Unitarian clergyman, diarist. He was ordained September 24, 1783, and became pastor of East Church in Salem where he spent the rest of his life. An ardent diarist, he concisely recorded daily events in the seaport ranging from the burgeoning China Trade, maritime construction, national and global politics and how each affected the community, freemasonry, slavery, and numerous other issues of the day. His observations are cited in numerous historical works. He was a friend of Presidents John Adams and James Madison, and once declined Thomas Jefferson's offer to head the University of Virginia while still in the planning stage. A scholar, he spoke several languages, and acquired a personal library of 4,000 books. A strong advocate for public education, he tutored Nathaniel Bowditch, who literally wrote the book on navigation. On spiritual matters he advocated praticing what he preached, advocating relief for the poor and good works. He bequeathed his library to various educational institutions, and portions of it are now held by Harvard and Tufts universities, Allegheny College, American Antiquarian Society and the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem.
Unitarian clergyman, diarist. He was ordained September 24, 1783, and became pastor of East Church in Salem where he spent the rest of his life. An ardent diarist, he concisely recorded daily events in the seaport ranging from the burgeoning China Trade, maritime construction, national and global politics and how each affected the community, freemasonry, slavery, and numerous other issues of the day. His observations are cited in numerous historical works. He was a friend of Presidents John Adams and James Madison, and once declined Thomas Jefferson's offer to head the University of Virginia while still in the planning stage. A scholar, he spoke several languages, and acquired a personal library of 4,000 books. A strong advocate for public education, he tutored Nathaniel Bowditch, who literally wrote the book on navigation. On spiritual matters he advocated praticing what he preached, advocating relief for the poor and good works. He bequeathed his library to various educational institutions, and portions of it are now held by Harvard and Tufts universities, Allegheny College, American Antiquarian Society and the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem.
Bio by: Bob on Gallows Hill
Inscription
Wm. Bentley S.T.D.
born at Boston
June 22, 1759
ordained
Sept. 24, 1783
died
Dec. 29, 1819.
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Erected by the Second
Religious Society
in Salem,
In memory of
their minister
----
The rational Christian,
Faithful Pastor,
Ardent Patriot
and learned
Scholar
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