James Dempster (Methodist) facts for kids

James Dempster (1740–1804) was a Methodist minister. He helped people in Methodist groups in the American colonies. This was before and during the American War of Independence.

Early Life and Education

James Dempster was born in Edon, Scotland. His birthday was September 21, 1740. He was the third son of William and Violet Dempster. They lived in Newton, West Lothian. His grandfather, James Ker, was a politician. He served in the British Parliament for Edinburgh. James Dempster later studied at Edinburgh University.

Coming to America

Between 1768 and 1774, John Wesley sent several Methodist preachers to the American colonies. James Dempster was one of them. He likely arrived in 1774. When the Revolutionary War began, Dempster and Francis Asbury decided to stay in America. The other preachers went back to England.

Ministry During the War

Francis Asbury continued his work as a minister. However, many people were not friendly to British ministers. So, James Dempster decided to step back from his main ministry work. He settled on a farm in the Mohawk Valley of upstate New York. He lived there for the rest of his life.

In 1778, he built a log church. It was in Warrensbush, which is now Florida Township. This area is southwest of Amsterdam. He became a traveling preacher and minister. He visited many areas in Upstate New York. These included Tryon, Schenectady, Albany, Saratoga, Washington, and Rensselaer counties. He kept records of the weddings and baptisms he performed. These records have since been published.

Family and Legacy

James Dempster got married and had four children. He had three sons named James, John, and Joel. He also had a daughter named Pamelia. His son, John Dempster, became a famous Methodist missionary. John traveled to Argentina to share his faith. Later, he helped start two important schools. These were Boston University School of Theology and Garrett Biblical Institute. Garrett Biblical Institute is now called Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. It is located in Evanston, Illinois.

Later Life and Death

James Dempster passed away in Florida, New York. He died on May 10, 1804.