Place, Enoch

Place, Enoch an American minister in the Freewill Baptist Church, was born in Rochester, N. I., July 13, 1786. He was converted in March. 1807, while engaged in teaching, and soon felt called of God to enter the work of the ministry. He preached his first sermon June 2, 1807, and was ordained Jan. 23, 1813. Forty-one years of his public life he passed in Strafford, N. H., laboring also much in adjoining towns. He had a thirst for knowledge, and from youth to manhood availed himself of the means within his reach to acquire an education, though his denomination at that period was not in favor of a learned ministry. By personal effort he advanced until he became eminent among his own people and a leader in his town. His gifts and position eminently qualified him for usefulness both as a minister and citizen. He was called to fill high positions in his denomination, such as moderator of General Conference, trustee of printing establishment, member of mission boards, etc. As a preacher, he was earnest and warm. At times he would have such a sense of the sinner's condition and obligation to God that he would speak as one having authority. Occasionally he would rise to such a height in feeling and eloquence as to be almost overwhelming and irresistible. His personal appearance was commanding, his voice sonorous and rich. He was also eloquent and mighty in prayer. Mr. Place, with many other Free-will Baptists, early espoused the antislavery cause. Abundant in labors and rich in faith Father Place, as he came to be called, died March 23, 1865. See Barrett, Mem. of Eminent Preachers, p. 86 sq.