Rev. Canon E. H. Massey Baker, Former Rector at Bath, Honorary Assistant of St. James 1897-1908
Guelph, Ontario Public Library: History of St. James Church, Guelph
The Sixth Child of George W. Baker & Ann Cole:
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was born February 8, 1827 in Swaffham, Norfolk, England and died April 10, 1908 in Guelph, Ontario. He married Caroline Helen Bridget Rolph of Amherstberg, Ontario in Ottawa on June 3, 1857. Caroline's father was Reverend Romaine Rolph, born May 7, 1794 at Thornbury, England, and who came to Canada when he was quite young. He received his education through Bishop John Strachan in York, and was ordained in Holy Orders as Deacon on October 10, 1819; Priest on Oct. 21, 1821; was the first missionary at Sandwich, Essex County; was Rector of Amherstburgh and afterwards of Queenston, Lincoln County. Caroline's mother was Margaret Stanton, who married her father April 22, 1823. Rev. Romaine Rolph died January 18, 1868 at Queenston, Ontario.
Reverend Romaine Rolph married first Margaret Stanton, and secondly Eliza Ann Brown, eldest daughter of Major Adam Brown. Eliza was born February 12, 1814 and died May 13, 1884. Rev. Romaine Rolph was married to Eliza Ann Brown on June 20, 1850. He was aged 56, and she was aged 36. They are buried at St. Mark's Church, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. Also, their daughther Mary Regina Henrietta Rolph was born July 30, 1856, and died at Queenston on March 13, 1872.
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried Greenwood Cemetery in Brantford, Brant County, Ontario. The children of Edward and Caroline were: George William Stanton, born in 1859, died of typhoid fever in 1897; Godfrey Hugh Massey, born May 4, 1860 in Carleton Place, Canada West; Caroline Helen, born August 24, 1861 in Carleton Place; Sidney Code Doan, born February 26, 1864; Charles Herbert, born February 13, 1867 in Hillier, Canada West; Frederick Keble, born December 15, 1868, Hillier; and Edward Shenton, born May 13, 1876 in Tyendinaga, Ontario.
On the 1881 Census of Canada, for Tyendinaga, Hastings East, Ontario, Canada, E.H.M Baker, occupation clergyman, is 54 years old, origin Irish. Caroline Baker is 48, origin English. The children are: Willie, age 22; Massey, age 21; Caroline, age 18; Sidney, age 16, Charles, age 14, Frederick, age 12; and Shenton, age 5. All belong to the Church of England. All the children were born in Ontario.
The 1901 census reveals that the family was living at Puslinch in Wellington County, Ontario. Edward Hammond Massey Baker gave his birthdate as February 8, 1825, aged 76, born in England, came to Canada in 1832. His wife, Helen was born September 20 1835, aged 65. Also living in the household was son, Sidney C. D., aged 36, born February 26, 1865, occupation farmer, and son, Edward S., aged 24, born May 13, 1876, occupation farmer. A domestic named Henry Wyler lived with the family also.
Edward attended the General Theological Seminary in New York. He was ordained a deacon July 3, 1853 at the Trinity Church, in New York and ordained a priest on January 14, 1855 in Burlington, New Jersey. His appointments were: 1853 to 1855, St. Mark's in Philadelphia, where he was curate; 1855 to 1859, Pembroke, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1859 to 1863, Carleton Place, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1863 to 1865, Stirling, Canada West, where he was missionary; 1865 to 1870, Hillier, Ontario, where he was missionary; 1870 to 1876, Carrying Place (Ameliasburg), Ontario, where he was rector; 1876 to 1885, Tyendinaga, Ontario, where he was incumbent; 1885 to 1887, Bearbrook, Ontario, where he was rector; and 1887 to 1897, Bath, Ontario, where he was rector. He was Rural Dean of Hastings and Prince Edward, Diocese of Ontario, from 1879 to 1887; Rural Dean of Lennox and Addington, Diocese of Ontario, from 1887 to 1897; Honorary Canon of St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, from 1898 to 1908. His official retirement was in 1897.
Obituary of Edward Hammond Massey Baker
The Evening Mercury, Friday, April 10, 1908
The Sad Death of Rev. Canon Baker
A venerable patriarch of the Anglican Church Clergy, one of those few remaining personages who link with the past the present history of the Church of England, passed away at an early hour this morning, in the person of Reverend Canon Baker. Death occurred at the residence of his sons, Messrs. Baker Brothers, of Puslinch, with whom the deceased has resided for some time past. They reside on the old Anderson farm in the vicinity of Gourock.
Ordained in Philadelphia in 1853, the late Canon Baker had spent 55 years in the service of the Lord. The first charge of the young clergyman, after entering the service of the church was in the county of Renfrew along the Ottawa River. In those days that section of country was wild and unsettled, and the trials and tribulations of the young minister were many. In all these early days, he displayed a splendid spirit in his work, which did not go altogether unrewarded in later years; for eleven years ago the minister who thus first went through those unknown sections of the country, was made a Canon of the Church of England, a high and deserved honor.
During his long life in the church Canon Baker had charge of a large number of parishes in the different parts of the country, until about ten years, when with increasing age, he was unable to continue the duties connected with his last charge at Bath. He consequently retired. A short time later he left Bath, and came to this city with his wife to spend the remaining days here with his sons who had come to the vicinity a short time before, and who now conduct a well known stock farm in Puslinch.
