SELINA OF SUSSEX 1818–1886
By Leonard Holder
Xlibris. 332 pages. £13.99
ISBN 978 1 499 090 918
Selina of Sussex is a delightful account of one family through several generations and the development of the various churches in the region of East Sussex.
Selina was named after the Countess of Huntington (1707–1791). After a slightly confusing start to the book, it becomes clear that this family are not related to the Countess but Selina of Sussex is simply named after her. The author is the grandson of her grandson, and uses his imagination to fill out the bare facts of history.
Marry a Christian
Selina’s parents are both Christians and want her to marry a Christian. Eli Page, whom she finally marries, is initially a wild teenager, but becomes a Christian soon after her. Though not from a Christian family himself, he later finds that he has the gift of preaching and becomes a prominent preacher in the Strict Baptist Movement throughout the 18th century.
The family are resident at three different farms. Their aim in moving to bigger farms each time is so that more income is brought in (they have 14 children to support) in order to give Eli free time to preach in the various churches that spring up to accommodate the revival of Christian faith amongst villagers in the area.
Eli and Selina involve themselves with many small fellowships of believers. The issue of baptism is not initially clear to Eli but he is finally baptised himself to show how important he thinks it is. Also, the issue of the free offer of the gospel is discussed. C.H. Spurgeon is a distinct influence on the couple too.
Those who know East Sussex will be thrilled at the mention of places like Lewes (unfortunately the publisher has misspelt it as Lewis), Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Mayfield, Ripe, Dicker, Hellingly and Hailsham.
Anyone interested in history will not fail to appreciate this comprehensive view of Sussex country life in the 18th century, as well as the development of the independent churches in the area.
