1788-1854

The whole life of the Rev. William Metcalfe was one of unremitting labor for the good of others and for the establishment of the vital principles of Christianity in the souls of his fellow men. The specific work of his life was that of sowing the seeds and cultivating the principles of Temperance and Vegetarianism and permanently establishing the ” Bible-Christian Church” in this country.

William was born in 1788, the first son of Jonathan and Elizabeth Metcalfe, in Orton, Westmoreland, England. His parents, though of modest means, ensured he received a quality classical education at Mr. Roberts’ renowned academy, where he was mentored by the celebrated philologist and English dictionary author.

At 19, he began working as a clerk in Keighley, Yorkshire. In the village, a group of Swedenborgians, led by Rev. Joseph Wright, was deeply influenced by the writings of theologian, scientist, and philosopher Emmanuel Swedenborg. They believed in the omnipresence of the spirit of God. Metcalfe started attending their services and quickly impressed Rev. Wright, who encouraged him to study theology. This decision led him to the academy in Salford, supervised by Rev. William Cowherd, the founder of the Bible Christian Church. Cowherd began emphasizing total abstinence from stimulating food and drink – flesh and alcohol. Metcalfe fully embraced Rev. William Cowherd’s teachings and converted, becoming a vegetarian, giving up alcohol, and taking on the responsibilities of a curate, assisting the Rev. John Wright.

Friends and family assured Metcalfe that he would rapidly become consumptive on a vegetarian diet. Some predicted his death within months or that he would have mental illness unless he ate animal flesh. All their efforts were in vain. Rather than leading to his premature death, his lifestyle brought him to the altar, where he married Susanna.

Rev. William Metcalfe

In 1810, Metcalfe married Susanna Wright, a fellow church member, a vegetarian, and an abstainer. She was the daughter of Rev. John Wright, head of the Bible Christian church at Keighley. His wife was just as committed to the reformed lifestyle as he was. Like many others who have changed their diet, they faced a lot of opposition from their family and friends. They were ridiculed and discouraged by others who cited medical authorities. Despite this, they remained steadfast in their beliefs and were not swayed from their goals. Susanna was an excellent cook; they ate well and never ate meat or consumed alcohol.

Susanna quickly became pregnant and was advised to eat meat to get the nourishment she needed. Her decision to defy conventional advice and abstain from meat and alcohol while pregnant proved to be a success. Despite conflicting opinions from friends, family, and physicians, both she and her child thrived. Their son, Joseph, followed in their footsteps, never consuming meat or alcohol, and lived a long life. This inspired William and Susanna to raise their four subsequent children without animal products or alcohol, leading to a healthy and fulfilling family life.

Metcalfe’s unwavering commitment to his theological education led to his ordination as a minister and a steadfast belief in the teachings of the Bible-Christian Church. As he assumed leadership of a small congregation in Yorkshire and founded a school, his dedication to his calling grew stronger. Recognizing his potential, Dr. Cowherd offered him a position previously held by Rev. Robert Hindmarsh. Metcalfe embraced this opportunity and spent two rewarding years excelling in his role at the academy.

In 1817, Reverend William Metcalfe and the Rev. James Clark led a small group of Bible Christians from England to Pennsylvania. They traveled by ship from Liverpool to the United States, and the journey lasted 11 weeks. Upon arrival, they established the Philadelphia Bible Christian Church. It was the first vegetarian church,  becoming a foundational force in the emergence of the American vegetarian movement. Settling in Philadelphia, they shared their beliefs in pacifism, temperance, abolitionism, and vegetarianism. 

Despite their small size, the church had a dedicated following. Led by Metcalfe, they embraced a vegetarian lifestyle and believed Jesus was also a vegetarian. Metcalfe, a beloved figure, faced opposition and criticism, being labeled an “Infidel” in the newspapers for promoting these beliefs.

Metcalfe faced an ongoing challenge to maintain the church’s financial stability. In addition to his preaching duties, he devoted his time to teaching at the church’s small school and producing two newspapers. These newspapers tackled important issues such as slavery, temperance, and vegetarianism, showcasing the breadth of Metcalfe’s dedication and impact.