Besides these two sons, Edward and Sidney, the deceased clergyman is survived by his aged wife, and by three other sons, Massey of Lindsay; F.K. Baker of this city; and Charles of McLeod, Alta.; and one daughter, Mrs. Roberts of Brantford. In their sad bereavement they have the deep sympathy of the citizens of this city generally, and especially those who are connected with St. James Church. Since coming to this vicinity, Canon Baker has been connected with the latter congregation, and, until failing health prevented, took part regularly in the services each Sunday.
Swaffham, England, was the birthplace of the late Canon, and there he spent his boyhood. His father was the late Capt. Baker of the British Army, who was given the appointment of postmaster of Bytown by the British Government.
The deceased clergyman was indeed a grand old man, and he quickly became the intimate friend of all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. A firm believer in the book of God and in the laws of the church, which he so long served, he was of a kindly disposition, and it was with a feeling of general regret that the news of his death was today received throughout the city.
The married life of the late Canon and his beloved wife has been an unusually long and a particularly happy one, and it is only a few months ago that the family was happily reunited to mark the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding day.
The Guelph Daily Mercury also reported, "Funeral of the Late Canon Baker. Arrangements have been made for the funeral of the late Canon Baker, which will take place on Monday morning from the residence of his son, Mr. F. K. Baker, Suffolk Street, to Brantford, where interment will take place on the arrival of the morning train. A special service will be conducted at St. James Church."
The Evening Mercury, Monday, April 13, 1908
Funeral Services Were Impressive
It was indeed a solemn and impressive service that was celebrated at St. James Church this morning in honor of the late Canon Baker before the remains were taken to Brantford, where interment took place.
There was a full surpliced choir of about forty members, and the church was filled with the friends of the deceased and members of the church. Amongst those present could be noticed a very large number of the older members of the congregation who came to pay their last respects to one who had been both a friend and pastor during the time he had been connected with the church.
The prominent position which the deceased held in the church, to which he had devoted his life's service, was also shown by the prominent members of the clergy who were present at the service from outside places, although the attendance was interfered with on account of the special services which are being held throughout the Anglican Church during the present week.
The church was decorated most fittingly for the occasion with palms and roses and lilies on the altar, while the channel was draped with purple in accordance with the wish of the deceased.
The body was carried into the church by the four sons of the deceased, the honorary pall bearers being Revs. Ashbury, Bolt, Davidson, Buckland, Dr. Bethune, and Canon Henderson.
While the procession was entering the church and proceeding up the aisle to the chancel, Rev. Canon Fornier, of Kingston, read the sentences. The 90th Psalm was chanted by the choir and the lesson read by Rev. G. F. Davidson from 1st Cor. 15; and 20 verse.
Prayers were offered by Rev. A. J. Belt of Milton, a former rector of the church, followed by a hymn, "Now the Laborer's Task is O'er". The choral celebration of the Holy Communion followed: Celebrant Rev. C. H. Buckland, Rev. Canon Fornier read the gospel followed by Hymn 477, "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended". While the people were receiving the communion, Hymn Number 537 "Peace, Perfect Peace" was sung. There were a large number of relatives from a distance present at the ceremony besides those living in the city.
Report of the Committee on Deceased Members, 1908:
The Committee on Deceased Members begs to report as follows: Rev. E. H. M. Baker
The Rev. E. H. M. Baker was born in Swaffham, near Norwich, in the county of Norfolk, England and in 1832 came to Canada with his parents. He was educated in the General Theological Seminary of New York, and in 1854 was ordained deacon by Bishop Wainwright in Trinity Church, New York, and was appointed assistant curate of St. Mark's Church, Philadelphia. In 1855 he was raised to the priesthood in Burlington, N.J., by the Right Rev. Bishop G. W. Doane. Shortly after he returned to his old home in Bytown (now Ottawa), and offered his services to the Right Rev. Dr. Strachan, sole bishop in the province, who gladly accepted them and appointed him to do missionary work in the county of Renfrew. Indeed that county was his mission district, and in those days a missionary's life was full of hardships and dangers. There were few bridges or highways, settlements had to be reached on horseback, and there were streams to be crossed as best might be, and settlers' log shanties afforded but the poorest accommodation and fare for a clerical visitor. However, Mr. Baker toiled on in these wilds, with Pembroke for his headquarters for five years. In 1863 the Diocese of Ontario was formed and Canon Baker was appointed to Carleton Place. Subsequently he was appointed successively to Hillier, Stirling, and Tyendinaga in which last charge he remained for ten years, and for a time extended his labors to Deseronto. His final charge in the diocese was Bath, where in 1887 he entered on his duties as rector of St. John's Church, the second oldest church in Canada. At or about this time, the bishop appointed Mr. Baker to be rural dean of Lennox and Addington. As rector of Bath, Canon Baker labored with zeal for the last ten years of his active ministry, and at his retirement, the bishop appointed him to be an honorary canon in St. George's Cathedral. In 1898 Canon Baker resigned his parish and moved to Springfield Farm, near Guelph, Ontario, where with his wife and two of his sons he made his home until his death. He breathed his last on Friday, April 10, 1908 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Guelph.
While Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Brantford, Ontario, a monument was erected in his memory in Woodlawn Cemetery, Guelph. Several family members are interred near the monument, in Block O of the cemetery.
