The Story of Chautauqua

"The Story of Chautauqua" by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the history and development of the Chautauqua Movement, an educational platform established in the 1870s aimed at promoting cultural, intellectual, and moral improvement among adults through a unique blend of summer assemblies. The narrative specifically highlights the contributions of its founders, John Heyl Vincent and Lewis Miller, while also outlining the various testimonials reinforcing Chautauqua's significance. At the start of "The Story of Chautauqua," the author introduces the geographical and historical context of Chautauqua Lake, emphasizing its natural beauty and significance in facilitating the assembly's gatherings. The preface expresses the necessity of documenting the assembly's impact, supported by endorsements from notable figures like governors and literary leaders. The opening chapters then delve into the founders' vision and the unique educational principles that guided the early assemblies, which aimed at providing both religious and secular education to a diverse audience. Through thrilling anecdotes and personal reflections, Hurlbut sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Chautauqua phenomenon, revealing its foundational ideals and the community's commitment to collective learning and personal growth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Jesse Lyman Hurlbut was an American clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was born in New York City, graduated at Wesleyan University in 1864, and held pastorates at Newark, Montclair, Paterson, Plainfield, Hoboken, Morristown, Orange, and Bloomfield, all in New Jersey. After 1879 he was connected with the Sunday-school and tract work of his denomination. He was secretary of the Epworth League in 1889–1892 and for some time was associated with J. H. Vincent in the direction of the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle. From 1909 until his retirement in 1914 he was District Superintendent of the Newark District.