Stead, Benjamin F

Stead, Benjamin F., D.D., a Presbyterian divine, was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., Feb. 22, 1815. In early life his parents removed with him and five other children to Michigan, where he was left an orphan; but, by a remarkable series of providences, he was led to Brown University, R.I., and then to the New York University, where he graduated in 1841. He became a member of Dr. Skinner's Church and had his attention directed to the ministry. He taught in private families and schools for a period and pursued the study of theology. He was ordained and installed pastor of the Bridesburg Church, Pa., Feb. 22, 1842, and remained in that charge for ten years. In July, 1852, he was called to the pastorate if the Presbyterian Church of Astoria in the vicinity of New York, where he continued to labor with great fidelity and acceptability for twenty-six years, when death closed his service on earth. His last hours were spent in unceasing prayer, and the ruling passion exhibited its strength. At times he was doing pastoral work visiting his people, counseling and comforting, explaining passages of Scripture, and even preaching with unction and power. His death, which occurred Feb. 15, 1879, was exceedingly peaceful and happy. (W.P.S.)