Section O-17-30
Seems he had two memorials, Cenotaph is in Woodlawn
Guelph, Ontario Public Library: History of St. James Church, Guelph
The Sixth Child of George W. Baker & Ann Cole:
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was born February 8, 1827 in Swaffham, Norfolk, England and died April 10, 1908 in Guelph, Ontario. He married Caroline Helen Bridget Rolph of Amherstberg, Ontario in Ottawa on June 3, 1857. Caroline's father was Reverend Romaine Rolph, born May 7, 1794 at Thornbury, England, and who came to Canada when he was quite young. He received his education through Bishop John Strachan in York, and was ordained in Holy Orders as Deacon on October 10, 1819; Priest on Oct. 21, 1821; was the first missionary at Sandwich, Essex County; was Rector of Amherstburgh and afterwards of Queenston, Lincoln County. Caroline's mother was Margaret Stanton, who married her father April 22, 1823. Rev. Romaine Rolph died January 18, 1868 at Queenston, Ontario.
Reverend Romaine Rolph married first Margaret Stanton, and secondly Eliza Ann Brown, eldest daughter of Major Adam Brown. Eliza was born February 12, 1814 and died May 13, 1884. Rev. Romaine Rolph was married to Eliza Ann Brown on June 20, 1850. He was aged 56, and she was aged 36. They are buried at St. Mark's Church, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. Also, their daughther Mary Regina Henrietta Rolph was born July 30, 1856, and died at Queenston on March 13, 1872.
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried Greenwood Cemetery in Brantford, Brant County, Ontario. The children of Edward and Caroline were: George William Stanton, born in 1859, died of typhoid fever in 1897; Godfrey Hugh Massey, born May 4, 1860 in Carleton Place, Canada West; Caroline Helen, born August 24, 1861 in Carleton Place; Sidney Code Doan, born February 26, 1864; Charles Herbert, born February 13, 1867 in Hillier, Canada West; Frederick Keble, born December 15, 1868, Hillier; and Edward Shenton, born May 13, 1876 in Tyendinaga, Ontario.
On the 1881 Census of Canada, for Tyendinaga, Hastings East, Ontario, Canada, E.H.M Baker, occupation clergyman, is 54 years old, origin Irish. Caroline Baker is 48, origin English. The children are: Willie, age 22; Massey, age 21; Caroline, age 18; Sidney, age 16, Charles, age 14, Frederick, age 12; and Shenton, age 5. All belong to the Church of England. All the children were born in Ontario.
The 1901 census reveals that the family was living at Puslinch in Wellington County, Ontario. Edward Hammond Massey Baker gave his birthdate as February 8, 1825, aged 76, born in England, came to Canada in 1832. His wife, Helen was born September 20 1835, aged 65. Also living in the household was son, Sidney C. D., aged 36, born February 26, 1865, occupation farmer, and son, Edward S., aged 24, born May 13, 1876, occupation farmer. A domestic named Henry Wyler lived with the family also.
Edward attended the General Theological Seminary in New York. He was ordained a deacon July 3, 1853 at the Trinity Church, in New York and ordained a priest on January 14, 1855 in Burlington, New Jersey. His appointments were: 1853 to 1855, St. Mark's in Philadelphia, where he was curate; 1855 to 1859, Pembroke, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1859 to 1863, Carleton Place, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1863 to 1865, Stirling, Canada West, where he was missionary; 1865 to 1870, Hillier, Ontario, where he was missionary; 1870 to 1876, Carrying Place (Ameliasburg), Ontario, where he was rector; 1876 to 1885, Tyendinaga, Ontario, where he was incumbent; 1885 to 1887, Bearbrook, Ontario, where he was rector; and 1887 to 1897, Bath, Ontario, where he was rector. He was Rural Dean of Hastings and Prince Edward, Diocese of Ontario, from 1879 to 1887; Rural Dean of Lennox and Addington, Diocese of Ontario, from 1887 to 1897; Honorary Canon of St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, from 1898 to 1908. His official retirement was in 1897.
Obituary of Edward Hammond Massey Baker
The Evening Mercury, Friday, April 10, 1908
The Sad Death of Rev. Canon Baker
A venerable patriarch of the Anglican Church Clergy, one of those few remaining personages who link with the past the present history of the Church of England, passed away at an early hour this morning, in the person of Reverend Canon Baker. Death occurred at the residence of his sons, Messrs. Baker Brothers, of Puslinch, with whom the deceased has resided for some time past. They reside on the old Anderson farm in the vicinity of Gourock.
Ordained in Philadelphia in 1853, the late Canon Baker had spent 55 years in the service of the Lord. The first charge of the young clergyman, after entering the service of the church was in the county of Renfrew along the Ottawa River. In those days that section of country was wild and unsettled, and the trials and tribulations of the young minister were many. In all these early days, he displayed a splendid spirit in his work, which did not go altogether unrewarded in later years; for eleven years ago the minister who thus first went through those unknown sections of the country, was made a Canon of the Church of England, a high and deserved honor.
During his long life in the church Canon Baker had charge of a large number of parishes in the different parts of the country, until about ten years, when with increasing age, he was unable to continue the duties connected with his last charge at Bath. He consequently retired. A short time later he left Bath, and came to this city with his wife to spend the remaining days here with his sons who had come to the vicinity a short time before, and who now conduct a well known stock farm in Puslinch.
