Convinced of Truth
Heard the Quaker message in Cumberland and was convinced, joining the growing movement in the north of England during its earliest years.
1631–1690 · Cumberland, England
John Burnyeat
Pioneer minister to the American colonies
“The truth of God hath a witness in every conscience.” — John Burnyeat
Life & Ministry
Ministry in England and Ireland
Traveled extensively as a minister through England and Ireland, establishing meetings and strengthening the young Quaker communities.
First American Journey
Crossed the Atlantic to minister among Friends in the American colonies, becoming one of the first Quaker missionaries to the New World.
Traveled with George Fox in America
Accompanied Fox on his landmark American journey, visiting Barbados and the colonies and helping establish Quaker meetings across the Atlantic world.
Death
Died in 1690. His collected writings were published the following year as The Truth Exalted in the Writings of John Burnyeat.
Connections & Relationships
George Fox
Traveling CompanionTraveled with Fox on his landmark 1671 American journey, serving as a trusted co-laborer in establishing Quakerism in the colonies.
William Edmundson
Fellow PioneerBoth were pioneer ministers to Ireland and America, working in parallel to spread Quakerism across the Atlantic world.
Available Works
The Truth Exalted: The Journal of John Burnyeat
Available NowThe journal of John Burnyeat (1631–1690), the Cumberland farmer who became the chief builder of Irish Quakerism — his complete journal with his letters and pastoral epistles, in a modern English edition with linked scripture and historical references.