The most interesting and unique feature of the Convention was the dedication of the mission steamer, "The Oregon." This boat was being built by James Rees and Sons Company, of Pittsburg. The funds required to pay for the "Oregon" were provided by the churches of the State of Oregon. At the close of addresses made by Dr. and Mrs. Dye at the Oregon State Convention, James M. Blood suggested the building of such a boat, and made the first contribution to the enterprise. The suggestion was taken up by Davis Errett and others with the utmost enthusiasm. George C. Ritchey undertook the task of securing the money needed, and right nobly has he done his work. The "Oregon" will be a boon of immense value to the work on the Congo and the Bosira. It will contribute to the health and comfort of the missionaries. It will divide time and space by three. It will promote the interests of the kingdom. When the natives see her smoke and hear her whistle they will know that a new day has dawned on that dark land.

      Six thousand delegates to the Convention assembled in the shipyards of the Rees Company as the sun was setting, to dedicate this beautiful mission ship. Those who took the most active part in the service were these: F. M. Rains, the leader; R. Ray Eldred, A. F. Hensey, R. S. Wilson, Mrs. Dye, all of Africa; Davis Errett, George C. Ritchey, all of Oregon; H. T. Sutton, of Illinois; T. H. Rees, of Pennsylvania, and W. H. Allen, of Indiana. R. A. Long sent the Kansas City brass band to assist. About $5,000 was raised to defray the expense of the transportation of the "Oregon" from Pittsburg to the Congo.

      No such service was ever held before on the continent, if, indeed, in the world. [169]

[CCR 169]