early days
Bonham Spring was the first location of the Presbyterian Academy.
In a letter to Andrew Fyfe, Esq., *S.S.C., Nov. 24th, 1840,
REV. WILLIAM JAMESON wrote :
" I long much to hear from you. Last letter I received contained the welcome intelligence that the Synod had agreed to send out Mr. Millar. Since that time, I have received from the proprietor a note, in his own handwriting, giving the house at Bonham Spring for five years, and pasturage for two horses. For some time, I have considered it my duty to give up Bonham Spring, as my general health has been unsound, owing to frequent fevers, and as I have had more to do at home than I could accomplish. The people, however, are wearying much for one to teach their children and themselves. I hope the Lord will provide. My sister has been telling me of your untiring efforts to secure a teacher from the Synod. Accept, my dear friend, of my warmest thanks for your interest and care,and give my best acknowledgments to the committee. May the Lord make our way prosperous."
Early in 1841, Mr. George Millar from Edinburgh arrived at, and took charge of, Bonham Spring. The school which he taught there was a blessing to the district. Boarders were also received, and several missionary students were among the number.
This academy, which, from its very commencement till now, has been conducted by Mr.Millar, with remarkable vigour and success, was begun at Bonham Spring, an outstation of Goshen [Jameson's station], and, after a time, transferred to Montego Bay.
Note: The Rev William Jameson was a Scottish Presbyterian missionary who arrived at Montego Bay in January 1837; he later served briefly in West Africa at Old Calabar in 1847, where he died in the August of that year.
*SSC - probably stands for Synod Standing Committee?
