| Notes |
- Rev. HENRY BIBIGHAUS, D.D., was born in Bedminster, Bucks County, Pa., August 2d, 1781. His father, Mr. John Bibighaus, emigrated to America from Witgenstein, Prussia. The subject of this sketch grew up to manhood in Bedminster, and was married to Maria Sarah Zumstone on March 20, 1800. He became an organist and teacher, first in Northampton County, and afterward, in 1808, in the First Reformed Church, Race Street, Philadelphia, Pa., where he also studied Theology, with Rev. Samuel Helffenstein, D.D., Sr. Upon the completion of his studies he was elected pastor of Salem Reformed Church, St. John Street, in 1823, and was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Synod of the Reformed Church, in session at Colesbrookdale, Berks County, Pa., on February 14th, 1824, of which body Rev. Frederick Herman was President, and Rev. John C. Guldin, Clerk. He was ordained to the ministry October 24, 1824, and the title Doctor of Divinity was bestowed upon him by Marshall College, at Mercersburg, Pa., in September, 1849.
The degree thus conferred upon him, indicates the fact, that he was a minister of more than average ability. His familiarity with the Sacred Scriptures was very marked. He seemed to have them entirely at his command, producing proofs from unexpected portions, always suited to the theme under consideration. His character is described as having been very saintly and reverend. As a teacher he daily instructed his pupils in the doctrines and duties of Christianity in such a way, that serious impressions were made upon them, which ripened into Christian character in after years. His winning address secured the affection of his scholars, and his consistent deportment united them to him in warm attachments, which lasted throughout life. As a pastor he was equally honored and distinguished. His fruitful ministry in the Salem Church, lasting some twenty-seven years, until he was called to his everlasting rest, will always remain the noblest monument of his life. He was ever faithful in the work of ministering to his people ; his eloquence in the pulpit was known far and wide, and his consistent life ever reflected the radiant example of his beloved Master, whose he was, and whom he served. He was called from earthly labor to his eternal rest, by the hand of death, on August 20, 1851. He was greatly lamented in death, even as he had been greatly beloved in life. At the time of his decease he resided in the family of his son Samuel H. Bibighaus, in the City of Philadelphia. His remains, with those of his wife, who had departed this life December 3, 1841, were interred in Laurel Hill Cemetery.
"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth ; yea saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them."-REV. 14: 13.
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1781 - 1851 (70 years)