William Metcalfe

William Metcalfe

William Metcalfe (1788–1862) was a British-born American pacifist, vegetarian, and preacher who is best known for founding the American Vegetarian Society and the Bible Christian Church in Philadelphia.

Early Life

William Metcalfe was born in 1788 in Yorkshire, England. He was raised in a religious family and was deeply influenced by his parents' beliefs. He became a preacher at a young age and was known for his eloquent sermons and strong moral convictions.

Career

In 1817, Metcalfe founded the Bible Christian Church in England, a religious group that promoted vegetarianism and pacifism. He was inspired by the teachings of the Swedenborgian Church, which emphasized the spiritual benefits of a vegetarian diet.

In 1818, Metcalfe immigrated to the United States and settled in Philadelphia, where he established the American branch of the Bible Christian Church. He continued to preach and promote vegetarianism and pacifism, attracting a small but dedicated following.

In 1850, Metcalfe co-founded the American Vegetarian Society with fellow vegetarian advocate Sylvester Graham. The society aimed to promote the benefits of a vegetarian diet and lifestyle to the American public.

Later Life and Legacy

Metcalfe continued to lead the Bible Christian Church and the American Vegetarian Society until his death in 1862. His teachings and advocacy for vegetarianism and pacifism left a lasting impact on American society, influencing future generations of vegetarians and pacifists.

Today, Metcalfe is remembered as a pioneer of the vegetarian and pacifist movements in the United States. His contributions to these movements are still recognized and celebrated by vegetarians and pacifists around the world.

See Also

• American Vegetarian Society
• Bible Christian Church
• Sylvester Graham
• Swedenborgian Church

External Links

• American Vegetarian Society
• Bible Christian Church