a convert to the doctrine of Restoration." This evolution began late in his Welch Neck ministry. In 1778, Winchester scanned a borrowed copy of Klein-Nicolai's The Everlasting Gospel. The book advocated for the scriptural support of the eventual salvation of all souls. The book provoked Winchester's curiosity, but he noted upon returning the book to its owner he "had no serious thoughts" about the validity of universal salvation. Not long afterward, Winchester again obtained another copy of Klein-Nicolai's book. "I read a little more therein, but as yet had not the least thought that ever I should embrace his sentiments; yet some of his arguments appeared very conclusive, and I could not wholly shake them off, but I concluded to let them alone, and not investigate the matter." He continued to evolve his thinking on universal restoration as he traveled and preached in New England for nine months following his departure from South Carolina in September 1779. Now in the pulpit of Philadelphia's First Baptist church, he publicly remained silent on his emerging restoration leanings. In confidence, he privately shared his growing doubts on Calvinist doctrine to a close circle of friends. This confidence was broken, resulting in a church-wide controversy over the heretical beliefs of the church's minister. The controversy was the only topic at a March 5, 1781, church meeting. The meeting minutes read, "It being mentioned in the church that Mr. Winchester held the doctrine of universal restoration . . .” The meeting concluded with 92 members signing a protest against Winchester preaching his “most dangerous heresy." Society of Universal Baptists Winchester responded to this rebuke by preaching a sermon a few weeks later, on April 22, 1781, entitled The Seeds of the Woman Bruising the Serpent's Head. The sermon was a contrast between a Calvinist God intent to save just a select few with an idea of a God of love whose intent was only good for all his creations. The sermon was a clear indication that Winchester was no longer willing to suppress his new beliefs. Those opposing Winchester's "dangerous heresy" insisted he cease preaching. He refused. The controversy was elevated to the Philadelphia Baptist Association. The Association issued a resolution that churches should "beware of Elhanan Winchester, and not to admit him, or any who advocate 'universal salvation.'" The Philadelphia church was roiled in controversy. Winchester's followers even attempted to take physical possession of