TEUNIS SLINGERLAND HAMLIN
HAMLIN, TEUNIS SLINGERLAND, D.D., is the type of pastor and preacher who, while working specifically and untiringly in a particular church, still builds himself into the community in which he lives, and becomes a corporate part of its civic and religious life, while he takes a wide interest in the progress of Christ's church everywhere and in the building up of the kingdom of righteousness by social and political reforms. Doctor Hamlin's strength and solidity of character is felt in every good cause, and during his long pastorate in one church, he has done much both in official circles and in humbler mission work to sustain and deepen religious life in Washington.
He was born in Glenville, New York, May 31, 1847. He is of full French (Huguenot) blood on his father's side, and of full Holland Dutch blood on his mother's. His father, Solomon Curtis Hamlin, who held various town and county offices, was a farmer, noted for intelligence, industry, public spirit and piety. His mother influenced her son in all ways for good. As a boy, he was of vigorous physique, doing all sorts of farm labor, which gave him the best of health. He was fond of study, reading and sports, and of companionship. His preparatory studies were pursued at district schools and at Charlton, New York, and he was graduated with honors at Union college in 1867. He took a theological course at New Brunswick (Dutch Reformed) seminary for a year, and at Union seminary, New York, for two years, from which institution he was graduated in 1871. From 1871-84 he had charge of the Woodside Presbyterian church, Troy, New York. From 1884-86 he was pastor of the Mt. Auburn Presbyterian church, Cincinnati, Ohio. Since 1886 he has been pastor of the Presbyterian church of the Covenant, Washington, District of Columbia.
He has been for nearly twenty years a trustee of the United Society of Christian Endeavor. He was president of the Open Air Workers' Association of America until its dissolution in May, 1904; is vice-president of the Memorial Association of District of Columbia;
