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Quaker testimonials and writings
The Quaker testimonials and writings included in this volume were compiled by numerous unnamed individuals over many years. Some writings appear to be original epistles and visions, while others are copied extracts of well-known prayers or published works. Many of the copied writings indicate the a...
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| Corporate Author: | |
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| Collection: | Quaker Testimonials and Writings |
| Collection Number: | Am.7223 |
| Format: | Manuscript |
| Language: | English |
| Subjects and Genres: | |
| Online Access: | Link to finding aid |
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| Physical Description: |
0.2 Linear feet 0.2 linear feet, 1 volume |
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| Summary: |
The Quaker testimonials and writings included in this volume were compiled by numerous unnamed individuals over many years. Some writings appear to be original epistles and visions, while others are copied extracts of well-known prayers or published works. Many of the copied writings indicate the author’s name and the page from which the quotation was taken. Among those cited in this volume are William Penn, George Fox, Israel Pemberton, Samuel Pleasants, John Woolman, Robert Barrow, Samuel Bownas, John Drinker, Elizabeth Hudson, and Nicholas Waln.
These writings span several decades and include testimonials, addresses presented at yearly and quarterly meetings in Philadelphia and London, prayers, epistles to other congregations, excerpts from books by well-known Quakers, and several letters pertaining to persecution of Quakers during the Revolutionary War.
The testimonials, which are sometimes called prophecies, often consist of a vision regarding the country, the land, or the Quakers themselves. Many of the testimonials have a grave and apocalyptic tone. One testimonial is preceded by Psalm 37, which explains the origin and significance of the vision. Many testimonials emphasize the importance of peace and non-violence.
The addresses and epistles document sentiments that the yearly meeting in Philadelphia wished to convey to the yearly meeting in London and vice versa. Some of these epistles were written at the yearly meeting of Women Friends in London, and they constitute the bulk of the female contribution to this volume.
In entries from 1777-1780, the Quakers present their grievances over persecution they faced for not participating in the Revolutionary War. Several Quakers were banished to Virginia, and some of the entries are copies of statements of their grievances to the Council of Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Assembly. There is also a letter denouncing the Quakers that appeared in the Pennsylvania Packet, August 12, 1780, signed “Bellarius” and a letter of response by the Philadelphia and New Jersey Meeting written August 24, 1780. |