Metcalfe penned a compelling tract titled “The Duty of Abstinence from all Intoxicating Drinks.” As the pioneering founder of the Bible-Christian Church in America, Metcalfe boldly championed this social reform, laying the groundwork for change. Beginning in 1809, the Bible-Christian Church fervently advocated and upheld the principle of total abstinence from all intoxicating beverages, blazing a trail as the first temperance society to do so. In a society where the vice of consuming intoxicating liquors was rampant, the Bible-Christian Church fearlessly challenged this prevailing custom, igniting the spark that led to the formation of temperance organizations.

An essay on Abstinence from the Flesh of Animals was published by Metcalfe and extensively circulated. This is the earliest document written that makes the case for vegetarianism. His articles were published in the Saturday Evening Post, the Philadelphia Gazette, the American Sentinel, the United States Gazette, and other papers to promote vegetarianism.

The Bible Christian Church began to increase in membership.  In 1823, land was purchased to hold services. It was located on  N. 3rd St. above Girard Avenue in Philadelphia. A frame building was purchased and rejuvenated with paint and other alterations for the church services. It was publicly opened and dedicated by the Reverend William Metcalf.

Metcalfe’s impact as a vegetarian extended beyond the church, as he played a key role in bringing together two other committed vegetarians. These two individuals were Reverend Sylvester Graham and Dr. William Alcott. In 1830, Reverend Graham initiated his Crusade for Health and Physiological Reform and was invited to speak at the Bible Christian Church. During this time, Reverend Graham was introduced to the dietary practices of the Bible Christian Church, which in addition to abstaining from alcohol, they also did not consume animal flesh.

In 1832, Philadelphia was the epicenter of a severe cholera epidemic, which quickly spread. The death rate was high. Contrary to what was happening throughout the city and surrounding states, not a single member of the Bible-Christian Church died from cholera. This fact made a deep and lasting impression on Rev. Sylvester Graham, and his crusade began promoting a vegetarian diet.

In 1847, The Vegetarian Society of Great Britain was founded, of which Mr. James Simpson was elected the first president. Rev. Metcalfe quickly heard the news and proposed the formation of an American vegetarian society in the Water-Cure Journal. He suggested the formation of America’s first vegetarian society to be modeled after the vegetarian society in England. After discussing his own experience as a vegetarian for 40 years and the activities of the Society of Bible-Christians in England and Philadelphia, Rev. Metcalfe states: “You are probably aware that in England, the advocates of dietetic reform, some time ago, instituted an association, (somewhat after the manner of our American Temperance Societies) under the appellation of ‘The Vegetarian Society,’ which is creating quite an excitement throughout the country.

Last summer, its members held their first anniversary in Manchester and had a banquet prepared in accordance with their dietetic principles, of which nearly 300 persons were partakers. More recently, a number of these Vegetarians residing in London have had a social Vegetarian Supper in the large room of the Crown and Anchor, of which about 160 ladies and gentlemen partook. After supper, the evening was devoted to addresses in favor of the excellency of this primitive mode of sustaining human life.”

Rev. Metcalfe had studied health privately over the years and finally entered college and graduated as a medical doctor. 

In 1850. Rev. William Metcalfe, Dr. William Alcott, Dr. Russell Thacker Trall, and Rev. Sylvester Graham united to create the American Vegetarian Society (AVS). Following a founding convention in New York City, the society’s first official meeting took place in Philadelphia’s Bible-Christian Church on September 4, 1850. The first meeting would also elect Dr. William Alcott as the AVS president, a title held until his death in 1859. Metcalfe and Graham were elected vice presidents, and Trall was the recording secretary. The society promoted vegetarian precepts (intertwined with women’s suffrage and the abolition of slavery) across the nation. By the time of the Civil War, the group’s membership and influence waned, partially because the fight for abolition had turned to military violence. 

At this historic gathering, passionate advocates of the vegetarian cause came together. These individuals, previously unknown to each other, were united by their unwavering dedication to the movement, fostering connections through extensive correspondence and shared reputation. Their spirited discussion revolved around the ambitious plan to launch a dedicated Vegetarian magazine, envisioned to be the esteemed voice of the Society. Reverend Metcalfe was appointed as the editor, backed by the support of Dr. William Alcott and other influential figures. The inaugural issue, titled “American Vegetarian and Health Journal,” made its debut in November 1850, marking the commencement of its regular monthly publication from 1851 onwards. Regrettably, due to insufficient funding, the publication of the American Vegetarian and Health Journal ceased in 1854.

