William Hosmer facts for kids
William Hosmer (born May 27, 1810 – died July 17, 1889) was an American writer and editor who spoke out against slavery. He was also a Methodist minister.
Early Life and Calling
William Hosmer was born on May 27, 1810, near a town called Brimfield, Massachusetts. His parents were Eleazer and Clara Hosmer. He went to school at the Franklin Academy in Plattsburgh, New York.
In 1831, when he was about 21 years old, William Hosmer joined the Methodist Church as a minister-in-training. Two years later, he officially became a minister.
A Voice for Change
From 1848 to 1856, William Hosmer was the editor of a newspaper called the Northern Christian Advocate. This newspaper was owned by the Methodist Church.
Hosmer strongly believed in the ideas of Wesleyan philosophy, which was a way of thinking within the Methodist Church. While he was editor, he bravely spoke out against two big issues of his time:
- Anti-slavery: This meant he was against slavery and believed it should be ended.
- Temperance: This was a movement that encouraged people to drink less or no alcohol.
Because of his strong opinions, especially about slavery, there were disagreements within the Methodist Church. This led to him being replaced as editor in 1856. After leaving the Northern Christian Advocate, he became the editor of a new newspaper called The Northern Independent. He continued to be an editor there until 1871, when he became ill while giving a speech about temperance. He also wrote many articles for other magazines, like the Methodist Quarterly Review.
Later Life and Legacy
William Hosmer was one of the first people to help start Genesee College in Lima, New York. This college later grew to become Syracuse University, a well-known university today.
He passed away at his home in Auburn, New York, on July 17, 1889.
His Family
William Hosmer married Martha Matilde Gamage. They were married sometime before 1835. Martha was born on October 21, 1813, and passed away on December 21, 1878.
Together, they had six children who grew up:
- John Gamage (1835–1906)
- Julia A. (1837–1916)
- William M. (1839–1921)
- Martha Matilda (1841–1921)
- Clara Elizabeth (1845–1903)
- Mary H. (1852–)
