privilege of spending the first evening of reunion at Mrs Clarks house, with Mr Thomas Clark and one of brothers who died soon after, came with my father to meet me and Polly at the station, we had come from Darwen. A most pleasant evening was spent and the angel of Peace spread his wings over the whole. The next best thing was the floating of the West Melton Waterworks Co Ltd. Mr Carnley took the matter up and canvassed for shareholders. So constantly were they together that they were spoken of as Moses and Aaron. At that time the village found most of the water used for home purposes in wells or streams into which farm sewage percolated. Like most such efforts the company did not pay at once and some shareholders were angry sold out and lost money. A few months ago the --- council bought the shares giving a large premium for them that there has been better health and cleaner homes because of this effort every one must admit another benefit was the renovation of the chapel it was a well built structure but not very comfortable the pews were square and high backed. Polly liked them because she could nurse the babies without disturbing anyone or being disturbed herself. Lads who did not want to hear the sermon could play noughts and crosses without being thought very bad lads. My father however desired something better and Mr Landsborough C E of Bradford obtained the free services of a Bradford architect who made the internal arrangements beautiful and convenient. This added greatly to the success of the cause. All through the years my father was pastor [27] there was true life. The power that such a life gave him was great. Soon after settling at West Melton my father calling at the Post Office for stamps enquired as to the health of the postmaster who was also --- of the church. The wife requested my father to go upstairs to see her husband who was very ill. This was done and next day the vicar called at the manse and after a few minutes said he had come to forbid my father visiting any of his congregation why said my father that is strange for you visited my chapel keeper yesterday and said the vicar he was so deaf I could not make him hear that makes no difference to the fact that you called well said the vicar the fact is all the people in the parish are mine and you ought not to visit any of them. He was told that his claim was not acknowledged and that whilst no attempt would ever be made to steal the sheep of any other fold the independent minister claimed the right of visiting any one who welcomed his ministrations. When the vicar 20 years later lay in his death bed no one was more warmly welcomed there than Joseph Boyd the intruder. When he settled he found that church rates were regularly collected. He was waited on in due course but courteously and firmly declined to pay. A policeman was sent to demand the rate. My father took the man in blue into his room and then enquired who had sent him. After some hesitation the name of a wealthy landowner, a church warden, was given Then said my father go to him and say first that I decline to pay any church rate and --- --- that he ought to know it was both illegal and mean to send you I believe Mr Caruley paid that rate for my father but promised after a talk never to do so again. The church warden threatened a summons and was invited to obtain one speedily but there had been so many illegal things done that the rate could not be maintained. As my father did not pay others refused to pay and in a few years no church rate was made. All round the village public life was raised. Men who had been afraid of offering the ground landlord became strong enough to vote as they thought right. Poachers were influenced to give up poaching although and perhaps because my father --- --- denounced the game laws and probably --- --- his sense of injustice on the part of the magistrates who at Rotherham to hear such cases. A policeman who was an active --- --- officer and summoned some well to do men for being drunk, driving --- --- etc was removed to another district. On the day he flitted a host of the lower sort met around his dwelling with tin kettles and other noisy articles and commenced to hoot and jeer at the family. My father hearing this put on his hat and went with the policeman through the village and the persecutors smitten with shame retired before half a mile was journeyed but a few confessed their shame. Someone however lifted the gates off the chapel yard and threw them violently on the ground. Fortunately they were good wrought iron gates so a few shillings repaired the damage. As at Burley so at West Melton my father organized cottage meetings and good ones they were. Old Joseph Russell was a theologian, knew his bible and time flew by as he and my father and Joseph Carnley and W Shepherd quoting texts which all were expected to find there and then upheld their separate views. W Jackson was more like myself fonder of hearing that contending. Twenty to thirty folk came to these gatherings and as good fires were the order of the occasion, warm opportunities were provided in more senses than one.

At Wombell main my father was a constant helper. Students from Rotherham College used to conduct services on the Sunday but he used to often take the afternoon service and one on the Wednesday evening. He was welcomed at Mixborough, Swinton, Rawmarsh, Stubbin, Ebsecar, Hoyland --- and many other places under the care of Primitive Methodist and Wesleyans, every one knew him as a mainly large minded Christian minister. Some years before the end came he was enfeebled and received permission from the Trustees of the Pastors Retiring Fund to send in his resignation with the promise that as soon as possible he should receive an annuity of forty pounds, this however was never accomplished. God however took care of him.