1854 brought with it another loss for Rev. Metcalfe, as his beloved Susanna died at the age of 74. Her loss was mourned by the entire Vegetarian community.

In 1855, The Reverend J. B. Strettles, the officiating minister of Christ Church in Salford, Manchester, England, passed away. In response to this loss, Reverend Metcalfe was invited to visit Christ Church temporarily until a suitable replacement could be found. Reverend Metcalfe shared this invitation with his church members and requested a leave of absence to fulfill this important role. He suggested that his brother-in-law, Reverend Joseph Wright, take on the pastoral duties of Christ Church, as he was ordained by the Reverend Dr. Cowherd and residing in Philadelphia. The church approved Reverend Metcalfe’s request, and Reverend Joseph Wright agreed to assume the responsibilities of the ministry.

Reverend Metcalfe was joined in holy matrimony to Miss Mary Cakiss, a devoted member who embodied the principles and discipline of the Bible-Christian Church. In late July, the couple embarked on a safe journey from Philadelphia to Liverpool, where they were warmly embraced by members of the church.

The Reverend Dr. Metcalfe wholeheartedly embraced his pastoral duties, building strong, open connections with every member of the church. His old friend Joseph Brotherton, M.P., warmly welcomed him and continued to offer invaluable guidance to the Salford church. James Simpson, Esq., President of the Vegetarian Society, eagerly embraced him and swiftly involved him as a lecturer for the Vegetarian cause. In this capacity, he visited numerous towns in England and, in partnership with Mr. Simpson, addressed gatherings in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and various smaller Scottish towns. He was particularly uplifted by the enthusiastic response of the knowledgeable and composed people of Scotland to the principles of Vegetarianism and Temperance. It is evident that his efforts consistently garnered positive reception and support.

Rev. Metcalfe and his wife departed from England and bid farewell to their dear friends in 1857. Upon their arrival in New York, they were greeted by a warm reception from the church committee. Rev. Metcalfe wasted no time in resuming his ministerial duties, delivering a powerful sermon to a large congregation on the following Sunday. His former patients were eager for him to continue his medical practice, and he seamlessly embraced his advocacy for Temperance and Vegetarianism once more.

The Vegetarian Society suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of President Dr. William Alcott. However, it has found a worthy successor in Rev. William Metcalfe, a dedicated individual who has spent thirty-one years tirelessly promoting and practicing Vegetarianism. Dr. Metcalfe delivered a compelling tribute to Dr. Alcott in his inaugural address, recognizing his remarkable contributions to the cause.

Metcalfe died in 1862 at the age of 74 from a pulmonary hemorrhage. His remains are interred in the burial ground attached to the church, which had been built under his auspices. With his death, the American Vegetarian Society dissipates.

Rev. Graham tirelessly shared the gospel of Humanity through the pulpit, schoolroom, and newspapers. He fearlessly stood up for his humane teaching despite lingering intolerance, persecution, and prejudice. Some opponents resorted to baseless attacks, labeling him an “infidel” and “skeptic,” but he remained undeterred. Vigorously defending the principle of moral dietetics in newspapers, he continued to pave the way for a more compassionate and enlightened society. His influential essay on Abstinence from the Flesh of Animals was widely circulated, sparking essential conversations about ethical dietary choices.

Life in the 1800s

The early 1800s was a time of outbreaks. The leading causes of death for adults during this period were malaria and tuberculosis, while children commonly died from measles, mumps, and whooping cough. The general death rate was high, but for infants and children, it was excessively high. Many mothers died in childbirth or from childbirth fever. 

Bathing and fresh air were feared. Houses were unventilated and foul-smelling. Sunlight was not permitted to enter lest it fade carpets or tapestries. Sanitation was neglected; tobacco was used almost universally, and disease was rampant.

The medical “art” in America during this period seems incomprehensible today. Physicians frequently bled patients to “force” the disease “out,” and many died in the process. Blistering was also a widespread healing technique. For at least a century, strychnine, a potent poison, was the best remedy the profession had to offer for paralytic conditions. Quinine was frequently used for fever, with such side effects as severe bleeding, kidney damage, irregular heartbeat, and severe allergic reactions.

