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THE LIBRARY OF THE

UNIVERSITY OF

NORTH CAROLINA

THE COLLECTION OF

NORTH CAROLINIANA
ENDOWED BY

JOHN SPRUNT

HILL

CLASS OF 1889

CBo

W72w

FOR USE ONLY

IN

THE NORTH CAROLINA COLLECTION

Form No. A-368

Who's
Negro
With a

Who

Among North Carolina


Baptists
Brief History of

Negro Baptist Organizations

With Many Photographs

M. W. WILLIAMS and

GEORGE W. WATKINS
Authors

1940

Dedication
This Book
is

Dedicated to the Sacred

Memories of the Late A. M. Moore,

Layman and
Pegtjes,

Physician, and A.

W.

Preacher and Teacher, Be-

cause of the Pioneer Work Done in the Field of Religious Education as

Sunday School and Church Workers.


The Authors.

Appreciation
The Authors of This Book Wish to Acknowledge Their Grateful Appreciation to the Memory of the Late
Dr. J. A. Whitted, Many Ministers, Lay-

men, Associations, Conventions, and


Friends

Who

so

Kindly Helped Us in

Securing This Valuable Information.

The Authors.

PREFACE
of some of the lasting contributions of the Negro Baptists in North Carolina to the spiritual and material advancement of the Negro in North Carolina and the revelations of facts that the influences from the activities of Negro Baptists in North Carolina are nation-wide, the collaborators on this book have attempted to list some of the factors and persons who have majored in the affairs of Negro Baptists in North Carolina. In fact, some of the proponents of the policies that have effectively, and in some instances dramatically, helped make inspiring chapters in the annals of Negro Baptists in North Carolina, the collaborators, with obvious satisfaction are trying to single out them as sculptures of monuments of splendid achievements. An effort has been made to compress into the pages of this book certain facts and biographies that will be educational and inspirational. The appraisal of these biographies perhaps will give the reader a native interest which will stimulate a greater resolve to help make the objectives of his or her church a savor of the past and present source of vigorous inspiration. In this effort it is strikingly difficult to even attempt to make an impartial appraisal of the movements and outstanding individuals among Negro Baptists in North Carolina who have endeavored to measure up to the religious needs of their day and participated in the "crucial episodes" of their church in North Carolina. We also accept the chance to feature some of the ministers and laymen who have constructively helped provide the needed stimuli, morale and tangible assets for the programs and objectives of State and National combinations of Negro Baptists. They are valiantly marching down the century and their achievements, to some folk, we trust, will prove fascinating reading and "native ideals." They are a part of the present-day exponents of Christianity hence our feeble attempt to at least single them out as being among a host of the 260,000 Negro Baptists in

BECAUSE

North Carolina. The collaborators hope that this book will be welcomed by the ministry and laity of the church and all interested in the movements for religious and material advancement.

Page

Table of Contents

Page
Preface
Introduction
;

Some Highlights
Brief Statements of Organizations

11 15 16 23

General Baptist Convention

The Baptist
The
S. S.

S. S.

Convention

Convention of Western N. C

34
36 39

County and District Conventions

Shaw

University

Associations
Baptist Young People's Union

45
69

Baptist Papers

72

The Women's Home and Foreign Conventions


Other Women's Organizations

77
80 81
83

Woman's Auxiliary
Secondary Schools

The Oxford Orphanage


Brief History of Old Eastern Association Brief History of Churches

87
88

101
139

Negro Baptist Statistics

Addenda

140 140 140 142

The Bible
Our Church Covenant
Articles of Faith

Who's

Who Among North Carolina Negro Baptists Biographical Sketches

185

INTRODUCTION
the book entitled: Who's Who Among North Carolina Negro Baptists With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations, the aim of the authors (Rev. M. W. Williams and Dr. G. W. Watkins) is to present some fundamental and outstanding facts relative to certain organizations and individuals which contributed to the progress of Negro Baptists in North Carolina. By this method they essay to set forth evidences of the aspirations and achievements of Negro Baptist ministers and laymen who have labored and passed on to their reward and also to acquaint the general public with those men and women who are carrying on the work of this great denomination at the present time. When it is remembered that within the last thirty-five years no history of the Negro Baptists of North Carolina has been published, the need of such a work as this is obvious. The collaborating editors are combining with the work of the present generation the heroic achievements of those rugged pioneers of the faith who before and immediately after the Civil War founded and nourished the Baptist cause in its infancy among the Negro people of North Carolina. This fact adds much to the value of this book, because it places in the hands of the Baptist a much-needed record of the work of the fathers many of whom have been forgotten or were never heard of by the younger members of our denomination. Another fact which makes this book of vital importance, is that it contains a short history of the various Baptist State organizations, District Associations, Sunday Schools, B. T. U. conventions, and women's organizations. This gives the reader information concerning the founding and development of these bodies, so that under one cover the reader may have a brief history of the beginning and progress of the Negro Baptists of North Carolina and short sketches of some of the lives of the men and women who are the leaders of this great work. The authors have, in this work, erected a merited monument to the leaders among the Negro Baptists, some of whom have gone to their reward while others are still serving in the moral and spiritual development of men through the Negro Baptist denomination in North Carolina. The authors of this book are especially qualified for the objective which they have sought and so remarkably achieved.

IN

Page

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

He He

Rev. M. W. Williams is a native of Halifax County, N. C. has been in the Baptist work practically all of his life. attended the Halifax grammar and high schools. Later he matriculated at A. & T. College, Greensboro, from which he graduated with a B.S. degree. He later attended Shaw University, from which he graduated with a B.Th. degree. He has done special work at the Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, also graduate work at the University of Chicago.

REV. M. W. WILLIAMS
In the religious

field

he has served as president of the

North Carolina Baptist B. Y. P. U. convention; editor-inchief of the Union Reformer; manager of the Colored Sunday School Store; secretary of the Executive Committee of the North Carolina Baptist Convention; corresponding secretary of the State Baptist Sunday School Convention, which gave opportunity for travel and to learn the State. Rev. Williams served as moderator of the Wake Baptist Association and member of the executive board of the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention. He is now pastor of the First Baptist Church in Franklinton, N. C, and the Springfield Baptist Church in Auburn, N. C.
In the educational field he has served as teacher in Airlie, N. C, principal of the Roanoke Rapids graded school, and

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

principal of the State School for the Blind and Deaf at Raleigh, N. C, during which time this school has grown from two to twelve buildings; the land acquired has increased from thirty-five to nearly three hundred acres and the graduates in the blind and deaf departments have increased from year to year. In 1939 he resigned as principal of the school after twenty-two years of service, to pastor and write. He is perhaps, more familiar with the problems of the deaf and blind and the methods of teaching in this particular field than he would acknowledge.

Geo.

W. Moore.

(Stiff

irii

REV. GEO. W. WATKINS

Rev. G. W. Watkins is a native of Granville County, N. C. joined the New Jonathan Creek Baptist Church at an early age. He attended the public school of his home county and after receiving some help in study otherwise entered public life as teacher. He taught in Nash and Granville counties. Later he entered Shaw University from which he graduated in 1908 with A.B. and B.Th. degrees. Two months before graduation he was called to the Providence Baptist Church of Greensboro, N. C. In 1912 he was called In to the Friendship Baptist Church of Charlotte, N. C.

He

10

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

1917 he was elected field secretary of the Baptist State Convention and first editor of the Union Reformer, the organ of the convention. After five years in this office he resigned and accepted a call to the First Baptist Church of Louisburg, N. C. While there he attended the University of Chicago where he did special work in Church History and Old Testament Interpretation. In 1923 he was called back to Shaw University as instructor in Old Testament Interpretation and Church History. He was called to the Bank Street Baptist Church of Norfolk, Va., where he remained for twelve years. Having had such an experience in training, preaching teaching and traveling in the State, from the mountains to the sea, acquainting himself with the churches and the Baptist men and women, I feel that Rev. Watkins is well qualified to be a collaborator in writing, editing and compiling the matter contained in this volume.
C. F. Pope.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

11

Some Highlights
AT

In the Early History of

North Carolina Negro Baptists


the close of the Civil War there were 400,000 Negro Baptists in the United States. Among this number of Negro Baptists communicants North Carolina was represented. The existence of this membership in the South was only through connection with white churches. Rev. Livingston Johnson, in the history of the North Carolina State Convention, records that in 1837 the propagation of the Baptist faith among slaves in North Carolina began in the following manner "The committee on religious instruction of slaves urged that places be provided for them in the houses of worship, and that their religious instruction receive special attention." Progress in the administration of the Convention of 1850 is noted thus: "The churches of the State are urged to establish schools for the oral instruction of the colored people." The late Dr. J. A. Whitted, in his history on the Negro Baptist in North Carolina, in stressing this phase of historical events among the pioneers of Negro Baptists "In some instances the colored in North Carolina, wrote: people are allowed to hold services conducted by some member of their own race in some sections and at specified times, but such meetings were usually held under the supervision of a white man, and at his discretion these meetings were brought to a close. In >very many instances such meetings were even conducted by a member of the white race. In matters of discipline, especially if a white member was involved, the colored people had no voice whatIn matters affecting their own number often some ever. colored brother in whom the church had confidence would make reports and recommendations. In compliance with the resolution of 1837, which we have already mentioned, in some instances provision was made in the erection of the church edifice by petition, and in the galleries for the accommodation of the colored brethren. In the communion services, after the bread and wine had been passed to the white brethren, it was passed in turn to the colored brethren. This was regarded by them as a God-sent privilege and a blessing, for which their 'Aniens' were often loud and lasting." The Northern and Southern Baptists, in 1845, separated because "of the work of the missionary and the relations of the races as master and slave." It is said that there were
:

12

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

many white missionaries and ministers in the South who were imbued by an outstanding and invigorating Christian spirit to better the spiritual and material status of the
colored folk.

growth of colored folk in North Caroduring the embryonic period of Negro Baptist churches in North Carolina, was not static. The following lines from Dr. Whitted's timely history attest to same likewise: "In many localities of North Carolina spereligious
lina, especially

The

cial revival services were held for the colored people; often great numbers professed faith in Christ. The Pleasant Plains Church of Hertford County, and many others had their beginning as a result of such meetings. In the instance of the church just mentioned it was agreed between a white Baptist and Methodist minister that they would unite and carry on a revival meeting. Large numbers professed faith in Christ, and then arose the question

to

which church they would

unite.

It

was

finally

agreed

that the Methodist minister should stand on one side and the Baptist minister on the other, and leave it to the option of the candidate on which side he should pass. As might have been expected at that day, almost everyone passed over the side of the Baptist preacher, and the Pleasant Plains church was immediately set apart. The same minIt was not until Dr. ister served them several years. C. S. Brown took charge of the school at Winton that a colored man was called to serve the church."

Before the Civil War "there were but few Baptist preachers." Among them the first to the knowledge of several students of this phase of Baptist history in North Carolina, was "Uncle Harry Cowan." During the Civil War he was the body-servant of General Joseph Johnston. He was a unique character of his day. "He preached every night during the struggle except the night General Stonewall Jackson fell in battle. He was an outstanding and courageous pioneer and leader for his denomination among his folk. During the seventy years of his life in the ministry, he baptized eight thousand persons." Prior to the Civil War there were other men who rigorously and surprisingly wrought for their denomination, and they were "full of faith, of kindness and exhortation" analogous to Uncle "Harry Cowan." It is noted that Raleigh furnished some of the laymen included in this pioneering and stalwart group. These Raleigh laymen were Todd Palmer, Sandy Pinkin, Henry Jett, Richard Shepard and Jim Adkins.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

13

In the religious activities of our folk at this time, the of Lewis Perry, of Louisburg, N. C, is a timely illustration of how these men overcame discouraging obstacles, which to some folk were immovable. In his day, Lewis Perry was known by both races in his section as "Dr. Lewis Perry," because he "was the body servant of Dr. Willie Perry. He was granted papers to hold prayer meetings in Louisburg. He was further granted papers to exhort. His white friends said by all means he should
life

have been granted

name

will live in

'a horse and saddle and and about Louisburg, for

bridle.'

His

his services

were not only greatly helpful to his colored brethren but people heard him gladly, and were greatly benefited by his spiritual earnestness and instruction." Relative to the devotion of these early leaders and their followers the following lines are quoted from Dr. Whitted's history: "Such a Christian spirit grew up between them

many white

the time came for a separation (referring to the devotion to the colored brethren in Raleigh) they refused to go out from their white brethren, and remained with them for several years afterward. The property now owned by the colored First Baptist Church (Raleigh) was offered to them soon after the war, but they refused to leave their white brethren and it fell into the hands of the Roman Catholics. In the special Providence of God, after many years of worship near the Seaboard workshops, the Roman Catholics sold out to the colored Baptists and they, at much sacrifice, erected the beautiful church on the corner of the street southeast of the Capitol Square."

when

Holland, of Winston-Salem, and Rev. at the time of his death he was pastor of four of the largest churches of the Kenansville Association were illustrious examples of impressive careers in the early history of the Baptist Church among Negroes in North Carolina.

Rev. G. W. Thomas Parker

The spirit and energizing enthusiasm and devotion to the cause started by these brethren and their loyal followers featured in the foregoing paragraphs of this story became contagious and effective for wholesome results. Among the sainted brethren who followed in the paths of these illustrious pioneers were:

Dr. Augustus Shepard, a great preacher and organGeorge Washington Perry, Rev. Andrew Jackson, Rev. Annanias Buck, Rev. W. W. Pettiford, Dr. E. M. Brawley, Dr. N. F. Roberts, Dr. J. A. Whitted, Dr. S. N. Vass, Dr. E. E. Smith, Dr. A. W. Pegues, Dr. C. S. Brown,
izer; Rev.

14

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. D. J. Avery, Dr. Richard Spiller, Dr. A. B. Vincent, Dr. Lewis, of Charlotte, N. C, Rev. J. W. Faulk, Col. Jas. H. Young, A. J. Rogers, Mrs. Pattie Shepard and her husband, Mrs. Sallie Mials, Rev. G. A. Mials, Dr. Eaton, of Henderson, N. C, Rev. J. W. Ligon, Rev. James M. Young, Dr. S. H. Witherspoon, Hon. H. P. Cheatham, Rev. Jas H. Arrington, Rev. Moses Sweat; the Rev. Westley Shaw and his brother, Richard; Rev. Daniel Martin, Rev. R. Mason, Rev. J. W. Wood, Rev. Caesar Johnson. Rev. Harmon Pair, Rev. A. T. Price, Rev. W. A. Jones, Rev. J. J. Worlds, Rev. L. T. Christmas, Dr. Lewis A. Hackney, Rev. J. H. Hamlin, of Winston-Salem; Rev. Lemuel W. Boone, Rev. R. H. Harper, Rev. Anthony W. Welborne, Rev. Arnold B. Williams, Rev. Thos. Parker, Rev. P. 0. Hayes, Rev. J. W. Dew; the well-known pioneers, the Eagles, Horton, Banks, Burwell and Pattillo; Rev. Ned Rice, who is reputed to have walked from Spring Hope to Hillsboro, N. C, to attend an association, Rev. J. D. Harrell, Rev. W. C. Pope, Rev. N. B. Durham, Rev. Robt. Shepard, Rev. I. M. Powers, A. R. Middleton, Revs. C. Taylor, J. S. Brown, J. H. Blackwell, N. V. Davis. Stephen Miller, Prof. Benjamin Brawley, Rev. W. S. Turner, H. H. Harris, M. W. Williams, Sr., C. P. Anthony, A. Drewey, A. P. Robinson, Ed Cheek, Dr. J. E. Dellinger, Dr. McDuffie Bowens; Rev. Zolli Coffers, R. I. Walden, Wm. E. Ellerbe, Harry H. Norman, J. B. Ellis, Prince Ivey, C. A. Ivey, A. G. Ivey, S. G. Newsome, Rev. Williams (Rockingham), W. H. Woodard, Dr. P. W. Moore, Rev. A. A. Smith and many others.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

15

Some
IT
is

Brief Statements Concerning Four

Baptist State Organizations


heartening to note the virile and uplifting factors in the trend of affairs of such organizations merely introduced to the reader in the following paragraphs. These well directed organizations are spiritual and moral elements dealing with the lives of children and adults. These agencies that are creating a wholesome atmosphere for the Church and the home are potent instruments that are helping the members of each religious combination to Many indiovercome present-day expanding problems. viduals are somewhat serenely unconscious to the fact that such organizations are essential for material progress. Hence this attempt to introduce some of the leaders who are specialists in their respective affiliations.

16

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina


Formerly

Known

as

The Educational and Missionary Convention and The Union Baptist Convention, respectively.
here and there in North Carolina there were a few Negro Baptist churches dating back before emancipation of the race group; not until 1867, two years after the close of the Civil War, do we find any state organization formed among them. The Reverends Edward Eagles, C. Johnson, William Warwich, L. W. Boone, B. B. Spicer, H. Grimes, John Washington, Charles Bryant, Sutton Davis and R. H. Harper met in Goldsboro, N. C, and organized the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention. These pioneers received some help in forming their new organization from some of the white brethren. These few Negro ministers started a work in those dark days with no church buldings save log huts and brush arbors, little book learning and less money that has grown into a great body of Baptists with its cooperative and auxiliary organizations that extend to every part of North Carolina. These men of faith and courage urged the purchase of good books and emphasized the necessity of an intelligent ministry.
;

WHILE

Help From White Baptists


The following quotations will show the attitude of the white Baptists toward these struggling ex-slaves: "The brethren realize that a new responsibility has been thrust upon them by the emancipation of the slaves and pledge themselves to do all in their power for the religious and educational development of the Negro. We would urge upon our pastors and churches the importance of prosecuting, so far as possible, the work of giving religious instruction to the colored people among us, and we request our mission and Sunday School brothers as far as practicable to give aid in organizing and expanding among them Sunday School and church privileges." The above resolution was adopted by the white Baptists assembled in Wilmington, N. C, in 1867. Later on in Goldsboro, the

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

17

among Negro
terial
it

white brethren appropriated $500.00 for institute work Baptists (Johnson). The progress in ma-

advancement was necessarily slow. With

little

money

took many years to get out of the brush arbor and the But these fathers were zealous soul log church houses. winners. Great revivals ensued and thousands of men and women were converted and received into the churches. In those days the annual meetings were times for rejoicing and praising God for the ingathering of souls. Rev. John Washington was the first missionary sent out by the convention. Rev. E. E. Eagles was the first missionary employed among Negro Baptists in the State by the American Baptist Publication Society. Rev. Eagles is said to have been the leading spirit in the organization The work of Rev. F. R. Howell, the of the convention. second missionary sent out by the convention, created so much enthusiasm for the work that Rev. P. F. Malloy was The field work was much more also placed on the field. These men travelled a great difficult than it is today. deal on foot, doing evangelistic work, selling Bibles and tracts and- organizing churches and Sunday schools. As the years passed on and men of greater training were produced the convention work was organized into a more effective plan of operation. Dr. A. W. Pegues of Raleigh drew up a plan by which the convention organized itself into several boards that made the cooperative plan that soon followed easier to operate. With regard to the plan of cooperation of the Negro Baptists of N. C., and the white Baptists, North and South, the late Dr. John A. Whitted in his History of Negro Baptists (1908) has the following to say: "An effort was on foot at this time to raise twenty-five thousand dollars, an endowment to the presidency of Shaw University. Dr. N. F. Roberts, Prof. S. N. Vass and Prof. A. B. Vincent canvassed the State in the interest of
'

this project.

