I was born in Crawford county Mo., January 5, 1834. My parents were Cumberland Presbyterians. I owe much to the training of a precious, Christian mother.

I professed religion in 1850; joined the Crooked Creek congregation of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church immediately. My religion has always been of the Holy Ghost, shouting kind. I have always stressed the "new birth."

I was deeply impressed to preach the gospel at my conversion. So, I placed myself under the care of St. Louis Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church as a probationer for the ministry. I felt that I must preach or die, so I made an appointment and a curious crowd greeted me. With much embarrassment I announced my text and began. The result was an altar full of mourners and seven bright conversions. I went right into revival work. In due course of time I was licensed and finally ordained in the City of St. Louis in 1859.

Rev. Milton Bird, D.D., preached the ordination sermon. In March, 1860, I came to Texas, where I preached for many years. I traveled and preached under order of presbytery, first in Missouri and then in Texas. I have always preached on the frontier among the destitute.

While I have witnessed many happy conversions, I regret that I have done so little.

When the merger came I was the only preacher that stood firm in the Amarillo Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. I am proud of my stand to this day. I have seen much service and have a rich experience in the work of the ministry. I have made mistakes in life--many of them--but have always been sincerely honest in my work. If I have done any good in the world it is all of the Lord. I am working with His help.

I am still strong and able to preach the dear old whosoever-will gospel as opportunity offers. I am so glad that the dear church in which I was raised still lives to bless the world. I am sure that many shall rise up and call her blessed.

I am with my aged and faithful wife--watching and waiting for the call to go home to glory.

[Source: Our Senior Soldiers: The Biographies and Autobiographies of Eighty Cumberland Presbyterian Preachers. Compiled by The Cumberland Presbyterian Board of Publication. The Assistance of Revs. J. L. Price and W. P. Kloster is Greatfully Acknowledged. Nashville, Tenn.: The Cumberland Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1915, pages 225-226]