Russell, Elizabeth (nee Smith) (1805-1836)

Ministry

Elizabeth’s obituary was published in six parts in the 1837 Primitive Methodist Magazine. Written by her husband, including many of her own writings, the obituary provides a comprehensive summary of her life and ministry. Transcriptions of each part are attached.

Part 1 deals with Elizabeth’s early life in Ludlow, her life in service and starting a business as a dress maker. It also records her first steps as a preacher and call to Presteigne in Radnorshire.

Part 2 covers the years 1826-8 through her correspondence with Sarah Evans.

Part 3 covers the period from 1828 to 1830 when Elizabeth was stationed in the Brinkworth circuit. She was sent to Stroudwater, Gloucestershire, and later to Berkshire, where she first met Thomas Russell.

Part 4 covers 1830-1832 when she was involved in the opening of Hampshire to Primitive Methodists. This section concludes with her move to Darlaston.

Part 5 covers 1832/3 in Darlaston, in particular giving a moving account of the impact of a cholera outbreak in the area in late 1832.

Part 6 covers her marriage, the death of her daughter, and her death at Ludlow.

Family

Elizabeth was born on 10 January 1805, at Ludlow, Shropshire.

She married Thomas Russell on 18 April 1833 at Tipton, Staffordshire. They had one child.

• Julia (1834-1835)

Elizabeth died on 21 February 1836 at Ludlow, Shropshire.

Circuits

• 1828 Brinkworth
• 1832 Darlaston
• 1833 ceased

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1833/31; 1837/95; 1837/139; 1837/176; 1837/216; 1837/258; 1837/336

J Petty, The History of the Primitive Methodist Connexion, 1880, p270; p281

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

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers