Bowstead, John

Bowstead, John an English minister of the Society of Friends, was born near Carlisle in 1659. He was converted when young, and in early manhood "received a gift of the ministry." He labored in all parts of England, also in Scotland and Ireland, holding meetings not only among Friends, but among others, as Providence seemed to open the way, and the blessing of the Spirit of God came to many through his preaching. He did not escape the persecutions of his times, being frequently deprived of his goods because he would not pay tithes. He died in 1716. See Piety Promoted, 2, 160, 161. (J.C.S.)