George Washington Blagden facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Washington Blagden
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| Born | 3 October 1802  Washington, D.C. |
| Died | 17 December 1884 (aged 82) New York City |
George Washington Blagden (born October 3, 1802 – died December 17, 1884) was an important American clergyman. He was a minister who led several churches during his life. He was also involved in education and politics.
Contents
Early Life and Education
George Washington Blagden was born in Washington, D.C. on October 3, 1802. He went to Yale College in 1820 and finished his studies there in 1823. After graduating from Yale, he continued his education at the Andover Theological Seminary for three more years.
A Career as a Clergyman
After finishing his seminary studies, Blagden became a pastor. On December 26, 1827, he was chosen as the first pastor of a new Congregational Church in Brighton, Massachusetts. This church was formed because of a disagreement happening at the time about religious beliefs, known as the Unitarian controversy.
Leading Churches in Boston
Blagden later moved to Boston to lead other churches.
- In November 1830, he became the pastor of the Salem Street (Congregational) Church in Boston.
- In September 1836, he took on an even bigger role. He became the pastor of the famous Old South Church in Boston. He served there for many years.
Involvement in Public Life
Besides his church work, Blagden was also active in public service.
- In 1853, he was a member of the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention of 1853. This was a meeting where important laws for the state were discussed and decided.
- From 1854 to 1859, he was part of the Board of Overseers for Harvard University. This board helps to guide and manage the university.
- He received special honors for his work. Harvard University gave him a Doctor of Divinity degree in 1850. He also received this degree from Union College in 1849.
Later Years and Retirement
In 1857, another pastor joined him at the Old South Church to help with the duties. Blagden officially retired from his main role in 1872. However, he continued to be connected with the church as a pastor emeritus, which means he kept his title and was still respected for his past service.
Family and Final Years
On June 8, 1831, George Washington Blagden married Miriam Phillips. She was the younger daughter of John Phillips, who was a mayor of Boston. Miriam passed away in 1874. They had eight children together—five sons and three daughters. Four of their sons and one daughter were still alive when Blagden died.
In 1883, Blagden moved to New York City to live with his married daughter. He died there suddenly on December 17, 1884, at the age of 82, due to heart disease.
