St. George\'s Church Philadelphia Rev. A.J. Arkin Pamphlet History 1856 For Sale

This item is a historical pamphlet or book titled “St. George’s Church: A Record Of The Pastorate Of Rev. A. J. Arkin,” concerning the Protestant Episcopal church located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The handwritten notation “Phila - Churches -” on the cover confirms the Philadelphia provenance, while “Dup” suggests this copy may be a duplicate from a collection or archive. The document provides a detailed history of St. George’s P. E. Church, including its founding in 1856 by John Totty, with early meetings in the northeastern part of the city, specifically at a location referred to as “Venango.” The text references different chapels and missions associated with the church, offering a comprehensive view of its institutional growth.The biographical sketch of Rev. Dr. A. J. Arkin is particularly noteworthy for its rich historical context. The text details his early career as a telegraph operator and railway station agent, his study of stenography, and his education at the University of Minnesota. It describes his deep involvement in the labor movement, including his membership in the Order of Railroad Telegraphers and his association with the prominent socialist leader Eugene V. Debs. The sketch notes his role as private secretary to the Grand Chief of the O. R. T., his work in Chicago publishing a weekly labor paper and practicing law, and his subsequent move to Butte, Montana. The narrative traces his spiritual journey from initially “despising organized Christianity” to becoming a Sunday school teacher and eventually a rector, highlighting a significant personal and ideological transformation. The text also mentions a friend, Slator Clay Blakiston. This biographical information situates Rev. Arkin at the intersection of the American labor movement and religious life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.The pamphlet includes a black and white portrait photograph of Rev. Dr. A. J. Arkin, showing him as a middle-aged man in a clerical collar. The paper shows typical age-related discoloration and a slight crease on the left side of the cover, consistent with a vintage document. The interior pages appear well-preserved with clear text. This item serves as a record of both a specific Philadelphia church and the unique pastoral career of a man who moved from labor activism to the clergy.