The Cyclopedia Of The Colored Baptists Of Alabama: Their Leaders And Their Work

THE CYCLOPEDIA OF THE Colored Baptists of Alabama

Their Leaders and Their Work BY Charles Octavius Boothe , D. D. Author of “Plain Theology for Plain People.” BIRMINGHAM: Alabama Publishing Company . 1895 Copyright 1895 By Rev. C. O. Boothe, D. D....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF THE AUTHOR.

Possibly some one may desire at some time and for some reason to know something of the author of this book, and therefore he submits the following short statement: Lineage and Nativity. —His great-grandmother was born on the west coast of Africa and was brought a slave to Virginia, where his grandmother was born. Ere his grandmother had reached her maturity of womanhood, she was sold into Georgia, where his mother was born. While his mother was still a child, she and her mother were carried to M

3 minute read

Read Chapter

PREFACE.

This effort to give substantial and favorable testimony in the interest of the men and work of the Colored Baptists of Alabama grows out of certain aims and purposes, such as: 1. The desire to produce a picture of the negro associated with the gospel under the regime of slavery. Such a picture will serve to turn our eyes upon the social, moral and religious forces of the dark times and their fruits in the negro’s life. 2. The desire to make comparisons—to compare the colored man of 1865 with the

3 minute read

Read Chapter

ORIGIN.

In turning to the subject under consideration it seems fitting that we should first review those facts and events which gave us our denominational existence. Such a course, it seems to the writer, will serve to give us a proper “setting.” It is not definitely known just when, where and by whom, Baptist principles were first propagated upon the American continent; it is, however, an historic fact that these principles assumed organic form in Providence, R. I., in 1639, in the constitution of a Ba

51 minute read

Read Chapter

CHANGES.

In order to give a glancing look at the progress and decline of slavery in the North, and at the sort of fruit the gospel was bearing in the soul and conduct of the slave, I copy the following from the “Baptist Home Missions in America” (Jubilee volume): “By 1776 there were about 300,000 slaves in America. In 1793 there were comparatively few slaves to be found in the Northern States. * * * In 1790 there were 697,897 slaves in the United States; of this number there were 17 in Vermont, 158 in Ne

3 minute read

Read Chapter

MOBILE.

The rise of the work in the Southern section of Alabama appears in the following, copied from Brother Holcombe’s work, and originally written for the Christian Index , March 10, 1836: “About 120 years ago a few Frenchmen came here and made the first little opening in the pine forest. Previously to 1817 it was occupied principally as a place of deposit and trade with the Indians. Now its population is not far from 10,000. Eighteen years ago a single steamboat found her way to this port, now forty

4 minute read

Read Chapter

HUNTSVILLE, MADISON COUNTY.

Here is where our Statehood was born, the Constitution being formed here in 1819. Huntsville is our State’s first capital. Taking Mr. Hosea Holcombe as authority, the first Baptist church organized in Alabama was constituted within a few miles of Huntsville, in 1808. Their constitutional membership was eleven, and Rev. John Nicholson was their first pastor. The first negro Baptist church constituted in this section of the State was the African Baptist Church of Huntsville, organized about the ye

1 minute read

Read Chapter

PERRY AND HALE COUNTIES.

At Salem Church, near Greensboro, the Alabama State Convention (white) was organized October, 1823, not quite forty-five years before the organization of the Colored Baptist Convention in 1868, and its first anniversary was held at Marion, in Perry county. Reference is made to these facts in order to introduce other facts bearing a closer relation to ourselves. Within a circle of twenty-five miles of Marion—and Greensboro, is near this point—some of the mightiest influences in support of Baptist

59 minute read

Read Chapter

MONTGOMERY CITY AND COUNTY.

Baptist principles manifested themselves in this part of Alabama about 1818-19 in the constitution of the Elim Church, near the city of Montgomery, and Messrs. J. McLemore, S. Ray, and W. J. Larkin, are mentioned as pioneers. In Dr. Riley’s “History of Alabama Baptists,” we have the following: “A negro slave, named Cæsar, a bright, smart, robust fellow * * * was ordained to preach. His ability was so marked, and the confidence which he enjoyed was so profound, that Rev. James McLemore would freq

1 minute read

Read Chapter

TUSCALOOSA AND JEFFERSON COUNTIES.

Perhaps the first church (white) organized in Jefferson county was organized about the year 1818. Dr. Holcombe’s history tells us that in 1823 the “Rock Creek Church,” in Tuscaloosa county, received into its membership from South Carolina an African preacher, Job Davis. Mr. Holcombe says of him: “He was an acceptable preacher, a man of deep thought, sound judgment, and was well skilled in the Scriptures of Divine Truth.” The venerable Mr. A. J. Waldrop, of Birmingham, informed the writer that wh

1 minute read

Read Chapter

LEE, MACON, BULLOCK AND BARBOUR COUNTIES.

At Tuskegee, in Macon, was the Rev. Doc. Phillips (a blacksmith), a man who, it seems, refused to accept his freedom at the hands of his white brethren in order that his preaching might be more acceptable to his people in slavery. At Auburn, in Lee, was the Rev. Thomas Glenn, a man respected and trusted no less by his white neighbors than by his own people for his genuine piety and honorable life. In Barbour and Bullock, Revs. Jerry Shorter, M. Coleman, William McCoo and Deacon J. E. Timothy pos

33 minute read

Read Chapter

GREENVILLE, BUTLER COUNTY.

In this town and county the Rev. Stewart Adams is the pioneer. In 1872 or 1873, he was appointed missionary under the American Baptist Home Mission Society, and was thus enabled to extend his operations, which resulted in the organization of one of the first associations (Union)....

13 minute read

Read Chapter

SELMA.

Somewhere between 1840-45, a colored church was organized in Selma, the first colored leader of which was a Mr. Samuel Phillips, a man who obtained his liberty (so the late Mr. A. Goldsby reported) by some service he rendered the country in the Mexican war. A. Goldsby and Charles White (late treasurer of our Convention) were principal persons in the organization. So much has been said to show the ante-liberty growths. It seems fitting to close this chapter with the appearance of freedom as the w

1 minute read

Read Chapter

DREAM TELLING.

They fall to dreaming: Contending armies are seen in battle, and the one favorable to the liberty of the slave is seen to prevail. Old trees appear to wither and disappear before trees of new sort. The war cloud bursts and the slave mingles his prayers with the roar of the booming cannon, tarrying on his knees while the American soldiery contend in mortal strife. It was understood to mean liberty. At last the deadly struggle ceased, and emancipation was declared. It was only the dawning, and the

25 minute read

Read Chapter

THE BITTER BUD.