Mr Carnley, Mr Clarke, --- --- Morley, Wright and Mr Shaw a deacon at Barnsley by quick and loving methods raised a considerable sum [? Pounds] and this with an address was given him at a public meeting at which many friends were present to do honour to so faithful a pastor. He passed away on --- ---.

In closing this short account I think a few lines by the loved one will prove acceptable to those who may read it. My sister Mercy suffered severely had a canary much valued it died and these lines were penned 25^th April 1877.

Thou art gone pretty songster but where I cant say

After bearing assailment a night and a day

Thy beautiful life glided quickly away

Leaving only behind thee thy feathered cold day

And those who would rather have had thee to stay

Thou art gone pretty songster but this I can say

Twas he who first formed thee that called thee away

For birds of less value and beauty than thine

Are sustained in this life by a hand thats devine

For the Lord of mankind too the brute and the bird

To encourage mans faith we have all of us heard

That even a sparrow in death cannot fall

Except by the will of the maker of all

Thou art gone pretty songster and this I can say

The flight of thy life flung a cloud over the day

Thy travail in death distressed us to see

And we grieved sweet bird on account of thee

Not only because of the pains thou didst bear

But because in their cause we each had a full share

Sweet innocent bird thou art gone but where?

The dear father wrote verses that were not deficient in metre but in the above comes out the love and sympathy he ever had for the needy. I think I will close these reminiscences by giving some of his recorded Political Creed written December 16^th 1876.

I regard the teachings of scripture as the foundation of all knowledge --- --- man his origin and his duties both in regard to God and man his rights and so forth. I regard scripture as being paramount in authority in all human matters that is sentiment in notion no usage or practice no law or claim whether personal or social or natural, can be held to be admissible if at variance with the requirements or prohibitions, or principles up forth therin. I regard the divine being as the soul proprietor of the earth and all the parts there of with one thing pertaining there to. Proprietor not in name only but really so according to the scriptures which saith. The earth is the Lords and the --- --- there of [ps 24.1.]

Regard mankind as the occupants of the earth subject to the will of its owner and placed in their hand for the common good [ps 115.16] the earth hath he given to the children of --- that is for their habitation and use. At the same time receiving to himself the rights of Lord and governor to dispose of men and things as his wisdom and goodness may deem fit. I regard the state of things now marking the conditions of the human family all the wide world over in the civilized countries as well as in other places as one of disorder and disarrangement therefore not in accordance with the divine will except as this disorder may be penal in consequence of sin Ecc 7.29, 1 John 5.19, Acts 3.21.

I believe God intended the world to be a holy happy brotherhood all alike enjoying his care sustained by his power and enriched by his magnificence. Hence God is represented in scripture as the father of the human family and we are his children Heb 12.9, Is 64.8 [Mal 5.43] I do not therefore believe in the inherrant and exclusive right of the class. I believe in the common rights of humanity that every person has an equal right with all others to the natural means of life in the country in which he is born such as land, water, air, sunlight and so forth to as much as the same as may be needed to sustain such person and those who are dependent upon him. I am over grown population must of course swarm off to unoccupied places. I believe that all wild creatures in the sea in the rivers in the air and on the land are common property. Consequently I regard the game laws of this country as unjust and iniquitous. I believe that what a man buys honestly or is otherwise honestly obtained he has an exclusive right to whether it be land or any thing else.

I believe that no king or government ever had a right or has a right to dispose of by gift or sale of the common property of the nation, except in accordance with the expressed will of the nation because I believe that kings and governments are not the owners of the nation but the servants of it, that they are not greater than the nation, but the nation greater than they. It is said of Henry 8^th the king that on a certain occasion he was so much pleased with a plum pudding his cook had made for him that he rewarded this invaluable service by the gift of a large estate out of the countrys land, if so though it would be a harsh proceeding to dispossess the cooks descendants of the land now in their possession yet strictly speaking they seem to one to have no more right to it than some of Dick Turpins descendants, if there be any now living have a right to any benefit flowing from the robberies of this highwayman.

I believe that every adult man of sound mind and not a criminal has an inherent right to a voice in the election of those who may govern the country to which he belongs, that this right is his not because of the share he bears in the expenses of the government of the country or the property he possesses, but because by his diligence and industry he contributed to the countrys wealth. I believe that a mixed form of government that is king and commoner is a device of the rich and great especially on hereditary monarchy which may issue in a most corrupt person to uphold their own dignity beyond its due share and to keep in check what are called the common people.

