Rev. Thomas Powell Johnston
Rev. Thomas Powell Johnston, deceased, an early pastor of the First Presbyterian church, of Lima was born March 15, 1819, at Wooster, Ohio, being the son of Thomas and Abigail (Powell) Johnston. His father, a native of Ireland, was of Scotch-Irish descent, and a descendant of one of those Presbyterian families whose faith was only strengthened by persecution. One of his ancestors, who emigrated to America some time in the early half of the 18th century, is supposed to be of the same lineage as Col. Richard M. Johnston, by whose hand Tecumseh is said to have fallen. Mr. Johnston's mother was a native of Pennsylvania, her father's family, the Powells, being among the early settlers of Chester County, in that State, where they have owned land for over a century.
The subject of this sketch was educated in Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, and at the Western Theological Seminary, in Allegheny. He was licensed to preach by the Beaver (now Shenango) presbytery and in 1848 was ordained a minister, the same year accepting his first call at Clarksville, Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
He was united in marriage in 1848 with Mary Haskell, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (Dana) Haskell, both of whom were descendants of families of early settlers of Marietta, who with other pioneers occupied the block-house for several years. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were the parents of four children: Mary E., Charles H. (deceased), Lizzie McLain (deceased) and Mrs. Grace Catt. Charles H. Johnston was ordained a minister of the Presbyterian Church in 1881. He was a young man of rare personality, but his sphere of usefulness was cut short by his untimely death, which came just as he began his work. He was married to Mary B. Smith, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Rev. T. P. Johnston remained in Clarksville for 10 years, coming to Lima in 1858; he was pastor in Lima in 1864; was stated supply at Lima Centre from 1864 to 1870; stated supply at Concord, 1871, and afterward engaged in missionary work when ever his work permitted. He had long been in feeble health and died from pulmonary trouble after a two weeks' illness, May 2, 1895. His death was a calm and peaceful one, fit ending to a life filled with good works. He was a man of fine education and marked ability. The Herald and Presbyter paid this tribute to him: "Mr. Johnston was a devotedly pious man, an earnest preacher, and a sound theologian. The Jefferson College students of 50 years ago who are still living will remember his earnest prayers, and also his efforts for the good of his companions. He was strong in his personal attachments, clinging to his friends throughout his entire life.