David Purviance 1766-1847
This man can easily be seen as the father of the early movement in the western area. His importance cannot be understated. He was a fearless and faithful preacher of the gospel in the early days of the nation. Purviance was an outstanding leader in what is commonly called the “New Light” or “Christian Connexion” church.
He was a native of North Carolina, born in 1766. He served with distinction for several terms in the Legislatures of both Kentucky and Ohio. This he did all the while fearlessly proclaiming the good news of our King Jesus. He began his travels by building a home near to the Caneridge church in Kentucky. It was while here that he participated in politics in which he showed the same good sense and ability that he showed throughout his life. He was well informed on every subject and a good, active worker in whatever he chose to do. Other politicians thought him a poor example when he entered their midst because he had been a mere farmer and below their place. Little did they know about this plain looking farmer until he was called into action on whatever the legislators were working on. His humble, plain appearance belied the complexity of his personality. They learned very quickly and soon came to respect this simple, common man who was in their midst.
It was while in Kentucky that he became very close friends with Barton W. Stone and this friendship was maintained wherever he happened to be living at the time, whether Kentucky or Ohio, where his later years were spent. Stone visited his home in Ohio while in his later travels after he had relocated to Illinois. The attachment was maintained after they both became figures in their separate movements. Stone, the Christians of Kentucky and Purviance the Christian Connexion which was seen as separate from the Christians at this time. He labored among the saints whenever he could. He was quick to present the gospel in whatever situation that he happened to be in at the time
He spent his later years in Ohio, having moved there in 1807. His plan was to preach the gospel and to build up the Lord’s church. He cleared the forest and made a farm. Then, he was elected to represent his county in the Ohio Legislature in 1808. He served one year in the House and two in the Senate. After his public service he again became a private figure but he never left his service to the church near his home. He still traveled extensively acting as a traveling evangelist. This was a lifelong pursuit for brother Purviance. When looking at histories of the early restoration movement, David Purviance is seen being here and then there, never ceasing his labors for his Lord. His death occurred on August 19, 1847. He was age 81. His was a full and profitable life spent in the service to his Lord.