I believe that goodness and usefulness and not the mere possession of wealth, render men worthy of other mens esteem and reverence. I believe that God intended all men to labour either with their hands or brains and that the extremes of riches and poverty are a part of the disorder before referred to and not in accordance with the will of God. I believe it to be the design of the Gospel of Christ to do away with the disordered state of things, and thus to bring the family of man into that condition which God at first intended. A result which I think is sure to come to pass. I think it therefore the duty of every Christian man to do all he can to help forward this renewed condition of the world. Not by physical force in this I do not believe, whether as a last resource when every other measure has failed. I do not say, I do not feel able, but by the force of a Christian life and by moral --- our weapons are not carnal but spiritual.

I do not believe in a state church, state religion leads to hypocrisy and persecution. Religion is a personal matter between God and a mans conscience and no king, no rules, have any right to step in between the two. The province of the state is to rule in ordinary matters but not in church matters. The only head of the church is Christ himself and all Christian ministers, like all Christian people stand upon an equal footing before God, and in relation to each other. The above is a sort of impromptu outline of my political creed.

NOTE: It is said that men as they grow old become increasingly conservative. I have just crossed the line from my 7^th to my 8^th decade and am certainly more of a radical than ever, at which I am glad. Toryism seems to me an evil thing. It may be said are not some good Christians Tories? In reply to which I would ask were not some good Christians years ago the advocates of slavery? A hellish --- ---.

Outline of my Christian Creed

I believe in one personal self existent God. The creator and governor of the universe. Not in 3 Gods as some falsely put it God the father, God the son, God the Holy Ghost --- and eternal. I believe that God is my father that by Jesus Christ and the spirit he works all things on my behalf according to his counsel --- purpose from everlasting. That he hears and answers my prayers just putting it into my heart which he --- have me pray for. I believe that the Lord Jesus by means of his spotless life and his vicarous sacrifice is my infallible saviour, and also the saviour of all who believe.

I believe that the Holy Spirit works in those who are saved all that is good for them and all that is acceptable to God. In short that there is no salvation but by the Eternal Spirit through Jesus. I believe that all who are saved have been or will be saved of every name of every place of every age from infancy onwards of every creed whether they know it admit it or not are the elect of God and that none whom he saves or bring into a state of salvation can ever be lost.

I add to the foregoing the following.

I believe in the eternal salvation of all children who die in infancy not because they are innocent as some incorrectly affirm but through the atonement of the Lord Jesus and by the renewing of the Holy Ghost within them. I believe that the bliss of Heaven and the misery of hell are eternal in there duration. I am compelled to say with the excellent --- Spurgeon in a quotation he made in a recent sermon. There is --- --- --- and everlasting pains etc. there is much vain talk and writing just now about universalism and annihilation neither of which the scriptures teach. J. B October 16^th 1880

It was my privilege to be able to visit home more frequently than other members of the family and I spent some time with the honoured parent whilst ill. Our sister Lily Sarah Elizabeth was with him frequently and was there when he departed hence. At his request she sang for and to him. O ---- in the Lord. My good mother who had been fearfully ill at Staines came home to attend him in his last moments. Wonderfully she --- --- left her when she arrived at the bed side and she was able to comfort as no one else could the departing saint. He was conscious to the last minute and went home resting in Gods love on June 17^th 1881. it was a happy release from pain but to me a loss beyond estimate.

Of my mother I must speak guardedly. I often fear I wrong my father when I talk of her. She brought me to see Jesus as my saviour when we lived at Hull collage. She cheered my father in every good work. Once when he was going to walk miles through the snow to preach she wrapped a comforter round his neck and buttoning the top coat said its a bad walk for you Joseph but the Lord will be with you and bless you. God was very real to her and ever present to bless. Her vigour made her sometimes a little austere and perhaps a little lacking in charity. She was indeed a friend in every time of need and --- a tone and wise Pastors wife. She lived four years after my fathers death and fell asleep at West Melton on November 14^th 1885. her body was laid to rest in the Chapel yard with my fathers. I may say here that in the adjoining grave is sleeping the body of Ruth Longstaff, Sarah Elizabeth Chambers, Robert Williamson Chambers and my infant son Walter Hamilton Boyd who only was given to us for six weeks, Mary Mercy Boyds earthly house is placed in the grave with fathers and mothers.

I may now add a few particulars concerning others. My fathers sister Selina Boyd married Thomas Sofield a cooper in the government yard Deptford. She and he were --- Christians, they had a large family most of whom have passed away. Her eldest son married one of my church members at Highfield Chapel Huddersfield my father married them, they had one son. Sarah Ann Sofield nursed my eldest daughter, married a respectable and successful oil and colour man who when he died left his widow in no need. Hannah Sofield went into service and became an invaluable helper. She was engaged by Mrs Jack Denhiem of Huddersfield and when the other husband died they remembered her and another servant in the will. At Oldham she met with Mr William H Bradbury. They were married and went to S. America, Mr Bradbury being manager of some cotton mills, two daughters were born to them both excellent young women. Of the other children I know little. Thomas Sofield married but I think had no children. Samuel married and had several children, he died early. I believe there was another son Ebenezer who died in early manhood. Sarah Ann and Hannah are living in 1911.

