Famous Botanist, Scientist , Winner of Some Prestigious Awards, Prolific Author, , Founder President of the HEART CARE TRUST OF INDIA, Ex- Vice President of the Rural Uplift Centre[RUC], Ooty, , a Former Principal Scientist at ICAR, and Head of the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute[ CSWCRT and a Winner of the biennial Team Award of the ICAR s VASANTH RAO NAIK AWARD 2000 for the outstanding research applications in Agriculture. Nonagenarian Dr.P. Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D,----- Part. FINAL > ..

 

                                                        

                                                   Dr. Packianathan Samraj, M.Sc, PhD.

Dr. P. Samraj built a beautiful and spacious house In Nagercoil: Dr. P. Samraj built a beautiful house in Nagercoil facing  Kottar Parvathipuram Road near Dr. Jeyasekaran Hospital in a splendid style, and the construction of this house was carried on very well with the help of his relatives and  friends. The new house was dedicated on 03-01--1981 by the then CSI Bishop Rt Rev Christhudhas..Dr. Samraj and his family christened their new house as, Shekina'  [ SHECHINAH], \which means that Glory of God and God dwells amidst his people; 

                               

                                               Dr. P. Samraj's New House in Nagercoil.

His Social services and religious Activities at Ooty:  While he was serving in ICAR, at Ooty he had the privilege to serve as the Secretary of the Officer's Association [1992-1993]. He had served as the Trustee of the Engledene Church.  He also had the privilege to serve as the President of the Action Committee of the Hebron International School at Ooty. He also served as the President of the Samaritan Trust of the Marthoma Nagar at Koodaloor. 

His retirement From Govt Service:  Dr. P. Samraj after having served at the ICAR at Ooty for 25 years [ 1970--1995] and he retired from his government service. in 1995.  On his retirement God spoke to him in silent voice to build a small Christian church near Central Soil and Conservation Institute at Ooty at Titukkal, and he started to build a small church by name St Paul's Church. In this endeavour his first cousin Dr. Daniel Raja and his wife Dr. Indra Raja helped him very much. 

Even after his retirement Dr P. Samraj stayed at Ooty for some years. While he was working at ICAR at Ooty he developed a cordial relationship with the native "PADUGA" people and that friendly relation continued even after his retirement. and the Paduga people used to invite him to participate in their functions and meetings 

His friendship with the President of the CMS Dr.Kowski:    While Dr. P Samraj was serving at the ICAR at Ooty he was introduced to Dr. Kowski by his Christian friend and Colleague Mr M.D. Azariah. Dr. Kowski and Dr.P Samraj were mutually attracted and became close friends within a short span of time.  Dr. Kowski used Dr P. Samraj's experience and expertise for mutual benefit and Dr Kowski appointed   Dr Samraj as a Planning Adviser of CMS. As a Planning adviser Dr Samraj used to visit Koodankulam, Azhahiyapandipuram, Vallioor, Thadikarankonam , Puthenkadai, Kundelpet, Malanchani, Pallikal, Pattinam, Calcutta and  Pathrkaali and visited the CMS gardens in these places. As Dr P. Samraj was highly impressed by the fatherly love shown by Dr Kowski towards the helpless poor children who stayed at CMS Hostels,  Dr Samraj wanted to write a Book on Dr Kowski, under the title "The Contribution of Dr. Kowski to Christian Mission Service" and  after much hesitancy Dr Kowski gave his permission to Dr Samraj to write a Book on him. Dr Samraj with great interest started to write that book and completed the said book on Dr kowski and the book was published at CMS Office at Azhagiayapandipuram, Kanyakumari district in April 2006. 

Conclusion: Dr. P. Samraj is a colourful and multifaceted personality. Dr. P. Samraj is a born writer and a great lover of the Holly Bible.  Dr. P. Samraj and his friends namely Mr.A.N. Henry, Mr. P. Jaisingh, Mr J. Johnson Rajeshkumar had written the following Books;[1] The Flora and Fauna found in the Bible Part.1, [ 2] Flora and fauna found tin the Holy Bible Part 2, [3] The Diseases , Medicines and divine healing mentioned in the Holy Bible - Part 3 and [4] Men mentioned in the Holy Bible and their Environmental Ecology . Apart from the above books a Book titled 80 Trees had been published by the Amutham magazine and this Book was released on the occasion of the celebration of his 80th happy Birthday. His Book 100 Trees was released on the occasion of the celebration of his 82nd Birthday. in 2017. The book authored by Dr.P. Samraj, on Grass, Natural Animal Foods, is in the making and it will be shortly released.  Dr. P. Samraj has received the following National and International level Awards and Recognitions: [1] Member, Technical Audit committee of the Govt of Tamil Nadu to review the RVP&HADP Works of Nilgiris [1994] under DANIDA programme, [2] Honorary appointment to the Research Board of Advisors to the American Biographical Institute, Inc, [1997- 1998], [3] Man of the Year -1998 by American Biographical institute, Inc.,[4] Biennial Team Award of the ICAR , Vasanth Naik Award. -2000.,[5] Certificate of accomplishment from Lions club International, Lions District Environment Chair- Person, 2014, [6] Best Citizen of. India [2015] by International Publishing House, New Delhi., [7] Gandhian Seva Award for the year 2016 by Kanniyakumari Arivial Peravai [ KAP]and [8] Pride of India Award 2018, by International Publishing House, New Delhi. Dr. P. Samraj had the privilege to visit Egypt, Israel, and Ceylon, his research contribution to the field of Soil and Water conservation really deserves our appreciation. He is a good human being, friendly with all sections of the people, and unassuming. Currently he lives at his house in Nagercoil and spends his time with books, and plants.   It is not possible to accommodate all the important aspects and accomplishments of Dr P. Samraj within the space of this Blogpost and so I will end this Blogpost with the following sentence. " Dear Dr. P. Samraj, M.Sc, PhD, we thank God for your meaningful life, really you are a great Scientist and Man, and we the people of Kanyakumari district are proud of you". 

END 

 By. P. Babu Manoharan, M.A[All rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be enlarged, modified or corrected later if needed].