One of the saddest mistakes of the slave was, that he thought so much of the pleasures of freedom and so little of its weighty obligations . To him, freedom meant mansions, lands, teams, money, position, educated sons and refined daughters, with the liberty to go and to act as he pleased. If he might have burdened his mind with thoughts of his sore destitution of heart, of intellect, of purse; if he might have thought of his poverty as to skill in the arts, sciences and professions of life, as t

2 minute read

Read Chapter

ORGANIZATION IN ALABAMA.

In 1864 there were four Colored Missionary Baptist Churches in Alabama, owning property worth about $10,000. Two of these were located in Mobile city—the Stone and the St. Louis Street Churches. Another was located in Selma, and is now known as the First Colored Baptist Church. Of course there was no association, no convention, no graded school of learning. The colored people of Mobile enjoyed superior advantages over those of other sections of the State and hence many of them had made fair atta

2 minute read

Read Chapter

FIRST SESSION.

THE Colored Baptist Convention of Alabama was constituted December 17, 1868, in the Columbus Street Baptist Church, in the city of Montgomery. The officers elected were: Rev. Nathan Ashby, president; Rev. J. W. Stevens, of Montgomery, vice-president, and Bro. H. Thompson, secretary. The following appear in the roll of this session: Revs. N. Ashby, J. W. Stevens, Jacob Belser, J. Epperson, and Bro. H. Thompson, of Montgomery county; Revs. E. Wright and S. Adams, of Greenville; Rev. W. Farris, of

48 minute read

Read Chapter

SECOND SESSION.

This session was held in Montgomery in 1869, and the officers of the previous year being re-elected to their several positions. Revs. Wm. McCoo, of Bullock county; P. Murrell, of Tuskaloosa; John P. Lucas, pastor of Mt. Meigs; Henry Clark, of Opelika; B. Burke, of Mobile; Frank Quarles, of Georgia, and H. E. Talliaferro (white), agent for the American Baptist Home Missionary Society; Lewis Brown, of Sumter county; A. Cunningham, of Conecuh county, and James Caldwell, of Marengo county, appear in

30 minute read

Read Chapter

THIRD SESSION.

This session was also held in Montgomery on October 5, 1870. As Rev. N. Ashby was sick, Rev. W. Stevens, the Missionary, was elected president, and Rev. M. Tyler vice-president. Rev. Charles Leavens, of Mobile, and Senator A. H. Curtis were enrolled. The ordained ministers present were: N. Ashby, James A. Foster, W. Stevens, F. Brooks, T. Glenn, Chas. Leavens, S. Adams, H. Stokes, C. Blunt, Wm. McCoo, J. Caldwell, S. Weaver, J. Cole, J. W. McLeod, M. Tyler, B. Burke, P. Murrell, J. Dosier, D. M.

27 minute read

Read Chapter

FOURTH SESSION.

Held in Selma November 1-4, 1871. Brother W. H. McAlpine was prominent. The officers elected were: Rev. P. Murrell, president; Rev. Stewart Adams, vice-president; Rev. W. Stevens, recording secretary; and H. Thompson, clerk. Revs. D. Alexander, B. Bibb, J. Caldwell and J. Belser have passed away. About $300 sent in by the churches: twenty-eight churches report Sunday Schools; three Associations appear by their messengers....

17 minute read

Read Chapter

FIFTH SESSION.

Held in Selma, November, 1872. Officers of previous year re-elected. A committee is appointed to confer with the white Convention in session in Eufaula. Two more Associations are enrolled. $300 or $400 collected....

9 minute read

Read Chapter

SIXTH SESSION.

Held in Tuscaloosa, November, 1873. The officers elected were: Rev. J. A. Foster, Montgomery, president; Rev. M. Tyler, Lowndesboro, vice-president; Rev. P. Murrell, treasurer; and Bro. H. J. Europe, of Mobile, clerk. Three other Associations reported. Rev. A. Butler, Mobile, joined at this session. Rev. W. H. McAlpine introduced the following, which was adopted: “ Resolved , That we plant in the State of Alabama a theological school to educate our young men.” This threw life and aim into the Co

41 minute read

Read Chapter

SEVENTH SESSION.

Held in Mobile, in the St. Louis Street Church, November, 1874. Officers of previous year were re-elected. Brother McAlpine’s school resolution was endorsed and ordered on the minutes. On motion of Brother McAlpine the following persons were appointed a committee to manage the school project: Revs. A. Butler, W. H. McAlpine, H. J. Europe, H. Thompson and the writer. Brother McAlpine was authorized and requested to spend six months as missionary and agent of the Convention. Much praying....

21 minute read

Read Chapter

EIGHTH SESSION.

Held in Mobile, November, 1875. The officers elected were as follows: Rev. J. A. Foster, president; Rev. M. Tyler, vice-president; Rev. J. W. Stevens, corresponding secretary; Rev. Thomas Smith, treasurer, and Rev. C. O. Boothe, clerk. Ten Associations were enrolled this year. Brother McAlpine reported $90 in favor of the Convention as the result of six months’ work. The body was never so much aroused as during this session. Some trouble arose over contentions among the churches in Mobile. Rev.

43 minute read

Read Chapter

NINTH SESSION.

Held with the Mount Canaan Church, Talladega, November 15-20, 1876. Officers: Rev. M. Tyler, president; Rev. B. J. Burke, vice-president; Rev. I. Smith, treasurer; Rev. G. C. Casby, Montgomery, corresponding secretary, and Rev. C. O. Boothe, at this time pastor in Talladega, was continued as clerk. This session of the body may be denominated “The Eventful Session.” Here the sainted Woodsmall was met for the first time, and bore the Convention the following: “ Indianapolis, Ind. , November 11, 18

1 minute read

Read Chapter

TENTH SESSION.

Held in Eufaula, November, 1877. The officers of the last convention were re-elected. The school project was turned into the hands of the Board of Trustees elected at the session of 1875. The report of the Board of Trustees recommended that the school be located at Montgomery. When a motion by Hon. A. H. Curtis to substitute Marion had been lost, Rev. E. K. Love, of Georgia, moved to substitute Selma, which was carried by a majority of three. The Board was authorized and instructed to begin oper

1 minute read

Read Chapter

ELEVENTH SESSION.

Held in Marion, November, 1878. The officers of the previous year were re-elected, with the exception of Rev. C. O. Boothe, who had been appointed Sunday school missionary for the State, under the American Baptist Publishing Society. Bro. N. R. Nickerson was elected clerk. The Trustees reported that the Old Fair Grounds had been secured, and that the school was in operation. One thousand dollars had been paid on the grounds; $545 had come from the North. Three teachers were supported without cha

28 minute read

Read Chapter

TWELFTH SESSION.

