Toponymie | Canton de Potton | Place Names

The Baptist community in Potton has a long history.  The early settlers brought both possessions and their faith, which sustained these courageous and determined folks. 

“The first schoolhouse in Potton was erected at Meigs' Corners in 1809.^[1]”  It was the practice of the time to use buildings such as schools, however modest, for “meetings”, worship and bible study.  “In 1826, Gardner Bartlett, a young Baptist student, came to Potton to teach the High School, established in 1825 (also at Meigs' Corner) (…)  This school continued for about six years.”^[2]

In 1837, the ladies of the Female Benevolent Society built a chapel at Meigs' Corner (on Miltimore Road).  It was used as a “meeting house”, meaning by whatever faith group fortunate enough to have visiting clergy.  The Methodists and Baptists were the most common denominations.

At some point, the Baptist congregation erected or purchased a building that was on the site of the present St. Paul's Anglican Church on Main Street, in Mansonville.  Plate # 122 of Potton d'antan, Yesterdays of Potton shows a picture of this building.  In 1856, the Anglican community purchased the Baptist building and land, and replaced it with a new brick building.  (Plate # 123)  Some time after this, the Baptist community was given or bought land to the north of the building on which they have built their present Church (Plate # 125).  It seems that the Church community also purchased land for a manse, or preacher's residence, however history is unclear on its location and if it was used as such. 

The History of Mansonville Baptist Church, a modest handwritten document, records various events in the life of the Church until 1933, from which the following is extracted: “The Mansonville Baptist Church was built from 1890 until 1899.  The Baptist United Working Society was organized to build a place of divine worship and so far they have succeeded with God's help, (…) that now in 1899 we have a noble little edifice, free of debt. (…)  We are a working Society because we determine to do with our might what our hands find to do. ”

The affairs of the first year were conducted by: Mrs. Charles Bedard, Mrs. J.W. Blanchard, Mrs. F. L. Jersey, and Mrs. A.C. White.

From the same document, this entry dated October 14, 1910:

“The Ladies Aid held a chicken pie supper at Fred Jersey's.  There was a crowd out.  Everyone took right hold and made it a success.  Everything was going fine when Fred was helping to get a horse out and got kicked.  At first it was thought serious, but Dr. Henderson arrived and after taking a few stitches in his face said he'd be alright in a few days.  There was a collection taken among his friends to pay the Dr. $1.50, which he gave to the Society, for which we thanked him very much and also sent his wife a supper.  The proceeds of this supper was $16.00.  There were 84 present.”^[3]   

Since the first pioneer settled in this Township, bringing with him meagre possessions to forge a new life for his family, faith groups, such as the Baptists and Methodists, have been a strong influence of community.  Mansonville Baptist Church community has an active and popular Youth Group that undoubtedly fosters fellowship and learning in a solid community of faith.

The Baptist Church building, according to the evaluation of Claude Bergeron, has strong heritage value.  The classification takes into account only heritage value and leaves aside the authenticity of construction.