Besides these two sons, Edward and Sidney, the deceased clergyman is survived by his aged wife, and by three other sons, Massey of Lindsay; F.K. Baker of this city; and Charles of McLeod, Alta.; and one daughter, Mrs. Roberts of Brantford. In their sad bereavement they have the deep sympathy of the citizens of this city generally, and especially those who are connected with St. James Church. Since coming to this vicinity, Canon Baker has been connected with the latter congregation, and, until failing health prevented, took part regularly in the services each Sunday.
Swaffham, England, was the birthplace of the late Canon, and there he spent his boyhood. His father was the late Capt. Baker of the British Army, who was given the appointment of postmaster of Bytown by the British Government.
The deceased clergyman was indeed a grand old man, and he quickly became the intimate friend of all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. A firm believer in the book of God and in the laws of the church, which he so long served, he was of a kindly disposition, and it was with a feeling of general regret that the news of his death was today received throughout the city.
The married life of the late Canon and his beloved wife has been an unusually long and a particularly happy one, and it is only a few months ago that the family was happily reunited to mark the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding day.
The Guelph Daily Mercury also reported, "Funeral of the Late Canon Baker. Arrangements have been made for the funeral of the late Canon Baker, which will take place on Monday morning from the residence of his son, Mr. F. K. Baker, Suffolk Street, to Brantford, where interment will take place on the arrival of the morning train. A special service will be conducted at St. James Church."
The Evening Mercury, Monday, April 13, 1908
Funeral Services Were Impressive
It was indeed a solemn and impressive service that was celebrated at St. James Church this morning in honor of the late Canon Baker before the remains were taken to Brantford, where interment took place.
There was a full surpliced choir of about forty members, and the church was filled with the friends of the deceased and members of the church. Amongst those present could be noticed a very large number of the older members of the congregation who came to pay their last respects to one who had been both a friend and pastor during the time he had been connected with the church.
The prominent position which the deceased held in the church, to which he had devoted his life's service, was also shown by the prominent members of the clergy who were present at the service from outside places, although the attendance was interfered with on account of the special services which are being held throughout the Anglican Church during the present week.
The church was decorated most fittingly for the occasion with palms and roses and lilies on the altar, while the channel was draped with purple in accordance with the wish of the deceased.
The body was carried into the church by the four sons of the deceased, the honorary pall bearers being Revs. Ashbury, Bolt, Davidson, Buckland, Dr. Bethune, and Canon Henderson.
While the procession was entering the church and proceeding up the aisle to the chancel, Rev. Canon Fornier, of Kingston, read the sentences. The 90th Psalm was chanted by the choir and the lesson read by Rev. G. F. Davidson from 1st Cor. 15; and 20 verse.
Prayers were offered by Rev. A. J. Belt of Milton, a former rector of the church, followed by a hymn, "Now the Laborer's Task is O'er". The choral celebration of the Holy Communion followed: Celebrant Rev. C. H. Buckland, Rev. Canon Fornier read the gospel followed by Hymn 477, "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended". While the people were receiving the communion, Hymn Number 537 "Peace, Perfect Peace" was sung. There were a large number of relatives from a distance present at the ceremony besides those living in the city.
Report of the Committee on Deceased Members, 1908:
The Committee on Deceased Members begs to report as follows: Rev. E. H. M. Baker
The Rev. E. H. M. Baker was born in Swaffham, near Norwich, in the county of Norfolk, England and in 1832 came to Canada with his parents. He was educated in the General Theological Seminary of New York, and in 1854 was ordained deacon by Bishop Wainwright in Trinity Church, New York, and was appointed assistant curate of St. Mark's Church, Philadelphia. In 1855 he was raised to the priesthood in Burlington, N.J., by the Right Rev. Bishop G. W. Doane. Shortly after he returned to his old home in Bytown (now Ottawa), and offered his services to the Right Rev. Dr. Strachan, sole bishop in the province, who gladly accepted them and appointed him to do missionary work in the county of Renfrew. Indeed that county was his mission district, and in those days a missionary's life was full of hardships and dangers. There were few bridges or highways, settlements had to be reached on horseback, and there were streams to be crossed as best might be, and settlers' log shanties afforded but the poorest accommodation and fare for a clerical visitor. However, Mr. Baker toiled on in these wilds, with Pembroke for his headquarters for five years. In 1863 the Diocese of Ontario was formed and Canon Baker was appointed to Carleton Place. Subsequently he was appointed successively to Hillier, Stirling, and Tyendinaga in which last charge he remained for ten years, and for a time extended his labors to Deseronto. His final charge in the diocese was Bath, where in 1887 he entered on his duties as rector of St. John's Church, the second oldest church in Canada. At or about this time, the bishop appointed Mr. Baker to be rural dean of Lennox and Addington. As rector of Bath, Canon Baker labored with zeal for the last ten years of his active ministry, and at his retirement, the bishop appointed him to be an honorary canon in St. George's Cathedral. In 1898 Canon Baker resigned his parish and moved to Springfield Farm, near Guelph, Ontario, where with his wife and two of his sons he made his home until his death. He breathed his last on Friday, April 10, 1908 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Guelph.
While Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Brantford, Ontario, a monument was erected in his memory in Woodlawn Cemetery, Guelph. Several family members are interred near the monument, in Block O of the cemetery.
