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Morse, Asahel

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a minister of the Baptist Church in America, who distinguished himself in the Revolutionary period of this country's history, was born in the north parish of New London, now called Montville, Connecticut, November 10, 1771. He received his early educational training from his father, Joshua Morse, also a minister, who preached in the vicinity where Asahel was born until death cut short his ministrations in 1795. At nineteen Asahel had progressed sufficiently in his studies to teach country schools and earn sufficient to defray the expenses of his education at more advanced institutions of learning. In 1782 he was converted, and decided to enter the ministry, feeling himself specially called to the work. He preached a while near his own home, then labored in Winsted. In 1802 the Baptist church in Stratfield, Connecticut, called him as their pastor, and he removed thither in 1803. In 1807 he accepted an appointment as missionary to the Upper Canada Indians, and while in this position endured many hardships. He was faithful to his task, and made converts not only among the Indians, but also among the white people of that region, and greatly strengthened his denomination there. In 1810 he was invited and went to preach at Suffield, Conn., one of the best Baptist churches in New England. But Mr. Morse by no means confined his labors to this church. He went much about the country, and everywhere endeavored to encourage religious life and to secure followers for the Baptist society. In 1832 he became pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Colebrook, Connecticut. In 1836 he returned to Suffield, and there died, June 10, 1838. During his illness he manifested the utmost confidence in the doctrines he had preached, and frequently said that he relied upon Christ for salvation. See Baptist Memorial, 3 (1844), 234 sq., 272 sq., 293 sq.