Whitford, J. G. Rev. 1810 - 1900

WHITFORD, HINDES, SALES

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 8/5/2021 at 20:31:23

Elkader Register, Thur., 04 Oct. 1900. Volga column.

Rev. J. G. Whitford was born at Crown Point, N.Y., November 8th, 1810, and departed for his home in Heaven, Sept. 27, 1900, thus bringing his age to almost 90 years. "Father" Whitford, as he was familiarly and lovingly known among us, was left fatherless at the age of _ (looks like either 6 or 8.), and afterwards, until 20, made his home with Thomas Jewett at Weybridge, Vt., working on a farm. He was converted to God at the age of 18 in Middlebury, Vt., under the ministry of Rev. John C. Green. He at once united united with the Methodist church and has ever since remained a consistent and devoted member of the same for over 70 years. He early felt the call to the ministry, and was deeply interested in the salvation of souls. Accordingly Mar. 3, 1830, he received license to exhort, and in 1833 he received license to preach in Essex, N.Y., and at the same time was recommended by the Quarterly Conference to the Troy Annual Conference for regular work of the itinerant ministry. His first appointment was Bridgeport circuit with Rev. Henry Coleman. But his health soon failed and he was obliged to locate and then came west. In 1837 he joined the Illinois Conference and was appointed to Crow Mission among the Chippewa indians. He was ordained Deacon by Bishop Morris, Sept. 15, 1839, and Elder by the same Bishop, Aug. 29, 1841. He experienced many hardships while in the ministry, and his health having again failed him, in 1851 he took super-annuated relations, yet preaching frequently as his strength would allow.

He was married twice - first to Miss Amanda Hindes in 1832, and the second to Mrs. Betsy Sales in 1840. Thirteen children were born to him of whom eight remain, and the now widowed one who was his faithful companion for a little over 60 years.

The entire community and a wide circle of friends feel deep sorrow in our loss. He has been a benediction to many in sorrow and trouble and shared with many in their joys. His name is "as ointment poured forth." He leaves a legacy worth more than millions in dollars - a GOOD NAME. The sorrowing relatives may well consider themselves rich - rich in the highest and best sense of the work.

The funeral was held from the M.E. church Saturday and was very largely attended. His four sons acting as pallbearers.