Executive member of the World Fellowship of Inter Religious Council[ WFIRC},Founder President of the HEART CARE TRUST OF INDIA, Ex- Vice President of the Rural Uplift Centre[RUC], Ooty, , a Former Principal Scientist at ICAR, and Head of the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute[ CSWCRT and a Winner of the biennial Team Award of the ICAR s VASANTH RAO NAIK AWARD 2000 for the outstanding research applications in Agriculture. Nonagenarian Dr.P. Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D,----- Part..... c

Dr. P. Samraj  at Vasad:  While Dr. P. Samraj was working at Vasad  at the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Research Centre, he did the following important research, " Preliminary Studies on different Species of Eucalyptus in the Ravines of Gujarat"-" Studies pertaining to Ecological succession to the Mahi Ravins of Gujarat" 

                                                      

                                                         

                                                                     Dr.P. Samraj 

He was selected as Senior Researcher by the UPSC: In 1963 the UPSC published an Advertisement stating that there were some vacancies for the post of Senior Researcher at CAZRIL Jodhpur, Rajasthan.  Dr Samraj applied for the post of Senior Researcher, and he was invited for a Viva Voce by the U.P.S.C. and he participated in the Viva Voce, and he was selected for the Senior Researcher post.  He resigned his job at Vasad and joined the CAZRL Jodhpur Rajasthan as a Senior Researcher in 1964.He was given job responsibilities in the "Range management and soil Conservation Unit" and he was in charge of three Districts and 10 Paddocks. he regularly visited those ten Paddocks. and discharged his official duties with distinction. 

                                        ANNAMALAI UNIVERSITY at CHIDAMBARAM.

He Pursued His M.Sc at Annamalai University:  On the advice of Dr. Jones [ Director of CMFRI CENTRAL Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Mandapam, Dr. Samraj applied for Education Leave and his leave was approved. he pursued his MSc at the Annamalai University with full pay. He worked hard and passed his MSc [ Botany] in high second-class [55 marks]. And he rejoined and continued his job at the CAZRI. 

Mr. Samraj Applied for a Gazetted Post: Instead of waiting for gradual job promotions Dr. Samraj applied for competitive examinations through UPSC. He was selected and passed in the Viva Voce and was selected for the post of Junior Plant Scientist and Mr Samraj was ouch delighted and thanked God. He joined as Junior Plant Officer [Class 1 -Junior] at ICAR office at Ooty.

                                                         UNIVERSITY OF KERALA 

He Pursued his PhD Research Study in the Kerala University:  As Mr P. Samraj wanted to his PhD research study on the Topic, " Studies on Indian Graces". He applied for his PhD study was selected for his Ph.D research study ii the Kerala University. His PhD Dissertation Topi also was accepted. Mr Samraj's PhD Guide was an expert in the research on the Grass [ Cytogenetics.] and he guided Mr Samraj in an efficacious manner. Dr. Samraj took more time to pass his PhD research study. Drr. P..Samraj on the successful completion of his PhD degree, he went back to Ooty and joined as Junior Plant Officer at ICAR Office at Ooty.

The deaths of his beloved Parents: Dr. P. Samraj's dear father M A. Packianathan died at his native Place, Eaathevilai on 01-01-1978 and his body was buried at their family cemetery. On account of the death of her beloved husband Mr. A. Packianathan, Mrs. Grace Packianatha lost her joy in life and gradually lost her health and died on the 10-04-1991 at Eathevilai and her body was buried at their family cemetery at Eathevilai.

                                                           GLENMORGAN, [Ooty]

Dr. P. Samraj was awarded of the ICAR's VASANTH RAO NAIK AWARD         Dr.P. Samraj had been working at the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Udagamangalam as a Senior Scientist with great innovative efficacy and research ideas.  His research contribution to the field of Agriculture, was, properly recognized by the ICAR and the Govt of India,  He had been able to establish ecological balance in the Southern Hills of the Western Ghats by Coordinating a multidisciplinary research programme for more than two decades (1970-95) at the Central Soil & Water Conservation Research & Training Institute, Udhagamandalam Centre (Ooty) of the Indian. Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He was a unique team leader on Forest Hydrological Research Project (first of its kind in India) conducted at Glenmorgan (Ooty) on the adverse effect of Eucalyptus plantations in the hydel catchments and received a prestigious biennial team award of the ICAR s VASANTH RAO NAIK AWARD 2000 for the outstanding research applications in Agriculture.

PART FINAL WILL CONTINUE SOON 

By. P. Babu Manoharan, M.A, [ All the Rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be enlarged, modified or corrected later if needed].].

 

Executive member of the World Fellowship of Inter Religious Council[ WFIRC},Founder President of the HEART CARE TRUST OF INDIA, Ex- Vice President of the Rural Uplift Centre[RUC], Ooty, , a Former Principal Scientist at ICAR, and Head of the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute[ CSWCRTI] , Nonagenarian Dr.P. Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D,----- Part..... B.

 

Dr. P. Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D

Dr. P. Samraj was Appointed as Assistant Researcher at the Central Soil Research and Demonstration Centre at Agra: Immediately after having received his Higher Standard Diploma, he was appointed as Assistant Researcher at the Central Soil and Research and Demonstration Centre at Agra. His job assignment was to find out the problems found in the Jamuna River near the Agra Railway Station. As it was a forest area, he was allowed to keep one person for his security and help.. Hence Dr P. Samraj bought one of his relatives from his native place by name Mr Thangaraj to Agra and Thangaraj stayed with Dr Samraj.  Dr Samraj worked at Agra, for one year and then he got transfer to the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Research Centre at Vasad in Gujarat on mutual Transfer basis. Vasad is a beautiful small town located in the Anand District of Gujarat.

                                    Dr. P. Samraj with his wife Mrs Padma Rebecca Samraj 

                                          Dr.P. Samraj with his Wife and children

Dr.P. Samraj's Wedding In line with the wish of his dear father Mr Packianathan Vakkil, Mr Smaraj married a pious, petty and modest girl from the family. Dr Samraj married Ms, Padma Rebecca, daughter of Dr,.A. Devadasan, L.M.P, and Mrs kamalam Devadasan and the marriage was conducted at his father in law's house at Kaattukadai on 02-02 1960. Rev. .Ponnumani [ father of the chief medical officer of the Bethestha Hospital Nagercoil Dr. P. Jeyaraj], Rev. Thangamani, Rev. Devasigamani,the then MLA of Killiyoor Mr R. Ponnappan Nadar and some other important people graced the wedding...Mrs Padma Rebecca's parents gave jewels, cash and property worth about Rs 35000= as dowry and in addition Dr. Samraj received Rs. 10000= as marriage gifts.  Dr Samraj wisely bought 75 cents of land on the Kottar Parvathipuram road, with this Rs 45000=.  On completion of the wedding leave, Dr Samraj moved to Vasad in Gujarat. The young couple started their conjugal life. God blessed Dr. P. Samraj and Mrs Padma Samraj couple with all the connubial blessing and this couple gave birth to the following children: [1]Mrs. S. Kamala Gracelin and she married Mr C. Mohan Thambiraj Devaram, [2] Mrs. C. Chithra Evangelin and she married Mr Samuel Sehar, [3] Ms. C. Retna Carolin, [4] Ms. C. Shoba Sherin [late], [5] Mr. C. Immanuel Packiandhas, and he married Ms. Golda Boli and [6] Mr. C. Ebenezer Devadhas and he married Mrs Mary Juliet Rose. 

His Children's Education:  Dr.P. Samraj's daughter Ms Kamala Gracelin pursued her B,Sc[ Zoo0logy] at Scott Christian College Nagercoil and then did her, M.A[ English] in the same college and after having passed her M.A[ Eng] she did her B,Ed ;Dr. Samraj's daughter Mrs. C. Chithra Evangelin did her Diploma in Pre School Education at the Avinasilingam Home Science College, Coimbatore. and afterwards she passed her B.Ed. Dr Samraj's youngest daughter Ms Shoba Sherin[late]pursued her, B.Pharm and M.Pharm at thr JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty.  Dr Samraj's son Immanuel Packiadhas did a Theology Course at the Quiet Corner Bible College at Masanakudi , Nilgris [ 1996] and after having passed his theology course he did his M.A[ Sociology] at Annamalai University and passed his M.A. Sociology] Moreover he has done a Printing Technology Course at the CMS Palayamkottai. Dr Samraj's youngest son Mr. Ebenezer did his B.Pharm and M.Pharm courses at the J.SS College of Pharmacy,Ooty.  After having passed his M.Pharm, Mr Ebenezer joined a Pharmacy College at Kadayanallur in Thenkasi district and served as an Assistant Professor [1999-2000]. Then Mr. S. Ebenezer, M.Pharm, joined CIPLA Pharmaceutical firm, and while he was working with the CIPLA company he was selected to work at the famous Reddy Laboratory at Hyderabad at a higher salary, so he joined the famous Reddy Laboratory at Hyderabad. But currently in line with his goals Mr. S. Ebenezer is working in Australia and his family stays with him in Australia.

Part  C will continue soon.

By .P. Babu Manoharan, M..A[. All rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be enlarged, modified or corrected later if needed].

 

Executive Committee Member of the World fellowship of Inter Religious Council [ WFIRC], Founder President of the HEART CARE TRUST OF INDIA, Ex Vice president of the Rural Uplift Centre,[ RUC], Ooty, A Former Principal Scientist at ICAR, and Head of the Central Soil and water conservation Research and Training Institute, [CSWCRTI] and Nonagenarian Dr. P. Samraj, M.Sc, PhD. ---Part .A.,

                                                                                                                                                                       Introduction:   Dr. Packianathan Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D is a remarkable resourceful man, and he is a multifaceted personality. He is a former Principal Scientist of ICAR and was the Head of the Central Soil and Water Conservation Research and Training Institute, Research Centre at Udhagamandalam [ Ooty]. He was a winner of the prestigious Biennial Team Award of the ICAR's Vasanth Rao Naik Award 2000 for the outstanding research applications in Agriculture. He is not only a great scientist but also is a down-to-earth human-being with great compassion for the companionless poor people. He is a great and balanced Christian believer, and he loves God and his fellow human-beings. A perusal of his prolific profile will galvanise the readers to live a meaningful life. 

 

                                                                                                                                                    Dr. Packianathan Samraj, M.Sc, Ph.D 

Dr.P. Samraj' Forefathers:  The progenitor of Dr.P. Samraj, Mr karuman Nadar gave birth to Mr. K.Mayakundan Nadar and he gave birth to Mr M. Marthandan Nadar, and he gave birth to Mr Ananthan Nadar and Mr Ananthan Nadar gave birth to Mr Packianathan Vakkil and Mr Packianathan Vakkil gave birth to Dr. P. Samraj and his siblings. 

Mr. A. Packianathan's First Wife and children: Mr.A.. Packianathan Vakkil married Ms J. Joyce, daughter of Mr. V. James in 1920 at Devicodu. Mr. V. James was the son of Mr. V. Vethakkan Vakkil from Midalam. Mr. A. Packianathan and Mrs. J. Joyce  Packianathan  couple gave birth to the following children:[1] P. Daisy Russeliah,  [1922], [2] P. .Percy Cyrl[1924], [3] Advocate Thomas[1927] and [4] P. Petcy Sathiyadhas[1930].

Birth of Dr. P. Samraj:    Dr. P. Samraj's father Mr Anbudian Packianathan [07-09- 1896----01-01-1978] established himself as a flourishing lawyer at kuzhithurai.by his relentless hard work and natural brilliance.. He was generally called as Vakkil. A. Packianathan  and  after the demise of his first wife Mrs Joyce, he married Ms Grace Lizzie. Mrs Grace Lizzie's forefather Mr. Velandi was a native of Viruthunagar and was doing Textile Cotton business at a Coastal village called kannanvilai in Kanyakumari district. and Kannavilai village lies between Midalam and Devicodu and in due course of time he settled at kannavilai  Mr Vethakan a descendant of Mr. Velandi embraced Christianity and his descendants became staunch Christian believers. Mrs Grace Lisy hailed from this family.  God blessed Mr Packianathan and Mrs Grace Lizzie Packianathan couple with all the connubial blessings, and this couple gave birth to the following children: [ 1] Advocate P. Dharmaraj, [1934].and he served as the Chairman of Nagercoil Municipality, [2] Dr. P. Samraj,[1935], [3] Mr. P Davisraj, [1937], [4] \Mrs. P. Jessiepardin[ 1939], [5] Mrs. P. Esther Joy Jeevaretnadas [ 1940], [6] Mr..P..Nesaraj [ 1942], [7] Mr. P. Anandaraj[ 1944],[8]  Mrs. Hepsy Bose [ 1946], [9] Advocate P. Jeyaraj, [1948], [10] Mrs. P. Gracelet Ebenezer Dhas [1951], and [11]Mrs. P. Freeda Daniel Pauldas [1953].

All of them were living at their palatial house, "Christel Lodge" at Eathevilai [ Eathevilai lies at a distance of 2 miles from Kuzhithurai]. Mrs Grace Lizzie not only brought up her own 11 children but also the 4 children of Joyce Packianathan as her own children without any discrimination and Grace Lizzie brought up al1 the 15 children of Packanathan Vakkil as good Christian Children.  Mrs Grace Lizzie instilled core Christian values in the young minds of all the 15 children of Vakkil Packianathan and also taught them the importance of prayer. Mrs Grace Lizzie was applauded by the women of Eathevilai Village for her modest, compassionate and exemplary Christian Life. 

Dr. P. Samraj' Educational Track: Dr. P. Samraj pursued his Primary School Education at the LMS Primary School at Paalavilai, through Malayalam medium. After his Primary School Education he pursued his Middle and High School education at the Govt High school at Marthandam  Marthandam is situated at a distance of 2 miles from Eathevilai. While he was studying at the Govt High school at Marthandam the famous educationist Mr T.Y. Harris was serving as the Headmaster of this school. After having passed his SSlC examination meritoriously, Mr P. Samraj joined the famous Scott Christan College to pursue his two-year Inter-mediate Course and during that period, the famous  LMS Missionary Mr G.H Marsden.A, MRST[ 1950-1958]. was serving as the Principal of Scott Christian college, Nagercoil.  While Mr Samraj was doing his Intermediate classes, Prof. J.M Arthur and Prof. C.D. Ben, taught him Physics.  Prof A.J. Cherian and Prof Isaac Grant taught hm Biology. Prof. Krishnamachari and Prof. Krishna Rao taught him Chemistry. Mr Samraj passed his senior intermediate final examination with flying colours. After having passed his Senior intermediate class[ F.A] with high marks he pursued his B.Sc [ Botany]at the famous Mar Ivanios College in Tivandrum. After having passed his BSc [ Botany] with high marks he tried to pursue his MBBS Medical Course.  His father Vakkil Packianaahtn wanted his son, Mr Samraj to do MBBS Course but Mr P. Samraj could not get an MBBS admission.  At this time his elder brother Mr. P. Dharmaraj brought an advertisement in that he found in the HINDU., And according to that Advertisement,  the Central Soil Conservation Board, Govt of India [Ministry of Food and Agriculture] conducted a Stipendiary Studentship for 2 years, Forest Rangers' Course SFRC, Coimbatore---NFRC Dehradun, this course was liked by Mr Packianathan  Vakkil and Mr.Samraj and so Mr Samraj applied for the course and he was called for an interview and in the Interview Mr Samraj was selected  by the then Inspector General of Forests New Delhi Mr. C.A.R. Bhadran, IPS,  and  Mr. Samraj  was sent to Coimbatore to join this course. Mr. Samraj pursued his Forest Rangers' Course [ Higher Standard Diploma] at the Forest College in Coimbatore [1957-1959] and passed the course.  The convocation was held on 30th June 1959. Mr Samraj participated in this convocation and received his Higher Standard Diploma [His Ph.D, Research study will be dealt with later.]

Next Part Will continue soon. 

By P. Babu Manoharan, M A [ All rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be enlarged, modified or corrected later, if needed]. 

 

 

A Forgotten Outstanding LMS Missionary, Church Planter, Founder of Modern Marthandam, A Great Radical Social Thinker, A Man Who fought for the abolition of Caste Discrimination in the Church and Society, A Great Educationist, and Visionary Thinker An Unassuming Humble Servant of God Rev. James Emlyn..

Introduction:   Late Rev. James Emlyn was one of the greatest and tallest LMS Missionaries who ever came and worked in South Travancore.  He was mainly responsible for the spread of protestant Christianity in Parasalai, Palliyadi and Marthandam and made Parasalai Mission District as an important Christian centre. The Congregations established by him play a dominant role in the affairs of  Knayakumari CSI Diocese today. As a founder of Marthandam he had laid new foundation for the religious, social, medical, educational and economic development of Marthandam and its surrounding areas in South Travancore. He specially played a significant role to establish fraternity and equality among the Christians and championed the cause of social justice in Christian churches. A perusal of his excellent life story will galvanise the readers to live a meaningful life. 

 

                                                                  Rev. James Emlyn 

                                                                

                          ADPAR VILLAGE,  THE NATIVE PLACE OF REV JAMES  EMLYN.

Rev. James Emlyn's Birth:     Adpar is a small village located in the county of Cardiganshire on the western coast of Wales, U.K, and is situated in the picturesque valley. It is nestled between the towns of Newcastle Emlyn and Cardigan, Adpar village is surrounded by rolling hill, lush green countryside and is bordered by the meandering river Teifl. In this beautiful village Rev James Emlyn's parents lived and gave birth to Rev James Emlyn on the 7th of April 1838. His Original full name was James Emlyn Jones.

Rev James Emlyn was Ordained:  Rev. James Emlyn after having finished his high school studies successfully he pursued his Theology Course at the famous Weston College at Highgate and passed his theology course. On the successful completion of Theological studies Mr. James Emlyn was ordained as a Priest, at the Craven Church on the 9th of June 1867. 

His Marriage and his missionary journey to Nagercoil, India:  Rev James Emlyn married Ms Emily Seymoor at the Bristol Hay Craft Babtist Church in June 1867. Rev James Emlyn joined the LMS as a Missionary and he was sent to Nagercoil as a LMS Missionary. Rev James Emlyn started his sea journey towards Nagercoil, on 11th of September,1867 and after 9 months of tedious sea journey he reached Nagercoil on the 11th of June,1868 and took charge of Parachalai LMS Mission Circle South Travancore, and continued up-to 1892.

Rev James Emlyn Started His Missionary Career:  On 1st of May, 1869 Rev James Emlyn started his missionary career in South Travancore as a Parasalai Cicle LMS Missionary. On arrival at Nagercoil he stayed at Nagercoil for one year and learned Tamil During this period of time he received necessary information about Parasalai LMS circle from Rev Newport who worked at  Parasalai circle as a missionary  

Rev James Emlyn assumed Charge of Parasalai Circle:  On the 1st of May 1869 Rev James Emlyn assumed the Charge of Parasalai LMS Circle along with his beloved wife Ms Emily. When he assumed the Charge of Parasaai circle, the Parasalai circle was already a blessed missionary field with large number of congregation members, Rev. Emlyn along with his ministerial work, he concentrated on the educational service to uplift the educational standard of the congregational members and also he did noteworthy social service in Parasalai Circle to eradicate caste based inequality among the church members. Parasalai Circle progressed qualitatively and quantitatively well. Rev Emlyn worked in Parasalai Circle for about 22 years from May 1869 till May 1890 with great enthusiasm and efficacy. 