Section O-17-30
Seems he had two memorials, Cenotaph is in Woodlawn
Rev. Canon E. H. Massey Baker, Former Rector at Bath, Honorary Assistant of St. James 1897-1908
Guelph, Ontario Public Library: History of St. James Church, Guelph
The Sixth Child of George W. Baker & Ann Cole:
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was born February 8, 1827 in Swaffham, Norfolk, England and died April 10, 1908 in Guelph, Ontario. He married Caroline Helen Bridget Rolph of Amherstberg, Ontario in Ottawa on June 3, 1857. Caroline's father was Reverend Romaine Rolph, born May 7, 1794 at Thornbury, England, and who came to Canada when he was quite young. He received his education through Bishop John Strachan in York, and was ordained in Holy Orders as Deacon on October 10, 1819; Priest on Oct. 21, 1821; was the first missionary at Sandwich, Essex County; was Rector of Amherstburgh and afterwards of Queenston, Lincoln County. Caroline's mother was Margaret Stanton, who married her father April 22, 1823. Rev. Romaine Rolph died January 18, 1868 at Queenston, Ontario.
Reverend Romaine Rolph married first Margaret Stanton, and secondly Eliza Ann Brown, eldest daughter of Major Adam Brown. Eliza was born February 12, 1814 and died May 13, 1884. Rev. Romaine Rolph was married to Eliza Ann Brown on June 20, 1850. He was aged 56, and she was aged 36. They are buried at St. Mark's Church, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. Also, their daughther Mary Regina Henrietta Rolph was born July 30, 1856, and died at Queenston on March 13, 1872.
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried Greenwood Cemetery in Brantford, Brant County, Ontario. The children of Edward and Caroline were: George William Stanton, born in 1859, died of typhoid fever in 1897; Godfrey Hugh Massey, born May 4, 1860 in Carleton Place, Canada West; Caroline Helen, born August 24, 1861 in Carleton Place; Sidney Code Doan, born February 26, 1864; Charles Herbert, born February 13, 1867 in Hillier, Canada West; Frederick Keble, born December 15, 1868, Hillier; and Edward Shenton, born May 13, 1876 in Tyendinaga, Ontario.
On the 1881 Census of Canada, for Tyendinaga, Hastings East, Ontario, Canada, E.H.M Baker, occupation clergyman, is 54 years old, origin Irish. Caroline Baker is 48, origin English. The children are: Willie, age 22; Massey, age 21; Caroline, age 18; Sidney, age 16, Charles, age 14, Frederick, age 12; and Shenton, age 5. All belong to the Church of England. All the children were born in Ontario.
The 1901 census reveals that the family was living at Puslinch in Wellington County, Ontario. Edward Hammond Massey Baker gave his birthdate as February 8, 1825, aged 76, born in England, came to Canada in 1832. His wife, Helen was born September 20 1835, aged 65. Also living in the household was son, Sidney C. D., aged 36, born February 26, 1865, occupation farmer, and son, Edward S., aged 24, born May 13, 1876, occupation farmer. A domestic named Henry Wyler lived with the family also.
Edward attended the General Theological Seminary in New York. He was ordained a deacon July 3, 1853 at the Trinity Church, in New York and ordained a priest on January 14, 1855 in Burlington, New Jersey. His appointments were: 1853 to 1855, St. Mark's in Philadelphia, where he was curate; 1855 to 1859, Pembroke, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1859 to 1863, Carleton Place, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1863 to 1865, Stirling, Canada West, where he was missionary; 1865 to 1870, Hillier, Ontario, where he was missionary; 1870 to 1876, Carrying Place (Ameliasburg), Ontario, where he was rector; 1876 to 1885, Tyendinaga, Ontario, where he was incumbent; 1885 to 1887, Bearbrook, Ontario, where he was rector; and 1887 to 1897, Bath, Ontario, where he was rector. He was Rural Dean of Hastings and Prince Edward, Diocese of Ontario, from 1879 to 1887; Rural Dean of Lennox and Addington, Diocese of Ontario, from 1887 to 1897; Honorary Canon of St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, from 1898 to 1908. His official retirement was in 1897.
Obituary of Edward Hammond Massey Baker
The Evening Mercury, Friday, April 10, 1908
The Sad Death of Rev. Canon Baker
A venerable patriarch of the Anglican Church Clergy, one of those few remaining personages who link with the past the present history of the Church of England, passed away at an early hour this morning, in the person of Reverend Canon Baker. Death occurred at the residence of his sons, Messrs. Baker Brothers, of Puslinch, with whom the deceased has resided for some time past. They reside on the old Anderson farm in the vicinity of Gourock.
Ordained in Philadelphia in 1853, the late Canon Baker had spent 55 years in the service of the Lord. The first charge of the young clergyman, after entering the service of the church was in the county of Renfrew along the Ottawa River. In those days that section of country was wild and unsettled, and the trials and tribulations of the young minister were many. In all these early days, he displayed a splendid spirit in his work, which did not go altogether unrewarded in later years; for eleven years ago the minister who thus first went through those unknown sections of the country, was made a Canon of the Church of England, a high and deserved honor.
During his long life in the church Canon Baker had charge of a large number of parishes in the different parts of the country, until about ten years, when with increasing age, he was unable to continue the duties connected with his last charge at Bath. He consequently retired. A short time later he left Bath, and came to this city with his wife to spend the remaining days here with his sons who had come to the vicinity a short time before, and who now conduct a well known stock farm in Puslinch.
