Last Month’s Program

January 6, 2024

Issues in Writing Historical Biography; the case of P. W. Philpott
Presented by Dr. David Elliott

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Synopsis: 
With deep genealogical roots in South Western Ontario, Peter W. Philpott, being a grandson of Peter McGregor, London’s first white resident, he made his mark on religious life in Ontario and across the United States. Author David R. Elliott’s new book, From Anvil to Pulpit: the Spiritual Journey of P.W. Philpott, explores Philpott’s history, his ideas, and the ethical conflicts he encountered, starting when he joined the newly formed Salvation Army when he was 18 and was working as an apprentice blacksmith in Dresden. The Salvation Army had its first public meeting in Canada in Victoria Park in London in 1873 and on two different periods of time Philpott was in charge of its London operations.

After Philpott broke with the Salvation Army in 1892 he ministered in Toronto and Hamilton before moving on to Chicago and Los Angeles. Besides dealing with his life in Christian ministry, the book explores the dynamics of his married and family life. Philpott’s twelve surviving children became prominent in journalism, social service, and business. One son became a Member of Parliament and another was the Dean of Medicine at McGill and president of the American College of Surgeons.
Bio:
Dr. Elliott brings to this study a background with degrees in archaeology, history and theology. As a retired professor of history, he operates Kinfolk Finders, a genealogical company specializing in Irish research, and also provides interim ministry for local Presbyterian Churches.

Research for this book took Dr. Elliott across Canada, and to Charlotte, N.C., Dallas, Los Angeles, and greater Chicago. He will be discussing his use and evaluation of sources: family memoirs, diaries, official and family correspondence, news stories, legal documents, his published books, articles and sermons, tape and video recordings, along with interviews.