During the late spring and/or early summer of 1677, Ellen Pemberton Allred apparently voiced a negative opinion and/or argued against John Abraham’s attempt to organize a new Quaker Meeting (congregation). Per Quaker doctrine, Friends (members) were encouraged to be meek, mild, reverent at all times and never argue out loud no matter what the situation. Yes, you could disagree, but do so gently and in a constructive conversational way. Per this entry in the Women’s Meeting Minutes for East Hardshaw Monthly Meeting, on June 16, 1677, Ellen stood in front of the congregation to offer an apology which was accepted by the members.

This original record was found by Linda Allred Cooper and Alice Allred Pottmyer in 2010 while doing research in the Greater Manchester Record Office in Manchester, England.