Background
Elder was born in Edinburgh, the son of Robert and Eleanor Elder.
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John Elder
Edit ProfileEducation
He was raised and educated there, receiving a classical education at the University of Edinburgh and then he studied divinity, receiving a license to preach the gospel in 1732.
Career
He founded the Paxton Boys for local self-defense during the French and Indian War, but after the war they engaged in further killings of Indians. His father had emigrated to central Pennsylvania c. 1730, Elder followed c. 1735. A ministry opened when the Derry congregation split in two, and Elder was called and ordained by the Paxtang congregation.
The First Great Awakening had reached the area shortly afterwards.
Elder opposed the revivalist furore. He was accused and formally cleared of heresy.
The French and Indian War led to conflict with local Indians. Elder organized a local militia known as the Paxton Boys.
He and most male congregants brought their rifles to church.
After the war was over, Elder was commissioned as a colonel. Killings of Indians continued, culminating in the "Conestoga Massacre". Elder condoned the killings, refused to identify suspects, and was relieved of his command.
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Born
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Died
July 17, 1792 (aged 86)