fund. It operation

"The convention gave liberal contributions to this was in the Oxford meeting that the plan of cowas submitted and voted upon by the convention. There was comparatively no opposition to the plan. "The general missionary and the three district missionaries were voted upon and accepted by the convention, and the wheels set in motion for that forward movement

18

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

which meant more to North Carolina than

all

the efforts

of its past thirty years. With four of the convention's ablest men going from place to place throughout the State, doing special missionary work, holding Ministerial Institutes, and doing house to house service, it could not serve

colored Baptists would make history for themselves, and correct the offrepeated story that the 'Negro Baptists had no men of note.' The missionary was hailed with delight in sections where he dared not go before, and it could be said in reality that the wilderness was blossoming as the rose. The fact that the great Home Mission Society of New York, the Southern Baptist Convention, with headquarters in Atlanta, and the white Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, together with the colored convention, were behind these men, not only gave to them financial support but moral support as well; besides greatly stimulating the men themselves, and enabled them to do a work they could not otherwise have done. "To them it was not a question of where their salary was coming from, it was provided for in the plan. It was theirs to do their work, to do it proficiently, and at the close of each quarter and of each year to render accurate reports of work done and results as far as they were able to gather them. The results were good as evidenced on every hand. Not only did the missionary see them but the most casual observer. "Possibly no better example could be furnished than in Lumberton, where the Baptist people simply leaped into prominence materially, morally and spiritually. Not only were the colored people led to rejoice for splendid harvests and for the broad foundation, laid through their work, but their white brethren throughout the State, the North and the South rejoiced with them. The colored brother was so awakened, not only to his own advancement, but rejoiced as he read the annual reports of the white convention and at their constant and decided growth. "It was not surprising at the close of the three years that the vote in all the cooperating bodies should have been so unanimous for three years more of cooperation. "The thirty-third annual session of the convention was held in the First Baptist Church of Rocky Mount, N. C, Dr. H. L. Dr. A. Shepard of Durham, N. C, presiding.
It

otherwise changes.

than

produce

wonderful

improvements

and

was soon evident that the

New York City, representing the American Baptist Home Mission Society; Dr. W. M. Alexander of Baltimore, representing the Lott-Carey Convention, and Dr.
Morehouse of

With a Brief History


J.

of Baptist Organizations

19

M. Armstead, of Portsmouth, representing the Baptists of Virginia, were present and made able speeches on the After the speech special objects they came to represent. of Dr. Morehouse on Cooperation, which had been prosecuted in the State for three years, the convention also voted to assume the responsibility of a teacher in the Theological Department of Shaw University. The report of the treasurer showed that two thousand, six hundred and twenty-four dollars had been raised during the year. "The new year began with bright hopes the convention appointed Rev. R. B. Watts, of Wilkesboro, to labor in the Western and mountain sections of the State, with instructions to give as much time as practicable to the section of the State beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains. "Rev. C. C. Somerville, who had labored so successfully as District Missionary for Eastern North Carolina, sent in His place his resignation to take effect October 1, 1899. was filled by the appointment of Rev. W. T. H. Woodward, of Littleton, North Carolina." Dr. John E. White, corresponding secretary of the Baptist State Convention (white) was a powerful force in maintaining good will and the spirit of brotherhood in Christ among Negro and white people of the State, during a political upheaval which discouraged many Negroes and caused them to leave the State. In his last address to the Negro Convention, before he left the State to take charge of a Baptist Church in Atlanta, Ga., Rev. White spoke from the text: "Strengthen the things that remain." This meeting was held in Kinston, N. C. Miss Joanna P. Moore of Nashville, Tenn., through her Fireside School paper "Hope" did a work in spiritual development among Negro Baptist which no historian will ever be able to record in full. She came down from the North, lived, sacrificed and suffered with the people whom she served. It was the writer's good fortune to entertain Sister Moore for a short time in his home during his first pastorate after leaving college. In having her with us my young wife and I felt that a great blessing had been bestowed upon us. Miss Moore was present at the annual session of the Educational and Missionary Convention at New Bern (1899) and the convetion gave her undivided attention while she spoke. Because of some misunderstanding between the National Baptist Convention and the Educational and Missionary Convention of North Carolnia, some of the North Carolina Baptists were not favorably impressed with the cooperative plan and as a result organized in Eastern North Carolina
;

20

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

another convention known as the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. Respecting the operation of the two
organizations, Dr. Whitted says: "The organization was formed very much to the regret of the regular convention brothers. The feeling between the brethren of the two conventions was never so radical as in other states where rival

conventions existed." At the close of the New Bern meeting Dr. P. F. Mailoy resigned as Western missionary to accept the Friendship Baptist Church of Charlotte, N. C, and Rev. G. O. Bullock was chosen in his stead. Rev. Bullock was a very energetic worker and the Western field made much progress during his tenure of office. He resigned in 1906 to succeed Dr. Mailoy as pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church in Charlotte. Dr. S. H. Witherspoon succeeded Rev. Bullock as Western missionary and after one year was elected corresponding secretary of the convention. This was a period of broadening outlook and change in plan of operation. A Board of Supervisors was appointed to advise the women in their work. Drs. A. Shepard, A. B. Vincent, J. R. Cozart, G. W. Moore and C. C. Somerville were appointed to represent the convention in the Negro Young People's Congress in Atlanta, Ga. (1901). The Home Mission Society offered a gift of thirteen thousand dollars, for a Tupper Memorial Building at Shaw University and Estey Seminary annex, provided the convenThis offer was accepted tion raised five thousand dollars. and the convention abolished the office of general missionary and the late Dr. J. A. Whitted was appointed to raise the required amount. He was given two years for this task. By the cooperation of the Baptist brotherhood of the State the money was raised and the building erected. At the session held in Franklinton, N. C, the convention appointed a committee composed of A. W. Pegues, J. A. Whitted, E. E. Smith, C. Johnson, C. S. Brown and I. W. Holden to petition the State Legislature in behalf of a reformatory school for youthful criminals among Negroes. This shows again the widening scope of the Baptists' interest in the welfare of the people. There were many secondary Baptist schools in the State, and these were formed into a sort of federation to receive funds from the State Convention. None of these schools received much cash, but that received helped to keep up interest in a State-wide program of education and missions. Nearly all of these schools have ceased to operate, and many of them have turned their property over to the State or

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

21

counties for public schools. Yet, there are a few association boards which still hold the property but have an agreement by which the counties may use the buildings for pubAmong such schools are the Burgaw lic school purposes. High School, Burgaw, N. C. Spindale Academy, Rutherfordton, N. C. ; Thompson Institute, Lumberton, N. C. and Roanoke Institute, Elizabeth City, N. C. The latter is still being operated by the Roanoke Baptist Association. The time may not be far distant when all may see the wisdom of these few men who under much pressure have held tenaciously on to such properties made sacred by the toil and sweat of the Baptist fathers who have fallen asleep. About the year 1908 many of the younger men began to come into active service in the Baptist work of the State. The Rev. M. A. Tally was State Missionary. At this time
;

there were
State. The men of the

still two Baptist Conventions operating in the young men of the East began to meet the young West and ask such questions as the following:

Why should we fight each other? Why can't we get together and form one organization? They did get together. There was some opposition but after a few years of cultivation, a more friendly attitude prevailed and a joint meeting was called at the White Rock Baptist Church, Durham, N. C, with the late ex-Congressman, H, P. Chatham, presiding at this assembly. The two Baptist State bodies merged and took the name "Union Baptist Convention of North Carolina," and Rev. George D. Griffin of Hertford, N. C, was chosen president. In 1917 the convention elected Rev. G. W. Watkins as field secretary. This proved to be a period of unprecedented progress among Baptists. They contributed more money than at any time in their history. Churches sent in large contributions and individuals gave large offerings. Dr. E. E. Smith of Fayetteville, N. C, gave a bale of cotton which sold for $200.00; Brother James Timlic of Winston-Salem gave $150.00; the late Dr. Creecy of Rich Square, gave twenty-five barrels of corn which sold for $125.00. There were many other persons who upon the suggestion of the field secretary planted plots of ground, sold the products and gave the money for the cause. Dr. G. W. Moore was treasurer at this time, and upon one occasion during chapel services at Shaw University he presented a check to Dr. Peacock for two thousand dollars from the convention. Under the plan then in operation Dr. Brown, the corresponding secretary, the field missionary and other brethren held regional meetings and taught stewardship and
missions.

22

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Following the reorganization the following brethren served as presidents of the convention: Rev. G. D. Griffin, P. S. Lewis, 0. S. Bullock, R. R. Cartwright, and J. T. Hairston. The time came when the brethren felt that the name Union Convention was too suggestive of former division among them, so they adopted the title General Baptist Convention of North Carolina. This is the present body and there are three district conventions which are auxiliary to the general convention. From 1926 to 1935 the convention work was directed by a board of promotion with the corresponding secretary doing most of the field work. The depression came and even though, like other institutions of its kind, the Baptist cause had a great set back financially, the board of promotion, under the chairmanship of Dr. 0. S. Bullock, celebrated a great Baptist jubilee in Raleigh, N. C, at which time a goodly sum of money was raised and much enthusiasm was created among the large number of Baptists in attendance. Convention debts began to accumulate and the outlook was not encouraging to say the least. In 1935 a five-day Baptist assembly at the city auditorium in Raleigh, N. C, marked another start in Baptist progress. A plan for a unified program was adopted the General Convention, the Women's Convention, the State Sunday School and B. T. U. conventions cooperating. During the five-year period, although the full report of the conclave has not been made at this writing (August, 1940), some of the reports showed that the indebtedness of the convention had been reduced to a little more than two thousand dol-

lars.

Rev. J. T. Hairston of Greensboro, the president, who served for seven years was succeeded by Rev. P. A. Bishops of Rich Square, N. C.

With a Brief Hist ory

of Baptist Organizations

23

The Baptist Sunday School Convention of North Carolina


has been kind to the Negro people of North Carolina and especially to that group, the Negro BapSixty-seven years ago last May (1940) the Baptist tists. State Sunday School Convention of North Carolina was organized in the City of Raleigh, North Carolina, at the First Baptist Church. (May, 1873) Scarcely had the guns ceased to belch fire and smoke ending that struggle for supremacy between the North and the South before a few Negro ministers and laymen found it necessary to organize an institution for the propagation of the "word" which would set free the Negro's soul as well as his body. Not only his soul stood in need of freedom but his mind as well. The Sunday School Convention had to teach old men and women how to read as well as children. In the Sunday Schools throughout the State on Sunday morning many were found there studying Webster's Blue Back Speller, while others read and studied the catechisms, cards or the Bible and other tracts supplied by white friends of the South and the American Baptist Publication Society and other organizations. Dr. Augustus Shepard, a great preacher and organizer, was the first president. He was ably assisted by such men as Sherwood, Capps, Rev. N. F. Roberts, Rev. Caesar Johnson, Hon. J. T. Reynolds and others. These noble men of God recognized the task before them as a great one and they went about it with the idea of laying a broad and solid foundation. The host of women, men and children throughout the State, irrespective of denomination needed training in every way, mental, physical, economic and religious. They had no churches, and what few belonged to churches worshipped under white people by the permission of white preachers and sometimes laymen hence many never felt exactly free. He felt that his master was very kind to arrange a place of meeting for him, often these meetings were conducted by white men, hence he felt a little pent up to worship God in the presence of the white master. It was evident that the Negro needed not only freedom of mind and soul, but a chance to develop that freedom. few leaders together with a few white leaders saw their needs and tried to open the way for the development. Since the Negro was timid in the presence of those who had been his masters that better part of him was kept in

PROVIDENCE

24

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

<

p
CO

H
< EH

O
.

*Z

CT5

CO

O M

a <

Qfn

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

25

the background, or in other words, he was not himself he was artificial, he did not feel free. Here was a task the Negro leader in that day recognized. He saw the necessity of training his brother and he saw how he might help him, but he had not the means with which to supply those needs. However, he undertook the task, and a task it was. The Sunday Schools in different parts of the State were the beginning of the great work to be done. Many of the schools were started in private homes, some in old houses (not in use) left standing in the fields, but a larger number (according to available information) were started under what they These were built of young called bush or brush-arbors. trees and bushes covered by small skinned trees and straw, the seats were made of pieces of wood driven in the etc. ground, and slabs made from pine or oak trees laid on the top of the pieces driven in the ground. Here often they would be so high from the ground that even grown-ups would not touch the ground or floor with their feet let alone the young people. So let us get a picture of a class sitting under a brush-arbor studying his Sunday School lesson with such books as the Blue Back Speller, the Catechisms, the Bible, cards or whatever tracts these pioneers could secure with their feet swinging, because the seat was too high. Often their teachers were not Christians; but who ever could read was looked upon as God-sent. Hence, in many cases the sinner, not only taught the Sunday School lesson, but he kept the church records and did other things around the church. (The writer is personally acquainted with an officer in the church who did just what is said above long before he was converted and joined the church. He is active in church work and often talks about his church's history.) From the arbors where the Sunday Schools would meet and as they grew more enlightened and (up-to-date) as they called it, they would come together and build a church often under the guidance of the preacher. The church generally was built from logs and timber cut down and hewn out with the old-time broad-ax. Built similar to the old-fashion hen-house only larger with the boards pointing towards the heaven (significant of his thoughts). These churches were established in almost every hamlet and village long before the churches were in many communities there were Sunday Schools to which children were taught to go and learn about God yea, old ones, too, would go sometimes, especially on special days, but chiefly Sunday School was thought of in the community for children with a few older ones here and there to do the teaching and others to see that the proper decorum was observed. It is only

26

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

here recently that we older ones have learned that God wants all of us to study to show thyself approved. The men of God kept an eye on the needs by prayer and study and observation. They recognized that the teachers needed training and inspiration if they were to carry on; so they began here and there to call the superintendents and teachers together and have different preachers and teachers in whom they had confidence to preach and lecture to them. This gathering would take place in some place convenient for all in the neighborhood about once a year. It soon turned out to be known as a County Convention. So in time the County Conventions needed help and inspiration, hence they would send and get the men from other counties to come and lecture and preach. From the county conventions the State Convention was expected to grow. This was realized at the sixth annual State convention which was held at Battleboro, N. C, 1878, at which time a committee was appointed to correspond with each county in the State, but it soon happened that many of the leaders for various reasons began to develop what we now know as district convention. The State Convention, however, has persistently held on to the idea of training for larger service. To get this training over, the convention had what was known to them as Colporters these men traveled the State and gave lectures and Bibles, etc. The American Baptist Home Mission Society paid the salary for most of these men during this time. Revs. Ransome, Eagles and others are remembered by us as such. In the annual session at Goldsboro the convention voted to incorporate, and on March 14, 1879, the convention was incorporated under the name as "North Carolina Missionary Baptist Sunday School Convention." The trustees as recalled were N. F. Roberts, A. B. Williams, A. Shepard, E. E. Smith, J. F. Reynolds, J. J. Worlds, Caesar Johnson, P. T. Hall, L. H. Wyche, R. I. Walden, Joseph Perry and A. J. Walker. The writer was personally acquainted with Drs. Walden, Smith, Roberts, Wyche and Shepard. At the convention in Tarboro right after the incorporation where the name was changed, many union, district and county conventions came into the State meeting. Prof. Jerry S. Lee from the Caswell County Convention represented his county. Later the State was divided into sections and these men were known as missionaries such men as Dr. Geo. W. Moore, Dr. S. N. Vass, Dr. A. B. Vincent, Prof. Lipscombe, Rev. Hill and Rev. C. H. Williamson. These men did work that was telling and lasting. Later still the Chautauqua The idea proved beneficial and did idea was instituted. much to strengthen the Sunday Schools. The Sunday School

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

27

Institute was next carried on by the State Convention. By this time the convention had assumed a part of the ex-

pense. Rev. M. A. Tally did a fine piece of work, also. At these meetings would be groups from different sections gathered in a central point of study for as long as a week at the time in many instances. Now out of these institute meetings came the idea that it would be well to train not only for a week, but give special courses in Sunday

Methods on teaching studying the pupil, School work. studying the Bible, Sunday School equipment, etc. Dr. A. W. Pegues will be remembered as doing perhaps the most efficient work in this field and the girls' fund. At his death, Rev. M. W. Williams, who for many years had been his assistant and who had done special work in this particular field, was elected corresponding secretary of the State Sunday School Convention at Lumberton. He took up where Dr. Pegues left off and in a few years the State Convention was succeeding with the idea of training. Rev. Williams succeeded in getting the convention to adopt a course of study. This course was adopted at the convention held in Oxford, North Carolina. Again it was found that to get this kind of work into the different schools would require time and money. More than the convention had. So the corresponding secretary went to the white Baptist Convention for aid (Dr. Maddrey was then the secretary), and asked for $2,000.00 to aid in establishing the work. After listening to the plea by the secretary and Dr. J. Stuart Nelson, the first Negro president of Shaw University, the board voted to give $1,500.00 for religious education. Rev. M. W. Williams, the corresponding secretary, was then employed to do the work which ne did for three months, making his report monthly to the white Baptists as well as to the Negro Baptists. When the next convention met in Raleigh Rev. Williams was offered the position as full time religious worker, but did not accept, because of his recent election as principal of the State School for the Blind and Deaf. He had, however, succeeded in establishing the fact that the Negro Baptists needed and wanted the Course of Study in Sunday School Work and the Daily Vacation Bible
School.

Dr. Nelson had just been elected to the presidency of the Home Mission Board for reasons notified the Trustee of Shaw University that they would no longer be responsible for its maintenance. Hence, Dr. Nelson turned to the white Baptists of North Carolina and the Southern Baptists for aid. The white Baptist Board of this State was very sympathetic, but felt unable to aid

Shaw University and

28

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

us in educational needs, but did tell the secretary of our convention they would help us with our religious needs and granted the $1,500.00. So during the time the white Baptists helped us, the secretary succeeded in getting the Sunday School Board of our State Sunday School Convention to organize and start the first Ministers Conference for Negro Ministers. They met that year on the campus at Shaw at the same time the Sunday School and B. Y. P. U. met, with Rev. J. L. Tilley as the director. Hence, the missionary efforts of the white Baptists was not only helpful in the Sunday School direction, but opened the way for a permanent ministers' conference. Which later changed its name to the Ministers' Institute with Dr. F. R. Mason as its president and Dean J. L. Tilley as its executive secretary with Dr. R. P. Daniels as director. During this time the Baptist State Convention conceived the idea of a general convention to which all the other bodies of the State would be auxiliaries. Since the Sunday School Convention was not using the money allotted them by the white Baptists and no corresponding secretary was functioning for the State Sunday School Convention and Dr. C. S. Brown, the secretary, was failing in health the board elected Rev. W. C. Somerville to the post held by Dr. Brown. The Sunday School work since that time has been carried on by Rev. J. H. Clanton along the same line and with the same course of instruction instituted by Rev. M. W. Williams and adopted by the convention at Oxford. Mr. M. A. Huggins, who succeeded Dr. Maddry in the office as secretary for the white Baptists, has shown the same spirit of cooperation with the Negro Baptists as started by Dr. Maddry, Dr. Livingston Johnson, Dr. White, Mr. Perry Morgan and other brethren of our white Baptist denomination for which the Negro brethren are very grateful, but has

added more money to aid in their church work generally. Among the presidents of our State Sunday School Convention were the late Dr. N. F. Roberts, Col. James Young, P. S. Lewis, A. M. Moore, and Mr. C. C. Spaulding, Prof. C. F. Graves, and the present president, Prof. R. W. Brown. Among the secretaries were: Prof. J. W. Paisley, Dr. 0. S. Bullock, Rev. C. H. Williamson, Prof. C. F. Graves and Mr. E. M. Butler. The assistants were: Mrs. Willie Smith, Miss Mattie Garret, Miss Ardell Garret. The treasurers were the late A. J. Rogers and Col. J. H. Young and the recent treasurer, Prof. Chas. R. Frasier, and there are a host of good men and women who have stood hard by and aided in every possible way in carrying the banner for the
cause,

whose names are too numerous

to mention.

