Mercer, George (1835-1878)

Ministry

A transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by R Tanfield is attached. He records the following regarding his character and early days as a preacher.

“His natural disposition being of a cheerful, lively character, his religious manifestations partook the same type. Nobody could remain long in quietude or sadness in his presence. He carried with him an atmosphere of hopefulness and hilarity that roused and cheered everybody with whom he associated. He became at once the most active member and the greatest ornament of the society at that place.

It was soon evident from his earnest prayerfulness, strong good sense, and force of character, that he was adapted and designed for usefulness In a public capacity. Six months after his conversion, his name was put on the plan as an exhorter, and before long he was accepted as an accredited local preacher. He had a fine, commanding address, clear and manly utterance, combined with strong emotions and great decision of character, which rendered his labours very acceptable and profitable.”

Tanfield also records that George’s health was severely compromised after sleeping in a damp bed and that he made significant strides in self development to overcome his early ‘educational deficiencies’

Family

George was born on 17 August 1835 at Old Malton, Yorkshire, to parents David, who worked the land, and Ann. He was baptised on 6 September 1835 at Old Malton.

Before entering the ministry George worked the land.

He married Mary Warrener (b abt1839) on 19 June 1866 at Wroot, Lincolnshire. Census returns identify three children.

• Edith Alice (abt1869-1896) – a governess (1891)
• John William (b1870) – assistant master at Royal Naval College (1911)
• Charlotte Annie (b abt1872) – a governess (1891)           

George died on 9 December 1878 at Halifax, Yorkshire.

Circuits

• 1862 Ripon
• 1863 Barnsley
• 1864 Burnley
• 1866 Halifax
• 1868 Huddersfield
• 1870 Pickering
• 1873 Otley
• 1876 Halifax I

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1879/372

PM Minutes 1879/7

W Leary, Directory of Primitive Methodist Ministers and their Circuits, 1990

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers