BOWLES, John C. (c. 1802-1853) and Phebe (c. 1808-after 1850)

John Bowles was a preacher from Jackson, Michigan. A former Millerite, he adopted Sabbathkeeping through the influence of Joseph Bates in 1849. Together with H. S. Case, Bowles seems to have held a leadership position in the Jackson congregation as well as being a traveling preacher in Michigan and neighboring states up to the time of his death in 1853.1EGWLM 796.3

J. C. Bowles's acquaintance with the Whites dated back to their correspondence during the autumn of 1849. Bowles is mentioned in two of Ellen White's visions of 1852 and 1853. Although appreciating his good intentions in working with the Jackson members, she called him to account for his “oppressive exalted” leadership style.1EGWLM 796.4

See: 1850 U.S. Federal Census, “John C. Bowles,” Michigan, Jackson County, Jackson, p. 336; J. Whitmore, “From Bro. Whitmore,” Review, Oct. 4, 1853, p. 103; J. C. Bowles, “Letter From Br. Bowles,” Voice of Truth, Sept. 24, 1845, p. 464; James White to “Beloved Brother Bowles,” Nov. 8, 1849; J. C. Bowles, “Dear Brother White,” Present Truth, September 1849, p. 32; search term “Bowles” in Review and Herald online collection, www.adventistarchives.org; Ellen G. White, Lt 2, 1852 (June 2); Ms 1, 1853 (June 2).1EGWLM 796.5