Letter from Rev. John Day
The following from brother Day was written in the beginning of the year:
ASSOCIATIONAL MEETING
Since writing by Mr. Sherman, I attended an association at Junk; was in tremendous rain,
much exposed, and much fatigued. - The consequence was a severe illness after my return home.
The association was quite interesting; the spirit of the Lord was with his people, and
some sinner evinced a knocking at the door; and some even arose to open.
Another church newly organized, was received into the association. Mr. Harden was
ordained, &c. However, Mr. Cheeseman will write of all these things.
CENSUS OF BASSA COUNTY
As regards the census of Bassa, it has not been taken for ten years or more correctly. The
number of inhabitants of the county has been estimated at 2000. That is I think over the mark. I
should estimated the number as follows: Bexley, 300; Edina, 400; Bassa Cove, including Fish
Town, 600; making of colonists, 1300. The extent of this county is from Junk to Mannia rivers
coast, with say 100 miles. Interior indefinite.
NATIVE TOWNS
Within five miles of Bexley there are many little native towns, containing from ten to
fifty inhabitants. There are no large towns within that distance of Bexley. A town is
accumulating under Mr. Vonbrum, of the Northern Mission, who is a Bassa, likely to be the
largest within five miles. To keep them together, he allows them to indulge in their country
habits. On my own land is a Christian village of say 30 inhabitants. They are a quiet set, who
regularly attend divine worship night and morning. To see them in their attendance, you would
suppose them Christians. They solemnly attend the reading of the Word; and kneel reverently in
prayer. And when at my house at prayer time, rush in and behave as well as my own boys.
Their head man wishes to call himself John Day. He is one of brother Benjamin Harris’
people, whom he allowed to join the Northern church, where he still retains membership.
Although under my protection and on my land, I fear to let him know that there is any difference.
His people come to my church, and his children to my school. He very often carries his people
along with him to the other church, knowing only that I like to see him attend church.
BASSA PEOPLE
Our river is navigable about six miles above Bexley, and although there are no towns
which are immediately on the river of any magnitude, yet there are some two or three within say
two miles of the fall, which might easily be reached in the dries.