Held in Opelika, November 12-15, 1879. In this session Rev. A. F. Owens joined, and Revs. A. Butler and B. Burke forsook the Convention. Rev. D. M. Phillips, of Tuskegee, had left the cross for the crown. The second $1,000 had been paid on our campus, and $700 worth of improvements had been added to the buildings. A missionary society organized by President Woodsmall and operating in the St. Philip Street Church, is reported as giving partial support to Profs. Alston and Pettiford, and to studen

26 minute read

Read Chapter

THIRTEENTH SESSION.

Held in Marion, November 17-20, 1880. The officers elected were: M. Tyler, president; J. A. Foster, vice-president; N. R. Nickerson, clerk; G. C. Casby, corresponding secretary, and C. White, treasurer. Except a small balance due Brother Woodsmall the school was now free from debt, besides owning thirty-six acres of land and temporary buildings. Rev. S. Adams had gone to the other world. Aided by the Selma Missionary Society, Bros. M. W. Alston, L. Ellington, D. T. Gulley, D. L. Prentice, C. Tra

1 minute read

Read Chapter

FOURTEENTH SESSION.

Held in Mobile, November, 1881. The officers of the previous year were re-elected. Revs. A. Cunningham, Belleville, J. Blevins, Selma, and J. Cole, Montgomery, are no longer on earth. The Home Mission Society gave $3,000 to the present school session. Dr. M. Stone, of Ohio, taught in the school without cost to the board of trustees. Before the next session Rev. H. N. Bouey, from South Carolina, became State Sunday School Missionary....

20 minute read

Read Chapter

FIFTEENTH SESSION.

Held in Tuscaloosa, November, 1882. Former officers re-elected, except that Rev. J. Dosier was made vice-president. This year, the same as last, Brother McAlpine was retained president of the school. Total receipts from Alabama, including tuition fees, were $2,588. Donation from Home Mission Society $3,350. The last session made Brother Pettiford financial agent, and the present session was greatly encouraged in view of his excellent success....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

SIXTEENTH SESSION.

Held in Selma, November, 1883, in the First Colored Baptist Church, of which the writer was pastor. Rev. E. M. Brawley, late of South Carolina, was made president of our school, Rev. W. H. McAlpine having resigned in his favor. Alabama paid $2,511 towards our educational work. Bro. Woodsmall was not present. Rev. A. N. McEwen, late of Tennessee, now pastor of Dexter Avenue Church, Montgomery, was present this session. Rev. H. N. Bouey was made financial agent....

21 minute read

Read Chapter

SEVENTEENTH SESSION.

Held in Mobile, November, 1884. Officers of 1882 and 1883 were re-elected; $3,224 reported as coming from the State. Before the next session “The Minister’s Union” was organized in Talladega, with Rev. C. O. Boothe as secretary, and W. H. McAlpine, president....

12 minute read

Read Chapter

EIGHTEENTH SESSION.

Held in the Sixteenth Street Church, Birmingham, November, 1885. Officers of previous session re-elected. On the 10th of November, one day prior to the sitting of the Convention, the Ministers’ Union met and appointed a committee on the character of the author of this pamphlet, and which reported the following: “We, your committee appointed on Bro. C. O. Boothe, beg leave to submit the following: On account of the complications of his marriage relations, his oppositions to the State work, and on

1 minute read

Read Chapter

NINETEENTH SESSION.

Held in Opelika, November, 1886. The same officers were re-elected, except Rev. J. A. Foster replaced Rev. John Dosier as vice-president. Rev. C. L. Purce was made president of the school, Dr. Brawley having resigned. The school was $6,000 or $7,000 in debt. A resolution looking toward moving the University from Selma was adopted. Marion was proposed instead of Selma, and the larger cash donation was to fix the location. The contest was heated, and here and there rather ugly. The Baptist Leader

30 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTIETH SESSION.

Held in Montgomery, in the Columbus Street Church, July, 1887. The Ministers’ Union rescinded their vote passed in Birmingham in 1885, bearing upon the character of Rev. C. O. Boothe. Rev. W. R. Pettiford, of Birmingham, was elected president, and Rev. R. T. Pollard, clerk. Rev. William J. Simmons, of Louisville, district secretary of the American Baptist Home Mission Society, and Bro. Woodsmall, were present. Mrs. M. A. Boothe, president of the State W. C. T. U., addressed the Convention. Mrs.

36 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-FIRST SESSION.

Held in Tuscaloosa, July, 1888. Officers of previous year were re-elected. About $4,000 was raised this year. Dr. W. J. Simmons, district secretary of the Home Mission Society, was present with plans for missionary co-operation with our State, which were endorsed. Some of the school grounds had been sold to meet debts, six acres having gone to meet the $7,000. Rev. W. R. Forbes, of Virginia, pastor at Eufaula, was present. The board recommended Rev. W. H. McAlpine as State Missionary under the j

24 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-SECOND SESSION.

Held in Selma, July, 1889. Officers of previous session were re-elected. Rev. C. S. Dinkins, having severed his connection with the faculty of the University, was successfully operating an academy at Marion in connection with his pastorate. This project the Convention, on motion of Rev. A. N. McEwen, endorsed. Rev. C. O. Boothe was appointed General Missionary of Alabama on the joint plan with the Home Mission Society. This year our women, under the leadership of Miss S. A. Stone, gloriously ral

45 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-THIRD SESSION.

Held in Sixth Avenue Church, Birmingham, November, 1890. The officers of the previous session and all the missionaries were re-elected. The Home Mission Society gave about $6,000 to Alabama, including $2,600 given for University buildings. The financial agent, President Purce, and the missionaries all made very encouraging financial reports—thousands of dollars having been collected ($5,400). Dr. W. J. Simmons and Rev. Henry Stevens crossed the dark river this year. Drs. Clanton and Brawley were

48 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-FOURTH SESSION.

Held in Peace Baptist Church, Talladega, November, 1891. The same officers were re-elected, and also the same missionaries, except that Rev. C. R. Rodgers was chosen to fill the place made vacant by Bro. Pollard’s resignation. A grand session—never before in our history had our business seemed to be so much in the hands and hearts of wise, cultivated men and women. The Rev. Mr. Parks and Hon. James White, of Chattanooga, were with us. The mayor of Talladega, pastors of white churches, and everyb

1 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-FIFTH SESSION.