                                    CSI  CHRISTHUCOIL CHURCH AT PALLIYADI 

Rev James Emlyn's Ministerial Service in Palliyadi:  Palliyadi is a beautiful idyllic village in Vilavancode taluk in Kanyakumari District, and it lies on the road that connects Iravipudurkadai and karungal. at a distance of 3.Km. from Iravipudurkadai. Palliyadi was then within the Parasalai Mission Circle. After great struggle Rev James Emlyn succeeded to build a central Church by name  Christucoil In Palliyadi.  Rev James Emlyn purchased the needed land to build his dream Church Christucoil in 1881.  The foundation stone for the proposed Christucoil was laid by the leader of the LMS Visiting Committee Mr Albert Spicer . LMS Head quarters did not give permission to build the Christhucoil in Palliyadim in that situation Rev James wisely requested Mr Albert Spicer to lay the foundation stone. In this context Rev James Emlyn appointed catechist Mathias to supervise the five affiliated congregations, The construction work of the Christhucoil was started by Rev Emlyn and he fixed an inscription stone with the following words on the wall of the Christhucoil, " Erected by Rev. James Emlyn 1882"The construction work of the Christhucoil was completed and it was dedicated to the glory of God on 27th of June 1888, by Rev James Emlyn. Rev Emlyn loved the Christhucoil very much, with a passion. This Palliyadi LMS [ CSI] congregation has produced the outstanding multifaceted leader Marshal A, Nesamony, who is considered, as the Father of Kanyakuamari District, Rev James Emlyn longed to educate the people   who lived in and around Palliyadi. In 1871 Rev Emlyn established a Tamil and English medium school in Murungavillai near Palliyadi. Rev Emlyn also started a School for girls. .

Rev Emlyn Built a Church at Maruthancodu:  When Rev Emlyn was serving as the Parasalai Circle  in Charge, there were two small congregations called Kurumathur and Pandaravilai near Maruthancodu area. Re Emlyn decided to build a new Church at Maruthancodu by uniting these two small congregations. The lofty Maruthancodu Church has been built at a very high place. Maruthancodu Church progressed very quickly in a spectacular manner. In the year 1916 this Maruthnacodu Church was raised as a Pastorate church Since 1979 this Maruthancodu Church has been serving as a District Church. It would be appropriate to mention here that this Congregation has produced some outstanding Servants of God. The Second Bishop of kumari CSI Diocese Rt Rev Selvamony and the fourth Bishop of the Kumari CSI Diocese Rt Rev M.I. Kesari hailed from this  Maruthancodu  CSI Church 

Rev Emlyn's Ministerial Service in seashore villages:  Rev Emlyn loved to preach the grace of God to every section of the society. and strived to establish new congregations and to build churches for the  new congregations. While he was serving as the Parasalai Circle missionary he preached the Good-news in the Coastal Villages called  Kollencodu, Valla Vilai, Thuthur, and  Poothurai.  The Roman Catholics who lived in Kollencodu decided to join the LMS due to their misunderstanding with the Catholic Priests. Rev James Emlyn along with his regular ministerial work in Kollencodu Village, he took steps to build two Schools Kollenkodu village and strived hard for the progress of the local people In  Kollencodu. many families joined the LMS Congregation and two smart lads were selected from Kollenkodu and sent to Nagercoil LMS Seminary for theological training. Even though Rev James Emlyn did good work at Kollencodu village among the fishermen he could not keep them in LMS in the long run.

Rev James Emlyn is called as the Architect of Modern Marthandam: Marthandam is situated on the Nagercoil Trivandrum main road at a distance of 27 k.m. from Nagercoil. Currently Marthandam Town is considered as the second most important town in Kanyakumari District. Marthandam is also called as Honey City. The missionaries, who worked in Marthandam area before Rev Emlyn tried their best to buy land for the LMS in Marthandam but failed but Rev Emlyn succeeded in buying 150 acres of land for LMS in Marthandam This area was later called as Marthandam Mission Compound.  After purchasing the land Rev Emlyn took active initiatives to develop the Mission Compound area and new Christian settlements were made. in the Mission Compound.  Nearly 10 acres of land was given to YMCA freely The lands bought by Rev Emlyn played a pivotal role for the holistic development of Marthandam. "The principal success in Emlyn's period of service was his endeavour to make Marthandam the Head Station of Parasalai District. He gradually worked there until there was a congregation of 208 adherents, two Boys' schools, with 332 pupils, one Girls School with 33 pupils and one dispensary. he thought the Marthandam would be a good centre to work among Sudras and he recommended to the Board of director" [J.G. Duresh, James Emlyn Iyer, kanjiracodu, 2025, ].  in the year 1888 Emlyn started a  British Post office at Marthandam with great vision. He also established a Public Library at Marthandam to inculcate flair reading in the minds of the people and to open the doors of knowledge to all sections of the people.  On account of his tireless efforts and with the help of Neyyoor Medical Mission, for the first time a small hospital was started near Vegetable Market in Marthandam and the same has bloomed as a full-ledged hospital today.

Conclusion:  The land of the current Marthandam Nesamony Memorial Christian College was bought by Rev James Emlyn with great far-sighted vision   Rev. James Emlyn was a great Social Thinker and Activist. He wanted to eradicate the evils caste discrimination He believed that education to Girls is a must for the development of the society. and in 1882 he started a Girls Primary School at Marthandam area.  He also noticed caste discrimination inside the four walls of the Churches. He firmly believed tbat Mixed marriage between different castes alone will remove the evils of caste discrimination and inequality. The small hospital started at Marthandam due to the initiative taken by him, has bloomed into a large full-fledged CSI mission hospital in Mathandam.  The Parasalai  LMS Circle has produced some noteworthy personalities. It has produced Scientist, famous Doctors, Judges, Bishops, tall Leaders and so on. The father of Kanyakumari district late Marshal A. Nesamony, B.A, B.L, M.P, haile3d from Palliyadi LMS Church [CSI], Bishop Rt. Rev Selvamonny and Rt. Rev M.I Kesari hailed from Maruthancodu LMS [CSI] Congregation, Acclaimed theologian Dr Samuel Amirtham hailed form The Parasalai Abbs Memorial Church. In May 1890 Rev Emlyn retired from active ministerial service.  Rev James Emlyn died on the 206h of June 1917 and his body was buried at the Cheruvarakkonam Abbs Church Cemetery by the side of his wife's grave. He lived a simple life, he loved his sheep, he was unassuming It is not possible to accommodate all the important chapters of his life within the space of this Blogpost. I will end this Blogpost with the following sentence.  "Dear and respected   Pastor Rev James Emlyn, we thank God for your meaningful life and are proud of you and we love you"

END

By. P. Babu Manoharan, M.A[ All rights are reserved. The Blogpost will be enlarged, modified or corrected later if need].

A Great Forgotten Soul, Former H.M of Scott Christian High School Nagercoil from 1896 to 1926, Deacon of Nagercoil Home Church from 1895 to 1931, Secretary Travancore Church Council from 1901 to 1931 Vice President of Nagercoil Municipal Council from 1911 to 1920, Member of Legislative Council Travancore from 1916 to 1925, A Strong Pillar of SIUC and a great Visionary Thinker who played an outstanding role for the consolidation Churches belonging to different Denominations in South India and facilitated the formation of CSI , Mr. Paul Daniel, M.A. L.T,., M.L.C,.