Some

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

29
holding on fight-

have gone to their reward, others are


ing for the cause of righteousness.
It

still

effort

tion

was at Greenville, North Carolina, when the first was made to get the State Sunday School Convenof North Carolina to adopt the course of study which
all

would require
course.

teachers in the local schools to take the

The idea was discussed pro and con and finally a motion prevailed that the Sunday School Board would study the proposal further. Dr. W. C. Williamson was instrumental in getting this motion passed. During that year, the president of the convention called the board to meet in the Providence Baptist Church, Greensboro, North Carolina. They met during the Christmas holidays. It was very rainy and cold, so many of the board members did not meet. However, a few were there and after a prolonged discussion those present adopted a tentative course of study. The corresponding secretary was then given the approval of the board and when the convention met in Oxford that year the course of study for Sunday School teachers had won

many
ville.

friends and

it

did not have as hard a time as at Green-

At Oxford, however, there were those who did not see the wisdom of the convention adopting it, yet they felt that it was good and wanted to have it optional. So when there was a vote to adopt it, it was amended to adopt it with certain correction. These corrections were made and when the convention met the next year in Raleigh the work on the field and in the Sunday Schools all over the State had met with such favorable response that the corresponding secretary whose duty it was to execute the convention
program, not only had no trouble in getting the wholehearted support of the delegates but there was a great deal of sentiment for a whole-time secretary. Many of the Sunday Schools in the State had a leadership training class. These classes lasted from one to two weeks. Many had studied as many as two books, some three books or more, and had taken examination and passed and were awarded their diplomas at the convention. The Southern Baptist Convention was granting diplomas then. Many who had long wanted a diploma to hang on their walls at home were proud to get one and especially when it signified they were more prepared to teach God's word in their respective Sunday Schools. Not only did the young day school or graded school teachers take the course, but many mothers and fathers, superintendents, teachers, deacons and pastors came together, studied and took examination, passed and proudly exhibited their reward (diploma) for work well done. This kind of work led to a great educa-

30

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

tional (religious)

awakening among the Baptists

in

North

Carolina. It was a challenge to the young people and a source of information and inspiration to the older ones. In fact, our whole denomination work took on new life and

nearly everywhere one would go the question would be asked: "How many books have you studied? Have you had a leadership training class? or some similar question." The schools looked forward to the convention with interest and expectation. They would receive their diplomas or their seals depending upon how much work they had done during the winter. It soon reached the point where the secretary could not conduct all the classes he was requested to so a plan was devised by which the classes could be conducted by the pastor or some one designated by him who

was

qualified.

The Daily Vacation Bible Schools also were a great stimulus to our group. It was found that the time element in a Sunday School program was a great factor. The child could not do what was expected of him in the time allotted for the Sunday School hour, neither could the teacher teach
of the basic things necessary in the formation of good habits and the correction of bad habits in the Sunday School hour so the State Sunday School Convention through its corresponding secretary and officers introduced as a State project the idea of the Daily Vacation Bible School (D. V. B. S.). The idea was soon accepted and the pastors, superintendents and parents were so enthused and it proved such a source of helpfulness that more than (10,000) ten thousand children were reported as having attended the Daily Vacation Bible School during one conventional year. These schools were conducted during the summer months from one to four weeks. The project seemed to be a source of information to the children as many a twelve-year boy or girl learned in these schools things about the Bible which they might never have known and at the same time they were kept out of trouble which might have caused their careers to end in disaster and many have gotten such basic truths from the Bible and their contact with other children under the supervision of those in charge which have changed their whole life and sent them on the upward grade of service to their God, their fellowman, to their country and to themselves. We think we can say without successful con;

many

tradition that the State Baptist Sunday School Convention's introduction of the Daily Vacation Bible Schools has had the denomination for the much to do with the increase past few years. Of course, the revivals have always added to our number.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

31

From one of the most enthusiastic meetings in the convention's history in Raleigh the next annual meeting was with the Cornerstone Baptist Church, Elizabeth City, North Carolina. There was not much dissension at this meeting to the contrary a fine brotherly spirit existed and the large number of delegates from the West and the Piedmont sections attested their interest in the work. Many attributed the general interest to the progress of the conventionleadership training and the Daily Vacation Bible School. Another interesting fact about the convention, especially to the older brethren was to see that fine Christian spirit exhibited and the fellowship of the Eastern brethren led by Rev. C. M. Cartwright and Prof. C. F. Graves. Many of the older members of the convention were slow to accept the invitation to go to Elizabeth City, which was extended by Rev. McRae, pastor of the Cornerstone Baptist Church Prof. C. F. Graves, who was the recording secretary, and others. The Sunday School Board at its meeting in Raleigh prior to the annual session was so apprehensive that a special committee was sent with the corresponding secretary to make observation and meet the pastor and his committee. This committee met the people at the church and after some discussion, the good people of the church and
community assured the committee that they wanted the
convention and that the delegates would be cared for. In the course of time the committee returned, reported its findings and the convention met in Elizabeth City, where all delegates and visitors were entertained in the manner befitting the big hearted Christian people of the churches and the community. It was in this convention again that the urge for a full-time corresponding secretary was evident. However, the convention was slow to undertake the task and matters were left as heretofore. The attendance at Elizabeth City was so large and the spirit so high that even the veteran members were heard saying: "I am surprised; I did not expect such a gathering." The training classes and the Daily Vacation Bible Schools were the most discussed topics during the entire
session.

was

The meeting at St. James Baptist Church, Rocky Mount, largely one of information and inspiration. They had plenty of classroom space and the convention officers took advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate what could be accomplished with equipment and trained leaders. Many of the pastors, superintendents, teachers, and Sunday School workers left the convention with new ideas. Many went to

32
their

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

home schools and urged their pastors and church members to enlarge the church so that the church school could teach more effectively which some of them did. However, many did not get the rooms needed but they kept up the spirit, organized leadership training classes and Daily Vacation Bible Schools. So when the next gathering of the delegates and members assembled in Raleigh, the big ques-

was not, shall we have a full-time corresponding secretary? but whom shall we elect if the present secretary can not see his way clear to accept? At this meeting, the report was made and printed showing the number of Daily Vacation Bible Schools held during the year the number of children attended which gave the pastors, and also the name of the churches, the number of teachers, etc. The number of children numbered more than (10,000) ten thousand. This was an eye-opener, no longer did the convention leaders and those who thought it impossible, doubt the wisdom of undertaking the task. Because the evidence was there. Then, too, our schools were responding in a fine way financially and the white Baptists had pledged and given their moral and financial support. As has already been said, the General Baptist Convention was very anxious to try out the plan which the white Baptists of the State was carrying out That there should be one general convention and all other state bodies, viz: The Baptist State Sunday School Convention, the B. T. U. Convention, the Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Convention should become auxiliaries to the General Convention and that all monies from these bodies should go into one treasury and the General Convention would be responsible This for all expenses incurred by all the other bodies. movement was to be known as the Unified Program. The idea, many felt was good, but they were slow to adopt it. The other bodies asked for more time for consideration. The Sunday School Convention debated the plan under discussion at several called meetings during the session in Raleigh. The convention seemed willing to cooperate, but did not vote to unify in its entirety, it felt that the schools, and churches individually should take the lead. The matter was left with the Sunday School Convention working in part with the plan. It will be remembered that at this Raleigh meeting there was what was called a joint meeting of all the State bodies. There were some very warm meetings. Prayer and level-headedness were very much needed during these sessions. No one of the organizations seemed willing to give up what they had gained after much hard work and
tion

With a Brief History


sacrifice.

of Baptist Organizations

33

They questioned the wisdom

money

to the General Convention

when

General Convention was always in meeting their obligations. Anyway, as was said before, the Baptist State Sunday School and B. T. U. Conventions worked out or did give what money they collected after paying off their obligations at this session. The women, it seemed, were willing to report to the General Convention what they raised, but wanted to handle their own money and look after their own obligations. The convention closed with matters not quite clear. During the interim Rev. Clanton was secured to look after the Religious Education of the Unified Program. The next session in Raleigh the departments seemed to be getting underway. There was not much heat displayed, but rather the leaders were striving to unify. Rev. M. W. Williams, who had served as corresponding secretary, was commended for the part he had played in the work, which had been accomplished and presented a silver loving cup. From Raleigh the next annual session met in Edenton and from Edenton to Goldsboro. All of these sessions since the Raleigh meeting have been under the General Baptist
Convention. At this writing, 1939-40, the writer is not cognizant of the reports for 1940, hence cannot give same. However, the opportunity for service in a very fertile field for religious education is still white unto the harvest. The Baptist State Sunday School Convention of North Carolina has done and is doing a splendid work in kingdom building. The convention is definitely committed to the policy of teaching the Bible as the inspired word of God, training leaders, contributing its moral influence to Shaw University and the secondary schools, giving financial support to home and foreign missions, Shaw University and other charitable institutions. In fact, it is interested in the development of the human family in all phases of life. The convention is trying to accomplish this development in the field of religious education.

up their seemed that the debt and they had been


of giving
it

34

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Sunday School Convention of Western North Carolina


organized in September, 1884, at result of the failure of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention to meet in Salisbury as the minutes of the annual session in Tarboro stated. For reasons better known by the executive board of the State Convention they changed the place of meeting from Salisbury to Louisburg. The Western brethren did not regard the reasons given sufficient to warrant the change; so a part of the convention met at Louisburg and a part met at Salisbury. The officers however, together with many others of the original State body, met at Louisburg. The part which met at Salisbury organized themselves into an organization to be known as The Sunday School Convention of Western North Carolina. There was some friction as might be expected but men full of the Holy Ghost and imbued with the spirit of Christ cannot long continue hostile one towards another. The leaders were very determined though inexperienced, but had the elements of helpfulness and progIn their constituress definitely stamped in their minds. tion they said among other things: "To encourage, foster, and stimulate the Sunday Schools of Western North Carolina; to organize new schools; to teach the doctrine and principles of the Baptist Church to educate our people to encourage mission work:" The idea was not carried out at once, nor was the task or standard as set by these men so easily reached, but there has been constant growth in the Piedmont section as a result of the influence of this organization. Dr. J. A. Whitted in his history of the Baptists said: "In ten years, from 1899 to 1908, there was a great increase in the number of schools represented, and he attributed the growth in a large measure to the convention officers: R. W. Brown, president; J. W. Paisley, secretary and J. H. Elane, treasurer." He also states: "L. M. Morton, P. S. Smith, W. J. Poindexter and others enabled the First Baptist Church and Sunday School in WinstonSalem to take a place in the lead of this particular convention." Rev. B. B. Hill, a man of experience and ability, was appointed the first permanent missionary. Later such men as Revs. F. R. Mason, A. S. Croom, R. L. Files, J. P. Alexander, J. W. Hairston, D. J. Avery, 0. S. Bullock, Jordon of High Point, R. H. Harris, Geo. W. Watkins, J. T. Hairston and many others in that section labored to make the master's
Salisbury, N.

THIS convention was

C, as a

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

35

kingdom grow and to build up a large following for the Baptists of North Carolina. The Sunday School work at High Point under the direction of Rev. 0. S. Bullock did a good deal to awaken an interest in the work in Western North Carolina. The Rowan Norman and Industrial Institute, conducted in Charlotte a number of years and at Salisbury was in part the result of Western North Carolina Convention
awakening.

As stated before in this article, the changed condition and the Christian spirit on the part of the leaders saw the advantages of both bodies working in harmony. So the Western convention regarding the older body as the parent body sent delegates, after some correspondence to the annual meetings of the parent body. This has continued from year to year. The feeling between the bodies was so cordial that the parent body paid $100.00 per year on the salary of Rev. Hill for several years while he served as missionary. The orphanage established at Winston-Salem was another object of the Western convention for several years. Mrs. Lucy Thompson will be remembered for the great work she
did in this convention.
lina is

The Western Sunday School Convention of North Carono more regarded in the State as a hostile and diso-

bedient child but as an outstanding tributary, helping, fostering and championing of the objectives which the Baptist State Sunday School Convention stands. In fact, the Baptist State Sunday School Convention of North Carolina at its annual session in Henderson, N. C, elected the president of the Western Sunday School Convention to its highest office the president. Which office he holds at this writing (1940).

Many of the earlier leaders have passed on, but others have come on the scene and they are carrying on with increasing knowledge. Among them are Rev. and Mrs. P. B. Bynum, Prof. W. N. Nelson, Prof. M. A. Hoover, Mrs. Annie
:

Smith, Mrs. Hattie Christian, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Nora Lewis, Mrs. Hairston, Mr. Simmons, Mr. Adger, Prof. J. M. Hargraves, Rev. W. L. Mason, Rev. B. K. Mason, J. W. Hairston, Rev. J. T. Hairston, Rev. Tynes, Rev. Melton, Rev. C. W. T. Barnes, Rev. R. L. Files, Rev. Kilgore, Rev. J. J. Scarlett, Rev. White, Rev. Long, Rev. J. J. Alexander, the late Col. James Timlie, Mr. W. M. Thomas, Prof. Brown of the First Baptist, Winston-Salem, Prof. Paisley, Rev. Mayfield, Rev. Mason, Charlotte, Rev. J. H. Moore, Rev. H. M. Moore, Mr. Home, Mrs. Mittie Thacker and many others.

36

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Western Sunday School Convention of North Carowas composed of the schools mostly from beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their object was the fostering of the Sunday School, the missionary and educational work
lina

of that section. Prof. E. H. Lipscombe seemed to have been the leading spirit in this convention and it was not long before he brought them into the State body which received them with open arms. This was in 1891. The State body elected Prof. Lipscombe as the missionary for the Blue Ridge section. Although the officers were in hearty accord with the State body and worked hard to build up their convention the thinly populated region together with difficulty of getting to the few schools here and there which were going made a strong organization for doing much effective work hard to build. Literature, too, caused a division in their ranks. Revs. J. R. Nelson of Asheville, and A. H. Wilson of Waynesville and Gordon played a leading role in the church

and Sunday School work in this section. It is said, however, that the Hemphills laid the foundation. The Western brethren even now are taking more interest and contributing to the causes of mission and education.

The Chowan Sunday School Convention


THE Chowan
Sunday School Convention comprises the
schools mostly in Hertford County. It was set apart largely to aid smaller schools, but it soon developed into a dual purpose: Aiding Waters' Normal Institute at Winton and missionary work. At one time in its history this convention was raising more money per capita than the State Convention. From what information we can secure this organization was formed in 1884 by Dr. C. S. Brown. The leaders today have constantly kept in mind the original objectives, but have also brought the Sunday School work to the front along with other conventions in the State.

Franklin County Sunday School Convention


convention meets about four times a year on the fifth Sunday. They have committed themselves to the tasks of education, mission and developing of the smaller schools and leadership training classes. Revs. Neal, Alston, McKnight, Kearney, Mrs. Ellen Alston, Mrs. Katie Keith, the Cooks, Hayes, the Sills, the Brooks, Thomases, Underwoods, Massenburgs, and many others are among the present
leaders.

THIS

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

37

Halifax County Sunday School Convention


THIS
convention is composed largely of the schools in Halifax County and they do mostly Sunday School work. They helped with the associational school, the orphan asylum at Oxford, and supported educational missions through the Baptist State Sunday School Convention. Among the early leaders were Revs. Jackson, Buck, Coefield, M. W. Williams, Lyon, Robinson, the Newels, Shaws, Alston, Harris, Ed. Cheek, A. Drivey, Jones, Davis, Johnson, Boones, Iveys, Hargraves, Iveys, Pearces, and others.

Kenansville Eastern Sunday School

Convention

FOUR

miles east of Warsaw, under the auspices of the Baptist State Sunday School, at Williams' Cross Road, the above named convention was organized. The idea of the organizers was to enable the schools in that section to do more effective work. A. J. Stanford, and A. R. Middleton are spoken of as the leaders in the organization. This convention grew and soon took her place among the outstanding conventions doing Sunday School and mission work. They sent money on several occasions to Rev. J. 0. Hayes, who was in Africa, and for whom the Hayes-Fleming Missionary Society at Shaw University was organized to support. This convention also purchased a school site at Faison, N. C, at a cost of fifteen hundred dollars ($1,500). The leaders in this convention are still loyal to the State body and are doing very good work.

The
THIS

New Hope Sunday

School Convention

convention was organized in 1887. Rev. L. H. HackM. W. Brown and Rev. Caldwell Will be remembered as those who organized and labored for its success. They had as their objective the strengthening the weaker schools, promoting the missionary and educational work among its constituency. They purchased a school site at New Hill, N. C, and operated this school for sometime, but later abandoned the project. Rev. J. H. Caldwell is among the older members now living and he is still carrying on (1940) The young men and women in this convention are thoroughly imbued with the missionary spirit and they contribute regularly to the objects which their fathers set
ney,
forth.

38

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Northeast and Cape Fear Sunday School Convention


Middle District Associational leaders in 1879 organthis Sunday School convention, and there has never been a moment's regret on the part of the organizers for their action. This convention through its leaders and workers is credited with the idea of the birth of the Burgaw High School. This convention has done and is doing very efficient Sunday School work. They contribute to the objects of the State not in a small way as a matter of representing; but wholeheartedly and in large sums. Certainly the association has every right to feel that this child is helping to infuse light not only in its section, but her influence and money is felt in the foreign mission cause
ized

THE

as well.

The Northampton County Sunday


School Convention
the Garysburg High School but Sunday School Convention. Revs. Walden, Blacknall and Bros. Seldon Jeffreys, Day, Rice, McGee, Sweat, Boone and others were among the workers.

THIS convention supported


was very

loyal to the Baptist State

Warren County Sunday School Convention


like many others is holding to many of the traditions of the past, but striving to get in line with the modern front-line Sunday Schools. The Thorntons, Watsons, Spruills, Alstons are remembered along with the Whitteds and others who labored and the McGriers, Harris, Cheeks, Alston, Watson and others who are laboring in the work.

THIS convention

Vance County Sunday School Convention


speak of the Vance County Sunday School Convention one would think of the Eatons, Yarborough, Waldens and other strong Christian leaders who are keeping alive the cause of Christian education and missions.

TO

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

39

Shaw University
institution of learning which has done so much for the uplift of our race in North Carolina and in darkest Africa was established by Henry Martin Tupper, December We do not essay to give in detail the history of this 1, 1865. great institution, but no history of the Baptists of North Carolina and their early struggles, however brief, could be given without a short history of Shaw University. According to information of those who were in position to know, Shaw was started in a very humble way in a negro cabin on the outskirts of the City of Raleigh. The work of teaching and prayer meeting grew and finally on the present site of the Tupper Church on Blount Street, Raleigh, N. C, a large two-story structure which was used for a church and school was erected. The work continued to grow and again larger quarters were needed. At this time the present site on which Shaw now stands, was purchased at a cost of $13,000. It was known as the mansion and grounds of the late General Barranger. From facts gathered, Hon. Elijah Shaw of Wales, Mass., pledged $5,000.00 hence in grateful memory to this benefactor Shaw received its name. The first building on this site commenced in the spring of 1871 from brick made from clay found on the premises. Dr. Tupper traveled in the North and secured gifts and donations from friends which enabled him to pay the balance of the $8,000.00 and

THIS

keep his school going.