Ebenezer Boyd was trained at the Borough road and went to teach at Wem--. Then took charge of a British School Hull. He married and was blessed with a large family. He became for sometime a traveler for a Hull firm of wine and spirit merchants. His wife died and after some time he married to the benefit of himself and his children. My mothers cousin Harriett Deakin a holy able, gracious womanwho still lives at Whit--- and in her advanced years commends by her life the Gospel of our Lord and Master. My uncles eldest son Hugh married he was a teacher of an elementary school and then became an assistant overseer. How many children he had I do not know.

She the mother passed away and my cousin then married a Mrs Jackson of Sheffield. After a few years he had a --- at his fathers home Whitsable. His widow still remains and the children are doing well in and near Hull. My cousin Janet went with her father to London where they kept a stationers shop until they removed to Whiklable where she still lives with her step mother and helps on the work of God at the Congregational church.

--- Aunt Mercy kept a private school at Rotherhithe and died at an early age. Aunt Ruth was trained at Borough road and married a Mr Atkin a trained teacher and died having no children. At Orpington. He married again and a few weeks ago one of his daughters came across the --- daughters of my brother. I will now add a few pages concerning myself, brothers and sisters.

Joseph Hugh Boyd lived fourteen days, he was named after my father and grandfather. Sarah Ann Newell Boyd born 14^th December 1829 was named after my mother and a much loved missionary. She died January 2^nd 1834. my first memory is of her being fast in a box my mother found me trying to open it, I do not remember the funeral or thinking of death. John William Boyd named after the missionary was born at Whitgift and died at Burley on Wharf---. William Ebenezer born at Burley named Ebenezer after my uncle died aged seventeen months and their bodies lay in the chapel yard of that bonnie village. These all died in childhood Hugh Joseph Boyd the writer of these pages was not a clever child. Those who read will remember that he was said to be dull. The Reverend Robert Bruce of Howden thought little of him in any way. The lad did not love his school master who believed in the virtue of a riding whip. Which he --- --- by. The Rev J.--- of Otley who was another of his teachers told him that he would never be able to draw. He himself is surprised at his history and can only --- for his wonderful help. In 1847 Mrs --- before referred to was the master of Otley road day school Bradford and as his son was going to Silcoates --- remembered me and it was arranged that I should go to help in the school. In 1849 I was received by the Congregational Board of Education as a student at Liverpool street London, where a house had been taken as a hostel --- --- road chapel in Jewin street as a schoolroom. In 1850 the Rev --- Delf of Coventry engaged me to take charge of the British school of that city. There were say 150 scholars and I just 18 years of age. At the house at which I lodged I met my first wife. She was a good silk ribbon weaver kept her fathers books was an active worker at the Rev John Sibrees church. The reader will remember that he baptized my mother. in June 1852 I left Coventry for Sowerby Bridge, whilst at Coventry I became secretary of the Coventry Band of Hope and was by this brought into close fellowship with Thomas Cash a minister of the Society of Friends and father of the noted firm Cashs Fritling

At Sowerby Bridge I had a good school. I organized a large mutual improvement society and edited a manuscript West End Chronicle which was read by many of the active workers belonging to other churches, I was led to preach my first sermon at Mixenden. In January 1854 I went to take charge of the Belgrave Schools Darwen. My sister Selina came at the same time to take the girls school and remained until she was married. I became Secretary of the Sunday School Union, the Band of Hope union, a member of the committee of Temperance society, and made the first speech in favour of the United Kingdom --- on the evening of the day on which the local branch was organized.

