History
Likely born in Drummersnave (Drumsna), Ireland, in 1740, Lawrence Coughlan is considered to be the first Methodist preacher in British North America. Historians maintain that he came to Newfoundland in 1766, first as a priest for the Church of England, his mission funded under the Society of the Propagation of the Gospel. However, Coughlan’s religious education was heavily influenced by John Wesley, and soon his preaching became increasingly Methodist-influenced in Harbour Grace.
For eight years Coughlan worked as a zealous missionary in Conception Bay. He would publicly denounce individuals from working Sundays, which caused public disputes with the merchant class. He would also visit the fishermen of the area and their families along the coast, organizing religious classes and preaching in Gaelic to the area’s Irish immigrants.
While in Conception Bay Coughlan began a school for boys and girls. He became Justice of the Peace for the area around Harbour Grace in 1770. In 1771 Governor John Byron dismissed Coughlan, due to two controversies with merchants and an allegation of bribery. When Coughlan returned to England he had left behind a strong foundation of Methodism, a tradition which continues in Newfoundland and North America to this day.
The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada formally recognized Laurence Coughlan as a National Historic Person on May 17, 1965. A rock monument detailing Coughlan’s influence in Conception Bay stands at 6 Water Street W, Harbour Grace. This plaque was refurbished in 2017.