Of course, by this time he had made some friends in the city and State which helped, also. The aim of the American Baptist Home Mission Society in granting Dr. Tupper his commission to go South as a missionary
to the

"Freedmen," although unsolicited in October, 1865,

was mainly to provide schools for the training of ministers and young men as Christian workers. But Dr. Tupper, from
observation and training, perceived that the education of the Negro women was of equal importance. So in 1870, a

few women were admitted to Shaw. They boarded with private families. The idea of having girls at Shaw did not meet with popular favor at first, but the number increased and now to provide suitable accommodations was a problem. After much prayer and solicitation of funds finally a dormitory was erected. Deacon Jacob Estey and sons donated $8,000.00 toward its erection and Estey Hall was named in his honor. So, from authentic source we can say that Estey Hall was the first school edifice of any size opened for colored girls in the South. This was in the summer of

40

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

SHAW PRESIDENTS

Top,

left to

right: Dr. R. P. Daniels, Dk.

William Stuart Nelson

Bottom,

left to

Center: Dr. H. M. Tiim-kr right: Dr. J. L. Peacock. Dr. Francis M. Messerve

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

41

1873. Not only was this building opened for women of the Baptist denomination but for colored women of all denominations. Two years later Shaw was incorporated. The work then was what would be expected in the elementary stage, but as the demands were made for more trained men in different fields, the administration endeavored to meet the demands until not only school teachers and preachers were sent out to help their less fortunate brothers and sisters, but doctors of medicine, lawyers to practice at the bar of justice and men trained to practice pharmacy, as well as men and women skilled in the industrial arts. The early days of Shaw University were trying and anxious days for Dr. Tupper and his wife. The struggle of 1861-65 between the North and the South had just ended and the hostile feeling between them was not at all mild. But thanks be to God whose spirit is able to soften the hardest heart, Dr. Tupper lived to see much of the bitterness disappear and the spirit of good will and cooperation take the lead. Dr. Tupper, the man who counted not his life dear unto himself, but gave unstintedly of more than a quarter of a century of his best service in the City of Raleigh to the uplift of the Negro race and for the betterment of the State in which he and his devoted wife had cast their lot; passed on the 12th of November in 1898. Evidence of the esteem in which he was held by both races was manifest by the large crowd which assembled on Shaw campus to pay their respect to his memory and in recognition of the work which he had done. The tombstone which marks his resting place on Shaw Campus in front of Shaw Hall is an inspiration to the hundreds of young men and women who have gone out from Shaw and who are attending there now. Dr. Charles Francis Meserve was the next president of Shaw University. He was elected president March 17, 1894. He was so well qualified for the work and his devotion to the task that the growth of the school in 1907 was almost phenomenal when we think of its beginning. There

were 526

with disbursements more than $42,000. in New York pledged $13,000 for additional buildings on condition that the colored would raise $5,000.00 additional. Dr. J. A. Whitted, corresponding secretary of the Baptist Convention was appointed financial agent. After traveling up and down the State for two years, more than the amount was raised. This money was used to erect the Tupper Memorial Building and make addition to Estey Hall, the girls' dormitory.
enrolled,

The General Education Society

42

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. Joseph W. Peacock was the next president. Dr. Peacock's work at Shaw was marked by much increased interest on the part of the negroes and the part they pledged and did. The alumni also took more interest in its affairs and its general development. He wrought well and kept the school true to its high ideals as set by the founder and his predecessors. When he resigned, there was much foreboding respecting the attitude of the white people. Especially, the attitude of the Home Mission Board in New York which had supplied a large part of the funds for maintenance. Dr. Peacock and others had succeeded admirably in getting friends to endow the school, but when he resigned the Home Mission Board notified the trustees that they could not look to them for regular maintenance fund any longer. Many of the white friends of Shaw felt that another white man as president would serve the interest of Shaw better by helping to secure a larger endowment and a continuation of the maintenance money. This view was also shared by many colored friends and alumni of Shaw. But there were a large number of the alumni and friends of Shaw both white and colored who shared the view that the time was ripe for a colored man to head the institution. This group, including the active leaders of the Alumni Association and many of the active leaders in the Baptist denomination, took the lead in getting their view before the Trustee Board which had its meeting in New York. No president was elected at this meeting; so Professor John L. Tilley was appointed by the board to take charge and manage the affairs of the institution until a president should be named. After several names had been placed before the board and due consideration given them, the board selected Dr. W. Stuart Nelson of Howard University as its first Negro president. This was during the summer of 1932. Dr. Nelson came well qualified and was most heartily received by both races, the student body, the Negro Baptists and the Alumni Association. Although the institution's annual disbursements were between $90,000 and $100,000 and the Home Mission Board had cut off their regular yearly fund, except the endowment money, which, of course, was not very large, the Negro Baptists and the alumni and also the friends of Shaw rallied as never before; so that at the close of the school year when Dr. Nelson made his report to the Board of Trustees there was not only commendation from the auditor, but the Trustee Board and all the friends of Shaw. He had, with his business manager and the cooperation of all, run the school and closed the year's work at Shaw without a deficit. The work at Shaw continued to

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

43

his leadership and we reluctantly released him go to Dillard University. The fifth president of Shaw University and the second Negro president is Dr. Robert P. Daniels who came to Shaw well-recommended in 1936 and the Negro Baptists, the student body, alumni and friends of Shaw have given and are giving him the same unstinted support they gave Dr. Nelson. It has taken the Negro Baptists quite some time to awake and put on their strength, but putting them on their merit is gradually causing them to see what they can do by making the necessary effort and pulling together in love

grow under
to

and unity.
a tower of strength to the The feeling is constantly enhanced, so today the attitude of the Southern Baptists as well as that of those in the North is that of not only goodwill, but of real financial help. The following editorial from the (Raleigh) News and Observer is indicative of the good will now existing between the white race and Shaw University:

Shaw University has been


in

Negro race

North Carolina and elsewhere. of good-will between the races has been and

Shaw

Jubilee

From The (Raleigh) News and Observer The celebration by Shaw University of its Diamond Jubilee, marking 75 years of service in the education of the Negro
race, is an event of importance to the whole State. Fittingly, those 75 years coincide with the whole period of

the Negro's freedom. No one can calculate the vast and beneficient influence of such an institution. Its more than 10,000 graduates only begin the numbering of the lives lifted and aided from the ignorance in poverty which was the pattern freedom took for most of the slaves set free. The white South which has been swift and angry in remembering one species of carpetbaggers, has been slow to ingratiate in remembering, with the honor due them, those men who came south with nothing in their carpetbags but good will and good works, and carried away only the appreciation of the race they served. The South, which in so many ways still lags, has come a long and a gallant way. And measured by the years of his freedom the advance of the Negro from slave to educated citizen is one thing in which white man and the Negro together in the South can take pride. They can be properly proud only if they add to home pride appreciation to those who, in the South's darkest time, gave their lives to educating the Negroes of the South. Such a man was the Rev. Henry Martin Tupper, who founded Shaw and gave the rest of his life to its service in teaching the people of another race in a land where he seemed alien and sometimes even an outcast for his work. It is time that white men as well as Negroes in North Carolina began counting with appreciation his service to the State.

44

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The
sent out

first class,

from Shaw

according to information gathered was in 1878, and consisted of the following:


:....

HENRY CLAY CROSBY NICHOLAS F. ROBERTS CEASAR JOHNSON


EZEKIEL SMITH
LOUIS
H.

Plymouth Raleigh Raleigh

Fayetteville

WYCHE
H.

FREDRICK

WILKINS

Williamsboro Honey Grove, Texas

The Medical School, when it was going, consisted of Southern white men (mostly) on the faculty.
The first class of medical men was in 1886. They were Drs. Abbott, Buggs, M. T. Pope of Raleigh Prince, Scruggs and Wilkins of Charlotte. The law school sent out Mr. Edward A. Johnson, who is now living and practicing in New York City. This was in 1890. George P. Hart was the first graduate from the school of pharmacy in 1893. The theological department is sending men who are directing the religious life of our denominational constituThis is, as it should be, for the ministers are still ency. the influential factors in directing the life of the great mass of the colored people in practically every community. We are not in position to say how many graduates have gone out from Shaw since its establishment, 10,000, perhaps, but we venture the assertion that all of those who have enrolled have gone out planting the seeds of kindness, good-will and a spirit of uplift and usefulness wherever they have cast their lot. The high ideals set forth by Dr. Tupper, the founder, have been constantly kept before the students by each of the four presidents who have followed him. The aim of the institution from the beginning has been to turn out wellequipped Christian men and women to be leaders in the best sense of the term. This has been done with signal and gratifying success.
;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

45

ASSOCIATIONS
Gray's Creek Association

SOON

after the war in Bladen County, The Gray's Creek Association was organized. There were only three churches in this association: New Hope, New Light, and Gray's Creek. There were present in the association, Elders J. M. Whitted, James Register, John Croslin, Samuel Boon and James Toler. The progress of this association was gradual and gave light to the five associations which were formed out of it. These associations were The Lumber River, The Union, The Kinston Lake, The Hammond's Creek, and The Lake Waccamaw. The elders were S. H. McCoy, James Bright, John Marley, Mitchell Morrison, Roger Johnson, T. Cain, D. Graham, C. R. Baldwin, J. A. Spaulding, H. Gore, N. Robeson, B. W. Williams, A. Thompson, E. Thompson, H. S. McNeil, N. B. Durham, Gilbert Monroe, L. Hodge, and S. Chestnut. These were in addition to those who were the first members and who have already been mentioned above. This association has done work in the field of missions and education and it has high hopes for the future. This association later joined with the Union and other associations.
:

The Ebenezer Association


The Ebenezer Association was organized in Cleveland County, in 1890 at the Ebenezer Baptist Church. There were thirteen churches in the organization. Rev. A. Ellis was the first moderator; Rev. W. A. Roberts, secretary; Brother B. Gingles, treasurer. Like other organizations, this association has fostered home and foreign missions, helped the weaker churches, and assisted in educational purposes throughout the State. The present moderator is Rev. W. A. Roberts. Revs. W. H. Davidson, C. R. Anderson are among other leaders.

The Yadkin Baptist Association


The Yadkin Baptist Association was organized September 17, 1874, in the Thomasville Baptist Church. Some members of the organization were Rev. H. Crowan, C. Ellis, and W. Leake. The churches that composed the organization were: Pee Dee, Thomasville, Pleasant Hill, Macedonia,

46

Who's

Who Among

North Carolina Negro Baptists

Saron, Mt. Pleasant, Snugg's Grove, Mt. Vernon, Leak's Chapel, Olive Grove, Garris Grove, Moore's Grove, Hamar's Grove, Liberty Hill, Troy-Norwood, and Wadesboro. The ministers of the association were Elders W. Leak, B. B. Richardson, M. Ingram, H. G. Wyatt, I. M. Flake, K. W. Wall, Alfred Reed, S. D. Davis, Levi Ingram, S. A. Dunlap, and P. J. Ewing. The membership increased in 1906 to nine hundred, and the church property amounted to The association five thousand and two hundred dollars. raised altogether three thousand and six hundred dollars, which was used for aged ministers, missions and education. The moderator is Rev. W. G. Flake.

The Pee Dee Union Association


The Pee Dee Association was organized Thursday befirst Sunday in October, 1899, by Revs. E. W. Andrews, W. H. Diggs, G. C. Bowden, J. E. Ellerbee, and F. M. McCall, at Saron Baptist Church. The following churches were the members of the association Mt. Moriah, Pleasant Grove, Providence, Belford, Diamond Grove, Friendship, and Mt. Olive. The membership was seven hundred in 1906; and the church property amounted to a
fore the
:

dollars. It also had, besides its usual expense, contributed regularly to the home and foreign missions. The present moderator is Rev. H. I. Quick Other leaders are Revs. B. J. Ivey, L. M. Wertz, Jas. Wertz, J. H. Dixon, J. W. McGloughan, Bros. Harty, J. T. Ratliff and others.

thousand

High Point Missionary Baptist Association

The High Point Missionary Baptist Association was organized in High Point, N. C, the second week in August, 1891. It received its name from the town where the first meeting was held. It grew out of the Rowan Association and was composed of churches in the counties of Guilford, Alamance, Randolph, Davidson, and Orange. In 1906, eighteen hundred and fifty dollars had been raised and was used in the support of foreign and home missions, ministerial education, the orphan asylum and church extension. The association was composed of the following churches: Elm Grove, Locust Grove, Jones, Gibsonville, New Light, Mt. Pisgah, Rocky Springs, Laticure, Friendship, St. Johns, Graham, Locust Grove (Alamance), Cross Roads, Main Street, Hillsboro, Austin Grove, Mechanic, Ashebore, Ran-

With a Brief

H istory of Baptist Organizations

47

dleman, Trinity, Thomasville, Mt. Pleasant, Liberty Grove, and Rock Grove. In 1908, the membership of the association was twelve hundred and fifty, and churches valued at five thousand The ordained ministers, who were members, are dollars. as follows Al Wilborn, S. Thomas, E. Graves, C. N. Brown, F. A. Long, J. W. Turner, C. Hughes, S. Troxler, G. W. Austin, W. W. Price, B. F. Robbins, W. E. Graves, and Grimes. Rev. J. B. Ellis is the present moderator.
:

The Shiloh Baptist Association (West)


Northwest of Charlotte, at the Washington Church, near Waco, N. C, in 1867, an association was organized and given the name of the Shiloh Baptist Association. Rev. Samuel Fox of Waco was the principal organizer. It was connected with the Mecklenburg Association for about two years, and later separated one part assuming the name Ebenezer, while the other retained the name of Shiloh. In 1906, it had developed a membership of eight hundred and thirty-one and had the following churches enrolled: Mt. Sinai, Salem, Gold Hill, Bethel, Mt. Vernon, Fancy Hill, Springfield, Smithfield, Mt. Carmel, Dallas, Galilee, Mt. Moriah, Mt. Olive, Providence, St. Phillips, Woodford Chapel, Providence, and Maiden. (See Gold Hill).

The Lake Waccamaw Missionary Baptist Association


This organization dates from the year 1884, and takes of its organization at a Baptist church nearby. Five of the churches came out of the Gray's Creek Association, and formed themThey were the Little Wheel of Hope, Whiteville, selves. White Pond, Sandy Plain, and Welch's Creek. The ministers were: D. Graham, I. Cain, M. Morrison, R. Johnson, C. R. Baldwin, J. A. Spaulding and D. J. Moore. A thousand dollars was raised from 1884 to 1906. This association assisted the Thompson Institute at Lumberits

name from Lake Waccamaw because

ton,

Around

foreign missions, and ministerial education. 1907, St. John and St. James churches were added to their membership, and the Revs. P. J. McCoy, J. S. McCoy, T. H. Crawford, and A. S. Mitchell were added to the list of members. The property of these seven churches amounted to three thousand and five hundred dollars. (See Brunswick).

home and

48

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Neuse River Baptist Association


The Neuse River Baptist Association was organized in C, in 1866. Rev. Ananias Buck, Benjaman Moore, John Washington and C. Johnson were the leaders of the organization. It was composed of the churches from the counties of North Hampton, Halifax, Edgecombe, and a part of Warren later, however, developed into a large body of churches. While the association had about twenty thousand members in the different churches, it made little accomplishments. An effort was made to establish a school in Weldon. A small site was purchased with a building and for two years a school was carried on but it was burned. Later a site was purchased outside the town of Weldon. In 1908, some additional leaders became members which gave promise of better results and with such churches as composed the association there was every opportunity for such. Revs. D. N. Martin, J. W. Wood, J. W. Faulk, W. R. Mason, A. Jackson, Moses Sweat, Stephen Miller, Milan Brown, the Shaws, Bros. Moses Williams, C. P. Anthony, A.
Halifax, N.
;

Drewery, A. P. Robinson, Revs. Arrington, Ivey, Boone, Davis, were among the leaders. The present leaders are: T. V. Foster, moderator, R. J. Johnson, J. W. Wiley, N. K. Dunn, C. C. Staton, K. P. Battle, S. Pittman, B. J. Ivey, Frank Bullock, A. Matthews, R. A. Cheek, Boone, Halifax, This Association is J. W. Lucas, L. A. Brooks, and others. It has counted among the leading bodies of the State. more than ninety churches and contributes to State and
Foreign Mission objects.

The Old Eastern Missionary Baptist Association


The Old Eastern Missionary Baptist Association was organized at James City in a church then known as Slab's Chapel, which later changed its name to Pilgrims Chapel. Its first moderator was Rev. Samuel Peterson, and Fred Long was its first secretary. Hull Grimes, Nat Benton, Elias Brown, Henry Simmons, Emanuel Reynolds. Thad Wilson, Thos. Erkett and John Washington were in the organization which took place in 1865. In 1866, a number of the members of the Old Eastern Missionary Association obtained letters and organized the Neuse River Association. Later on, the New Bern Eastern Association was formed in the same manner. In the early history of this association, some of the members, delegates and preachers walked seventy-five and

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

49

even a hundred miles to attend its annual sessions. In 1899, the association membership was sixty-five churches, and the property amounted to twenty thousand dollars. In 1900, a site was purchased at Greenville in Pitt County for the purpose of carrying on an associational school. In 1904, Rev. W. A. Taylor, pastor of the church at Greenville, was It was called the Tar elected to be the first principal. River Institute. For many years, Rev. T. S. Evans was the moderator in the association, and much of its success is due to his untiring efforts. Revs. Hill and C. C. Clark also served as principals. Rev. N. F. Brooks is the moderOther leaders are: ator and N. K. Dunn the secretary. Revs. 0. M. James, J. M. James, T. L. Bynum, J. S. Spruill J. A. Nimo and C. Lipscomb. Rev. E. A. Taylor also served Rev. W. M. Wiggins is the moderator as moderator. emeritus.

The Beulah Association


This association grew out of the Neuse River and the West Roanoke associations. It was agreed by the churches in the West Roanoke Association in Northampton County, and a number of churches in the Neuse River Association to form an association in 1903 called the Beulah Association. Rev. T. S. Woodward, of Littleton, North Carolina, was the first moderator. From the beginning, the Beulah Association was a part of and loyal to the State Convention. Its moral and financial support was given to the Rich Square Academy at Rich Square, N. C. and the Garysburg High Because the moderator was School, at Garysburg, N. C. strickened with paralysis, the Beulah Association was greatly hindered in its infancy. Rev. W. S. Creecy was the

moderator in 1939. Revs. H. H. Hart, P. A. Bishop, O. M. James, J. T. Moore, Rousen and others are among the present leaders. Rev. H. H. Hart is the moderator.

The Brunswick Waccamaw Association


Rev. D. C. Gore, Moderator

The Brunswick Waccamaw Association was organized December 5, 1896, in the Pleasant View Baptist Church, Brunswick County. The enrollment grew from five churches in the beginning to thirteen in 1908. Rev. J. H. Rhoe and Rev. J. S. Gore were for many years the leaders of the association. There were eight ordained ministers and

50

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists-

twelve hundred members. There was a Sunday School Convention connected with this association that was organized a year previous to the association. Rev. D. C. Gore, G. A. Best, and William Davis were the leading forces of the Sunday School Convention for many years. There were five hundred members in the schools composing the convention. Rev. D. C. Gore, Rev. Rhoe and others are strong supporters of this body.

