Yarnall, Peter, 1754-1798

Peter Yarnall, a birthright member of Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, was born 1754, 2mo, 17 to Mordecai Yarnall and Mary Roberts Yarnall. Apprenticed to learn tanning, he transferred his membership to Uwchlan Monthly Meeting in 1771. The following year, he was dismissed by his master, enlisted in the military, and disowned by the Meeting. John Pemberton secured his release. Eventually Yarnall took up medicine under the guidance of Dr. Thomas Bond. In 1776 he joined the army as a surgeon's mate, working in various hospitals until he resigned for health issues. In 1779 he received a degree from the College of Physicians in Philadelphia and served at Pennsylvania Hospital. In 1780, he adopted the plain style of Friends and attended meeting, making acknowledgement to Uwchlan Monthly Meeting and Philadelphia Monthly Meeting of the South District for his military service. Returned to membership in the Society of Friends, he moved to Concord, Pennsylvania, and was acknowledged as a minister by Uwchlan Monthly Meeting in 1780. He transferred his membership to Philadelphia Monthly Meeting and then Concord Monthly Meeting. Enthusiastic in his manner, he was advised by prominent Quaker minister George Churchman to moderate his speech. In 1782, he was acknowledged as a minister by Concord Monthly Meeting.

From the description of the Richardson-Yarnall family papers, 1722-1962. (Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College). http://archives.tricolib.brynmawr.edu/resources/5187rich