History of Bedminster, (Somerset County) New Jersey United States of America

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John McDowell, clergyman, was born in Bedminster, N.J., Sept. 10, 1780. He was graduated from the College of New Jersey, A.B., 1801, A.M., 1804; studied theology under Dr. John Woodhull, at Freehold, N.J.; was installed pastor of the Presbyterian church, at Elizabethtown, N.J., Dec. 26, 1804, and during his pastorate the first Sunday school in the town was established in 1814, and he prepared for it the first Bible-class question-book used. He remained at Elizabethtown till 1833, when he removed to Philadelphia, Pa., on account of ill health and was in charge of the New Central church, 1833-45. He established the Spring Garden church, Philadelphia, and was installed its pastor, Feb. 3, 1846, where he remained until his death. During his ministry, 1,317 persons joined the churches over which he was pastor on confession of faith, in addition to the large number by letter. He was a trustee of the College of New Jersey, 1814-63, and a founder and charter director of Princeton Theological seminary, 1812-63. The honorary degree of D.D. was conferred on him by Union college in 1818. He was moderator of the general assembly of the Presbyterian church in 1820, and served as stated clerk, 1836-40. He is the author of: Bible class Questions (1814); Questions on the Bible for Use in Schools (1819); A System of Theology (1826); and Human Depravity and its Remedy (1830). A memoir by the Rev. William B. Sprague was published in 1864. He died in Philadelphia, Pa., in February, 1863.

From: Twentieth Century Biographical Dictionary of Notable Americans, Johnson, Rossiter, editor

History of Bedminster, (Somerset County) New Jersey

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