Mr Hayes the town missionary became a great friend and through him I became a frequent preacher for the Baptist at Blackburn, the United Methodists and schools belonging to the Congregational churches. I had charge also of a large young mens bible class. The Rev G.B Johnson father of the --- --- of the LMS was the Pastor. He read Latin with me and I taught his sons at the manse for an hour each evening. Whilst there I was induced to become --- for Messrs --- Paper Printing, I had married Mary Bird of Coventry at the Registrars office on December 29^th 1854, two sons were born there, one still born, the mother was fearfully ill. The second on October 25^th 1856. in a few months I left Darwen to take charge of a school at West Bromwich, a silver watch was given me on leaving Darwen. My temperance action upset my work at West Bromwich but I formed a friendship with the Rev R.J Brown which lasted until he was called above. In 1858 I became master of the Stoke Newington B --- school and was here associated with the celebrated Samuel Mosley. I joined A --- Park Congregational church and was often requested to take the afternoon service --- in a large --- --- and servants attended. At West Bromwich I frequently took out door services and once or twice preached at Mayers Green. Whilst at Stoke Newington I was able to take the service at Feltham once a month. This was pleasant to me as I could visit my sister at Staines. In June 1859 I took a private school at West Melton in Rotheham. Became --- --- for ------ --Secretary for the West Melton --- works --- and frequently preached at the neighbouring chapel schools. The church at --- being --- attended I was asked to take charge of it and on Dr Falding of Rotherham and the Rev Isaac Langham endorsing the request I did so on 1861 I was called to a mission at Paddock Huddersfield. Dr Bruce MA was the Pastor at Highfield and this place was under his care. He was a true friend in every way. The work prospered. In 1869 a church was formed at Paddock. In 1872 a --- chapel was erected to seat 750, soon after a new organ was erected. The cost of all being more than 5500 pounds. When I left in 1884 there was no debt, the church --- 220 good members. From 1872 the church was self supported. In 1872 I joined the Good Templers and was the District Chief Templar for 26 years. The Lord prospered my work greatly. The people gave me handsome gifts on leaving and now after more than twenty years absence I am loved and respected by the people. A --- --- born to me at Paddock, a daughter at West Melton as well as two sons. My family was Joseph Thomas Born October 25^th 1856, Sarah Letitia Boyd born at State --- March 26^th 1858, John Deakin Boyd February 14^th 1860, Mary Ruth Boyd 1862 born at West Melton and died at Paddock 1865, Walter Hamilton Boyd born and died at West Melton, Henry Martyn Boyd born at Paddock 1867, and died at Sheffield January 11^th 1886. their mother died September 9^th 1876 at Paddock Huddersfield and her body rests in the Huddersfield General Cemetery. Also John Deakin and Henry Martyn nearly at the head of the mothers grave, Joseph Thomas Boyds body was laid. In November 1878 I was married at the friends meeting house Paddock to Margaret Ann Crosland daughter of Robert Crosland of Bradford. She was a lady of good reporte and ready for good works. She was known by my people and gladly received into their fellowship, she was a loving friend and helper to my sons and daughter. From this marriage issued three children Mary Boyd August 30^th 1879, Hugh Crosland Boyd June 26^th 1881, Mercy Margaret Boyd April 29^th 1883. Each did fairly well in school and became teachers at Halifax, Liverpool and --- --- near Nottingham. In August 1884 I was appointed Secretary of the British Temperance League instituted in 1834 at Manchester the head quarters being taken to Sheffield in 1879 1880. In 1886 I took the oversight of the Garden street Congregational church it being too poor to pay a stipend. In 1900 the church united with the Queens street church and the chapel was made into the --- hall of which the Rev Blackshaw MA by being warden, and I was chosen co-pastor at Queen street, which position I held to October 1902 when I resigned my secretary ship and went to Slaithwaite to take charge of a mission at Crimble, and another at Netherton. Again my removal was used for presenting me with handsome gifts, for seven years I continued this work. God gave me favour in the eyes of the people. The mission room and adjoining land was purchased at Crimble, a church was formed which gives promise of successful growth. In 1910 being unable from physical weakness to do the work I resigned my post and was given testimonials by the churches and the Huddersfield Congregational Association and the Good Templars. Whilst at Sheffield the Sheffield Congregational Association elected me as President. The Huddersfield friends --- like honour, as did the Huddersfield --- district of the Yorkshire Congregational Union. In all my service the credit should be largely given to my help --- who have lifted all home cares and so trained the children that all have been worthy of love and respect which they have gained. At this date 30 August 1911 I live at --- road Wandsworth SW. My eldest daughter lives with us and adds to the comfort of my old age. A friend of my son Joseph Thomas a member of my Paddock church but now of --- Sheffield has by his generous love become as a son. Since coming to London I have been received by all most graciously and when I have preached have been given tokens of the divine presence and help. Of my children I say little. I thank God for each of them. Joseph Thomas Boyd in leaving school entered Messrs Walkinson and Sons cloth warehouse. He gained favour with the firm and received tokens of their high esteem. In the Sunday school church choir etc he was a faithful helper. In 1879 he determined to qualify as a surgeon. He went to Dr Phillips at Hanley to be coached for the preliminary exam which he took in 1880 at Glasgow. He then became engaged with Dr Biggs of Clapham and --- the Westminister hospital. After passing several exams he was qualified as Licientiate of the Apothecares Institute and on Dr Biggs resigning his post as one of the staff of the Battersea Dispensary JTB was elected. Soon after he married Martha Nutter of Cambridge of good family, taking a leading part in the Baptist church in Saint Andrews Street. She had qualified as a nurse and was thus brought into relationship with her husband who brought his useful life to a close by breathing Chloroform to induce sleeping. In Battersea, Wandsworth and Clapham his memory is held in great esteem and his patients showed their estimate of his worth by erecting a monument over his grave in the Huddersfield Cemetry.