Besides these two sons, Edward and Sidney, the deceased clergyman is survived by his aged wife, and by three other sons, Massey of Lindsay; F.K. Baker of this city; and Charles of McLeod, Alta.; and one daughter, Mrs. Roberts of Brantford. In their sad bereavement they have the deep sympathy of the citizens of this city generally, and especially those who are connected with St. James Church. Since coming to this vicinity, Canon Baker has been connected with the latter congregation, and, until failing health prevented, took part regularly in the services each Sunday.
Swaffham, England, was the birthplace of the late Canon, and there he spent his boyhood. His father was the late Capt. Baker of the British Army, who was given the appointment of postmaster of Bytown by the British Government.
The deceased clergyman was indeed a grand old man, and he quickly became the intimate friend of all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. A firm believer in the book of God and in the laws of the church, which he so long served, he was of a kindly disposition, and it was with a feeling of general regret that the news of his death was today received throughout the city.
The married life of the late Canon and his beloved wife has been an unusually long and a particularly happy one, and it is only a few months ago that the family was happily reunited to mark the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding day.
The Guelph Daily Mercury also reported, "Funeral of the Late Canon Baker. Arrangements have been made for the funeral of the late Canon Baker, which will take place on Monday morning from the residence of his son, Mr. F. K. Baker, Suffolk Street, to Brantford, where interment will take place on the arrival of the morning train. A special service will be conducted at St. James Church."
The Evening Mercury, Monday, April 13, 1908
Funeral Services Were Impressive
It was indeed a solemn and impressive service that was celebrated at St. James Church this morning in honor of the late Canon Baker before the remains were taken to Brantford, where interment took place.
There was a full surpliced choir of about forty members, and the church was filled with the friends of the deceased and members of the church. Amongst those present could be noticed a very large number of the older members of the congregation who came to pay their last respects to one who had been both a friend and pastor during the time he had been connected with the church.
The prominent position which the deceased held in the church, to which he had devoted his life's service, was also shown by the prominent members of the clergy who were present at the service from outside places, although the attendance was interfered with on account of the special services which are being held throughout the Anglican Church during the present week.
The church was decorated most fittingly for the occasion with palms and roses and lilies on the altar, while the channel was draped with purple in accordance with the wish of the deceased.
The body was carried into the church by the four sons of the deceased, the honorary pall bearers being Revs. Ashbury, Bolt, Davidson, Buckland, Dr. Bethune, and Canon Henderson.
While the procession was entering the church and proceeding up the aisle to the chancel, Rev. Canon Fornier, of Kingston, read the sentences. The 90th Psalm was chanted by the choir and the lesson read by Rev. G. F. Davidson from 1st Cor. 15; and 20 verse.
Prayers were offered by Rev. A. J. Belt of Milton, a former rector of the church, followed by a hymn, "Now the Laborer's Task is O'er". The choral celebration of the Holy Communion followed: Celebrant Rev. C. H. Buckland, Rev. Canon Fornier read the gospel followed by Hymn 477, "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended". While the people were receiving the communion, Hymn Number 537 "Peace, Perfect Peace" was sung. There were a large number of relatives from a distance present at the ceremony besides those living in the city.
Report of the Committee on Deceased Members, 1908:
The Committee on Deceased Members begs to report as follows: Rev. E. H. M. Baker
The Rev. E. H. M. Baker was born in Swaffham, near Norwich, in the county of Norfolk, England and in 1832 came to Canada with his parents. He was educated in the General Theological Seminary of New York, and in 1854 was ordained deacon by Bishop Wainwright in Trinity Church, New York, and was appointed assistant curate of St. Mark's Church, Philadelphia. In 1855 he was raised to the priesthood in Burlington, N.J., by the Right Rev. Bishop G. W. Doane. Shortly after he returned to his old home in Bytown (now Ottawa), and offered his services to the Right Rev. Dr. Strachan, sole bishop in the province, who gladly accepted them and appointed him to do missionary work in the county of Renfrew. Indeed that county was his mission district, and in those days a missionary's life was full of hardships and dangers. There were few bridges or highways, settlements had to be reached on horseback, and there were streams to be crossed as best might be, and settlers' log shanties afforded but the poorest accommodation and fare for a clerical visitor. However, Mr. Baker toiled on in these wilds, with Pembroke for his headquarters for five years. In 1863 the Diocese of Ontario was formed and Canon Baker was appointed to Carleton Place. Subsequently he was appointed successively to Hillier, Stirling, and Tyendinaga in which last charge he remained for ten years, and for a time extended his labors to Deseronto. His final charge in the diocese was Bath, where in 1887 he entered on his duties as rector of St. John's Church, the second oldest church in Canada. At or about this time, the bishop appointed Mr. Baker to be rural dean of Lennox and Addington. As rector of Bath, Canon Baker labored with zeal for the last ten years of his active ministry, and at his retirement, the bishop appointed him to be an honorary canon in St. George's Cathedral. In 1898 Canon Baker resigned his parish and moved to Springfield Farm, near Guelph, Ontario, where with his wife and two of his sons he made his home until his death. He breathed his last on Friday, April 10, 1908 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Guelph.
While Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Brantford, Ontario, a monument was erected in his memory in Woodlawn Cemetery, Guelph. Several family members are interred near the monument, in Block O of the cemetery.
