Chaplain's Files, 1843-1977

Includes journals and correspondence related to the missionary activity of SCI’s chaplains, including Rev. Benjamin C. C. Parker, who served as Chaplain of the first Floating Church of Our Saviour from 1843-1859. Also included is a manuscript version of Rev. Archibald R. Mansfield 1897 Report of the East River Station from his time serving as Chaplain at that post.

Of particular significance are the six manuscript journals kept by Rev. Parker documenting his experiences serving as Chaplain of the Floating Chapel of Our Saviour. Entry topics include the 1844 construction of SCI’s first floating chapel, the Floating Church of Our Saviour, on the waterfront at Pike Street, the weekly open-air services held for seafarers at Coenties Slip and the efforts of SCI’s Reverends to draw seamen away from the grog shops and toward Christian services and reading rooms.