Introduction;  Former Head- Master of the famous Scott Christian High School Nagercoil from 1896 to 1926,  Secretary of Travancore Church Council from 1901 to 1931, Vice President of Nagercoil Municipal Council from 1911 to 1920, A Member of Legislative Council Travancore from 1916 to 1925  late Mr Paul Daniel M.A, LT, was a visionary Christian leader who thought ahead of his times and worked and laid a solid foundation for the formation of a United Christian Church in South India, and indirectly facilitated the formation of the Church of South India.{CSI]..  The role played by Mr Paul Daniel as a visionary Christian leader for the future of Christianity in India is mainly dealt with in this Blogpost.

                                                         Mr. PAUL DANIEL, M.A, L.T.

His Parents and his Birth:  Many decades ago, there lived a pious LMS Catechist by name Mr. Paul with his beloved wife Ms. Mary Paul [ There is some doubt about this name and if the name is wrong, it will be corrected accordingly, later] in Santhapuram Village that lies on the Southwest of Nagercoil and God blessed this couple with all the connubial blessings and this couple gave birth to Mr. Paul on the 2nd of May 1864  Mr Paul Daniel bloomed as an Educationist par excellence and a remarkable visionary Christian Thinker and played a historic and memorable role for the progress and consolidation of the Protestant Churches in South India.

The Formation of the South Travancore Church Council :  As the LMS congregations in Travancore extended from Kanyakumari to Quilon, there arose a necessity for consolidating them into some form of unity and unification and in the year 1874, a meeting of  the representatives from all these LMS congregations was held at Neyoor, and as a result of that meeting, the Church Council of Travancore was formed. The main object of this Church Council was to bring about a mutual acquaintance, sympathy, empathy, and union amongst all the LMS congregations, to discuss with freedom the feeling of all the native Christians on all matters affecting the prosperity and future of themselves and their congregations. and to produce a brotherly feeling amongst all the congregations, connected with London Mission Society. This Church Council has produced a feeling of sympathetic consideration among the congregations and has discussed many issues of differences of opinion amongst the Christians and in various ways and has been the means of facilitating native opinion upon many important matters, untrammelled by European influence [Rev. I.H. Hacker, A Hundred Years in Travancore, 1806- 1906., London, 1908, p 56 and 101]. Mr. Paul Daniel became a part and parcel of this Church Council and had the privilege to serve as the Secretary of the Travancore Church Council from 1901 to 1931. with great visionary wisdom and efficacy. [ Memorial Plaque of Mr Paul Daniel erected inside the CSI Home Church Nagercoil].

Formation of South India United Church:  Mr. D. M. Devasahayam while writing about The South India Church Union Movement in the famous Book "Rethinking Christianity in India" writes like this, " The study of the present Union Movement in South India need not carry us into a detailed treatment of the various union movements in the past. But we may note that the Presbyterians seem to have been in the vanguard, for in the year 1900 they formed an All -India Presbyterian Union.[ Rethinking Christianity, p. 230. ]  In 1904the Congregational Churches and the American Missions in Madura, and Jaffna and the Congregational CFhurhes  of the London Mission in the South Travancore came into a similar Federal Union. Now the way for wider union between Presbyterians and Congregationalists began to open and from 1905ti 1907 negotiations to this end proceeded. As a result of these efforts an agreed basis was found in disregarding denominational differences and realizing their "essential oneness" of Christian Faith. So, on the 24th July,1908, the South India United Church [SIUC]was formerly constituted. As. J.P. Jones of the American Board said, "It was a union paving the way for great united organization"[ edited by The Rt.Rev. Dr.J.W.Gladstone, United to Unite, History of the Church of South India, 1947--1997, Chennai, 1997, p. 10]. 

The Object of the S.I.U.C:  " To bind the Churches together into one body with a view to developing a self-supporting, self= governing, and self- propagating Indian Church, which shall present a united living testimony to Christ, and worthily represent to the world the Christian idea"  

Mr. Paul Daniel Participated in the First General Assembly of the S.I.U.C:  The First General Assembly of the South India United Church was held at the Davidson Street Church in Madras on 25th of July 1908; Mr Paul Daniel, M.A, participated in the First General Assembly of the S.I.U.C.  on behalf of the Travancore Church Union along with Rev. I.H. Hacker,[ Author of the A Hundred Years in Travancore, 1806- 1906] Rev. J.M. Kesari, B A and some others. Mr Paul Daniel as the Secretary of the Travancore Church Council participated in all the General Assembly Meetings of this South India Church United Church  and   contributed valuable ideas for the unity of all Protestant Churches in South India under a single umbrella. It is not possible to deal with all the aspects of Mr. Paul Daniel's participation and contributions in the General Assembly meetings of this South India United Church and so I will high light only some important contribution made by Mr Paul Daniel for the unity of Protestant Churches in South India. Mr Paul Daniel regularly participated in the General Assembly Meetings of the SIUC and unfailingly made his intellectual contribution since the very beginning. to actuate the object of the SIUC in the interest of Protestant churches in South India.  It is not possible to deal with all the General Assemble Meetings of the SIUC within the space of this Blogpost.  I will deal with some selective General Assembly Meetings of the S.I.U.C in which Mr Paul Daniel participated.  

Mr. Paul Daniel and The Eight General Assembly of the S.I.U.C.   The Eighth General Assembly of the South India United Church was held at Nagercoil, on September 11- 15, 1921. In connection with the Eight General Assembly Meeting on the 12th of September 1921, a Public Meeting was held in English in the Home Church, Nagercoil. The first item of the programme was welcome address and  the Secretary of the Travancore Church council Mr Paul Daniel welcomed the delegates in  impeccable English, The Delegates from Madras Church Council, Arcot church Council, Karnataka Church Council Jaffna Church Council, North Tamil Church Council, Madras Church Council, Travancore Church Council, Telegu Church Council, Malabar Church Council, participated in the Eight General Assembly Meeting of the SIUC.  In this meeting Mr Paul Danniel was elected as an Executive Committee Member of the SIUC. He was also elected as the Chairman of the Committee on Life and Work and Statistics. .Mr. Paul Daniel was also elected as a member of the Committee on Union with Anglicans. Mr Paul Daniel discharged his responsibilities with great distinction and dedication. [ Ref: Minutes of the Eighth General Assembly of SIUC] 