Section O-17-30
Seems he had two memorials, Cenotaph is in Woodlawn
Guelph, Ontario Public Library: History of St. James Church, Guelph
The Sixth Child of George W. Baker & Ann Cole:
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was born February 8, 1827 in Swaffham, Norfolk, England and died April 10, 1908 in Guelph, Ontario. He married Caroline Helen Bridget Rolph of Amherstberg, Ontario in Ottawa on June 3, 1857. Caroline's father was Reverend Romaine Rolph, born May 7, 1794 at Thornbury, England, and who came to Canada when he was quite young. He received his education through Bishop John Strachan in York, and was ordained in Holy Orders as Deacon on October 10, 1819; Priest on Oct. 21, 1821; was the first missionary at Sandwich, Essex County; was Rector of Amherstburgh and afterwards of Queenston, Lincoln County. Caroline's mother was Margaret Stanton, who married her father April 22, 1823. Rev. Romaine Rolph died January 18, 1868 at Queenston, Ontario.
Reverend Romaine Rolph married first Margaret Stanton, and secondly Eliza Ann Brown, eldest daughter of Major Adam Brown. Eliza was born February 12, 1814 and died May 13, 1884. Rev. Romaine Rolph was married to Eliza Ann Brown on June 20, 1850. He was aged 56, and she was aged 36. They are buried at St. Mark's Church, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario. Also, their daughther Mary Regina Henrietta Rolph was born July 30, 1856, and died at Queenston on March 13, 1872.
Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried Greenwood Cemetery in Brantford, Brant County, Ontario. The children of Edward and Caroline were: George William Stanton, born in 1859, died of typhoid fever in 1897; Godfrey Hugh Massey, born May 4, 1860 in Carleton Place, Canada West; Caroline Helen, born August 24, 1861 in Carleton Place; Sidney Code Doan, born February 26, 1864; Charles Herbert, born February 13, 1867 in Hillier, Canada West; Frederick Keble, born December 15, 1868, Hillier; and Edward Shenton, born May 13, 1876 in Tyendinaga, Ontario.
On the 1881 Census of Canada, for Tyendinaga, Hastings East, Ontario, Canada, E.H.M Baker, occupation clergyman, is 54 years old, origin Irish. Caroline Baker is 48, origin English. The children are: Willie, age 22; Massey, age 21; Caroline, age 18; Sidney, age 16, Charles, age 14, Frederick, age 12; and Shenton, age 5. All belong to the Church of England. All the children were born in Ontario.
The 1901 census reveals that the family was living at Puslinch in Wellington County, Ontario. Edward Hammond Massey Baker gave his birthdate as February 8, 1825, aged 76, born in England, came to Canada in 1832. His wife, Helen was born September 20 1835, aged 65. Also living in the household was son, Sidney C. D., aged 36, born February 26, 1865, occupation farmer, and son, Edward S., aged 24, born May 13, 1876, occupation farmer. A domestic named Henry Wyler lived with the family also.
Edward attended the General Theological Seminary in New York. He was ordained a deacon July 3, 1853 at the Trinity Church, in New York and ordained a priest on January 14, 1855 in Burlington, New Jersey. His appointments were: 1853 to 1855, St. Mark's in Philadelphia, where he was curate; 1855 to 1859, Pembroke, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1859 to 1863, Carleton Place, Canada West, where he was incumbent; 1863 to 1865, Stirling, Canada West, where he was missionary; 1865 to 1870, Hillier, Ontario, where he was missionary; 1870 to 1876, Carrying Place (Ameliasburg), Ontario, where he was rector; 1876 to 1885, Tyendinaga, Ontario, where he was incumbent; 1885 to 1887, Bearbrook, Ontario, where he was rector; and 1887 to 1897, Bath, Ontario, where he was rector. He was Rural Dean of Hastings and Prince Edward, Diocese of Ontario, from 1879 to 1887; Rural Dean of Lennox and Addington, Diocese of Ontario, from 1887 to 1897; Honorary Canon of St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, from 1898 to 1908. His official retirement was in 1897.
Obituary of Edward Hammond Massey Baker
The Evening Mercury, Friday, April 10, 1908
The Sad Death of Rev. Canon Baker
A venerable patriarch of the Anglican Church Clergy, one of those few remaining personages who link with the past the present history of the Church of England, passed away at an early hour this morning, in the person of Reverend Canon Baker. Death occurred at the residence of his sons, Messrs. Baker Brothers, of Puslinch, with whom the deceased has resided for some time past. They reside on the old Anderson farm in the vicinity of Gourock.
Ordained in Philadelphia in 1853, the late Canon Baker had spent 55 years in the service of the Lord. The first charge of the young clergyman, after entering the service of the church was in the county of Renfrew along the Ottawa River. In those days that section of country was wild and unsettled, and the trials and tribulations of the young minister were many. In all these early days, he displayed a splendid spirit in his work, which did not go altogether unrewarded in later years; for eleven years ago the minister who thus first went through those unknown sections of the country, was made a Canon of the Church of England, a high and deserved honor.
During his long life in the church Canon Baker had charge of a large number of parishes in the different parts of the country, until about ten years, when with increasing age, he was unable to continue the duties connected with his last charge at Bath. He consequently retired. A short time later he left Bath, and came to this city with his wife to spend the remaining days here with his sons who had come to the vicinity a short time before, and who now conduct a well known stock farm in Puslinch.
Besides these two sons, Edward and Sidney, the deceased clergyman is survived by his aged wife, and by three other sons, Massey of Lindsay; F.K. Baker of this city; and Charles of McLeod, Alta.; and one daughter, Mrs. Roberts of Brantford. In their sad bereavement they have the deep sympathy of the citizens of this city generally, and especially those who are connected with St. James Church. Since coming to this vicinity, Canon Baker has been connected with the latter congregation, and, until failing health prevented, took part regularly in the services each Sunday.
Swaffham, England, was the birthplace of the late Canon, and there he spent his boyhood. His father was the late Capt. Baker of the British Army, who was given the appointment of postmaster of Bytown by the British Government.
The deceased clergyman was indeed a grand old man, and he quickly became the intimate friend of all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. A firm believer in the book of God and in the laws of the church, which he so long served, he was of a kindly disposition, and it was with a feeling of general regret that the news of his death was today received throughout the city.
The married life of the late Canon and his beloved wife has been an unusually long and a particularly happy one, and it is only a few months ago that the family was happily reunited to mark the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding day.
The Guelph Daily Mercury also reported, "Funeral of the Late Canon Baker. Arrangements have been made for the funeral of the late Canon Baker, which will take place on Monday morning from the residence of his son, Mr. F. K. Baker, Suffolk Street, to Brantford, where interment will take place on the arrival of the morning train. A special service will be conducted at St. James Church."
The Evening Mercury, Monday, April 13, 1908
Funeral Services Were Impressive
It was indeed a solemn and impressive service that was celebrated at St. James Church this morning in honor of the late Canon Baker before the remains were taken to Brantford, where interment took place.
There was a full surpliced choir of about forty members, and the church was filled with the friends of the deceased and members of the church. Amongst those present could be noticed a very large number of the older members of the congregation who came to pay their last respects to one who had been both a friend and pastor during the time he had been connected with the church.
The prominent position which the deceased held in the church, to which he had devoted his life's service, was also shown by the prominent members of the clergy who were present at the service from outside places, although the attendance was interfered with on account of the special services which are being held throughout the Anglican Church during the present week.
The church was decorated most fittingly for the occasion with palms and roses and lilies on the altar, while the channel was draped with purple in accordance with the wish of the deceased.
The body was carried into the church by the four sons of the deceased, the honorary pall bearers being Revs. Ashbury, Bolt, Davidson, Buckland, Dr. Bethune, and Canon Henderson.
While the procession was entering the church and proceeding up the aisle to the chancel, Rev. Canon Fornier, of Kingston, read the sentences. The 90th Psalm was chanted by the choir and the lesson read by Rev. G. F. Davidson from 1st Cor. 15; and 20 verse.
Prayers were offered by Rev. A. J. Belt of Milton, a former rector of the church, followed by a hymn, "Now the Laborer's Task is O'er". The choral celebration of the Holy Communion followed: Celebrant Rev. C. H. Buckland, Rev. Canon Fornier read the gospel followed by Hymn 477, "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended". While the people were receiving the communion, Hymn Number 537 "Peace, Perfect Peace" was sung. There were a large number of relatives from a distance present at the ceremony besides those living in the city.
Report of the Committee on Deceased Members, 1908:
The Committee on Deceased Members begs to report as follows: Rev. E. H. M. Baker
The Rev. E. H. M. Baker was born in Swaffham, near Norwich, in the county of Norfolk, England and in 1832 came to Canada with his parents. He was educated in the General Theological Seminary of New York, and in 1854 was ordained deacon by Bishop Wainwright in Trinity Church, New York, and was appointed assistant curate of St. Mark's Church, Philadelphia. In 1855 he was raised to the priesthood in Burlington, N.J., by the Right Rev. Bishop G. W. Doane. Shortly after he returned to his old home in Bytown (now Ottawa), and offered his services to the Right Rev. Dr. Strachan, sole bishop in the province, who gladly accepted them and appointed him to do missionary work in the county of Renfrew. Indeed that county was his mission district, and in those days a missionary's life was full of hardships and dangers. There were few bridges or highways, settlements had to be reached on horseback, and there were streams to be crossed as best might be, and settlers' log shanties afforded but the poorest accommodation and fare for a clerical visitor. However, Mr. Baker toiled on in these wilds, with Pembroke for his headquarters for five years. In 1863 the Diocese of Ontario was formed and Canon Baker was appointed to Carleton Place. Subsequently he was appointed successively to Hillier, Stirling, and Tyendinaga in which last charge he remained for ten years, and for a time extended his labors to Deseronto. His final charge in the diocese was Bath, where in 1887 he entered on his duties as rector of St. John's Church, the second oldest church in Canada. At or about this time, the bishop appointed Mr. Baker to be rural dean of Lennox and Addington. As rector of Bath, Canon Baker labored with zeal for the last ten years of his active ministry, and at his retirement, the bishop appointed him to be an honorary canon in St. George's Cathedral. In 1898 Canon Baker resigned his parish and moved to Springfield Farm, near Guelph, Ontario, where with his wife and two of his sons he made his home until his death. He breathed his last on Friday, April 10, 1908 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Guelph.
While Edward Hammond Massey Baker was buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Brantford, Ontario, a monument was erected in his memory in Woodlawn Cemetery, Guelph. Several family members are interred near the monument, in Block O of the cemetery.
Section O-17-30
Seems he had two memorials, Cenotaph is in Woodlawn
Family Members
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