On his death his widow went to Cambridge with her sons and daughter. Hugh Donald Boyd, Joseph Martyn Boyd and Mary Boyd. She was the first born. On Donald leaving school he was apprenticed to Messrs Edgar Allen and Co --- and still manufacturers and the family went to Sheffield where they now reside. Martyn is in the laboratory of the Sheffield Smelting and Mary is Secretary of the Principle of the Cookery Institute --- under the education committee of the Sheffield City Council. Their mother has proved her invaluable worth by her management. She and each of the children are members of Zion Congregational church ---liffe. Sarah Letitia Boyd spent most of her early days with her grand parents and Aunt Mary Mercy who for the last years of her life suffered from spinal curvature. On their --- she came home. Everywhere she was an angel of mercy. She became my clerk at the BJ League, in 1900 was elected Secretary of the Womens Total --- union, and since then has resided in London, at Kentish town until 1910 when she came to Wandsworth to help her father and mother. She is one of Gods most useful and loving children and servants. John Deakin Boyd was a scholar at Mr William Thomas School then was his assistant for some months. Was appointed an assistant master of the Lockwood British School Huddersfield. He gained a scholarship at the Firth College Sheffield and entered the Lancashire Boys College where he took A --- degree, he was called to the Greenmount Congregational Church where for four years he did well. He died in 1895, he had married Mary Ellen Dawson of Paddock. Her parents well known in Huddersfield and she herself an able and earnest worker in all Christian enterprises. God sent them a daughter Susan Lilian Boyd for a little they lived with Mrs Dawson then for a time at Kentish Town with Sarah Letitia Boyd. Then she became housekeeper for a Mrs Pearce who had a private school at --- then for a Mr Payne the station master whose wife was a permanent invalid. They went in a few years at Fresno California where Susie is better in health than she was in England and where they are prospering and helping on Gods work in different ways. Henry Martyn Boyd after leaving Mr Thomas School was apprenticed to Mr Conickar, organ builder he made good progress but died in his 20^th year. He was a worthy lad.

Mary and Mercy Margaret were educated at the Girls High School Sheffield, Mary was trained in the Kinder Garden School took a good certificate and after conducting a small school in Sheffield was appointed a teacher by the Halifax board. Took a government certificate and was promoted to be head mistress of the Infant Department which post she now holds. Mercy Margaret gained scholarship secured a government certificate and a B. Sc degree, she was appointed teacher at the Long Eaton Secondary School. Hugh Crosland was educated at the Rev Horace Halls School Sheffield and at Silcoates. When leaving school he became pupil teacher under Sheffield School Board and obtaining first class certificate was admitted to Borough road School Isleworth. After two years training he was appointed teacher at Liverpool. He married Kate Helen McNab who with her parents was a member of the Garden street church Sheffield. They were married by me at the Congregational Church Paddock Huddersfield. They are members of the church under the pastoral care of the Rev Stanley Rogers Westminister road church Liverpool. God has given these a bright daughter. My sister Selina Harriet Haseltine Boyd named after a missionary went to Homerton College to be trained for teaching and there met with John Anthony Engall on of a talented and Godly family. On the 10^th April 1857 they were married at West Melton near Rotherham by Rev Joseph Boyd the father of the bride. Their home was at Staines. J A Engall became clerk to a well known solicitor and qualified by examination for this profession, after some years he became a partner in the firm. The practice extended and Mr Engall was given official standing on all public boards. He was taken hence in 1903 or 1904. As a deacon of the Congregational church he was known by all to maintain a high Christian character. My sister still lives at Staines and exercises a gracious beneficial influence in the town, helping especially the church and temperance work. Having no children they adopted two daughters of my sister Sarah Elizabeth Chambers, Blanche Josephine and Sarah Lilian both of whom are married. The first to Enoch Rijal, a French protestant and the second to Henry Freeman, who became a partner in the firm and now possesses the business. They also adopted Elsie Dellar a niece of John Engall who still lives with my sister at Staines. Mary Mercy Boyd had a private school at West Melton, she was well known for her great worth. She suffered for years because of the displacement of a bone in the spine. Dr Engall and Miss Engall uncle and aunt of John Anthony Engall reduced the injury soon after her fathers decease she was able to walk and sit. After the mothers decease she went to reside at Staines and died there, the interment was at West Melton. Her character and worth were beyond praise. Eldad James Boyd, born at Hull, educated at Scalibor Park Burley in Wharfdale became one of the staff at Messrs Maclaurins Stuff Merchants Bradford. After the death of Mr Maclaurin he became agent for the America Equitable Insurance Company and then of the New York Insurance Co. At length after 50 years of official work at college chapel he was appointed Warden of the Congregational Mission Ilkley where he now resides. On June 26^th 1861 he married Mary Dick eldest daughter of Mr Archibald Dick who as already reported preached in my fathers cottage Whitgift, it was a true marriage, if the reader will think of the warmest praise that can be given to a man then that is what should be said of E J Boyd and his wife has a right to share in it. The following letter written by my brother in answer to my request will manifest his clear, strong, straight method of work and life.

Dear Hugh

The following are the particulars you ask for;

E. J. Boyd born January 28^th 1838 married June 26^th 1861 by Rev J. Boyd

Mary Boyd born March 7^th 1836

Children:

John Crichton Dick Boyd 31 August 1862

Ruth Longstaff Boyd 26 July 1864

Agnes Falconer Boyd 10 April 1868

Margaret Boyd 9 November 1870

Alexander Boyd 9 January 1873

Charles Boyd 1 July 1874

Norman Boyd 22 April 1878

Alfred Holborn Boyd 20 September 1879

John Crichton Boyd married Kate Johnson June 1 1892

Ruth Longstaff died 28 December 1866

Agnes Falconer died 20 February 1870

Charles Boyd died 13 July 1875

Love to you all, your affectionate Brother E J B.

Since then Alfred H Boyd who with his brothers Norman and Alexander went to Canada, died most unexpectedly and suddenly in the summer of 1910. J C D Boyd is blessed with four children and the record of a fine Christian life. The two Canadians are doing well and are worthy of love and respect. Maggie is a bright angel of light.

Samuel Boyd born at Whitgift near --- was possessed of fine qualities which constantly gave him advantage whether for good or ill. He was educated with his brother at Scalbor Park entered Messers Mclavrin employment to London. Had a grocery business at Hatfield. Went to the United States on returning became an agent of the Prudential Assurance Co at Bradford. Went to Shrewsbury to superintend the district and then to Hull where the business made great progress. On resigning his position he received a pension and after a short residence at Bradford went to Boston Spa near York where he still abides. In all places where he has resided he has done good work. He has been made a Justice of the Peace elected a member of the Urban District Council and a --- lair guardian. He largely was responsible for the erection of a Public Hall and is secretary of the Trustees, is treasurer of the Congregational church.

The following letter of his will indicates his force.

My dear Bro Hugh, it is always a pleasure to have a line from you and I was glad of your --- asking if I remember the date of my marriage. Certainly I do it was 25^th March 1864, it is an easy date to remember for the 25^th March is a quarter day. When rent is due [as a rule] and when [as just now] our rent falls due on March 20^th instead of 25^th, I am almost inclined to think I was married 5 days sooner than I was. On 24^th March I slept at your house at West Melton. Mr Clarke invited me to stay the night and walk on the 25^th but I didnt and on 26^th was at home at --- --- where dear Lennie met --- and myself and at once went off to Staines. I think I remember more of Lennies wedding than of my own. The long procession down the road by the side of the chapel is vividly impressed on my memory. There was discussion as to the order in which we --- proceed, but among the --- and we were a medley lot, as one was decked more gaily than Eldad and I who in addition to coats far too large and neck tie with massive bows reached to each of our shoulders we wore yellow waistcoats that had been made to fit Mr Carnley. The matter of difference in growth between Mr Carnley and each of us was easily rectified by our dear mother gathering them in at the back indifferent to the discomfort of a hump thus occasioned. Whilst as for the length seeing we had only a few minutes to prepare we had to make the best of it Eldad was a little taller than I so his waist coat as regards length was not so bad as mine which reached nearly to my thighs. It is 43 years ago next April [now 54] and nowadays we do things differently but it was a very happy and John and Lennie have had a happy life. Poor Joe Tom was baptized that day but of course you will have thought of that. With love to Margaret, the bairns and yourself. I remain dear Hugh your affectionate Bro Sam.

