|
Ravenstonedale
Church
Dec. 10.
Mr. URBAN,
RAVENSTONEDALE Church, Westmoreland, (fig. 5.) was
rebuilt in 1745. The following is part of a monumental
inscription in this edifice: "Sacred to the memory of George
Fothergill, D.D. and principal of St. Edmund's Hall in
Oxford, where he lies interred, who departed this life Oct.
5, 1760, aged 54. He was a person of great parts and
learning, and of most exemplary piety and virtue, which made
his death greatly lamented." Dr. George Fothergill was the
son of a very respectable yeoman of this parish; and his
brother, Thomas Fothergill, was many years provost of
Queen's college in Oxford, and died in 1796.
In this church is also the following inscription
"To the memory of Anthony Fothergill, / late of Brownber, /
whose natural talents, and acquired knowledge, / rendered
his character truly respectable. Though placed in a humble
station, / he distinguished himself by a firm adherence / to
the cause of Truth, Liberty, and rational Religion. / His
integrity of heart, / social disposition, / and uncommon
abilities, / gained him general esteem. / He departed this
(his chequered) life / June 13, 1761, aged 75"
Mr. Anthony Fothergill published a work, entitled "Wicked
Christians practical Atheists." From the inscription to his
memory it might be inferred, that he had imbibed Deistical
notions. It is evident however from his writings, that his
disbelief of Christianity proceeded no further than a
renunciation of the doctrines of original sin.
CLERICUS WESTMORIENSIS
|