Held in Franklyn Street Church, Mobile, November, 1892. Dr. Dinkins was elected president, and Rev. J. P. Barton, vice-president. With these exceptions, the old officers, as well as missionaries, were continued. Editor W. H. Stewart, of Kentucky; Dr. Clanton, of Louisiana; the Rev. Mr. Luke, field secretary of the Foreign Mission Convention; Revs. T. L. Jordan and C. L. Fisher, of Mississippi, were present. For the most part, this was a good session. However, there were signs of a rising stormcl

56 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-SIXTH SESSION.

Held in Eufaula, November, 1893. Rev. J. P. Barton, of Talladega, was elected president, and Rev. R. T. Pollard, secretary. Hon. Ad. Wimbs, of Greensboro, was a member of this Convention. Drs. Morehouse and McVicar, of New York, were with us; also Dr. Crumpton, who represented the Southern Baptists. Many changes were made upon the Board of Trustees. A committee was appointed to plan a change in our school charter. The session was stormy and far from pleasant. Dr. Pettiford made a good financial

30 minute read

Read Chapter

TWENTY-SEVENTH SESSION.

Held in Mt. Zion Church, Anniston, Ala., November, 1894. Rev. J. P. Barton was again elected president, and Rev. R. T. Pollard continued as secretary. Times peculiar and money scarce. President Dinkins had prevented any increase of the debt of the university, and continued to grow in favor with all sections. The session, however, was not so orderly as it might have been, if there had been less personal feeling and ambition, and more real humility and consecration....

21 minute read

Read Chapter

COMPARISONS.

True, our white brethren were hindered by the wild forests, which were pathless and bridgeless, fieldless and cribless, and by the savage beasts and friendless red men, as well as by the slowness of travel, but after all, we may be permitted to compare our progress with our white brethrens’ struggles on educational and missionary lines; and I think the foe will feel more hopeful of us, while the friend will see reason for encouragement and pleasure. The white Convention organized in Salem Church

2 minute read

Read Chapter

ALABAMA DISTRICT.

This District was organized in 1869 by Revs. N. Ashby, M. Tyler, W. Stevens, J. A. Foster, Wm. Jenkins and other leading men of Montgomery and Lowndes counties. From their birth to this time, as an Association, they have been leaders in missionary and educational operations. Among the leading men of this body we may mention: Rev. M. Tyler, Lowndesboro; Revs. R. T. Pollard, M. D. Brooks, E. W. Picket, A. Moore, G. McKinney, A. Campbell, and D. Ware, Montgomery; Revs. M. C. Merrell, James Davis, a

1 minute read

Read Chapter

ALABAMA MIDLAND ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1889, is a small body operating chiefly in Montgomery county. They report six churches. Could not ascertain the membership. Revs. B. Bible, B. Coles, W. Harrison and T. L. Lewis lead them. I submit the following as good supplementary matter to what has been said of the above Associations:...

15 minute read

Read Chapter

MONTGOMERY.

Was organized in the basement of the white Baptist Church (First Baptist Church) just after the close of the war. The corner stone of their present building on Columbus street was laid in 1867. Their first pastor was the late Rev. Nathan Ashby, who, prior to the war, had preached to the colored membership on Sundays in the afternoon, in the basement of the white church. Mr. Ashby being stricken down by paralysis, closed his pastorate in 1870. Under his pastorate this church issued the call for t

4 minute read

Read Chapter

AUBURN ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1870 by Revs. T. Glenn, D. Phillips, I. M. Pollard and others. This body operates chiefly in Lee, Macon and Tallapoosa counties. In the beginning of Selma University they contributed largely toward its establishment, and have since given it liberal support. Lately, however, they are struggling, under the leadership of Mr. and Mrs. Wells, to plant a school in Opelika. They number about 8,000 members. Revs. Glenn and Phillips have left the cross for the crown. Among the present leader

1 minute read

Read Chapter

AUTAUGA COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1882, reports about 2,000 members. Messrs. J. Coles, W. Cooper and J. W. Carroll have served as clerks. They, too, are recorded as contributing for educational purposes....

9 minute read

Read Chapter

BETHLEHEM ASSOCIATION.

This association was organized in 1868, and has given more students to Selma University than any other association in the State, nor has any other been more liberal in its gifts of money. A calculation would, perhaps, show that they had not paid so much as the Alabama District and the Uniontown, but it will be remembered that those are the giant associations, having 10,000 or 12,000 members, while this body has not more than 6,000. Rev. C. Roberts, one of the founders of this body, in his openin

1 minute read

Read Chapter

BIBB COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1885, report a membership of about 3,000. The post offices of their several churches are given as follows: Calera, Jemison, Strasburg, Lomax, Clayton, Shiloh, Randolph, Traveler’s Rest, Maplesville, Briarfield, and Ashley. The list which the writer found was not full, but we have the following: Revs. H. Zimmerman, Clanton; H. E. Doake and A. Thomas, Calera; C. Gentry, Randolph. I am informed that Revs. J. R. Scott, J. S. Printice, J. W. Witherspoon and W. T. Goodson are also members

24 minute read

Read Chapter

BLADEN SPRINGS ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1876, reports about 2,000 members. Bladen Springs, Cunningham, West Bend, Rescueville, Coffeeville, Dead Level, Mt. Sterling, Frankville, Ararat, Campbell, St. Stevens. Revs. C. Long, of Bladen Springs, P. D. Alford, of Cunningham; R. Lewis, F. White, R. Whitley, O. S. Yorke, J. Whigman, B. White, E. A. Reed, B. Woodson, A. S. Cessions, C. L. Davis, and L. W. Morris. The writer baptized Rev. P. D. Alford about twenty-five years ago, while doing mission work in Mississippi. Rev. Char

33 minute read

Read Chapter

BROWNVILLE ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1883, is a small body composed of about twenty churches, which have the following post offices: Phenix City, Gerard, Motts, Columbus, Ga., Hatchechubbee, Ladonia, Crawford, Uchee. They number about 2,000 members....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

CANAAN (PICKENSVILLE) ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1876, is operating chiefly in Fayette county. The writer cannot give their membership, but they report eighteen or twenty churches. Revs. G. H. Prewett, W. Bozelle, J. P. Neal, J. M. Maddox, S. Clements, G. W. Brent, A. G. Johnson, J. H. Evey, I. Bizzell, L. W. Bridges, R. L. Gorden, L. Neal, A. B. Richardson. Revs. J. M. Maddox and J. W. Glasscox seem to be at least the peers of any in their ranks....