In 1832, a devastating cholera epidemic ravaged the nation, centered in Philadelphia and making headlines with daily reports of the rising death toll. The prescribed treatment involved 50 drops of laudanum, an alcoholic solution containing morphine, mixed with hot brandy, along with the application of hot sandbags and mustard poultices. Physicians recommended a meat-heavy diet, advising against consuming vegetables and fruit, as they were believed to cause cholera. Several cities banned the sale of fruit, salad, and uncooked vegetables, and in August 1832, the US Board of Health prohibited the sale of many of these foods for 90 days.

However, the Christian Bible Church members, all vegetable eaters, survived the cholera epidemic!

History of the Philadelphia Bible-Christian Church for the First Century of its Existence, from 1817 to 1917.

Impact of Diet or Lifestyle

In 1817, Reverend William Metcalfe from England brought a small group of Bible-Christians to Pennsylvania. They were followers of a church established ten years prior by the Swedenborgian Reverend William Cowherd. The Metcalfes settled in Philadelphia and tried to spread their beliefs in pacifism, temperance, abolitionism, and vegetarianism to their neighbors. Although their church was not widely successful in terms of size, it had a loyal following. The group, led by Metcalfe, adhered to a vegetarian lifestyle and believed that Jesus was also a vegetarian. Metcalfe, a congenial and well-liked man, faced opposition and criticism for promoting these beliefs, being labeled an “Infidel” in the newspapers.

In 1832, Philadelphia experienced a devastating cholera outbreak, causing widespread suffering and loss of life. However, the immigrants from the Bible Christian Church stood out by not losing a single member to the disease. This remarkable feat caught the attention of Rev. Sylvester Graham, who incorporated the vegetable diet into his Crusade for Health and Physiological Reform. This powerful example shows the potential of a vegetable-based diet in promoting health and preventing disease.

Teachings

Rev. Metcalfe was the founder of the Bible Christian Church in Philadelphia. Two major requirements were made as conditions of Church membership which included total abstinence from all intoxicating drinks and from the use of animal food. 

Metcalfe faced an ongoing challenge to maintain the church’s financial stability. In addition to his preaching duties, he devoted his time to teaching at the church’s small school and producing two newspapers. These newspapers tackled important issues such as slavery, temperance, and vegetarianism, showcasing the breadth of Metcalfe’s dedication and impact.

During this time, the dietary practices of the Bible-Christian Church came to the attention of Rev. Sylvester Graham. The Bible-Christian Church did not consume animal foods, spices, or other flavorings and did not use stimulants such as tea or coffee.  They also didn’t consume alcohol or use tobacco. 

As soon as the Science of Human Life, by Rev. Sylvester Graham, was published, Rev. Metcalfe obtained a copy and formed a local Physiological Society. They met weekly at each other’s houses and read Rev. Graham’s work, section by section, and discussed its doctrines. He shares “From the period of my first adopting the Vegetarian Diet, up to the present date is more than forty-one years, we have raised a family of five children, none of whom have ever eaten flesh. They are all married to vegetarians; they all have children, none of whom have ever used animal food; they are healthy, vigorous, and intellectual. My own children passed through the periods of infancy and childhood almost without suffering. They had measles lightly but avoided Scarlet Fever, Cholera Infantum, Summer Complaint, and Yellow Fever.”

Metcalfe played a crucial role in founding the “American Vegetarian Society” and was a passionate advocate for its cause. Together with Dr. William Alcott, Rev. Sylvester Graham, and Dr. Russell Thacker Trall, they championed the idea that humans are responsible for adhering to specific physical, mental, and moral laws that are vital for ensuring their well-being and happiness. According to them, deviating from these laws leads to misery and evil, while embracing vegetarianism unlocks the universal law of human existence.

Rev. Dr. Metcalfe was a deeply reverential man with strong and pure religious beliefs. As a pastor and preacher, he was known for his prompt and faithful service to his congregation. Throughout his fifty-two years of ministry, he never missed a Sunday service, preaching both in the morning and afternoon and sometimes in the evening. His remarkable overall health allowed him to maintain this commitment. He was a true pioneer in advocating for health through proper diet and abstaining from alcohol.