The New Bern Eastern Missionary Baptist Association


This association came out of the Old Eastern AssociaThe first session was held in the Cedar Grove Baptist Church, New Bern, N. C, 1875. There were included in the association the churches in the counties of Pamlico, Beaufort, Hyde, Jones and Craven. At times there were fifty or more churches represented There were in the annual meetings of the association. Misses Waughn of twenty-five thousand in membership. New Bern, and Williams of James City were sent out as missionaries representing the Women's Home Mission Society of Chicago. These women were a great help to this association and to the community. These new leaders are supporting the work of missions and education: Dr. Stallings, Brooks Laughlin, Patterson, Dance and many others are among the workers. The brethren fell in line, however; the spirit to educate and go forward took hold of them a school was erected in Brownville, just across the river from New Bern and beyond James City, and like other sections of the State, even in the lives of Misses Waughn and Williams, could the good seed they had so faithfully sown be seen to take root, spring up and begin the bearing of fruit to God's glory. Rev. U. G. Moye is the moderator.
tion.
;

The Oaky Grove and Trent River Association


Rev. S. L. Stanford, Moderator

The Oaky Grove and Trent River Association came out New Bern Eastern Association and was organized in The number of churches grew to twenty-two Their boundaries lay west of the New Bern churches.
of the 1882.

Eastern, and with the educational fever spread all over the State, they began the establishment of a school at Jackson-

With a Brief History


ville,

of Baptist Organizations

51

N. C. For a number of years after its establishment, Revs. W. H. Moore and Everett were the leaders. With few churches and little money the school grew slowly, and with it the association. Ths association is supporting missions and Christian education with the support of Revs. A. J.

Boney, Rease and others.

The Bear Creek Association


Rev. R.

W.

Pate, Moderator ;

J. C.

Barnes, Clerk

The Bear Creek Association was organized in 1872 by Rev. R. H. Harper, who was in the organization of educational and Missionary Convention, together with Rev. W. H. Croom, Rev. J. C. Carroll, and Rev. I. N. Patterson. Much credit is also given to Rev. A. A. Smith the secretary, who did much to strengthen the cause of the Bear Creek Association. Rev. A. A. Smith served as moderator until his death. Rev. W. L. Hood was for many years the moderator, also Dr. E. E. Smith. In 1906, there were thirty-four churches and eighteen hundred and ninety-seven members. The church property is valued to twelve thousand one hundred and seventy-five dollars. Among the leaders are Revs. J. E. Bowden, U. G. Moye, B. F. Johnson, C. C. Crawford, J. S. Lyon, V. A. White, E. G. Williams, M. Mitchell, W. C. Cotton, A. B. Bryant, H. B. Joyner, R. W. Underwood, Bros. C. J. Wall, H. Draughin, Bros. J. C. Coore, L. S. Swinson, Fred Isler, Bros. A. B. Jones, H. C. Sutton, C. L. Loftin, A. W. Bizzell, J. F. Evans, Major Bizzell and others.
:

The Middle Association

The Middle Association grew out of the Shiloh Baptist was organized in 1891. The Shiloh Association had purchased a school site at Warrenton, N. C. and each of the churches of the body was assessed to meet the annual payments on the school property. Many of the churches, remote from Warrenton, did not feel the same interest and complained that they were called upon to meet
Association, and

the assessments, and hence decided to withdraw. Eleven churches asked for letters which the association granted, and a meeting was called at the Shiloh Baptist Church, in Kittrell, N. C, and hence the organization under the name of the Middle Association. Dr. W. A. Patillo was the leader of this movement. Dr. R. I. Walden of Henderson, N. C, was elected the first president and Rev. A. B. J.

52

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Wyche, secretary. This association had no special project, but was loyal to foreign missions, ministerial education and to the interest of the State Convention. This body
supports the objects of the convention under the leadership of Revs. F. B. Holt, R. W. Underwood and others with Rev. J. W. Burrell, Moderator; Rev. J. M. Burchette. Rev. Farrar is the Secretary.

The Mountain and Catawba Association


Rev.

W.

S.

Sherrill, Moderator

The Mountain and Catawba Association was organized C, in 1875. The following ministers were present in the organization: Rev. B. F. Watts, Berry Lyons and Brother D. Lynch. The object set forth in the association was education and missions. The Baptists in that section of the State were not so numbered as in the other sections, and hence the association was composed of fewer members and churches. The association finally managed to increase the number to twenty-two and with the increase In 1905, the of churches there was an increase of men.
at Claremont, N.

association decided to organize a school in Claremont, N. C. and Rev. Dacons was appointed to take charge of the school. This association, for many years did not unite with the State Convention but did a splendid work in that section of the State. This association is now working with the State and among the leaders are Revs. T. L. Rusker and others.

The Middle

District Association

Rev. H. Peterson, Moderator

In August, 1872, a meeting was called at the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Wilmington, N. C, and the Middle District Association was organized. There were eighteen churches in the association. Rev. William Devane, Henry Andrews and E. J. Bell were appointed as missionaries to labor in the counties of Brunswick, Pender, New Hanover, Sampson, and Duplin to organize churches, strengthen those already orThe money ganized, and build up the work in general. raised in the association during this time was devoted to these churches, mainly the weaker ones. The Burgaw High School was a product of the Middle This school has proved a decided District Association. blessing in many respects to the association, and to that This school is still operating section of North Carolina.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

53

with Rev. C. F. Pope as principal. Rev. H. Peterson is the moderator. The late Mrs. C. F. Pope will be remembered among the women workers in this association as one who labored to make this school one of the best in the State. The Middle District Association has retained its title to the property which is very valuable and supports the school wholeheartedly. Among the workers in this body are some of the strong supporters of the State's program. Among them are: Dr. W. H. Moore, Dr. J. J. Howze, Revs. E. M. Saunders, G. W. Billups, C. C. Murry, J. D. McRae, N. K. Dunn, A. A. Morrisey, L. B. Boykins, J. H. Mallett, C. Goodman, Mrs. Irene Mandy, Mrs. Lillian Shaw, Mrs. H. V. Gattison, Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. McLaurin, Mrs. W. H. Moore and
a host of others.

The Gold The Gold

Hill Association

churches west and in 1908 had fifteen churches on its roll. Together with the Ebenezer Association, it gave support to the Western Union Academy at Rutherfordton, N. C. The Western Union Academy under the leadership of Rev. W. T. Askew and afterwards Rev. R. B. Watts, gave much strength to the association. For many years Rev. R. A. Hemphill was its moderator. With each year of its growth, the tendency was toward intelligence and general denominational duty. Rev. H. B. Furgerson is Moderator. Rev. Beams and others help with the work.
Hill Association included those

of the Ebenezer Association

Kenansville Eastern Association


Rev.
J.

McNewkirk, Moderator

The name of the Kenansville Eastern Association originated with the place of its first meeting, which was in Kenansville, N. C., November, 1870; and there was also another racial association by the same name. The ministers present in the organization were: T. Parker, A. B. Williams, B. B. Spicer, D. T. Best, and John F. Hill. The first moderator was Rev. A. B. Williams. The following churches were represented and composed the first meeting: First Baptist, Kenansville, Six Run, First Baptist, Clinton, Warsaw and Hill's Chapel. The largest number of churches represented at any annual session up to 1908 was fortyeight. The two leading spirits of the association for many years were Rev. Thomas Parker, who was moderator for

54

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

twenty-four years, and Hon. A. R. Middleton, secretary for Rev. J. O. Hayes, who was for many thirty-four years. years missionary to Africa, came out of the Kenansville Eastern Association. The school at Faison, N. C. became one of the objects of the association, and of the Sunday School Convention of the same name. The association was represented regularly at the State Convention and gave its share to missions. This body has some strong supporters among whom are: Revs. J. J. Howze, C. T. Underwood, J. M. Jackson, A. J. Boney, M. A. Alexander, J. M. Grimes, C. Goodman, H. H. Hart, Mrs. P. Nichols, E. M. Saunders

and others.

The McDowell Association


lies north of Gold Hill. The churches fewer and smaller than in Gold Hill; its leaders fewer and no special object for contribution. Up to 1908, there was little inspiration awake in the McDowell Association, but it is hoped that the leaders will link up with

This association

are

still

some stronger bodies in order to receive more inspiration and be of more service to the churches and to the communities. It is now working with the State Convention. Rev. J. T. Duke is the Moderator. The Wake Baptist Association
Rev. G. S. Stokes, Moderator

The Wake Baptist Association was organized with Rev. George W. Harris moderator, G. W. Freeman clerk. "The promotion of the Kingdom of Christ," was the object of the association. This association donated, from year to year, to State missions, and aided the weaker
has contributed larger sums for the ministry than any other organization of its kind in the State. It was in the Wake Baptist Association that the Oxford Orphan Asylum was conceived. A committee was appointed to meet with others in Henderson, and as a result of this conference the Grant Colored Orphan Asylum was established. The association since then has felt responsible to the asylum, and has made contributions each year for its maintenance. The association has fifty-four churches, sixty-five ordained sixty-five Sunday and twenty -two licensed preachers Many of the churches in the Wake Association Schools. have B. Y. P. U. or B. T. U. societies. The association

churches within
of

its

bounds.

It

money

to

men preparing themselves

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

55

loyally supports the Lott-Carey Convention, and the Educational and Missionary Convention of North Carolina.

The Wake Association has during these years supported


loyally all the objects of the State Convention.

versity has been, and


terest of

Shaw Unithe most outstanding objective. Each year the special session is primarily held in the inis

Shaw.

foreign missions also get their share of the Among the supporters in this body can be found some of the most loyal workers in the State. Among them were the late Drs. Pigues, Roberts, Ligon, Price, Pair, C. C. Clark, L. A. Brooks, Worlds, Vass, Vincent, Mials, Crockett, Jones, Dean W. S. Turner, and others whose spirit Among still lingers with us though they have passed on. the leaders who are still carrying on are: Revs. Bullock, Eaton, Marriott, Tilley, Morrisey, Pope, Powell, Davis, Grady, Cooper, Wiggins, Sewell, Jones, Haywood, Wm. Smith, J. W. Jones, T. B. Smith, Rogers, Crudup 0. Watkins, G. W. Watkins, Johnson, Horton, Moore, D. P. Lewis, W. T. Farror, Henry, Cheek, Owens, Williamson, H. Y. Cheek, E. Kearney, Wilson, Saunders, Heartley, Evans, Price, Anderson, Perry (J. L.), Perry (W. M.), Haskins, Hedgepeth, Spencer, Copeland, Morgan, Faison, Sherrill, Cook, Hawkins, Clanton Dent, V. T. Williams, J. F. Haywood, M. W. Williams and others. Among the laymen will be found Bros. Guinn Perry, H. R. Snow, Gresham, Henderson, Parrish, McCullers, Yeargin, W. H. Peace, Sanders, Haywood, High, Stokes, Malone, Laws, Avery, Prof. W. H. Fuller, J. L. Levister, Bros. M. H. Hall, Dunn, J. H. Hayes, Murry, Massenburg, Person, Whitefield, Jones, Prof. Fitts

Home and
raised.

money

and

others.

The West Union Association


of the KenansEastern Association in 1904, soon after the old association had held its annual meeting at Wilmington, N. C. It began with five churches and had for its object the Union Academy of Clinton, N. C. Soon the First Church of Clinton, N. C. lined up with them as did many other churches in Sampson County. This increased the size and finances. Rev. A. A. Smith, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Clinton, was the moderator. Rev. C. T. Underwood was also active in this association. Among the leaders are Rev. J. W. Dixon and Rev. J. M. Holmes. Rev. P. M. Lee is Moderator.
ville

The West Union Association came out

56

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The New Hope Association


The New Hope Association was organized in Chatham County in 1870. Revs. C. L. Hackney, E. H. Cole, C. D. Hackney, Jack Taylor and William Taylor formed the ministry in the organization. With a few scattered churches in the beginning, it has grown to forty-two churches and ten thousand members. Many of the members of the association in 1908 were men who had had the advantages of Shaw University. No association in the State was more loyal to causes of foreign missions and the objects of the State Convention. Revs. J. H. Dunston, L. H. Hackney, B. F. Hopkins, M. W. Brown and J. H. Caldwell help to make the New Hope Association what it was. These men fell in line with whatever the Baptists of the State undertook and did
not cease until the object was accomplished. With Rev. T. A. Grady as moderator, this body with Revs. William Fuller, C. E. Griffin, M. M. Fisher, E. E. Wimberly, Jas. Stewart, W. H. Bland, J. H. Caldwell, Revs. Stanford, Jones

Rev.

J.

C. L. Lassiter,

H. Thomas and others is making progress. Moderator Union.

Rev.

The Rowan Baptist Association


in a hospital at Salisbury,

The Rowan Baptist Association was organized in 1877 which was afterwards purchased

by the Baptists there and organized into the Dixonville Baptist Church. Revs. Harry Cowan, Z. Horton and Cumbe Ellis were the ministers present in the organization. Rev. Harry Cowan was .the first moderator. Since then, Revs. John Washington, Z. Horton, Gove Crowell, George Bowles,
0. Crosby, P. S. Lewis, C. C. Somerville, C. L. Davis and W. Johnson, G. O. Bullock have presided over the body. There were three churches in the organization at first, but at Charlotte in 1908 there were sixty-five churches with
J.

G.

a membership of twelve thousand, and edifices worth two hundred thousand dollars. Altogether, the best edifices of the State were said to be found in the Rowan Association. This was also said of the leaders. While there were many able preachers in other associations, there were more at that period in the Rowan than in any other. The school facilities were not equal by far they had not the secondary schools as others. At one time the Rowan Normal School was conducted by Rev. C. C. Somerville in Charlotte. While the association made annual contributions to it, it was never adopted as the property of the associa;

With a Brief History


tion.

of Baptist Organizations

57

When Dr. Somerville was called to Portsmouth, the Salisbury people took the school there and conducted it, changing the name of it to the Piedmont Institute. The association was, however, liberal in its contributions to mission work and ministerial education. It was from this association that the stronger support came to the State Convention, especially in the early years of its history. This association is looked upon as one of the strongest supporters of Shaw. It has 90 churches, 25,000 members. The Rowan Association has more larger churches and brick edifices than perhaps any other association in the State. It comprises such cities as Salisbury, Charlotte, Statesville, High Point, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, with many town and rural churches. Among the leading pastors and workers are: Revs. B. K. Mason, F. R. Mason, P. Joyce, J. E. Melton, P. P. Hamly, H. M. Moore, J. H. Moore, H. H. Hawkins, H. S. Evans, W. A. Tutt, J. W. Croom, W. C. Brown, D. I. Moore, O. P. Foster, J. J. Alexander, W. M. Wyatt, F. L. Files, J. W. Hairston, P. S. Smith, H. W. Waters, J. C. Gilmore, P. B. Bynum, L. C. Maddox, F. S. Smith, J. W. Tynes, R. M. Fitts, P. M. Mayfield, J. C. Melton, G. W. Campbell, C. L. Faison, C. W. Anderson, J. E. Melton; Messrs. R. W. Brown, J. W. Paisley, Deacon Brown, Winston (First Baptist) Prof, and Mrs. Nelson, Rev. J. L. Powell, Mr. J. L. Miller. Dr. J. T. Hairston, Moderator. Many women also work in this body.
;

Hammond's Creek

Baptist Association

The Hammond's Creek Association was organized in the year 1886, with Rev. Gilbert Monroe as its first president. Seven churches organized themselves for the promotion of God's work, and the organization grew rapidly. Such heroes as the late Rev. Joseph MacKay, Waynon Kelly, Luke Hodge, Levi P. Troy, and Gilbert Monroe were present in the first meeting. The Hodge's Institute still bears the name as a tribute to Rev. Luke Hodge. The Sunday School Convention, in connection with the association, was an able factor in aiding the cause of organizing this institute in our bonds. Rev. George Williams was the first president of the convention organized in the spring of 1886, and N. McCall was the secretary. The association and convention acted together for cause of education and uplifting of its members. The Hodge Institute was organized in 1907. Rev. S. W. Smith was president of the asso-

58

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

ciation and convention. Prof. W. T. Askew was requested to take charge of the institute, which he did with splendid result. One hundred and three students were enrolled the first session. This school was situated in West Clarkton, just one mile from the depot; a school building on 12 acres of land paid for at a cost of $600. The board of trustees had in view the erection of a $1,000 building in 1908 which was given special attention. The ministers at work in this time were Revs. S. W.
S. McNeil, M. H. MonRuss and H. Cromartie. The Hammond's Creek Association and Convention have been loyal to the State Convention. Rev. George Williams was for many years the exponent, and through him and others these bodies were loyal and faithful. (See Union)

Smith,

W. H. Monroe, N. Robinson, H.
Mckay,
Z. T.

roe, T. H.

The Pee Dee Baptist Association The Pee Dee Baptist Association was composed largely of the Baptist churches in Richmond, Scotland and Moore counties. There were but few in the organization in 1870, yet the number grew rapidly. Some of the outstanding men of the association were Rev. S. W. Dockery, H. I. Quick, J. J.
Hines and J. S. Brown. The Pee Dee members fell in line with the spirit to organize associational secondary schools, and provided such a school at Hamlet, the most central loca-

The school did not grow tion in the association bounds. as rapidly as some of the others in the State, but it kept the churches intact and kept before them a tangible objective. The Pee Dee Union Association was formed out of the Pee Dee Baptist Association. At first the spirit of mission was not so well established, but with other growth and progress came that of missions. Rev. H. I. Quick is the moderator. Revs. L. W. Wertz, I. R. Boone, Jas. Wertz, B. J. Ivey are among the leaders in this association.

The Johnston

District Association

This association was organized in 1886 at Piney Grove Church, Johnston County. The Johnston Association was once a part of the Wake Association. Revs. E. B. Blake, P. T. Young, R. R. Johnson, John Jefferies, Charles Thompson, James Chavis, S. B. Smith, J. C. Poole, W. A. Jones and others were members of the association. Rev. E. B. Blake was elected the first moderator Rev. W. A. Jones, who after;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

59

wards took the leadership, was the

first clerk.

There were

In 1908 there were eleven churches in the organization. thirty-five. A secondary Baptist school was before the association for many years, and was put on foot and located in Smithfield in 1908. The value of the thirty-five churches

1908 might fairly be estimated at twenty thousand dolMuch of the progress and aggerssiveness of the association, in the first years of its history, were due to the energy and push of Rev. W. A. Jones. Although pastor of four of the largest churches he set an example by remaining at Shaw University Theological Department until he finished the course, which greatly enabled him to lead the association. Among the active leaders today are: Revs. Holt, Johnson, Heartly, Sanders, Mitchner, Prof, and Mrs. Lewis, Mr. Bunn. Rev. J. W. Jones is the moderator.
in
lars.

The Lane's Creek Association


The Lane's Creek Association which was organized
in

1891, was never a large body compared with the other associations in the State, and though small in number, and in the size of the churches, it was generous. There were sixdispute teen churches and twenty-four ministers in 1897. regarding the standard of one of the leading ministers did more to impair the usefulness of the association than all else. "Shall an individual be allowed to marry again if the other party is living, though the cause of separation be a Bible cause?" was a question which constantly brought confusion in the ranks of the Lane's Creek Brethren. In 1907, the association was merged with two other associations to form a new one. Rev. C. L. McLester was the moderator in 1938 Rev. D. F. Moore in 1939.

