Matthews, John

Matthews, John a Presbyterian minister, was born in Beaver Co., Pa., Feb. 7, 1778. He enjoyed the advantages of a good parental training, graduated at Jefferson College, Canonsburg, Pa., in 1807, and studied theology under Rev. Dr. John McMillan. He was licensed in 1809, and in 1810 ordained pastor of Gravel Run and Waterford churches; in 1817 he became an itinerating missionary, and took charge of the Church at Louisiana, Pike Co., Mo., where he continued itinerating, especially among the destitute of that vicinity, until 1825. when he settled at Apple Creek Church, in Cape Girardeau Co., Mo.; in 1827 he took charge of the Church at Kaskaskia, Ill., thence went to Missouri, where he labored till his health failed, and then removed to Georgetown, Ill., where he died, May 12,1861. Mr. Matthews was characterized by a cheerful and warm-hearted disposition. As a pastor he was faithful and zealous; as a friend, kind and affectionate. See Wilson, Presb. Hist, Almanac, 1862, p. 102.