Notable Achievements

Rev. Dr. William Metcalfe, a respected clergyman ordained by the Bible Christian Church in England, led a dedicated group of members on a transformative journey across the Atlantic. Their unwavering determination led to the establishment of the first US Bible Christian Church in Philadelphia, PA.

Metcalfe passionately advocated for a meat-free diet, going beyond preaching and writing to engage the public actively. He organized vegetarian picnics and social events, inviting everyone to participate. The publication of his book, Bible Testimony on Abstinence from the Flesh of Animals as Food, brought national attention to the vegetarian Christians of Philadelphia.

Rev. Metcalfe boldly presented a Bible Testimony on Abstinence from the Flesh of Animals as Food during an influential address at the Bible-Christian Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on June 8, 1840. Focused on providing scriptural support and documentation for the vegetarian diet, his groundbreaking work marked the first book on vegetarianism published in the United States. Notably, it stands as the earliest English-language document to utilize the term “animal flesh” when referring to meat. His compelling articles were featured in esteemed publications such as the Saturday Evening Post, the Philadelphia Gazette, the American Sentinel, and the United States Gazette to further this dietary choice.

Rev. Metcalfe played a pivotal role in founding the American Vegetarian Society in 1850, drawing inspiration from the Vegetarian Society, a British organization formed in 1847. He succeeded Dr. William Alcott as its president in 1859. Metcalfe’s influence extended through his friendship with leading advocates like Dr. William Alcott, Rev. Sylvester Graham, and Dr. Russell Thacker Trall.

The society launched its publication, “The American Vegetarian and Health Journal,” under the stewardship of Metcalfe in November 1850, although it only became a regular monthly publication the following year. In 1851, Metcalfe was appointed as a delegate to both the English Vegetarian Society and the “World’s Peace Convention” by the Pennsylvania Peace Society. The Vegetarian Messenger for 1852 provides a comprehensive account of the proceedings at the annual meeting of the Vegetarian Society of Great Britain, including the stirring address of the American representative, conducted under the leadership of Joseph Brotherton, M.P.

While serving as the editor of the American Vegetarian, Mr. Metcalfe dedicated himself to the publication’s success. He carried out his editorial duties and took on additional responsibilities such as proofreading, bookkeeping, and distribution, all without compensation. He even used his own resources to ensure the regular release of the “Vegetarian,” despite facing financial difficulties. When he presented his situation to the annual meeting of the Vegetarian Society in 1854, a special committee was appointed to address the publication’s future. After thorough consideration, the committee temporarily suspended the publication to find other ways to promote the Society’s message. However, when Mr. Metcalfe had to focus on other commitments, the committee made no effort to resume the publication, leading to the closure of the “American Vegetarian” after the 1854 volume.

Many of Metcalfe’s writings were published by his son Joseph under the title Out of the Clouds into the Light in 1872.  ​​It begins with a memoir of Rev. William Metcalfe and his humble beginnings.  It includes his writings on the Reading Doctrines of the Day, in the Light of Bible Christianity. (on the being, and unity of God, on the Lord Jesus Christ, on the Trinity, the Bible, a divine revelation, on creation, on the original state of man, on the popular doctrine of original sin, on the garden of Eden and its trees, on the forbidden fruit and the tempter, Bible testimony on abstinence from the flesh of animals as food, on the sacrifices of the Jews, on the 10 Commandments, on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the divine nature of his resurrection, on the passion of the cross, on faith, the sermon delivered on the 50th anniversary of ordination, and a historical sketch of the Bible Christian church).

Rev. Dr. Metcalfe adopted vegetarianism for religious motives and practiced the vegetarian system for more than forty-one years. Metcalfe was the first outspoken proponent of vegetarianism to gain recognition throughout the Northeastern United States and was one of the greatest advocates this nation has ever known. He was a true pioneer on which the National Health Association built its foundation.

The NHA wishes to remind the readers that nothing in this or other publications is intended to constitute medical treatment or advice. Readers should further be aware that in several areas, previous publications do not reflect the NHA’s current teachings or health approaches.

Our Mission

The mission of the National Health Association is to educate and empower individuals to understand that health results from healthy living. We recognize the integration of all aspects of health: personal, environmental, and social.

We communicate the benefits of a plant-based diet, exercise and rest, a healthy environment, psychological well-being, and fasting when indicated.