The Zion Missionary Baptist Association


Rev.
J.

W.

Diggs, Moderator

The Zion Association extends along the Seaboard Air Line Railroad beyond and west of the Pee Dee. From the
organization to the time of the death of Rev. J. T. Ratliff, of Deep Creek, he was the much beloved moderator of the Zion association. It is said that the most progressive and ablest leader and minister of the association for many years was Rev. J. F. Davis. A. J. Beverly, a layman, also added great strength to the association, especially in the school work, which was begun long after the beginning made by

60

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

the Pee Dee people, but was pushed to a rapid growth and development. The Zion was the pride of the Baptists of For several years after its establishment.. that section. Frof. E. H. Lipscombe was the principal. In and about Lumberton, the Baptists of Anson County were greatly pleased, stimulated and encouraged by the institute work of the New Era Institute. Their wisdom was shown in the rapid growth of the Zion Academy at Wadesboro. Revs. Quick, Wertz, and Rev. Ratliff are leaders in this body.

The Mud Creek Association


ville

The Mud Creek Association was organized near AsheThere were at the St. John Baptist Church, 1878.

present in the organization Rev. Caleb Johnson, B. F. and C. W. Hemphill and Rev. Lindsey. The association was composed of the Asheville First Church, St. Luke, Swannanoa, St. John, Arden, Concord, Hendersonville, Flat Rock, Mills River, Davidson River, Brevard and a few others. There were fifteen hundred members. A Sunday School Union was connected with the Mud Creek Association. This Union, together with others beyond the mountain purchased land at Arden and undertook the erection of a school building. This association now owns an assembly ground at East Flat Rock, N. C. Rev. A. H. Wilson, A. Black and Rev. Foster were among the leaders together with such laymen as J. P. E. Love, B. Underwood and Thomas Furney. Rev. E. W. Dixon is moderator. He is leading progressively with the able assistance of Dr. J. W. Hairston, W. C. Brown, W. H. Hamilton and Mr. Wm. Robinson and others.

The Union Baptist Association


This association is largely composed of the churches Cumberland County, and was organized in 1883. The McDonalds, H. C. and J. J., N. B. Dunham, 0. Watkins, J. M. Whitted and W. H. Anders were the first in the association
in

for many years after its organization. Dr. E. E. Smith, of Fayetteville, Revs. J. J. Hines and J. S. Brown were added afterwards. Dr. Smith had no equal in the association and compared favorably with the ablest men in the denomination. Soon after connecting himself with the organization, he became its moderator, in which capacity he was able to lead the people to usefulness and prominence. There were many good men in this association as in others and no worthy

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

61

cause was ever turned away with out aid. They were faithful and loyal to the State Convention and its objects. The Theological Department at Shaw University and the Fayetteville Normal School received its largest donations for education. Like many other associations in North Carolina the Union Association had a Sunday School Convention in connection with it, which also shared in the rendering of services to education, charity and mission. Rev. S. W. Smith is the moderator and Mr. Fred King is the president of the Sunday School Convention. Dr. T. H. Dwelle, Revs. E. F. Melvin, W. T. Currie, A. L. Boone, Geo. Williams, B. F. Jordan, the McCoys, Freemans, Blue, McLaughlins, M. Wright and many others are strong factors in this body. Rev. L. A. Raeford and his son are also active in this body and strong supporters of the State and Shaw. Rev. Raeford is now the Moderator.

The Waynesville Association


The Waynesville Association was organized in 1880 at Waynesville, N. C. by the Hemphills, B. F. and Calvin also Rev. Ponders and Rev. Frank Lindsey. It was named for the village in which it was first organized. It was composed of the following churches Waynesville, Scott's Creek, Webster, Bryson City, Franklin, Piney Grove, Birdtown (an Indian Church), Murphy, and Blue Ridge, Ga. This association unites with Mud Creek to do home mission work. This is likewise done through the Union. The leading ministers of the association have been James Ritchie, A. H. Wilson, M. L. Page, William Love, Calvin Hemphill, A. L. Copeland and C. L. Stewart. Rev. J: H. Smith, moderator. Others have come and are helping to carry on.
;
:

The French Broad Association


This association was united with others in the Union until 1905, when it separated from the Union and took upon itself individual work. It was originally formed out of the Mud Creek Association. Some of the churches which composed the association were Mt. Zion, Asheville, Alexander, Leicester and Madison. Rev. J. R. Nelson was the leader of this body. Rev. Smith is now the leader. This association gives some assistance to the school at Madison and also contributes to home mission and foreign missions through the National Baptist Convention.

work

62

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Shiloh Baptist Association


The Shiloh Baptist Association was one of the first organized in the State and one of the first to take a secondary school project. Rev. Isaac Alston was for many years its moderator; M. F. Thornton, a prominent layman of the First Church in Warrenton, its clerk. The growth of this association soon placed it among the leading organizations in the State. It, however, began to wane, the Middle Association was the first to pull away and in its annual session of 1908, a part of the association met in Ridgeway, while the other part in Henderson. Property was purchased in Warrenton for school purposes and was paid for at an original cost of six thousand dollars, but as a long standing debt amounted to eight thousand. The association does not own this property now. The association did little for missions but devoted its energy to the school in Warrenton. For many years the school was the pride of the Baptists of that section, but there arose differences in the management which never healed altogether and the usefulness of the work was greatly hindered. While the association had many able men among its rank, these differences kept them from doing what they might have done. This association has taken on new life, with Rev. N. A. Cheek, Moderator, and Revs. J. E. McGreer, H. Y. Cheek, L. H. Johnson, J. M. Burchett, J. W. Burrell, Wm. Perry, C. E. Griffin and others supporting the causes of missions and education.

The Reedy Creek Association


The Reedy Creek Association was composed of the churches north of the Shiloh and between the Shiloh and the Neuse River, including churches in Warren, Halifax, North Hampton and Nash counties. This association was never as large as the Shiloh or the Neuse River. Like nearly all other associations, they had a school under their sponsorship. This school was at Littleton, N. C, under the princiThey gave comparatively little palship of Mr. Warwick. toward missions yet whenever a missionary was present and laid the cause of missions before the association, he met a welcome and response. Rev. James Mayes of Littleton was a great figure in this association from its beginning until his death in 1906. Rev. L. J. Alexander and Rev. S. Griggs took the lead in after years and did much to bring
;

this association to

the front.

One

of the greatest hin-

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

63

drances to the Negro Baptists as we have found it in that time was the need of more missionary spirit. However, the spirit is growing in this body with such men as Revs. Alexander, McGrier, the Watsons, Spruill, and Rev. J. H. Clanton moderator. Dr. G. W. Watkins conducted a Ministers' Institute for

them

in 1939.

The Middle Ground Association


Not only was the West Roanoke Association formed out of the East Roanoke Association, but it seemed practicable and wise to the East Roanoke brethren in 1899 that letters should be granted to the remaining churches beyond the sound, and that they should be set apart into a new organization, and hence, like the original thirteen states which formed themselves into a union and government, thirteen of the churches lying between East and West Roanoke, formed themselves into the middle ground. The East and West Roanoke had some of the strongest men in the denomination as their leaders but their growth was very slow. This association however, is coming to the front. Rev. R. R. Brown reported for them. Rev. J. G. McNair is the Moderator.

The West Roanoke Association

As we have

already stated in connection with the East

Roanoke Association, after some years of its existence in 1884, it was thought that a new associaton should be formed and hence we have the West Roanoke Association. The school project was already on the way at Winton under the leadership of the able Dr. C. S. Brown, then a recent graduate of

Shaw

University.

This association includes the churches in Hertford County and a part of Northampton and Bertie counties. The brethren at Bertie felt that the school in Winton was too far away for them to enjoy its benefits, hence they established in their county and at Windsor, the Bertie Academy. The North Hampton people, with a school of high grade at Rich Square, felt that their pro rata should come to them for the support of their school, and this caused the West Roanoke Association to divide its contributions between the three schools. As we have said the educational fever seemed to be prevailing and it seems that this association was only content with the three schools. It seemed that if the schools had been fewer, they would

64

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

have been better supported, yet there was untold good accomplished in these schools in the State. The West Roanoke Association raised the largest amount of money raised by any association in the State: as much as twenty-five hundred dollars in an annual sitting. Somehow the ambition to raise money and build up schools took hold of the brethren, and many sacrifices were made to carry out this ambition. It was encouraging to see
of the deacons, who could not read themselves, struggled with their membership to bring large sums of money to the association for education. The moderator of this association was for many years president of the LottCarey Convention and president of the State Convention. This was sufficient to arouse the brethren of the West Roanoke in behalf of both State and foreign missions and hence the association became prominent not only in that locality but throughout the State. Rev. D. L. Simon is the moderator of this body and they are doing splendidly. Revs. H. L. Mitchell, P. A. Bishop, J. A. Nimo, J. P. Laws, Mr. R. Luton, Mr. S. Hardy and others are among the leaders.

how some

The Lumber River Association


This association is composed of the churches of Columbus County and a few from the adjoining counties. The Thompsons, E. M. and A. H., together with several others, organized the Lumber River Association. This association was not among the largest in number of churches but did a great service in the support it gave to the school at Lumberton which took its name from Rev. A. H. Thompson. Like other associations, its fathers could do nothing but organize and give the send-off, leaving the real work to be done by younger men. In some places the young men had to contend for the place as leaders while the older men lived, this was, however, not so with the Lumber River brethren. When W. C. Pope, J. D. Harell and James McKellar came to the front, with Avery and Knuckles in charge of the educational work, these older men gave way and with their prayers and benedictions said, "Go ahead, young men, and carry the work forward where we have left off." These young men went ahead, and as a result three buildings were erected on the school site at Lumberton and one of the best schools (secondary) of North Carolina was put into operation. Several ministers erected homes near and the school became a village in itself and very attractive. In an

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

65

expression of the pride of the State, they met with the Sandy Grove Baptist Church, which lifts her spire in the midst of these school buildings and Baptist village. This association still retains the title to the property, but receives aid from the County to carry on its school work. Prof. Knuckles is the principal. Rev. W. C. Williams was the Moderator for a long time. Dr. W. H. Knuckles is the Moderator.

The East Roanoke Association


The organization of the East Roanoke Association took place in the Haven Creek Baptist Church, Roanoke Island, 1886. There were present in the organization L. W. Boone, J. T. Reynolds, C. E. Hodges, J. A. Fleming, Asberry Reid, and others. Rev. L. W. Boone was elected moderator, J. T. Reynolds, clerk, and J. A. Fleming, assistant clerk. Together
with the above-named, Revs. J. K. Lamb, Z. H. Berry, A. Mebane, Wm. Reid and Emanuel Reynolds led the forces for many years. They, like other associations, contributed

known as the Roanoke Institute at Elizabeth In 1908, one thousand students had been enrolled and a number of graduates had been sent forth out into the world, and among the number were some of the ablest
to a school

City.

preachers to be found anywhere in the State. Some of the leaders of the association were George W. Lee, Revs. G. D. Griffin, B. W. Dance, Z. W. White, W. A. Taylor, C. M. and R. R. Cartwright, and I. S. Riddick. In 1908 the association numbered twenty thousand in membership with some of the best churches and church structures in the State. This association is conducting the school with the fine support from all its churches. Rev. J. E. Tilbett is the moderator and has the full cooperation of the brotherhood.

The Cedar Grove Association


In 1868, the Cedar Grove Association was organized at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Roxboro, N. C. in

Person County. Pleasant Grove, Mt. Zion and Cedar Grove were in the organization. Revs. R. P. Martin, Rudley Williams, Steven Williams and Elijah Jones were the ministers. This association was first called Pleasant Grove and afterwards the name was changed to Oak Grove Association. At a third meeting, Rev. L. C. Ragland, a white minister, united with the association and remained with them until his death. Through him and other members in the

66

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

association, a membership of forty-two churches was developed. Revs. A. J. Graves, A. L. Johnson, J. R. Cozart, R. H. Harris and W. H. Toler also did much in the educa-

and missionary fields. An unusual thing was the constant change of the name which was changed to Cedar Grove. This association purchased a site at Roxboro, N. C, but somehow there was an objection to the project and a school was not established. This difference and others led An East Cedar Grove to the separation of the churches. Association was formed. Rev. W. M. Warner is the moderator. Rev. S. L. Badgett and others make the leaders in this body.
tional

The East Cedar Grove Association


This association as above stated came out of the Cedar Grove Association and was composed of the churches east of Roxboro. Rev. J. L. Cozart was the leader and his influence did much in respect to the younger members of the association. Revs. J. M. Taylor, W. H. Lyons, Mayes and
Rev. R. H. Harris assisted in the new organization. This association from its organization was a friend to missions and education and did not turn a deaf ear to a worthy cause. It kept in line with the State and Foreign Mission Convention. They did not have local projects as other associations, hence missions did not suffer at its hands as it did in many associations where local projects were present. Revs. G. W. Thomas, Wm. Fuller, T. C. Graham, C. E. McLester, A. S. Croom, H. D. Eaton are among the leaders in this association. Rev. Thomas is the Moderator.

Deep River Association


This association, though not so old as some of the other associations in the State, is doing its part as a supporter of education and missions in the State's program. Rev. 0. P. Foster is the moderator. Other leaders in this group are: Revs. T. H. Brooks, H. L. Womack, J. W.

Mason and

others.

Hyde County Association


This Association is not very old, but with such leaders as Rev. H. S. Fulford as moderator, Rev. Coville and others as helpers, it may accomplish much in the way of Kingdom
building.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

67

Ocean View Association


This association takes its name from those churches near the Atlantic Ocean. It is not so large, nor old, but under the leadership of Rev. L. M. Stevenson with such churches as Long Wood, Southport, Mt. Zion and Macedonia, much good may be accomplished.

County Line Association


This association comprises the churches on the Virginia and North Carolina line. It is under the leadership of Rev. Duffie P. Lewis as moderator with Rev. A. D. Evans and others as supporters. They are contributing to Shaw University and missions. At the 1940 session Shaw University received a one hundred dollar donation.

Yadkin Valley Association

The Yadkin Valley Association takes in those churches on the other side of the Blue Ridge, including Wilkes County. The churches are far apart and few at that, but the determined spirit on the part of a few strong men is destined to bring forth fruit. Rev. J. A. Parson is the moderator and is ably assisted by Rev. V. C. Burne and others.

New Home

and Durham Missionary Baptist Association

This association was organized forty-eight years ago (1892) for the purpose of "advancing the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ throughout the world." Revs. B. Neal, Rountree, Lipscombe and others were said to be among the organizers. This is not a large association about twelve churches, but Rev. Evans, the moderator, is using his influence to advance the Lord's work among them. Among the workers and supporters are: Revs. Jno. Dixon, Bro. H. Lipscombe, Rev. E. W. Winston, Deacon McMannen, Rev. J. B. Brooks, Rev. W. Y. McCaulley, Rev. J. A. Whitted, Rev. M. Milligan, Rev. S. S. Woods, W. J. Thompson, W. G. Willis, L. A. Green, J. S. Jones, A. Jones, T. Mosby, E. F. Ford, J. O. Corbett, J. H. Chavis, C. W. Eaton, G. W. Scott, Bro. E. Green, L. A. Green, Marvin Cooper, Lumus Rogers, Andrew Redish, I. B. Snead, Haywood Jackson, D. Lipscombe, Rev. J. W. Valines

and others.

68

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The New Era Association


This body
is

under the leadership of Rev. N. H. Hamer.

Wilson County Association


Rev.
J.

W. Watson, Moderator

The Wilson County Association is young compared with the other bodies. It is made up of very small churches and the membership in those churches is small. They are working in harmony with the State however, and supporting the cause loyally. Among the ministers are: Revs. 0. W. Sanders, J. M. Schoffier, W. S. Barnes and others. Rev. Fred M. Davis is the moderator.

Mt. Peace Association

The Mt. Peace Association is led by Rev. J. D. Massey as moderator and supported by Rev. W. H. Davidson and others.
French Broad Association
This Association is under the leadership of Rev. J. H. Smith. It supports Missions and Christian education.

Bethlehem Union Association

W. N.

This group of churches, under the leadership of Rev. Zollicoffer with his strong supporters, is sending money for Missions and Christian education.

St.

John Association

Rev. C. J. Cooper is the moderator of this Association. does a part of its mission work through the General Baptist Convention.
It

Tar River Association

The Tar River Association, though not as old nor as large as some others, but it has some progressive men and is destined to do great things in its area. Rev. P. H. Hedgepeth is the moderator.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

69

The Baptist Young People's Union


Convention of North Carolina
1900, a meeting was called by the members and delegates of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention for the purpose of organizing a Baptist Young People's Union Association. This association was to meet annually in connection with the State Sunday School Convention. The first president was Mr. J. P. Williams; Miss C. F. Blount of Wilmington, secretary Miss Emma Sasser of Goldsboro, corresponding secretary and State organizer; Mr. J. N. Coates of Seaboard, treasurer. As the Constitution states, the object of this association was to be the "Unification of the Baptist Young People, their increased spirituality; their stimulation in Christian service; their edification in scripture knowledge; their instruction in Baptist history and doctrine, and their enlistment in missionary activity through existing denominational organizations." Although Miss Sasser only served a short time, she organized unions in every section of the State. Rev. A. B. Vincent succeeding her, served for a year and gave up the work to serve as a pastor. Dr. C. C. Somerville of Charlotte was later elected president and did much work in building up unions in the year he served, but he was succeeded in the session at Fayetteville by Mr. E. Y. Young.

IN September,

Rev. W. H. Knuckles was elected corresponding secretary and State organizer at the annual meeting of the association. He visited old unions and organized new ones durThe organized and kept-up unions ing his spare time. proved blessings in the various communities but because some churches felt burdened with organizations, and because many young people were discouraged, the progress of the organization and the up-keep was considerably slow. There were not enough funds to keep a representative on the field, but Rev. Knuckles set forth to the people in his report at the session in Greensboro and at the annual meeting at Smithfield the necessity, and that the service was not without splendid results. His efforts were so vigorous and sincere, that the State B. Y. P. U. elected him as president of the organization. Their watchwords were "More Unions and Better Unions." With Secretary Knuckles now president, the outlook was that the State of North Carolina was preparing to take

70

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

her place among the ranking states for her splendid work with her Baptist young people. The B. Y. P. U. Convention, or B. T. U. as it is now called, has had a career which only the leaders of the local and State unions can explain and describe. In the local communities, the meeting hours have had something to do with the attendance. This is especially true in the rural communities. When the Sunday School is over, it is generally too early to hold another meeting, but when all have returned to their respective homes, it is very difficult to get enough to return to B. T. U. meetings. In the cities, the meeting is held (usually) just before an evening service. Where this is talked up and about a good deal, and canvassing is done, the attendance is fairly good; but many will not come until just before the evening service. This, of course, serves to handicap the teaching program, as only a few are taught in the several classes. In the smaller towns, in churches where preaching is held once or twice per month, we have two good meetings per month, if the hours are properly timed. Then the other two Sundays are only kept up in proportion to the work of the leader. Be it said however, to credit the local leaders in many localities, that they are doing very well. It is seen from the above statements that the work of the other services have crowded out the work of the B. T. U. in many instances; however, where the leaders are alert, they are forging ahead, but not as
fast as desired. What is said of the local B. T. U., is about true with the State B. T. U. Soon after its first organization, it became evident that the delegates would not come early enough to get the meeting going to the satisfaction of the leaders. Then too, in the community where the State meeting was held, the community looked upon the State meeting in the same light in which it was held in the local church. This was so evident, that the State leaders had to adopt the policy of calling two or more special meetings during the sessions of the Sunday School Convention. Later the officers of the two conventions devised a plan of joint sessions which have added much to the attendance. The training courses recently introduced and carried on have also increased the interest and attendance greatly. Among those who labored successfully in the building up of the B. T. U. in North Carolina were Prof. M. W. Williams, Dr. J. B. Davis, Prof. J. Smith Jones, Miss Emily Mae Morgan, the late Miss Daisy Sanders, Prof. A. B. John:

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

71

son, Mrs. G. A. Albritton, Rev. Pearson, Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. B. E. Barrett, Dr. C. C. Somerville, Dr. A. W. Pegues, Dr. G. W. Moore, Rev. P. F. Malloy, Rev. A. B. Vincent, Mrs. A. L. Weeks, Dr. S. N. Vass, Rev. A. Ellis, Dr. J. A. Whitted, Dr. E. E. Smith, Prof. I. W. Holden, Rev. J. R. Cozart, Rev. W. H. Woodward, Dr. C. S. Brown, Rev. W. A. Patillo, Mr. E. J. Young, Dr. J. E. Dillinger, Rev. J. W. Faulk, Rev. E. M. Sanders, Dr. W. H. Moore, Rev. J. D. McRae, Prof.

