First Charge at Binghamton—Testing His Weapons

Chapter 5, 1856-1863

Marriage to Miss Benedict

Marriage is a divine institution and in one man and one woman truly united in heart and soul, in love and in loyal service to God, we see the ideal unit of the human race, for “in the image of God created He them male and female.” Together, these two made one, can do a work for their Creator which would be impossible for either to accomplish alone. But without agreement in “the things of the Lord” there can be no true unity in the home and no lasting happiness.

In his choice of Sarah Frances Benedict as his future wife, Arthur Pierson was unconsciously guided by an all wise Father. His betrothed was as quiet and retiring as her fiancé was active and aggressive. By education and home training she was well fitted to be a minister’s wife, and love prepared her to share his lot in poverty or in wealth. Positive ideals and quiet persuasion enabled her to influence her husband by loving words and ways rather than by willful self-assertion. After four years of close acquaintance these two heart mates were married, July 12, 1860, by Rev. Joseph W. Pierson, a brother of the groom.

Thus began a happy half century of true union. The husband found in his wife one who did not allow personal preference to hinder service. Her economy and industry relieved him of many cares and her tact