Mr. Paul Daniel and the Ninth Assembly of the SIUC, Held in Vaddukoddai, Ceylon:[ Aug 24-27, 1923: Mr Paul Daniel, M.A. as the secretary of Travancore Church council participated in the Ninth General Assembly of the SIUC held in Ceylon and made his intellectual contribution to find out solutions for the amalgamation of all the protestant Churches under a single entity. In this General Assembly the elder brother of Mr Paul Daniel, Mr Paul Apollos also participated, on behalf of the Travancore Church Council. In this General Assembly Mr Paul Daniel was elected as Vice President of this General Assembly. The General Assembly also elected Mr Paul Daniel as the Convenor of the Life and Work Committee. and also, he was elected as a Member of the Evangelists Forward Movement Committee Mr Paul Daniel was elected as a member of the Committee on Union. along with Mr K.T. Paul, B.A, O.B.E. Rev. J.M. Kesari, Rev. V. Santiago and some others. Mr. Paul Daniel , M.A, L.T played a crucial role in preparing the Report of the Committee on Union. [Ref; Minutes of the Ninth General Assembly of SIUC]

Mr. Paul Daniel Participated at the Tenth General Assembly of the S.I.U.C:  The General assembly of the South India United Church was held at Salem, September 26-29. 1925.  The Welcome Meeting was held on September 26, 1925 and this meeting was chaired Mr Paul Daniel, M.A.. L.T.  Mr. Paul Daniel participated at this General Assembly Meetings as a Member of the Travancore Church Council along with Rev R. Sinclair, Rev, J,N, Ambrose, Rev. J. Ebenezer kesarai, M.A, and some others.  In this General Assembly Meeting Mr Paul Daniel, was appointed as the Convenor of the Committee on Life and Work. The Report of the Committee on the Life and Work of the Church was read by Mr. Paul Daniel, the report was adopted and it was resolved to publish the whole Report. [Ref: Minutes of the Tenth General Assembly of SIUC}

Mr. Paul Dniel Participated at the Twelfth General Assembly of the S.I.U.C: The Twelfth General Assembly of the South India United Church met on Friday, October4, 1929 at 9.30 A.M. in the Haigh Memorial Hall of the Wesleyan Mission in Bangalore. As a member of the Travancore Church Council Mr Paul Daiel participated in this 12 th General Assembly of the SIUC along with Rev. J. Ebenezer Kesari, M.A and some others. Mr Paul Daniel, M.A, was elected as member of a Committee along with Mr. K.T. Paul, Mr G.V. Job and some others, with the assignment to draw up a summary of the discussions on Church Union together with other points on which there was some difference of opinion and report the same to the Assembly for the approval and submission to the Council along with the "Progress Scheme of Union" for their consideration and action. Moreover, Mr Paul Daniel was elected as the Convenor of the Committee on Life and work, he was also elected as a member of the Committee on Union along with Dr. J.J. Banniga [Convenor] Mr. K..T. Paul, Rev V. Santiago and some others.  Mr Paul Daniel was elected a Member of the Committee on United Church Herald and Theological Education Committee. Mr. Paul Daniel discharged all of his assigned responsibilities with great efficacy and distinction for the cause of a meaningful United Church in South India and to actuate the objectives of the South India United Church [Ref: Minutes of the Twelfth General Assembly of the SIUC] 

Conclusion: Mr. Paul Daniel worked with great and relentless zeal for the cause of Christian Churchin India, but he did not live long enough to see the Birth of the Church of South India on September 27, 1947, The CSI was born as a result of the union of several Protestant Denominations in South India. Mr. Paul Daniel, M.A, died on 22nd July 1931 at the age of 67.  He was a great Visionary. he worked very sincerely to actuate the object of the SIUC. He believed that a United Church alone can, withstand the political, cultural, and social Challenges in the future in the independent India. By the relentless efforts taken by the Indian Church leaders the Church of South India was born in 1947. Mr Paul Daniel was definitely one of the greatest Indian Church leaders and he was a multifaceted person. He rubbed shoulders with the great Christian Leaders and Thinkers like Mr.. K.T. Payl, B.A, OBE, Rev.V. Santiago, Rev. J Ebenezer Kesari  and Mr. G.V. Job., He deserves a detailed Biography and only in a Biography we can cover all the aspects of his life, his goals, traits, accomplishments, his service to the Public as a nominated Member of Sri Moolam Legislative Council, and Nagercoil Municipal Councillor, etc. I will end this Blogpost with the following sentence, "Dear and respected Mr. Paul Daniel, M.A, L.T. M.L.C. we thank God for you, you were really a great soul, and we are proud of you".

END.

By. P Babu Manoharan, M. A [ All rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be modified, enlarged or corrected later if needed}.

  

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

 

The British Engineer and Architect Who Built the famous Pechipparai Dam and Freemason W. Bro. Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin, C.E . PART FINAL.

Mr. H.A. Michin's Siblings: God blessed Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin and Mrs Julia Katherine [Hills] Minchin with all the connubial blessings and this couple gave birth to the following children: [1] Mr. Humphrey Alexander Minchin, [2] Lily Minchin Lushington, [3] Violet Minchin Martin, [4] Rose Minchin, [5] Ivy Minchin Arbuthnot [6] Aurea Daisy Minchin, and [7] Primrose Agnes Minchin Lushington       

                                        

                                               Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchn

Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin's Education:  Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin pursued his collegiate education at the famous Dulwich College, London in England between January 1883 and December 1884, he qualified as a Civil Engineer. After having successfully completed his education in Dulwich college, England, he returned to India and began his professional career as a Civil Engineer.

                                         DULWICH COLLEGE, LONDON, ENGLAND 

Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin and Freemasonry:  Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin inherited a natural passion for freemasonry from his father Mr. John William Minchin.  Mr H.A. Minchin joined the "Lodge Pandyan", Madurai, on the 1st October 1892.At the age of 26 Er H.A. Minchin became a Master Mason at the "Lodge Pandyan" in Madura in 1894. Humprey Alexander Minchin was a member of the Freemason lodge called 'Lodge Faith, Hope and Charity" in Ootacamund. In 1897 seven Master Masons led by Worshipful brother Humphrey Alexaander Minchin who then worked as the Chief engineer of the Travancore State PWD and the Chief Architect of the Pechipparai dam, in South Travancore decided to form a Lodge at Trivandrum by name Lodge Minchin, to avoid the inconvenience of attending meetings at far off places and applied for a warrant. They were virtually given a provisional warrant on the 20th of October 1897 and Lodge Minchin met for the first time on the 6th of November 1897.The first initiative of the Lodge Minchin in December 1897 was His Royal Highness Prince Marthanda Varma, Prince of Travancore was symbolically initiated into the Lodge. By having patronage of the Royal family the Lodge received from the Travancore Government, 1.5 acre of land as gift and the Lodge constructed a Freemason Temple there. It is at this site that the present Directorate of Public Instruction {DPI} office is functioning in Trivandrum. On 6th November 1897 Humphrey Alexander Minchin became the First Worshiping Master of the new Lodge and received the Master Collar. The original Office bearers of the Lodge Minchin was a blend of Europeans, Moslems, Hindus and Sikhs. As Worshipful Master Er Humphrey Alexander Minchin was supported by two English Men and Five Indians. All these Freemasons blended harmoniously in the work of the Lodge, and it was a great accomplishment. Humprey Found fulfilment in the healing, rather than the divisive activities of the imperial enterprise. He imbued all the core values of Freemasonry and implemented those values like equality, and service to the community. 

