William Atherton (minister) facts for kids

William Atherton (1775–1850) was an important Methodist minister. He was also an early Methodist local preacher, which means he helped lead church services.

Quick facts for kids William Atherton
Portrait of Rev. William Atherton by William Thomas Fry
President of the Methodist Conference
In office 1846–1847
Preceded by	Jacob Stanley
Succeeded by	Samuel Jackson
Personal details
Born	1775 Lamberhead Green
Died	1850
Nationality	English
Occupation	Wesleyan minister
Known for	Insecurity of Life

Early Life

William Atherton was born in 1775. His birthplace was Lamberhead Green, a place near Wigan in Lancashire, England.

His Career as a Minister

In 1796, when he was 21, Atherton became a Wesleyan minister. He started his work in the Grimsby & Cleethorpes Methodist circuit. He followed the teachings of John Wesley, George Whitefield, and Charles Wesley. These men were the founders of the Methodist movement.

Atherton was known for his fresh and original way of preaching. This made him one of England's most famous preachers. He was very well-known in the first half of the 1800s.

Focus on Education

In 1832, there was a new interest in education. This happened after the extension of voting rights. The Methodist Conference asked Atherton and two other ministers to study Methodist schools.

They found that the church needed to improve its education system. At that time, there were many Sunday schools. They had over 340,000 students. Atherton and his colleagues suggested adding day-schools. These schools would have teachers trained to a high level.

Later Years and Leadership

In 1835, Atherton was a preacher in Bath, Somerset. By 1841, he was living in Newington, which is now part of London.

Atherton worked for the Wesleyan Conference for over 50 years. In 1846, he was chosen to be the president of this important assembly. He served as president for one year.

After living in London for some years, Atherton moved to Wakefield in 1849. He became the superintendent of the Wakefield circuit. He was also the chairman of the Leeds district. He held these positions until he passed away.

William Atherton died on September 26, 1850. He was 74 years old.

What He Wrote

Atherton wrote several books and sermons. One of his famous works was a sermon called 'Insecurity of Life' from 1818. He also published a shorter version of the 'Life of Lady Maxwell' in 1838. In 1839, he wrote an 'Address on the Character, Agencies, and Religious Effectiveness of Wesleyan Methodism.'

The 'Life of Lady Maxwell' was about Darcy Maxwell. She was also known as Lady Maxwell of Pollok (1743–1810). She was a British follower of Methodism. She was also known for her charity work.

His Family

In 1803, William Atherton married Margaret. She was the daughter of Rev. Walter Morison. He was a minister in the Church of Scotland.

William Atherton's son became a well-known politician. His name was Sir William Atherton.