pp. 395, (1) [Errata]. Damp stained. Age stained. 12mo. 150 mm. Original full leather binding. Spine decorated in gold with original leather spine label. Front board fragile. Binding rubbed and worn. Johannes Herr (1781-1850), was the founder of the Reformed Mennonite Church. Around 1800 his father (Francis) was expelled from the Mennonite Church in West Lampeter Township, Lancaster County, PA. Francis began to conduct religious services in his home as a lay brother. He died in 1810, leaving a family of eight children, none of whom had been baptized as members in any church. Among those who associated with him in his lay services were Abraham Landis and David Buckwalter, both of whom had withdrawn from the Mennonite Church. After Francis Herr's death the meetings continued and his son John was asked to lead the services, although he was not yet baptized. In a meeting on 30 May 1812, at John Herr's home John was elected pastor and bishop, and Abraham Landis was elected to baptize him. Herr in turn baptized Landis and Abraham Groff, Groff being elected deacon. Soon thereafter Abraham Landis was chosen preacher, followed by John Groff as preacher. In 1812 the first meetinghouse was dedicated, called Longenecker's. John became a vigorous leader of the new group. He traveled widely, especially to Western New York and Ontario, where congregations of his group were established. Scarce First Edition. PA SHELF 011A
