Journal: Puritan Reformed Journal
Volume: PRJ 04:1 (Jan 2012)
Article: Presbyterians In Space: The Problem Of Disconnected Presbyterians On The American Frontier (C. 1782–C. 1800)
Author: Andrew M. Mcginnis

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PRJ 4:1 (January 2012) p. 184

Presbyterians In Space:
The Problem Of Disconnected Presbyterians On The American Frontier (C. 1782–C. 1800)

Andrew M. Mcginnis

Space or physical distance, a seemingly neutral phenomenon, has in fact had a significant impact on the contextualization and spread of Christianity in America.1 In the early Republic, as populations pushed westward and began establishing new settlements in largely unpopulated areas like Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley, major denominations struggled to keep up with the rapid growth and expansion.2 This dissemination of new settlements presented unique challenges to churches with a connectional polity. The mobility and adaptation of Methodists to this spacious frontier context has been noted often.3 However, the ways in which Presbyterians experienced and addressed the problem of distance remains a neglected area of study. This analysis will consider the Presbyterian experience of the problem of distance both from a national perspective, by looking at synod and General Assembly records, and from a local perspective,

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by examining the records of Transylvania Presbytery in Kentucky. How Presbyterians experienced and sought to address the problems that physical distance posed to Presbyterian polity and ministry in the early-Republic period will be explored. I hope to contribute to further understanding not only of Presbyterianism on the American frontier, but also of the significant role that geographical distance plays in the contextualization of Christianity in America.

Of the challenges facing Presbyterians on the American frontier, the revivals of the so-called Second Great Awakening have received nearly exhaustive historical discussion.4 I will not retread that well-worn path here. Another challenge, the shortage of Presbyterian ministers on the frontier, while frequently acknowledged, has received only occasional scholarly attention.5 Certainly the Presbyterian churches on the frontier in the ante-bellum period were crying out to their presbyteries and synods, “Send us ministers!” Yet, at the same time, the presbyteries, synods, and General Assembly were equally crying out to the frontier churches, “Send us your ministers!” That is to say, “Send your commissioners to the local, regional, and national assemblies of the church so that we may properly conduct the ministry of the church.” This call—a kin call for

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