Greetings, Perhaps someone on this list can help me? I am researching the earliest ordained women in American Congregationalism. One of those women was MRS. LYDIA I. JAMES who was ordained in the town of Lloyd in Portage Co., OH on November 12, 1900. Lydia's husband was Welsh Congregational minister, Rev. Thomas Illyd James. I am seeking a newspaper account of Lydia's ordination, in order to learn more about her. She likely was ordained by a Congregational council representing the Congregational churches in the county--or perhaps more likely, the Welsh Congregational churches. It was typical for such ordinations to be publicized in local and/or county newspapers. I would appreciate any information on this couple. I also welcome any suggestions as to additional resources I should check.. Thank you for your consideration, and best wishes, Rev. Dr. Doug Showalter