[Rev. John Saunders]

Rev. JOHN SAUNDERS

(1806-1859) ( Baptist )

Born on 7 October 1806 at London, England. Originally intended to become a solicitor but at age 19 began studies for missionary work. Educated at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. Ordained into the Baptist ministry. Minister at Shacklewell, Stoke Newington, London. Arrived at Sydney, New South Wales, in December 1834 with his wife Elizabeth per "George Hibbert". Acted as chaplain to the female emigrants and convicts on board en route. Held services in Sydney at various places before becoming attached to the newly constructed Bathurst Street Chapel in 1836. May have visited Melbourne in 1844. Arrived at Melbourne on 22 April 1845 per "Christina" from Sydney with his wife. Was at the laying of the foundation stone of Melbourne's first Baptist Church on 21 May 1845. Described as a most eloquent preacher. Departed for Launceston in July 1845. Actively campaigned for an end to transportation and for temperance. Returned to England for health reasons, departing Sydney in January 1848 per "Penyard Park" for London. Acted as a solicitor and pastor in the London area. Died on 1 May 1859 at 7 St. James Road, Holloway, Middlesex, England. Buried on 7 May 1859 in Highgate Cemetery, London, England.

[McCombie History of the Colony of Victoria; Heads of the People (Vol. 2); Australian Dictionary of Biography (Vol. 2); Prior Some Fell on Good Ground]

Image Source: Baptist History Australia Website

Death of the Rev. Gilbert Turnbull - 1839

Parramatta Bible, Tract, and Religious Book Society - 1843

Anniversary Meeting of the Port Phillip Bible Society - 1845

Laying of Foundation Stone of Melbourne Baptist Chapel - 1845

Departure of Rev. John Saunders for England - 1847

Death of Rev. John Saunders - 1859

The Baptists - Early Records - 1911

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