H. T. Johnson, Miss Mattie Garrett, Mr. Fred King, Rev. Wellon, Miss Mabel Powell, Miss Clarice Christmas, Mrs. H. V. Gattison, Mrs. McLaurin and a host of others. Some of these laborers have passed on, while a great many are still active along with the present leaders, who are carrying

on with zeal and knowledge.

72

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

BAPTIST PAPERS
The African Expositor
African Expositor was established in 1877 with Dr. N. F. Roberts, Dr. H. M. Tupper, President of Shaw University, and Prof. E. H. Lipscombe, as editors; Drs. C. Johnson, A. Shepard, and G. W. Perry, as business managers. The motto of the paper was, "Ethiopia shall soon stretch forth her hands unto God." The Expositor was devoted to education, temperance, religion, and general intelligence. The wide circulation of the paper, and the various educational columns brought
splendid results to Shaw University from the North and other sections of the country. Dr. Tupper once said, "Had it not been for the Expositor I would not have established the Medical Department." It also served as strength to the Sunday School, Church, and Foreign Mission work.

THE

many

The Gold Dust and The Baptist Headlight

AFTER

the publication of the African Expositor, there

was no paper published by the Negro Baptists of North Carolina for several years. Later, there was a paper
published in Salisbury called the Gold Dust, and it is thought that Dr. J. 0. Crosby was its first editor, and was assisted by Dr. C. C. Somerville. Although the Gold Dust did not exist very long, it was of much value throughout
the State, especially in the Western section where it was more largely read. We cannot, however, give sole credit to any individual for building up a great cause, but in reference to the papers, it was all of them that tended to make the Baptist program succeed. So it was with the Gold Dust. During its publication, there appeared several articles and editorials from the managers and interested men throughout the State which served to mould sentiment throughout the State. It is certain that most of the intelligence of the Piedmont section, much of their go-forward spirit, much of the courage of the men and the churches is due to the education and encouragement which came from the Baptists and to the Baptists of that section through the publishing of the Gold Dust. The Baptist Headlight originated in Salisbury, as did the Gold Dust. It is thought that at one time Dr. C. C. Somerville was the editor, but for the most part, the editor was Rev. A. L. Sumner. The Headlight existed longer

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

73

than the Gold Dust, and had a larger support and a more extensive circulation. This paper drew more largely on the State conventions and various associations and organizations throughout the State. The editor was elected principal of the Goldsboro Normal School, and he therefore carried the Headlight with him and sent out his papers from the Goldsboro press. Later he took charge of the Burgaw High School, and the paper was then sent out from Burgaw. The Headlight secured a large amount of local patronage, and was hence read in the East by a large number as well as in the West. Like the Gold Dust, the Headlight did much in spreading sentiment and paving the way for a paper which was to be the permanent organ of the Baptists of the State. These papers did not last very long, it is true, but the efforts and sacrifices these men made will be cherished recollections of the achieve-

ments in the blessed

past.

The Chowan The Chowan


S.

Pilot

Brown

as

its editor.

Pilot originated in Winton, with Dr. C. The Pilot had greater advantages

than the Headlight or the Gold Dust. At the beginning, the East Roanoke Association took firm hold of the Pilot and not only gave loyal support in a number of paying subscribers, but made donations to enable the editor, who was the acknowledged leader of the Association, to purchase office supplies and press to run the paper from the office. Soon the paper was issued in connection with the

Waters Normal and Industrial Institute, and was a feature of the industrial department. The students soon learned to set up the type, and the cost was lessened. The editor met with every organization of the Baptists and so impressed them with the paper that they felt it almost imperative that they give their support, and hence the paper was read all over the State. The editorials of the editor were also of great influence to the people. The paper was sometimes a political issue, sometimes a moral, and some*times an educational issue, but always something to uplift the race and the denomination. With so many duties upon him as principal of a growing institution, and pastor of several churches, Dr. Brown felt urged to ask the Baptists to assume control of the paper and appoint another editor. It was then that the Rev. W. A. Patillo, of Littleton, was appointed. Dr. Patillo had experienced work of this kind

74

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Farmers Alliance sheet, and the fortunate in securing his services. The Pilot's publication was continued then until Dr. C. S. Brown was chosen to be corresponding secretary of the Convention and general missionary. This work began with the publication of the Baptist Quarterly with the general missionary as editor. The Quarterly was continued for ten months and then a monthly took its place. Dr. Brown felt that he could not do the work as general missionary, editor, and keep up the work at the Waters Institute; hence he resigned his place to return to the school work and pastorate. He was succeeded by Dr. J. A. Whitted, corresponding secretary and general missionary, who became his successor as editor of the Baptist Quarterly and later edited the Baptist Sentinel Monthly and Baptist Sentinel Weekly covering a period of twelve years or more. The Baptist Sentinel was originated and established December 8, 1898, and had as its motto, "I have made thee a Watchman unto the house of Israel." Ez. 3:7. The paper was published every Thursday in the city of Raleigh. In its beginning there were only three hundred subscribers, but later the list increased to thirty-five hundred.
in connection with the

Convention

felt itself

Mr.

J. P.

Roberts, who ager. At the in 1905, the Smith, as one

Williams was elected to succeed Dr. N. F. had served up to this time as business manmeeting of the Convention at Kinston, N. C. following officers were elected: Dr. E. E. of the editors Dr. S. N. Vass and Rev. G. W.
;

Moore, corresponding editors; Dr. N. F. Roberts, as secretary and treasurer. As Dr. Roberts was well known and trusted in North Carolina, much encouragement was given to the project. Mr. Williams gave his best energy to the paper and much of its success is due to his faithfulness and efficiency. As the people became aware of the abidingness of the Sentinel, its circulation increased to thirty-five hundred. It is believed that its policy had much to do with its growth and development. From the beginning, the paper was conservative and sound in its policy, and allowed nothing to come into its columns to destroy the peace and prosperity of the denomination. It made friends for the race and denomination, and proved to be one of the main levers

Negro Baptists. The president of Shaw University allowed the Convention a site on the campus to erect a building for the exclusive use of the Baptist Sentinel, and after subscriptions
in the uplift of the

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

75

amounting to four hundred and


the building

fifty dollars

were taken,

was

erected.

Sentinel stock

and incorporated April

Baptist Sentinel tinuing as an organ of the Convention and under the direct supervision of stockholders, progressed rapidly. The Biblical Recorder, the organ of the white Baptists of North Carolina, said of the Sentinel, "This excellent paper is conducted by Brother Williams with industry, ability, and devotion. It is one of the best representatives of the colored race. In fact, such a paper goes far to create hope for the race." The paper moaned its great loss in the death of Mr. Williams, business manager, which occurred at his home in Warrenton, June, 1905. It may be said of Mr. Williams that he was one who laid his life on the altar for the success of a project. Eighteen months passed before the appointment of a permanent business manager. Dr. A. W. Pegues, C. L. W. Smith, and G. W. Yores served during this time. The Jamestown Exposition had just closed. Rev. C. H. Williamson, commissioner-general for North Carolina, had handled to splendid advantage ten thousand dollars, and had made such a presentation at the Exposition, the board saw in him a suitable successor to Mr. Williams, and he was elected to that position in 1907. In the Fall of 1907 J. A. Whitted, who had served as editor since the establishment of the paper, saw fit to resign, and Dr. C. S. Brown was elected to succeed him as editor. Dr. Smith, Dr. S. N. Vass, and Dr. S. H. Witherspoon were elected field editors. Hence, with an able staff, the Sentinel took on new life and served as an inspiration and unlift to the Negro Baptists of North Carolina. RevC. H. Williamson served efficiently and courageously during the period of 1907-'15. When the Convention prospered and made progress in the field of religion, education, or in general, much credit was due to the favorable publicity from articles and editorials in the various publications just mentioned.

company was organized May 8, 1901, 27, 1905, taking the name of the Publishing Company. The Sentinel, con-

The Sentinel continued with the able leadership of the above-mentioned men with a number of college students serving on the staff. Dr. C. H. Williamson lived up to the expectation of the brethren by increasing the circulation
and
interest.

76

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Union Reformer'

The Union Reformer was started in Littleton, N. C, by Mr. P. B. Young as the True Reformer. It grew in circulation and was looked upon generally as the mouthpiece for the Negroes. After a few years of publication in Littleton it appeared that Durham was a better place, so it was moved there. Mr. Young's sons by this time had the management of the paper and it was more widely read. The Union Convention, which had just been formed, thought it wise to have a paper which would be synonymous with the growing spirit of the union throughout the State; so the True Reformer was bought from the Youngs and made a mouthpiece for the Convention. It appears that Rev. J. W. Ligon was the president of the stockholders who bought the paper and named it the Union Reformer. Rev. G. W. Watkins, as the first editor, was very active, in Rev. Ligon sucits promotion during the early stage. ceeded Rev. Watkins as editor, and after the passing of
Rev. Ligon, his son, L.

W.

Ligon, took over the business end,


influence.

and the paper continued her

Later, the management went into the hands of a committee which appointed Rev. M. W. Williams, who, with the full and able support of the committee and people generally, increased the circulation to such an extent that the Baptists and many others, colored and white, looked eagerly each week for the information which it carried and the inspiration which it gave. Rev. A. B. Johnson is the present managing editor with a staff of strong and able associate editors, whose pens and brains are destined to wield an influence for God and His Kingdom throughout the State. There is no question whatever that we need a paper, for without one all of the annual gatherings, together with the work generally, could not enlighten the pulpit and the leaders of the various organizations.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

77

The Women's Baptist Home and Foreign Mission Convention of North Carolina
THE
Women's Baptist Home and Foreign Mission Convention of North Carolina is now fifty-six years old, being organized in the year 1884. Mrs. Lizzie Neely of Salisbury, N. C, was the first president, Mrs. Lizzie Saunders of Henderson was elected secretary, and Mrs. Mary E. Tinsley of Oxford, treasurer. Miss B. E. Green and Miss Helen R. Jackson assisted in the organization. According to Dr. J. A. Whitted's account (1908), Mrs. Pattie G. Shepard of Oxford, N. C, served as president of this organization for more than sixteen years. She was a woman of rare gifts as a public speaker and leader. During her administration, the women's convention made rapid progress. Mrs. S. A. Eaton of Henderson was associated with Mrs. Shepard as secretary of the convention. Both of these capable women consecrated their talents to the work of extending the services of this women's convention to the sisterhood throughout North Carolina. After Mrs. Mary E. Tinsley, Mrs. Virginia King became treasurer, and following her Mrs. A. L. Ramsom, who is still a member of the convention, but unable to hold office. Her daughter Mrs. A. B. Johnson of Raleigh, is now treasurer. Dr. Whitted writes, "A number of times during their administration the place of corresponding secretary, so important in any organization, underwent changes." Some of the noble women who served in this position were: Mrs. E. E. Smith of Fayetteville, N. C. (deceased, 1906), and Mrs. A. M. Brandon Rogers, Oxford, N. C, who held this office for a
number
of years. "Differing somewhat from the men's convention, the most of the work of the women was done through the executive board, and instead of their sessions being devoted to discussions of business, often useless, they were given to papers and addresses on useful topics and to songs and devotions." There was some complaint about this, but perhaps the good out-weighed the harm done in that it did away with the opportunity to create bitter feelings sometimes engendered by needless debates. The objects of the women's conventions are: "To establish and improve Baptist Home Mission Societies in all the Baptist churches and destitute sections of the State; to assist in the support of the Oxford Or-

78

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

phanage; to send the gospel to Africa; and to awaken a general interest in the study of the Bible, and in the religious education of the aged and the young by gathering them into the Sunday school." (Whitted). During the early years of the convention the success of the North Carolina women was in a large measure due to the helpful cooperation of the Baptist Women's Home Mission Society of Chicago, 111. Miss Mary Burdette, was the corresponding secretary of that body. Misses Miller and Hamilton who for a number of years conducted the Missionary Training School at Shaw, were great factors in the development of Negro women for religious leaders among the Baptists in North Carolina. A Mrs. Ellers was the first superintendent of this training school, which was made possible through the efforts of Miss Burdette. Those were the days of small things compared with what the women are doing today. Yet we should not forget the day of small beginnings. At that time the Chicago board had to contribute each year to help pay the workers on the home field, for in spite of their struggles the women of the convention were unable to run without a deficit. Today under the leadership of Mrs. McMillian, president, and the efficient corresponding secretary, Miss M. A. Burwell, and Mrs. Brown, a special worker, Mrs. E. C. Pegues, Mrs. L. L. Walker, Mrs. Sallie Eaton, Mrs. Rogers and a host of other board members and enthusiastic supporters, these women are paying the full salaries of two missionaries in Africa Mrs. Cora Pair Thomas and Miss Minnie C. Lyons. Aside from this the woman's convention makes large contributions annually to Shaw University and for operation of the When they met in Greensboro, at the State program. Mount Sinai Baptist Church in 1920, the woman's convention, by the request of the field secretary, Rev. G. W. Watkins, appropriated $500.00 for the Union Baptist Convention which met at Greenville, N. C, a few months later. There was another organization in Eastern North Carolina headed by Mrs. Kearney. They came in as an auxiliary to the men's convention. These women also brought a check for five hundred dollars, so the brethren received one thousand dollars from the Baptist women at that session. Attention has already been called to the fact that the Women's Home and Foreign Convention is supporting two missionaries in Africa. They began to pay the salary of Mrs. Cora Pair Thomas in 1908, when she and her husband, the Rev. W. H. Thomas sailed to Liberia and found-

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

79

ed what is now the Brewerville Mission. The women of North Carolina have done more to keep the work going at Brewerville than any other single organization connected with the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention of U. S. A., the channel through which we do our foreign mission work.

The Relation

of the Women's Convention to the General Baptist Convention

As far back as 1907, according to Dr. Whitted, efforts were made to make the women's convention into an auxiliary body of the men's convention. All of these efforts failed. The women were afraid of losing their autonomy and perhaps a final submerging of their organization altogether. Upon this point we quote, "and no doubt their position was wise, since alone under the guidance of God and the aid of the leading brethren, they accomplished Whitted. possibly more existing separate and apart." Brethren in large numbers now attend the sessions of the women's body, take part in the discussions and find a cordial welcome. There is always the annual sermon by one

of the pastors.

The work of the convention is divided into districts where special workers keep up the interest during the year. The office of the corresponding secretary is at Shaw University. Miss M. A. Burwell, for a number of years the efficient incumbent is still directing the affairs of this great body of women who form the most enthusiastic missionary group in our churches throughout the State. They still
prefer to be called a cooperate convention rather than be an auxiliary to the men's convention. They are doing a good work, and, as time gives us more light, all may see wisdom in some change in the method of doing things in the Master's cause. In this brief article it is not our purpose to give a full account of the work and sacrifice of the noble women, some of whom have passed on to their reward, but to point the way with the hope that some one may some day in the future write more fully of these faithful servants of God. The names of Sallie A. Mial, Hattie Shepard, Roberta Bunn, Lizzie Walker, Mittie Thacker White, Lucy Thompson, Mrs. Walls, Mrs. R. A. Morris, R. A. Fitts, W. N. Coats, Mrs. C. S. Brown, and Alice Patterson are a few among the many who prayed and worked with the help of the women of the North -to lay the foundation for the re-

80
ligious

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

development of the Baptist host of women in North Carolina. In the convention of 1908 their report showed that there were eight thousand members represented through representatives from missionary circles.

Other Women's Organizations

There are many organizations of women as auxiliary bodies to the various associations from which they take These cooperate with the parent body in their names. raising money for the objects supported by the Baptists The women perform a in their respective communities. large share of the work in aiding the secondary Baptist One of the largest of these local organizations is schools. the Sisters' Union of Eastern North Carolina. Mrs. Luton The late Mrs. C. S. is now the president of this body. Brown was for a number of years the much beloved leader These women contribute annually about of these women. one thousand dollars to foreign missions through the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention. Most of these smaller organizations are now affiliated with the Women's Home and Foreign Mission Convention of North Carolina. Miss Mary A. Burwell, through circulars, letters, pamphlets and talks did a wonderful work in organizing the women of the State to do the kind of work they are doing today. The women, through her, as the corresponding secretary, have been so organized that their money for salaries of the missionaries in Africa and for other causes is received quarterly and paid promptly. For more than twenty years, she, with Mrs. Eaton and other loyal workers have built up an organization which can, with constant care do untold good in training the Baptist women in the State to give more for missions and Christian education.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

81

Statement About Woman's Auxiliary


By Mrs.
Woman's
B. E. Barrett, President,

Auxiliary,

Wake

Baptist Association

This organization started 20 years ago at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Wendell, N. C, under the pastorage of Rev. A. T. Price. The sainted brethren organized this

Group of Officers at the

Wake

Baptist Association and

Woman's Auxiliary
auxiliary in order that the sisters would have something particular to do other than sitting idly watching them. These men were: the late Dr. Pegues, Dr. Roberts, Dr. Vass, Rev. J. W. Ligon. Rev. Ligon was moderator at that particular time. The women officers who were elected were: Mrs. B. E. Barrett, president; Mrs. Maggie Hall, vice-president; Mrs. Chanie Hall, recording secretary Miss Mamie Faison, corresponding secretary; Mrs. N. A. Hunter, treasurer. This organization started without a penny in its treasury. Its purpose is to help the brethren to raise money for home and foreign missions and educational purposes. Mrs. B. E. Barrett started similar organizations throughout Wake County. She had interesting experiences in traveling throughout the county. In several communities missionary work was not even known. Therefore, it was quite difficult
;

82

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

in the beginning to get the sisters to recognize


ciate the work.

and appre-

Very often she would have to leave her home at six o'clock in the morning in order to be at some district church at the appointed hour. She gave credit to her husband who so faithfully assisted her in making ready for the trip. She was exposed to severe weather in order to get the foundation laid for the Woman's Auxiliary. But
through all that it was a joy and a pleasure for her to be able to do something for the upbuilding of God's Kingdom. At the beginning it was looked upon as nothing, because it was an organization without pay. But since that time she has been able to establish it in thirty or forty churches in the county. It has done great good spiritually and financially. We have raised thousands of dollars to help the brethren to sponsor the work; and the greatest of all she has been able to organize a Junior Auxiliary which is now being supervised by Mrs. M. W. Williams. Mrs. Williams has succeeded admirably in getting together many of the young women who are doing much to instill in the young minds the missionary spirit.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

83

Secondary Schools Established and Maintained By Negro Baptists in North Carolina


TO
the

out hear that their forefathers had to depend very largely upon poorly equipped public schools and a few other private schools provided by the Freedman's Bureau, the Quakers and other persons interested in Negro education. Having these facts it will be easier to understand why the Negro Baptists had at one time some twenty-five or more schools organized and supported by themselves. Shaw University was sending out teachers into the various communities. The Baptist Associations began to organize schools and employ these teachers as principals. There were no public high schools for Negroes; hence for a long time these secondary schools furnished the only means for the pupils of The first the community to get a high school training. among such schools was founded at Plymouth, N. C, by Mr. Alexander Hicks. This developed into a State normal school. The second was established at Dallas, N. C, by Prof. E. H. Lipscomb. Both of these gentlemen were graduates of Shaw University.

