[68] It is related by the "old folks" that when the ceremony closed the minister looked at the groom and said "kiss your bride." The groom, not understanding English and imagining it was some figure in the dance, innocently took the bride by the hands and merrily waltzed up and down the aisle to the amusement of the audience, but to the great mortification of the bride. [69] Some authorities give 1735 as the date of the erection of this church. [70] Great grandfather of Governor John L. Marye. [71] It has been claimed, and it is probably true, that James Monroe held more important public positions in his life than any other one man, either before or since his day. [72] A memorial tablet erected in St. George's church has this inscription: "Rev. Edward McGuire, D. D., born in Winchester, Va., July 26, 1783, died Oct. 8, 1858. During forty-five years the faithful, beloved and highly blessed pastor of St. George's church, Fredericksburg. Amiable in character, prudent in action, wise in counsel, evangelical in doctrine, experimental in preaching, he was a pastor of great influence and success, highly esteemed for his sound judgment and consistent conduct during a long and useful life." [73] A memorial slab erected in St. George's church gives this remarkable record: "Reuben T. Thom, born 1782, died 1868. He was for 52 years a vestryman, and for 45 years senior warden of St. George's church. A father in Israel he was respected and beloved by three generations." [74] From a communication in an old copy of the _Fredericksburg News_, furnished by Dr. Horace B. Hall. [75] In the occupancy of this building we have this coincidence: When the members of St. George's church were building their present house, in 1849, they occupied the Methodist church, back of the park, which had been vacated for the new house on Hanover street. More than thirty years afterwards, when Trinity Episcopal church was organized, they occupied the Methodist church on Hanover street, the Methodists having moved to their new house on George street. [76] In the Presbyterian church a marble tablet is erected with this inscription: "Samuel B. Wilson, first pastor; born March 17, 1783: died Aug. 1, 1869. They that be wise shall shine as the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever." [77] On a memorial tablet erected in the church is this inscription: "Thomas Walker Gilmer, pastor, born July 25, 1834, died April 5, 1869. I know that my Redeemer liveth." [78] Historical sketch of Fredericksburg, 1883, by Robert B. Berrey. [79] A memorial slab in the church is thus inscribed: "In memory of Rev. Wm. F. Broaddus, D. D., born April 30, 1801, died Sept. 8, 1876. The beloved and faithful pastor of this church 1853 to 1862, through whose labors and liberality this house was built. 'He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost and faith, and much people was added to the Lord.'"