29 minute read

Read Chapter

THE COLORED BETHLEHEM ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1871, reports about 3,500 members. This is the body so long guided by the late Rev. Armstead Cunningham, Bellville. This aided in the purchase of our property at Selma. Eustis, Grove Hill, Dixon’s Mill, Whatley, Thomasville, Glover, Atkerson, Choctaw Corner, Myrtlewood, Putman, Clifton, Octagon. Revs. C. L. Robertson, H. W. Mitchell, C. L. Davis, E. P. Yow, W. Thomas, P. Kimbrough, J. Williams, M. Dosey, J. M. Houston, R. F. Forman, F. Johnson, A. L. Cleveland, A. Charles, W. M. Kim

25 minute read

Read Chapter

DALLAS COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

Organized 1872, is a large body, operating in the “Black Belt.” They have about 4,000 members. Support educational enterprises. Crumpton, Gee’s Bend, Lasso, Linden, Cylonia, Orrville, Portland, Cahaba, Lower Peach Tree, Selma, Brown’s Station, Gaston, Rehoboth, Hazen, Uniontown, Martin Station, Boguechitto, Hamburg. D. Boyd, W. C. Richards, G. W. Jones, T. Mosely, P. Underwood, W. Sprague, H. Robertson, R. D. Vassar, T. B. Goldsby, E. B. Smith, H. Willer, A. C. Collin, S. Thompson, A. Hardaway,

36 minute read

Read Chapter

EAST PERRY COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1885, is a small body, and the writer has learned but little of them. Revs. J. A. Jemison, C. Casby, G. S. Bolling, F. Chandler, S. Morse, C. McCord....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

EVERGREEN ASSOCIATION.

Organized 1878, reports about 3,500 members. They liberally support educational and missionary enterprises. Evergreen, Dunham, Joyville, Fairfield, Red Level, Mason, Brooklyn, Grovella, Garland, Andalusia, Castleberry, Brewton, Williams’ Station, Pollard. Revs. L. and N. Hawthorne, G. Donald, J. Wallace, R. Monroe, A. Clairborne, S. Union, J. McCrery, S. I. Shannon, Z. Michael, J. Salter, R. McCrery, D. May, R. Ingraham, D. Shepard, C. C. Lucious, and C. Jackson. They want to establish a high sc

26 minute read

Read Chapter

THE EUFAULA ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1867, is perhaps the oldest Colored Association in Alabama. Its chief founders were: Revs. William McCoo and Jerry Shorter, and Deacons J. E. Timothy, of Eufaula, and Byrd Day, of Glennville. This body is peculiarly organized on some lines. For example: Their Sunday School work is divided into districts, which districts, under their several leaders, hold so many meetings a year at different centers of the population. A carefully prepared program is carried out, led on by certain per

1 minute read

Read Chapter

FLINT RIVER ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1884, is a small body of less than 1,000 members, and is the result of a secession from the Muscle Shoals Association. Rev. F. A. Chapman is its principal founder and perhaps is their strongest man. Revs. F. A. Chapman, C. M. Davis, C. C. Matthews, Flint Station; G. W. Garth, Crowton; R. Wilhoit, Cedar Plains; B. M. Key, D. Ward, S. M. Robinson, Somerville; A. Brown, S. Gains, A. R. Eason, Huntsville; C. Davis, Whitesburg; W. T. Connor, Madison; E. Powell, Hillsboro. The writer has

1 minute read

Read Chapter

FRIENDSHIP WESTERN UNION ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1891, is a small body operating in a section lying south of Anniston and Oxford. Wedowee, Lineville, Rockdale, Graham, Beason’s Mill, Heflin, Louina, Micaville, Lamar, Edwardsville, Truet, Gay. Rev. A. M. Crawley, Iron City, moderator; and J. W. Goss, Wedowee, clerk. Revs. S. A. Banks, L. Dotson, C. T. Early, J. C. Byrd, J. D. Austin, J. R. Heard, D. Welsh, C. Sterling, C. Terry, and J. Culbertson, are mentioned among the principal pastors....

24 minute read

Read Chapter

GOOD SAMARITAN ASSOCIATION.

Organized 1881, has some eighteen or twenty churches. The copy of the minutes in the hand of the writer fails to give the membership of the churches. Farmersville, Gordonville, Selma, Bragg’s, Furman, Montery, Haynesville. Revs. Wm. Moss, W. Baskin, H. J. Kelly, M. Lewis, E. Crawford, J. H. Hartman....

16 minute read

Read Chapter

HOPE HILL ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1886, reports a membership of about 1,500. Van Dorn, Gallion, Demopolis, Old Spring Hill, Dayton. Revs. F. Gilbert, J. W. Belle, Wm. Allen, W. Reese, A. Wilson, W. H. Rone, G. C. Roney, W. E. Sharp, A. Collins, and G. V. Spenser....

15 minute read

Read Chapter

LEBANON ASSOCIATION.

Operating in Pickens county, was organized in 1874, and has a membership of about 2,000. Revs. J. C. Archibald, Bridgeville; D. C. Salmon, Bridgeville; R. Richey, Pickensville; J. Goodwin, Raleigh; J. T. Atty, Memphis, Ala.; J. G. Johnson, Carrollton; J. Clark, Ehren; James Howard, Pickensville. Brother Archibald is liberally educated, teaches school, and is a progressive man on all lines....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

LILY STAR ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1885, contains only about 1,000 members. Trio, Brierfield, Centerville, Harrisburgh, Scottsville, Green Pond, Blocton, Vance. Revs. T. M. Parker, W. A. Parker, John Bolden, J. A. Foster, S. Page, H. S. Thompson, G. W. Glenn, G. Calhoun....

13 minute read

Read Chapter

MOBILE SUNLIGHT ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1887, operates chiefly in Mobile, Baldwin and Washington counties. The St. Louis Street Church, Mobile, constituted in 1859, is the principal church in this body. They have churches at the following points: Whistler, Chastang, Calvert’s Station, Scranton, Miss., Gondola, Four Mile Post, Moffitsville, Citronelle, Mount Vernon, Chunchula, Cleveland, Cottage Hill, Kushla, Vancleve. Revs. J. L. Frazier, C. C. Richardson, T. H. Morgan, G. W. Cephas, H. Sims, G. Lewis, A. J. Bolton, E. M.

26 minute read

Read Chapter

MOUNT PLEASANT ASSOCIATION.

Marengo county, was organized in 1878. They number about 2,500 members. Gallion, Linden, Faunsdale, Dayton, Magnolia, Van Dorn, Demopolis, Uniontown, Providence, Spring Hill. Revs. J. Lawson, H. Shade, James Emmerson, J. Shaw, N. P. Anderson, B. Glover, D. S. Thompson, M. D. Agee, James Brock....