                                                 PECHIPPARAI DAM 

Pechipparai Dam and Mr. H.A. Minchin: Before the construction of the Pechiparai Dam across Kodaiyar on the foothills of Western ghats near Pechiparai,  it seems there was no proper big dam or reservoir in Kanyakumari. During this period of time Sri Moolam Thirynal Rama Varma was in power [ 1885--1924] and as Maharaja of Travancore State he was the first in India to implement the concept of public participation in Government through the formation of the Travancore Legislative Council.  Sri Moolam Thirunal Maharaja was a progressive Ruler, Reformer and benevolent Monarch and so when the proposal and Plan outlay for the construction of Pechipparai dam was given to him by Er. H.A. Minchin, in his capacity as the Chief engineer of PWD of Travancore State, Sri Muoolam Thirunal agreed readily and gave his consent to construct a Dam across Kodaiyar. Sri Moolam Thirunal Maharaja gave all types of support to Er. H.H Minchin to construct the Pechiparai dam.  The construction of the Mullai Periyar  Dam across the Mullai  River and Periyar river by Col. John  Pennyqcuick  might have galvanised the minds of the rulers of Travancore and the then Chief Engineer of the PWD in Travncore State to build a big dam across Kodaiyar to store the surplus rainwater and to use it for the irrigation of paddy fields. in South Travancore.   The Government of Travancore gave the responsibility of constructing a dam across Kodaiyar at Pechappari to the then Chief Engineer of PWD, Tranavcore state Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin. As true Freemason he always liked to serve the cause of the people. Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin whole heartedly ventured to build the dam The Construction of the Pechipparai dam was started in 1897.

                                                        PECHIPPARAI DAM.

Some Vital Details about the Pechipparai Dam; The Pechipparai dam's Plan outlay included its construction, maintenance, and the management of the water resources. Er. H.A. Minchin very wisely selected the place for the Construction of the dam in Pechipparai. The pechipparai dam was built across the Kodaiyar  river at Pechipparai.at about a mile below the confluence of the Tributaries called Kallar, Sittar, and Kuttiyar. Pechipparai lies 11 KM north of Kulasekaram and 45 miles from Nagercoil The cost of the original construction of the Pechipparai Dam was Rs. 20.1 lakh. In those days it was a huge amount.  The construction of the Dam was completed in 1906. Originally the Pechipparai Dams's height was 42 feet in in 1969. after the independence of India in 1947, South Travancore was renamed as kanyakuamri dist and kanyakumari district was merged with the Tamilnadu on linguistic basis. In 1969, Mr C.N. Annadurai was the Chief minister of Tamil Nadu and then the Govt of Tamil Nadu decided to increase the height of the Peacjoparia dam to 48 feet. Pechipparai dam's catchment area is 207.19 square Kilometers and this dam is surrounded by the lofty lovely Western Ghats. The Dam's water is used for irrigation of the paddy fields and drinking purposes benefitting more than 35000 acres of crops and it meets the demand of drinking water of more than 50 villages. The dam is managed by Tamil Nadu Irrigation and Power Development Corporation 

                                     THE MAGNIFICENT PECHIPPARAI DAM 

The engineering Brilliance of Er. Humphrey Alaxander Minchin::    Even after one century and two decades the  Pechipparai Dam stands strong and looks stately and does the functions of a dam so marvellously. The strength and magnificence of this Dam spontaneously speak about the creative and visionary and engineering brilliance of the Chief Architect of the Dam Er Humphrey Alaxander Minchin. Pechipparai dam is a Gravity dam and the main resting force in a Gravity dam, is the weight of the Dam itself, which helps to hold back water and prevent it from overflowing. The dam was constructed by using Stone Blocks or stone bricks which are often used in Gravity Dams, to create a solid and stable foundation. Er Humphrey Alexander Minchin designed the construction of the Dam in such a way and style to withstand the weight of the water it holds. Pechipparai Dam is a masonry gravity dam. While masonry is the method of construction that provided the necessary strength and stability of the construction.  The stone blocks had been laid in such a meticulous and scientific way one above one and this construction has stood the test of time for the last 120 years.  Whenever we look at this arresting and magnificent Dam, the memory of Er. H.A. Minchin flashes, in our inward eyes and our hearts start to brim with tears of gratitude and joy. 

Er. H.A. Michin's Wife:   Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin married Ms Agnes Pattison Steele, daughter of Mr Robert Steele on the 28th of June 1906., in Madras. This couple had no children.

His Death: As a Freemason Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin loved the people, and he sincerely worked and completed the construction work of Pechipparai Dam in 1906. But unfortunately, he passed away from this world at the age of 45. in 1913. As a fitting and grateful memory to him his mortal remans had been interred by the side of the dam that he built, ' Pechipparai Dam" 

                              Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin's Grave,  Pechipparai Dam 

Conclusion:  No doubt Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin was one of the greatest British who ever visited Kanyakumari district and worked for the core cause of the people. The people who live around Perchipparia always remember him specially on his birthday and visit his sepulchre and pay their floral tribute to his memory. Er. Humphrey Alexander Minchin's contribution for the cause of paddy cultivation, storage of surplus rainwater, tourism, regulated irrigation and drinking water deserves our grateaul appreciation and adoration. Currently Pechipparai dam has become a busy Tourist spot, for School Children and tourists from neighbouring districts and states.   It is not possible to accommodate all of his contribution and important chapters of his real-life story within the space of this Blogpost. Hence, I will end this Blogspot with the following sentence. "Dear and respected Er. Humphrey Alexander, you will ever live in our thoughts and we notice and enjoy your silent and invisible wafting above the slowly, stately and gently, dancing waves of  Pechipparai Dam, and over its water carrying canals, .and channels, we thank God for you and we love you".

ReF;[1] Genealogy.com, Humphrey Alexander Minchin and J.W. Minchin

        [2] Wikipedia, Pechipparai Reservoir.

        [3] dgl2026.com. About Lodge Minchin. No.2710.E.C.

        [4] dglofmadras.org. The Lodge Minchin No: 2710,[ Trivandrum].  

        [5] WikiTree. Humphrey Alexander Minchin.C.E[1868--1913] WikiTree Free Family..

        [6] Powerful Web Hosting. History of Lodge Minchin. 

END.

By. P. BABU MANOHARAN, M.A. [ All rights are reserved. This Blogpost will be modified, enlarged or corrected later if needed].