Caledonia

COBURN, Jonathan

Vermont Historical Magazine, No XI, October 1867, p 382

Jonathan COBURN, was a native of New Hampshire, but spent the most of his 
life in Ryegate [Caledonia County, Vermont], his father having removed to 
Vermont in 1789, when he [Jonathan] was but seven years of age. At the age 
of twenty-four, after a careful examination of the principles of the Reformed 
Presbyterian church, becoming satisfied of their agreeableness to the 
Scriptures, he [Jonathan COBURN] embraced them by public profession in the 
congregation at Ryegate, and continued an upright and exemplary member until 
his death, 03 January 1860. He was a consistent covenanter, who had no 
sympathy with defection. By his death the church sustained a great loss, 
where as an elder he was an active, zealous, and faithful office bearer for 
forty years, exemplary in all his attendance upon the ordinances. He was 
moreover a peacemaker, often instrumental in removing offences and healing 
divisions. A man of comprehensive benevolence, his heart was full of love to 
all, and his hand ready to perform kindness to any of whom he knew as in 
need. He also took a deep and lively interest in the cause of missions, 
Sabbath schools, temperance, and the oppressed Africans in our land. He died 
as he lived. Mr. COBURN left a widow and several children. [Excerpt from a 
section on the history of Ryegate, Vermont.]

Submitted by Cathy Kubly