14 minute read

Read Chapter

MORNING STAR ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1874, is operating in Coosa and Elmore counties. Their membership is about 2,000. They have been rather separated from the general work, but perhaps it is owing to the fact that their location has made it rather difficult for those who have represented the enterprises of the denomination to reach them. Revs. L. W. Whitaker, Rockford; M. C. Crosby, A. L. Swindall, A. M. Snowdon, A. Jones, J. A. Baker, E. D. Howell, L. W. McNeely, R. T. Lewis, J. H. Smith. Lockford, Irma, Central Inst

28 minute read

Read Chapter

MOUNT PILGRIM ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1874 by Revs. W. H. McAlpine, J. R. Capers, and William Ware, with other leading men; occupies the chief mining regions of Alabama. Their last minutes give the following churches and ministers: Revs. T. W. Walker, T. L. Jordan, G. W. Parks, William Ware, G. S. Smith, W. A. Shirley, A. J. Fikes, R. Donald, P. C. Caddell, W. T. Bibb, J. A. Peele, S. D. Sanders, William Walker, E. E. Perryman, R. H. Vogle, M. C. Adams, J. P. O’Riley, A. A. Scott, L. V. Ellison, J. E. A. Wilson, V. Hunt

2 minute read

Read Chapter

FOURTH ANNIVERSARY OF SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH, OF BIRMINGHAM, ALA.

The anniversary of the above named church will be held on Friday, the above date, at the church on Avenue G, between Eighteenth and Nineteenth streets. All churches in the city and vicinity are cordially invited to be present and take a part in the exercises, as those present will have the privilege to speak on the subjects after they have been submitted to the assembly. The following will be the programme for the day. 9:30 to 10 A. M.—Opening. Devotional exercises and responsive Scripture readi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

MT. PILGRIM WOMEN’S MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION.

The above gives the topics of the local monthly meetings....

4 minute read

Read Chapter

WOMEN’S MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION.

Jackson Street Baptist Church, Woodlawn, May 3, 1895. In this meeting the following names appear: Mesdames P. F. Clark, Sallie Hall, R. Callier, A. McKesson, L. Tyrus, E. C. Bellmy, L. Dean, S. Ceephas, A. L. Billheimer, S. A. Donald, M. J. Walker, with the names of the missionaries, Misses Knapp and Boorman....

17 minute read

Read Chapter

FIFTH GENERAL MEETING OF THE BAPTIST YOUNG PEOPLE’S UNION OF MT. PILGRIM ASSOCIATION.

December 7, 1894. These topics, etc., show the lines of thought upon which the mind is working. How different things are now from what they were in 1835, when Job Davis, the African preacher, toiled by the side of his fellow slaves all day and dreamed at night of his far off home over the great sea! Now in the valley where his famous camp-meeting sermon melted the heart of the white people into a condition of submission to Jesus and into hope of the coming world—where the black man knew only spa

50 minute read

Read Chapter

THE MULBERRY ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1882, is composed of only a few churches, chief among which we may mention: New Zion, Mt. Pleasant and Spring Hill, Elba post office; Mt. Calvary, Damascus and Antioch, Rose Hill post office; Friendship and Pleasant Ridge, Henderson post office; Mt. Olive and St. John, Luverne post office. They have between 1,200 and 1,500 members. Revs. G. Stringer, M. H. Henderson, G. B. Gibson, C. P. Larkin, D. F. White and J. S. Lee....

22 minute read

Read Chapter

MUD CREEK ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1873, is a small body of very poor churches, located in Jackson county. There were a few rich slaveholders in said county, among whom was the Rev. Charles Roach, Sr. On his plantation there were three preachers, one Methodist and two Baptist. The Baptist preachers were Thomas and Perkins. Like many other ex-slaves, they retained the name of their master, and became known as Revs. Thomas and Perkins Roach. Rev. Robert Caver, at an early date after the close of the war, came into the

53 minute read

Read Chapter

MUSCLE SHOALS ASSOCIATION

Is among the largest and oldest Associations in the State, having been organized in 1869 by Revs. Henry Bynum, Wm. Coleman and W. E. Northcross, aided by Dr. Joseph Shackelford (white), of Trinity. I was with them as they met in the session of 1893 in the Courtland Church. In 1827, a Mr. D. P. Bestor, a white minister, preached in this section and began the work of organizing among the whites. I was told that the white church, constituted in Courtland in 1827, had long passed away and that of th

2 minute read

Read Chapter

NEW PINE GROVE ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1878 and is a secession from the old Pine Grove. They have, perhaps, about 2,000 members in the following churches: At Troy—Pine Grove, Holly Springs, High Ridge, Mt. Olive; Union Springs—Sardis, Low’s Field, Lime Creek; Brundidge—Post Oak, New Hope, Mt. Pilgrim. Rev. A. Martin, Union Springs; Wm. Mullen and M. Flournoy, Troy; W. H. Copeland and E. Mayer, Brundidge....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

NEW CAHABA ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1871, has about 2,000 members, and are generous supporters of missionary and educational enterprises. Their work is managed by such men as Revs. P. S. L. Hutchins, B. N. Tubbs, R. E. Brown, L. Abercrombie, T. Chandler and A. L. Huggins. They have churches at or near Marion, Hamburg and Selma. The copy of their minutes which came to the writer’s hand is not sufficiently full to make a good record, as is the case with regard to other minutes in hand....

24 minute read

Read Chapter

OLD PINE GROVE ASSOCIATION.

With headquarters at Union Springs, Bullock county, was organized in 1870. No section of Alabama affords better talent than is found within the territory of this Association. The people of Union Springs are noted for their ability and skill in business affairs—merchandise, etc. The brick church edifice recently erected by Rev. W. C. Bradford and his church in Union Springs, as well as the large and successfully operated stores, is testimony on this line. The officers of this body are: Rev. E. Th

59 minute read

Read Chapter

PEROTE ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1880, is not so well known as some other bodies. From the minutes of 1888 I glean the following: They have a church at Perote, one at Mt. Andrew, one at Fresco, two at Victoria, one at Midway, and one at Pine Grove. Their membership at this time was small, and the names of some of their chief men appear as follows: Rev. J. H. Burks, W. B. Grubbs, C. G. Wheeler, R. Allen, and R. Dix....

