John Ingersoll

Transformative Leader

Reverend John Ingersoll

Reverend John Ingersoll (1792 1859), father of Robert Ingersoll, was a Congregational and Presbyterian minister and a fervent abolitionist. Ironically, many historians have conjectured that Reverend John Ingersoll’s strict adherence to his faith is what produced an opposite response in his son Robert Ingersol! who was famously known as “The Great Agnostic.” Yet, the two men were 100% in sync regarding abolition. The Reverend was well known for his “fire and brimstone” sermons which condemned slavery and all of its evils. However, these passionate sermons tended to be so “radical” even to Northern audiences that the Ingersolls found themselves moving frequently. Unfortunately, Reverend Ingersoll’s ministerial career was significantly weakened due to a church trial in Madison, Ohio.

After having served in many ministerial positions in predominately Mid-western cities and towns, John Ingersoll landed in Peoria where both of his sons, Robert and Ebon, practiced law. Ingersoll passed away in Peoria and is buried in Springdale Cemetery thanks to the attention of his sons; a marker was finally placed on the Reverend’s grave in 2017.

Despite what some might call a controversial ministry, those most familiar with John Ingersoll’s character defined him as “a deep thinker, a logical and eloquent speaker, broad minded and tolerant of others’ views.” Certainly, Reverend John Ingersoll had a profound influence on many.

Unknown Artist

Title Unknown, 1861

(Portrait of John Ingersoll)