British Online Archives

The United Society Partners in Gospel (USPG) is a UK-based Anglican missionary organisation that operates around the world. During the 18^th, 19^th, and early 20^th centuries, the USPG went by the name of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts (SPG). This collection contains letters and supplementary material compiled by its North American branch during the period 1635-1928. The papers therefore provide students and historians with a unique insight into the evolution of Christianity in the American colonies, the United States, and Canada.

This collection is accompanied by an online guide written by Isobel Pridmore, formerly the archivist at the USPG, whose archives are now held at Rhodes House Library in Oxford.

These documents relating to North America are true archives in Sir Hilary Jenkinson's definition of the word.

Isobel Pridmore, Erstwhile Archivist, The United Society for the Propagation of the Gospel

A Brief Introduction: The Records of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts

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Insights

The USPG and other missionary organisations aim to facilitate the spread of Christianity by appointing missionaries to visit and stay in various countries around the world.

Whilst on a mission, representatives of the Church are expected to perform a number of tasks to promote Christianity. This may involve providing a Christian education, engaging in charitable work, and performing services.

The content in this collection presents an opportunity to understand how Christianity was promoted and spread throughout North America.

Included are journals from two missionaries: Rev. George Keith and Thomas Thompson. The journals provide an unrivalled first-hand account of the duties and objectives of missionaries from the USPG during the 18th century.

The letter books contain correspondence and papers to and from the missionaries appointed by the USPG. Of particular interest are the B and C series letter books, which contain reports of life during the American Revolution.