22 minute read

Read Chapter

PIKE COUNTY ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1887, rose, it seems, in Pike County. Revs. J. S. Adair, T. Diggs, G. Whaley, W. S. Pollard, H. Broxton, M. Stinson, W. F. Williams, J. O. Davis, and others....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

RUSHING SPRINGS ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1870. Revs. Henry Woods, W. H. McAlpine, and Isham Robinson were the chief founders of this body. Talladega county is their main territory, though they have churches in Coosa, St. Clair and Calhoun counties. Rev. E. C. Rivers has been for years their efficient moderator, and Rev. A. A. Battle is clerk. They report their churches and ministers as follows: D. Savage, of Mumford; A. Z. Wilson, N. Jemison, B. Jackson, A. Bibb, S. Rivers, P. Jordan, C. C. Curry, R. Garrett, A. J. Vincent

1 minute read

Read Chapter

THE AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH.

In Talladega county, has a rather peculiar history. The lot was donated in 1849, it appears, by a Mr. William Jenkins, a wealthy slave owner, who lived about eight miles south of the town of Talladega. It is said that in addition to the gift of land and building, he paid a man to teach the catechism to the colored children, and paid annually $150 toward the salary of a minister for the colored people who worshiped with this church. Samuel Jenkins, a slave from South Carolina, was one of their fi

1 minute read

Read Chapter

SANDY RIDGE ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1887, is composed of the following churches: Revs. A. Clay, J. and E. Mixom, M. Bishop, H. W. Peeples, and E. W. Deampart are mentioned among their leading men. Their church property is reported at $8,000....

11 minute read

Read Chapter

SALEM ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1871, is a small body in southeast Alabama. I have been unable to obtain data from this body. I learn that they have churches at the following points: Brundidge, Clintonville, Enterprise, and Cox Mills....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

SHELBY SPRINGS ASSOCIATION.

Was organized in 1869. Rev. Berry Ware, it seems, was one of its leading founders. They have a membership of about 3,000. They have some excellent men, among whom may be mentioned: Revs. B. M. Mallory, F. Youngblood, H. D. Leathers, of Childersburg; Rev. D. L. Prentice, Aldrich; Rev. J. P. Barton, Talladega; Rev. E. E. Perryman, Helena; Revs. G. R. Nash, F. R. Kenedy, B. F. Singleton, and P. Caddell, Columbiana; Rev. F. Cahill, Harpersville; Revs. J. L. Looney and P. Fancher, Fayetteville; Revs.

47 minute read

Read Chapter

SOUTHEAST ALABAMA ASSOCIATION.

This Association operates in the extreme southeast portion of the State. I have not been able to secure a full statistical table from them. They report thirty churches, with a membership of about 2,000. From a mutilated copy of their minutes for 1892 the following names are given as the ordained ministers of the body: J. Craddock, G. Christinar, J. Stith, Thomas Slaughter, M. Spencer, E. P. Langston, J. Cotton, E. Alford, T. Rollins, A. L. Koonce, J. C. Green, Wm. Carter, A. Powell, J. Foston, J

50 minute read

Read Chapter

SNOW CREEK ASSOCIATION.

Is chiefly located in Calhoun and Etowah counties. At present their officers are as follows: This body was organized in 1869 by Rev. Burrell Snow (whose name it bears) and a few others, aided by the late Rev. Mr. Jinkins, a white Baptist minister, whose heart and hand seemed ever ready to help on every good work among the colored people. Rev. H. J. Hoke, the efficient missionary of Arkansas, went out from this association. They have something above 2,000 members belonging to the following church

1 minute read

Read Chapter

SOUTHEAST DISTRICT ASSOCIATION.

Confined chiefly to Crenshaw county; was organized in 1879. The writer has attended one of their sessions held east of Greenville, a few miles from Luverne. Revs. James Barrett, Bolling; E. Dunklin, J. H. Henderson, Greenville; M. C. Lowery, E. D. Wallace, Bolling; S. M. Ransom, Oak Streak; S. M. Lowery, Salsoda; Bro. Walter Williams, Glascow and Bro. Henry McLain, Oaky Streak. Luverne, Greenville, Glascow, Oaky Streak, Salsoda, Rutledge, Pontus, Shell, Bradleyton, Pigeon Creek. They hope to beg

1 minute read

Read Chapter

SPRING HILL ASSOCIATION.

Operating south of Montgomery, was organized in 1874 by Brethren W. W. Lane, Lewis Witherspoon, George Jones, D. Carter, O. Blue, and others. Revs. S. Adams, T. Ervin, A. Garner, R. Borden, M. Jackson, F. Nichols, William Rollins, William Day, O. Blue, J. Mitchell, W. Mullens, D. S. Adams, I. Davis, John Smith, and E. M. Burkett. Dr. A. J. Stokes, of Montgomery, has for several years been their moderator. In the session of 1891 they rejected the temperance report; but this year (1893) they vote

39 minute read

Read Chapter

STAR OF HOPE ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1877 and operating chiefly in Wilcox county, presents the following roll of churches: Antioch, Magnolia, New Hope No. 2, New Hope No. 4, Ruk West, Emanuel Street, and Union Baptist, Camden Post Office; Cedar Grove and Starling, Furman; Little Rock, Tilden; Little Zion, St. Emanuel, St. Peter, Nellie; Mt. Gilead and Magnolia, Bell’s Landing; Morning Star and Shady Grove, Miller’s Ferry; New Hope No. 3 and St. Wisdom, Canton’s Bend; New Hill, Butler’s Springs; Oak Valley, Monterey; Pi

59 minute read

Read Chapter

TOWN CREEK ASSOCIATION.

Is a new body, organized in 1889. The minutes of 1891 give the following: Magnolia Church, Warrior Stand, Rev. E. Moore, pastor; Bethlehem Church, Cotton Valley, Rev. M. Ellington, pastor; Sweet Pilgrim Church, Union Springs, Rev. E. Thornton, pastor; St. Paul Church, Cotton Valley, Rev. C. Johnson, pastor; Town Creek Church, Union Springs, Rev. J. Germany, pastor; Antioch Church, Columbus, Ga., Rev. E. A. McCall, pastor; Mt. Nebo Church,——, Rev. J. Germany, pastor; Mt. Pisgah Church, Dick Creek

55 minute read

Read Chapter

UNION ASSOCIATION.

