October 1789 Summary

Reverend Isaac Foster came to Hallowell in April 1786 to audition for the position of preacher, and was eventually offered the position. Reverend Foster moved to Hallowell with his wife when he accepted the position in October of the same year and rented a house from Thomas Sewall. Historians have written much about Isaac Foster, but hardly mentioned his wife. Martha however, knew Rebecca Foster, delivered her children, and knew of her accusations against one of the prominent men of Hallowell.

Hallowell, as many New England towns were at the time, was religiously divided between the strict Calvinists and the liberals. The church in each town was supported by State taxes, and therefore, each town was only allowed one preacher. Only one side was ever happy with the person who was given the position. The Calvinists did not like Reverend Foster, especially Henry Sewall...