Sarah Boyd his wife was called higher on August 13^th 1910, she was a good woman and an excellent companion for Sam, they had no offspring. For a time they had a nephew John Clarke with them, then they had their nephew John Joseph Chambers whom they educated and started on lifes journey. The first named of these two is agent for the Prudential Assurance Co in Sheffield, the second is in business with his brother in law --- Rigal in London both are married.

Ruth Longstaff Boyd was a loveable --- possessed of a fine Contralto voice and full of musical enthusiasm. She left us when the Chapel at West Melton was re-opened after renovation. The Rev Isaac Vaughan took for his text at the next service The lord of hosts hath purposed it to stain the pride of all glory my fathers text was Rejoice

Sarah Elizabeth Boyd married Robert Williamson Chambers on the 16^th December 1868, she had a sweet and powerful Soprano voice and received warm commendation from the late organist of the Leeds Town Hall, Dr Spark. She was called hence on the 23^rd January 1882. The two lived at Hull until Robert was accepted as a student at Rotherham College, when they went to reside at Broom Terrace Rotherham where she died. Robert did not receive a call to a church but became Clerk to the --- Co and died at Sheffield, the internment was at West Melton.

The children of the marriage were Henry Ernest born October 1^st 1869, he became a sailor but left his ship and resides somewhere in Australia. Mabel Chambers born June 3^rd 1871 and died at Staines April 20^th 1880. Blanche Josephine born March 13^th 1873. On her mothers death was adopted by their uncle and aunt Engall as was also Sarah Lilian born May 6^th 1879, they were educated on the continent. Blanche married an able and earnest French Protestant and resided in Algier where four children were born to them two of them died and their bodies rest near the sea in a lovely piece of their farm. Here they welcomed their cousin Sarah Letitia Boyd when she had a severe illness, and by their generous and loving attention hastened her recovery and added to the knowledge of Mercy Margaret Boyd who went with her sister. Blanche being very unwell the doctor urged a return to England and now they reside at Maldon and with John Joseph Chambers carry on a perfume business. A few months ago another boy was added to their family. John Joseph Chambers was born December 29^th 1894 educated at Hull he became clerk in the Sheffield Prudential Assurance Co and served the same Co in Southport. Became traveler for a --- --- in Leeds and as before said became partner with Enoch Rijal and resides at Pinner, he is married but has no children. Harold Palmer Chambers was born May 8^th 1876 and was educated at Rotherham and was appointed as a --- at Messers Walker and Hall. When free from the articles he was given a good post at Messers Turner and --- is now chief of one of their departments. He married Ethel Kilchen a member of the Garden street church and have a son and daughter to gladden their home. He has proved himself an able and useful manager and is esteemed by all who know him. Sarah Lillian Chambers now Freeman is blessed by a son and daughter. Mr Harry Freeman is carrying on the business at Staines with credit and honour to all connected with him and he and his wife aid the --- church and the --- ---- Grace Chambers was born December 20^th 1881 and passed away December 28^th 1881

I can imagine one of the grandchildren asking had none of these any faults.

You have praised them all. I reply each of them deserves praise and their faults I would bury. My father requested that the stone which recorded his last earthly resting place should be graved this text.

I will be gracious to their unrighteousness and their sins and iniquities will I remember as more

Dear father in Heaven said long ago though your sins are as --- I will make them white as snow. So it is our privilege to record the good and see none of the evil. We look to Jesus and press forward the mark may none of --- in the race but endure to the end.

There are errors and omissions in this record one being that my grandfathers uncle who educated and endowed him was Hugh Hampstead and not Humphrey. On page 32 Thomas Sofield should be John Sofield, Thomas was the eldest lad and as I said had one son who is a stationer and book seller. My Uncle Thomas Sofield died 15^th September 1891 and Aunt Sofield 22^nd December 1893. All their children had Boyd for one of their Christian names, as Thomas Hugh Boyd Sofield.

In closing I want to incite all who read this to strong faith in God. He is good and his mercy --- for ever. Trust in the Lord and do good and no one will find God to fail. I know for I have passed through many sorrows but the Lord never failed me. My brothers and sisters still --- with us will all say that my testimony with regard to God and Christ is absolutely accurate, even when our faith has failed. He has whispered fear not for I am thy God I will help thee. And if we have forsaken him, he has waited to be gracious to us.

May all who read be richly blessed and may we all meet in the better land, and be a complete family in Heaven.

H. J. Boyd

Contributed by Jan Boyd

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