Was organized in 1874 of churches which seceded from the Alabama District Association. They have the following churches and ministers: Greenville—First Colored, Pine Top, Salem, Old Elm, Pine Level; Pineapple—Arkadelphia, New Virgin; Monterey—Ridgeville, Spring Hill, Mt. Moriah, Rosemary; Bugville—Friendship; Dunham—Long Creek; Simkinsville—Pleasant Hill; Starlington—Pine Level; Allenton—Siloam and Mt. Zion; Minter—Hopewell; Pleasant Hill—Good Hope, Cedar Grove; Snow Hill—Shiloh; Georgiana—Frien

54 minute read

Read Chapter

UNIONTOWN ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1872 by the late Revs. Henry Stephens, John Dosier and John Blevins, is reported to be next numerically to the Alabama District, containing a membership of about 11,500. They raise annually for general purposes from $200 to $400. Their “Statistical Table” gives the following list of churches and ministers: Selma—St. Philip Street, Tabernacle, Mount Zion, Little Rock, St. Paul, New Center, Mount Ararat, Beach Island, Everdale, Providence, Elbethel, Mount Zion; Newbern—Newbern, Holly

2 minute read

Read Chapter

SALEM MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH, GREENSBORO.

The white Baptists had for many years prior to the late war a prosperous church at this place, with a large membership of white people and colored people—the slaves of their masters. Just about the time of the war the larger portion of the white membership moved away, and from one cause and another, the close of the war found but a few white members remaining, but a large colored membership. The white members, to whom the property belonged, sold the building and donated $2,000 of the proceeds to

2 minute read

Read Chapter

THE ST. PHILLIP STREET CHURCH, SELMA.

This church was organized about the year 1845. The church was composed of the white membership and the church which was composed of the colored membership, agreed to build together, with the understanding that the former should occupy the upper story and the latter should occupy the basement. This agreement was kept until some time after the close of the war, when the white brethren bought the claims of the colored church, paying $2,000 for possession of the basement. Their first colored pastor

3 minute read

Read Chapter

WILL’S CREEK ASSOCIATION.

Organized in 1873, and operating in “Will’s Valley” and St. Clair county, reports the following churches and ministers: At Collinsville Post Office—Pleasant Grove Church; Lebanon—Lebanon; Fort Payne—Fort Payne; Valley Head—Bethlehem; Attalla—Mt. Zion, Pilgrim, Bethlehem; Keener—New Hope; Beaver Valley—Pleasant Hill; Ashville—Mt. Zion; Springville—Springville; Whitney—Evergreen; Guntersville—Bethlehem and Hooper Chapel; Trenton—Trenton; North Alabama—Clogville. Rev. G. Neeley, Ashville, is modera

1 minute read

Read Chapter

IV. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Adams, Rev. Stewart , of Greenville, Butler county, was the chief leader and organizer in that section of the State for the first seventeen or eighteen years of freedom. He was a pure-blooded Negro, and was possessed of a fine personal appearance. His forehead was large and broad, and the sparkle of his eye indicated the presence of mental power. He could read and write fairly well, and in his speeches always succeeded in conveying his thoughts to others. He was for some years missionary in that

38 minute read

Read Chapter

BIOGRAPHICAL SUPPLEMENT.

It is to be regretted, perhaps, that this volume has in it a feature which must be considered a supplement. But doubtless the author will be excused when he tells the reader that many have delayed till now—long after the completion of the book—to send in their names. New men, strong men, have lately come to us from other States—men whose names could not well go into the main body of the book, for the reason that this has been done for some time. Also, young men of our own State have risen into s

17 minute read

Read Chapter

I. FROM WHENCE WE HAVE COME.

We have seen the tree—dwarfed and yellow-leafed—in the sterile rock-bound soil of the mountain peak, and we have felt that its life was a mere existence, a mere hair’s-breadth remove from death. The fearful regime of slavery had reduced the mental life of the Negro to the point where its activity was a simple, natural struggle for existence. By the terms mental life are designated especially the knowing faculties and voluntary powers, as well as that part of the emotional nature that has to do w

2 minute read

Read Chapter

II. HOW WE HAVE COME.

( a ) Not long since a white merchant of this state remarked to me: “No people have ever improved so much in so short a time as your people have.” I replied: “I think no people ever had a more faithful, self-sacrificing leadership.” I think it may be said of us that we have done what we could. The work began when we owned neither land for home nor land for church house—when there was no church, no association, no mission board to offer any pay for labor. I speak of course of the rule. True, ther

10 minute read

Read Chapter

III. THE POINT WE NOW OCCUPY.

Thirty years we have been beneath the opportunities and duties of free manhood, which is to say that for thirty years we have been associated with the family institution as husband, as wife, as parent, as sister, as brother, as son, and as daughter. Three decades with the family, developing affection and making patience. Thirty years of business life has passed upon us, which is to say that we have for this length of time been associated with those facts which grow out of our physical wants, suc

5 minute read

Read Chapter

THE WOMEN’S CONVENTION—A HIGH POINT.

The Women’s State Convention organized in 1886, marks a new era in the history of our denomination. The present brick building on our school grounds owes its existence chiefly to this organization. They came into the field in a dark time, and at a time when the wheels of the school dragged heavily. The circumstances which sent Miss S. A. Stone before the people of the State seemed a providence. The time, the conditions, needed the heart of a woman to control them. And the Women’s Convention conq

8 minute read

Read Chapter

MISSIONARY WORK IN BIRMINGHAM DISTRICT.

Many are the blessings God has bestowed upon missionary work in Birmingham and it is a real pleasure to state briefly some of the methods employed which have given the workers so much joy, and which our Heavenly Father has used to advance his cause. Religious visiting in the homes of the people is a very important part. God’s word never returns unto Him void, and when it is carried into the homes and its truths taught and heart to heart talks given only eternity will reveal its results in leadin

8 minute read

Read Chapter

CONCLUSION.

And now our book is at its end. How well it serves the purpose for which it was produced, the reader will determine. We gratefully recognize the substantial services rendered by friends, as during the past ten years we have hunted and gleaned for subject matter. The author is under special obligations to Messrs P. W. Williamson, F. D. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Walker, Rev. T. W. Walker, Dr. Waldrop, Dr. and Mrs. Pettiford, Mrs. Rachel Jenkins, Mrs. H. C. Bryant, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Simpson, of

1 minute read

Read Chapter

“The School of the People.”

It is our Object to Act as a Medium Through Which Knowledge of Matters of Vital Importance to the Welfare of our Race can be Carried to the People. Are You Interested in Us?– – Are You Interested in Yourselves? Then see to it that you Order one of the Following Books and get Someone Else to do the Same. WRITE for TERMS to AGENTS, ENCLOSING 2c. STAMP for REPLY Confidential Terms Made to Agents on Application. Apply to ALABAMA PUBLISHING CO., Birmingham, Ala....

30 minute read

Read Chapter

Transcribers’ Notes

A number of typographical errors were corrected silently. Cover image is in the public domain. Handwritten inscription under Miss Joanna P. Moore picture not transcribed. Add Selma University, and Rev. W. A. Shirley to Index to Illustrations....

2 minute read

Read Chapter