The Biographical Dictionary of America/Appel, Theodore

APPEL, Theodore, clergyman, was born at Easton, Pa., April 30, 1823. He was graduated at Marshall college, Mercersburg, Pa., in 1842, and from the seminary of the Reformed church in 1845. Was pastor at Waynesboro', Pa., and Cavetown, Md., from 1845 to 1851. Was professor of mathematics in Marshall college, pastor of the local church, and editor of the Mercersburg Review from 1851 to 1857. In 1853 he became professor of mathematics and astronomy in Franklin and Marshall college at Lancaster, Pa., and occupied that position until 1877. From 1873 onwards he delivered astronomical lectures in many places with success. From 1878 to 1886 he was superintendent of home missions of the Reformed church and editor of the Reformed Missionary Herald. After that time he engaged in literary labors. In 1886 he published: "College Recollections," "Beginnings of the Theological Seminary," and "Letters to Boys and Girls about the First Christmas at Bethlehem." From 1887 to 1894 he acted as editor of the Reformed Messenger, and published the "Life of Dr. John W. Nevin" in 1889.