John Oliver (minister) facts for kids

John Oliver (born around 1616, died in 1646) was an important Puritan leader and minister in the early days of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. He was one of the very first students to graduate from Harvard College in 1645. People often called him "the Scholar" because he was so smart and dedicated to learning.

John Oliver: A Pioneer in Early America

John Oliver played several key roles in the growing colony. In 1637, he became an early member of the Massachusetts General Court, which was like the government's assembly. He also served as its treasurer and a selectman, helping to manage the town's affairs.

He was also a skilled soldier. In 1637, Oliver joined the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. By 1639, he was a senior sergeant in Captain John Underhill's group, protecting the fort at Castle Island in Boston Harbor. John Winthrop, a famous leader of the colony, even wrote in his journal that Oliver was an "expert soldier." Later, John Oliver became the first minister of Rumney Marsh, a settlement now known as Chelsea, Massachusetts.

His Family and Early Years

John Oliver's story began when he was born around 1616 in London, United Kingdom. When he was about 16 years old, he sailed with his parents, Thomas and Ann Oliver, and his six siblings to Boston. They traveled on a ship called the William and Francis, arriving on June 5, 1632.

Growing Up in Boston

After arriving in Boston, John Oliver quickly became involved in the community. In 1633, he joined the First Church in Boston. A year later, in May 1634, he took the "freeman's oath." This oath was important because it meant he was a full member of the community. It allowed him to vote and own land.

At this time, Boston was building its defenses. John Oliver was chosen to be a corporal, a type of leader, for the soldiers guarding the fort. He worked under Captain John Underhill, helping to protect the settlement.

Starting His Own Family

John Oliver married a woman named Elizabeth Newdigate. Together, they had several children: Elizabeth, Hannah, John, and Thomas. Sadly, their first son, also named John, passed away when he was very young.

After John Oliver's death, his wife Elizabeth married Edward Jackson. She lived a very long life, passing away in 1709 at the age of 91.

Becoming a Minister

In 1639, the First Church in Boston decided that the people living in Rumney Marsh (now Chelsea, Massachusetts) needed a minister. These settlers often found it hard to travel to Boston or nearby Lynn for church services. The church members suggested that John Oliver should go to Rumney Marsh to teach and help the community.

John's father, Thomas Oliver, wondered if his son was truly called to this work. However, the church leaders, including Reverend John Wilson, agreed that John Oliver was the right person. John Oliver accepted this important role with humility. He said he was glad everyone agreed and hoped to use his "weak talent" to serve God. He also asked his fellow church members to pray for him as he began this big responsibility.

His Legacy and Passing

John Oliver's life was cut short when he passed away on April 12, 1646. He was only about 30 years old and died from a serious illness. His death was a great loss to the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

John Winthrop, a key figure in the colony, wrote about John Oliver's passing. He described him as a "gracious young man" who was an "expert soldier" and a skilled land surveyor. Winthrop also noted John Oliver's kind personality and his dedication to the community, saying he was "generally beloved and greatly lamented." For a few years before his death, John Oliver had dedicated himself to becoming a minister and was showing great promise.

Another important person, John Hull, also wrote about John Oliver's death. He mentioned that John Oliver had many talents and gifts. He added that his early death saddened many people and was a concern for the future generation.