Negro youth of today who ride to and from the many county training and public high schools throughmany counties in our State it will sound strange to

Shiloh Institute, Warrenton, N. C.

This school was established in 1885 by the Shiloh BapThe site was the old Plummer's residence beautifully located within the corporate limits of the town of Warrenton. After several years of operation, the name was changed to the Shiloh Institute. During the first twelve years of its existence this school sent out one hundred and twenty-five teachers and several ministers of the gospel. In 1891 there came a division in the association. Eleven churches got letters and organized the Middle Baptist Association. This took away a great deal of the financial help from the school and. from this time on
tist Association.

this school like


closed.

most of the others, grew weaker and

finally

84

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Water's Normal and Industrial School, Now Water's Training School, Winton, N. C.
This school was established in 1886, and became one of the largest of its kind in the State. The gifted and well trained Calvin S. Brown took charge of this school soon after its organization. He was just out of Shaw University. His energy, faith and courage soon won for him an honorable place among the pioneer educators in Eastern North Carolina. He helped to clear off the trees and open up the street on which the school now stands. Dr. Brown presided over this institution for fifty years. When the State of North Carolina became aware of its long neglected duty to give Negro youth free high school education, this school was like many others turned over to the county and State to be operated as a public school. The buildings and grounds, which have been improved by the county and the State, are still reminders of thousands of dollars of Baptist men and women who joyfully gave of their earnings for the maintainance of an institution for the cultivation of their children. Dr. Brown and his wife are buried on the campus. Prof. Freeland is now principal. The late Lawyer Vann of Pittsburgh and C. C. Boone, missionary to Africa, and many other prominent men of the Baptist denomination received their early training at Water's Normal
Institute.

Roanoke

Institute, Elizabeth City,

N. C.

The Roanoke Institute located at Elizabeth City, N. C, the product of the independent and self-reliant spirit of the men and women composing the Roanoke Baptist Association. The late Dr. M. W. D. Norman, former dean of the Theological Department of Shaw University was elected the first principal of the Roanoke Institute. The property purchased had been formerly used as a private school under Mr. Rooks Turner. Under Dr. Norman the institute made much progress. New buildings were erected and a large number of students enrolled. Upon the resignation of Dr. Norman, Rev. C. D. Griffin, a graduate of the school was chosen to succeed Dr. Norman. Rev. Griffin being a young man of rare gifts as a preacher and leader continued the progress of this institution so well begun by Dr. Norman. Following Rev. Griffin came Prof. C. F. Graves, who is a graduate of Shaw. The doctrine of selfhelp in the interest of the Roanoke Institute was preached
is

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

85

by Professor Graves not only throughout the bounds of the Roanoke Association, but in every other place where he had opportunity to speak. The Roanoke Association gave him hearty support. A few years ago, fire destroyed one of their main buildings, but this has been replaced by a brick school building. Under Rev. Mr. Nichols, the present principal, this independent Baptist school is still operating the full year of nine months. This is the only one of many secondary Baptist schools that has weathered storms of financial depression and the advance that State has made in Negro education.

for the the the

Bertie Academy, Windsor, N. C.

The Bertie Academy may be called the sister of the Water's Training School for they were both sponsored by the West Roanoke Baptist Association. Established at a later date and never so large and strong as the other; yet the Bertie Academy under the leadership of Professor Etheridge has meant much to the Negro youth of Bertie County. The Water's Training School for a while received help from the Home Mission Society; while the Bertie Academy was the product of the Negro's own efforts in maintaining an institution for themselves. The churches in Bertie County donated their money to the school at Windsor and those in Hertford to Winton. And this was done through the same Baptist Association without friction. This school also has become a public school.
Girls'

Training School, Franklinton, N. C.

The Girls' Training School at Franklinton was not owned by the Wake Baptist Association although located within its bounds. Rev. T. 0. Fuller was the first principal. Miss Hawkins, Dr. A. W. Pegues, and Prof. Person followed him in the order named. After several years this
school closed down.

Zion Academy, Wadesboro, N. C.

This school was organized and buildings erected in Wadesboro, N. C, 1903-1904. Prof. E. H. Lipscomb of whom mention has been made was the first principal. Because of better facilities provided by the State, Zion Academy like others of its kind has ceased to operate.

86

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Addie Morris School, Winston-Salem, N. C.


This was a school founded by Miss Addie Morris, a missionary, employed by the Woman's Missionary Society of Chicago. The First Baptist Church of Winston-Salem gave the lot and a building was erected for the training of Although this could not be called a secsmall children. ondary school, the work done there was an inspiration to many a Negro boy and girl to seek for higher learning elsewhere.

Rowan Normal and


The work
efforts of

Industrial School, Charlotte, N. C.

of this school was verly largely due to the one man, at the beginning: Dr. C. C. Sommerville. He was very successful for a while, but lack of sufficient support from the association, he had a hard fight After Dr. Sommerville was called to the Ebeneto go on. zer Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Va., the school was moved to Salisbury the name changed to the Piedmont InThe Rev. D. W. Montgomery was elected principal, stitute. Rev. A. S. Croon followed him and about the year 1910,
;

this school

was

discontinued.

The Faison High School

The Kenansville Eastern Association attempted for a time to conduct two schools. The one at Faison and the other at Clinton. This division greatly hindered the progress of both schools. Mr. J. N. Bennett was principal at Faison and Mr. Ashford headed the school at Clinton.
The Atlantic and North Carolina James City, N. C.
Institute,

This school under the auspices of the New Bern Eastern Association was located in the same community with
the

New Bern Industrial and Collegiate Institute founded by Rev. A. L. E. Weeks. Mr. J. C. Mial was principal. Both of these schools have closed. There are three of these secondary schools which have their property at present and use it to some advantage as a private church enterprise. Mention has already been made
:

of the Roanoke Institute at Elizabeth City. The three to which to we now have reference are Thompson Institute, Lumberton, N. C; Western Union Academy, Spindale,

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

87

N. C, and

Burgaw High
school
at

an

article

School, Burgaw, N. C. There is elsewhere in this volume giving the present

status

of the

Burgaw High

School,

Burgaw,

N. C, under the principalship of Prof. C. F. Pope. At Lumberton Principal W. H. Knuckles conducts the public school in the building and also a twelve weeks Ministers' Institute under the auspices of Shaw University. At Spindale the Baptists still own the property and a Ministers' Institute and Missionary Workers Institute is held during the

summer.

The Baptist Assembly Grounds, East


Under the leadership
erator, the

Flat Rock, N. C.

of the Rev. W. H. Dixon, ModCreek Baptist Association has purchased a beautiful mountain site of more than ten acres. Each year they hold an assembly and conduct a school for ministers and Christian workers. The location and climate make this

Mud

place almost ideal for

summer

assemblies.

The Oxford Orphanage The Negro Baptists cannot rightly claim to be the founders of all the benevolent and charitable institutions in the state; but like good Baptists in every nation and climate they demonstrated the altruistic spirit early in their independent history. The thought of an orphan home was born among the brethren of the Wake Baptist Association. Representatives appointed by this body met in Henderson, N. C, in 1875. An organization was formed with Rev. A. Shepard, president. Oxford, N. C, was the place agreed upon for a location. Twenty-five acres of land was bought from Rev. W. A. Pattilo, who was elected the first superintendent. When he resigned Rev. Robt. Shepard was chosen. Rev. Shepard went to Winston-Salem and there worked and prayed and helped to establish another orphan home. The State has taken over the Oxford Orphanage. Ex-Congressman H. P. Cheatham became superintendent and remained until his death. Hon. Cheatham did a very remarkable piece of work. Mr. Cheatham's son succeeded him, but resigned and Mr. T. K. Border was elected and served until his death in 1940. Mr. Hammy has been recently elected superintendent.

88

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Brief Authentic History of Old Eastern

Missionary Baptist Association

From

Its

Organization In 1865 to 1938


Pilgrimages

decade or ten years of our Association's in order to promptly meet the annual sessions of our Association, walked, partly, from one to two hundred miles on dirt, sand and muddy roads. The roads were not improved as they are today. There were no trains, busses and autos as there are in this section now. It was sometimes necessary for some to start the pilgrimage a week before the time of opening the first day's session in order to be present. It required three days for some of them to make the distance that we now commonly cover in three hours. When a large number of persons in a neighborhood decided to go to the Association, they would meet at some stated time and place and travel in company. Some had vehicles, others had none. All could not ride. They preferred to rejoice or suffer together, and, therefore, would pile their luggage or baggage into the few conveyances with the corn and fodder for the animals, and only the
first

During the

history, the pioneer

men and women,

driver would ride.

Sometimes, when a pedestrian had become unable to walk without rest, he was easily persuaded to get up and ride. The driver would cheerfully dismount and walk. Often when these caravans had hiked about thirty miles or a day's journey, and were not near some village, town or other public place, they would camp out on the roadside at night eat, converse and slumber until the next early morning. Then they would rise, take a cold breakfast and
;

journey on.
All did not sleep at the
vigils.

same time some carefully kept


;

were not ministers, some were laypreacher, en route, would have an opportunity to preach to some special congregation in the section through which the brethren were traveling. However tired they were when they reached their destination, and met the other brethren who had like traveling
All these pilgrims

men and women. Often some

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

89

experiences, and were together at the church edifice in which the Association would be held, they greeted each other with glad salutation, washed one another's tired feet with words of service and expressions of God-given humility. They thanked God and imbibed valor. By these reunions in an associational capacity they felt fully rewarded for their burdensome and arduous pilgrimages.

History

Let There Be Light

(1) History is a systematic written account of events, particularly of those affecting a person, nation or institution.

(2) It is that branch of knowledge that records and explains past events as steps in human progress. (3) Finally, it is a series of events clustering about some center of interest, upon the character and significance of which these events cast light. The history of the Old Eastern Missionary Baptist Association, together with its pioneers, may be better understood by reference to the locations of the places and to the times of her principal transactions. The time of activities of the Association was from the fall of 1865 to the present date, 1938, 73 years. The place is in the eastern section of North Carolina on the Atlantic Coastal Plain, or better, the geographical section described as follows: It is situate, geographically, between the parallels of about 34 degrees 45 minutes, and 36 degrees 30 minutes North latitude, and between the prime meridians of about 75 degrees 50 minutes, and 78 degrees 10 minutes West longitude, from Greenwich. This boundary embraces 11 counties herewith alphabetically arranged: 1, Beaufort; 2, Carteret; 3, Craven; 4, Edgecombe; 5, Halifax; 6, Hyde; 7, Martin; 8, Northampton; 9, Pamlico; 10, Pitt; 11, Wilson. After the close of the national rebellion from 1861 to 1865, some Yankees or Northern men gave, by word-ofmouth, several acres of land to a large number of our people in eastern North Carolina, especially in Craven

County, around about New Bern and James City. Large numbers of our people who lived there were glad that the privilege of owning land and working for themselves as The war had ended and free people was given to them. peace had come. The national monster slavery had been

90

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

let,

pierced through and through with sword, bayonet and buland its skeleton was deeply inhumed in Appomattox

Cemetery.

They thanked God and took courage to go forward for the best development of themselves and their kin. The colored people there imbibed the divine impulse that bodily freedom alone was not enough it did not fully They wanted the human family of all the earth satisfy. to enjoy soul-liberty from the shackles and fetters of sin. Then and not until then would they be truly free. They felt that in Christian union and association there was strength to BEGIN and to ACCOMPLISH. God had put His law into their hearts, and in their minds He had written it.

Somehow they enjoyed assembling themselves toSome born leader and spokesman among them suggested that they would call at some
gether, especially religiously.

time and place a public religious meeting, and plan for more extended work in the Divine Master's vineyard. To No cook pots would have to be turned this all agreed. upside down at the meeting houses to prevent the escape of their voices they were, thank God, free to worship God unmolested. A divine cord drew them together at James City, in Craven County, N. C, in the Fall of the year A. D. 1865, in the church house then known as Slade Chapel, but since changed to Pilgrim Chapel. Then and there the organization was formed. Among the prominent leaders there were, according to the best records at present available, Reverends John Washington, Elias Brown, Henry Simmons, Manuel Reynolds, Thad Wilson, Thomas Erkett, Samuel Peterson, Fred Long, Charles Smith, Hull Grimes, Nat. Benson. Of course, there were others. This was the first general and broad Missionary Baptist Association in the State; therefore, the name, "Old Eastern." From records we deduce that Rev. Samuel Peterson was the first Moderator. The first annual meeting was in 1866 at one Shiloh Baptist Church at New Bern. At this time and place the Rev. Hull Grimes was elected as Moder-

ator.

In 1867, at Cedar Grove Church in Pitt County, Rev. Sutton A. Davis was elected as Moderator. Davis was Moderator, also, in 1868 at Slade Chapel in Hyde County. Here the supporters of Rev. Hull Grimes nominated him

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations


for the

91

Brother office of Moderator, against Rev. Davis. Grimes, however, was not elected for the chair at this time, but Brother Davis was. Grimes and his friends felt so keenly disappointed at being- defeated for leadership that they determined to have an Association which they could control. So they left the O. E. Association and organized This was about the Eastern or New Bern Association. three years after the organization of the Old Eastern. The following is the record of the times and places of the Old Eastern from 1865 to 1937, with her Moderators and some of her Clerks.

Time

of Meeting, Place, Church, Moderator, Clerk

City, Slade Chapel; Rev. Samuel Peterson, Rev. 1866 New Bern, Shiloh; Rev. Hull Grimes, Rev. Joseph Bazemore. 1867 Greenville, Cedar Grove; Rev. Hull Grimes, Rev. Joseph
1865 James Fred Long.

Bazemore.

1868 Sladeville,
1869 1870 1871 1872 1873 Foster. 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878

Greenville, Sycamore Hill; Rev. A. Davis. Washington, Spring Garden; Rev. A. Davis. Beaufort, Mount Zion; Rev. A. Davis. Havelock, Green Chapel; Rev. A. Davis. Scotland Neck, Kehukie; Rev. A. Davis, Rev. Greenville, Mary; Rev. A. Davis. Tarboro, Paul; Rev. A. Davis. Grimesland, White Oak; Rev. A. Davis. Grimesland, Philippi; Rev. A. Davis. Beaufort, Mt. Zion; Rev. A. Davis.
S. S.
S. S.

(?); Rev. S. A. Davis,

(?).

S.

Hezekiah

St.

S.

St.

S.

S.

S.

S.

1879 Tarboro, St. Paul; Rev. W. H. Culley. 1880 Greenville, Sycamore Hill; Rev. W. H. Culley. 1881 Scotland Neck, Mary Chapel; Rev. W. H. Culley. 1882Tarboro, St. Paul; Rev. W. H. Culley, Bro. Geo. C. 1883 Grimesland, Philippi; Rev. W. H. Culley. 1884 Spring Hill, Mt. Gilead; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1885 Havelock, Green Chapel; Rev. M. D. Matthewson,
Caine. 1886

Caine.

G.

C.

Washington,

Spring Garden; Rev. M. D. Matthewson.


B.

1887 Scotland Neck, Kehukie; Rev. M. D. Matthewson, A.


Williams.
1888 1889 1890 1891 1892

Palmyra, Jones Chapel; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. Scotland Neck, Mary Chapel; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. New Bern, Rio Grande; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. Tarboro, Paul; Rev. T. Clark. Scotland Neck, Mary Chapel; Rev. T. Clark, Bro. N. Smith. 1893 Grimesland, Philippi; Rev. M. D. Matthewson, Bro. N.
St.
J. J.

L. L.

Smith.

92
1894

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. M. D. Matthewson, Bro. N. L. New Bern, 1895 Wilson, Jackson Chapel; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1896 Scotland Neck, Kehukie; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1897Washington, Spring Garden; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1898 New Bern, Rio Grande; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1899 Greenville, Sycamore Hill; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1900 Scotland Neck, Kehukie; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1901 Scotland Neck, Mary Chapel; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1902 Grimesland, White Oak; Rev. M. D. Matthewson. 1903 Grimesland, Philippi; Rev. M. D. Matthewson, Bro. N. L. Smith. 1904 James City, Shiloh Reformed; Rev. W. D. Moore, Rev. W. A. Taylor. 1905 Greenville, Mary; Rev. W. D. Moore, Rev. W. A. Taylor. 1906 Hobgood, Cherry Chapel; Rev. W. D. Moore, Rev. E. A. Taylor. 1907 Washington, Spring Garden; Rev. W. D. Moore, Rev. E. A.
Gilfield;

Smith.

St.

Taylor.

1908 Greenville, Sycamore


Clark. 1909 1910
Gilfield;

Hill;

Rev.

W.

D. Moore, Rev.

J.

T.

Rev. W. D. Moore. New Bern, Pactolus, Triumph; Rev. W. D. Moore,

1911Scotland
Roberson.
1912

Neck,

Kehukie;

Rev.

W.

D.

Rev. D. Roberson. Moore, Rev. D.

New

1913 Greenville, St. Peter; Rev. J. T. Clark, Rev. 1914 Bethel, Riddick Chapel; Rev. J. T. Clark, Rev.
1915 1916 Cherry. 1917 Cherry. 1919 Cherry. 1920 Cherry.
Taylor.

Farmville,

Bern, Rio Grande; Rev. H. H. Hall, Rev. D. Roberson. D. Roberson. D. Roberson. Grimesland, Philippi; Rev. J. T. Clark, Bro. J. T. Cherry. New Bern, First Baptist; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Bro. J. T.

Macedonia;
Zion; Rev.

Rev.

W. M. Wiggins,
Bro.
J.

Bro.

J.

T.

1918Beaufort, Mt.

Greenville, Sycamore Hill; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Bro. Tarboro Union Baptist; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Bro.
Hill, Mt.

W. M. Wiggins,

T. Cherry. J. T.
J.

T.

1921 Spring

Gilead;

Rev.

W. M. Wiggins,

Prof.

J.

H.
P.

1922 Grimesland, White Oak; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev.


Shields.

S.

1923 Bethel, Riddick Chapel; Rev. W. M. Wiggins. Rev.


Shields.

S.

P.

1924 Beaufort, Mt. Zion; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev. S. P. Shields. 1925 Greenville, Sycamore Hill; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev. S. P.
Shields.

1926 Scotland Neck, Kehukie; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev.


Shields.
S. P.

S.

P.

1927

Washington, Spring Garden; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev. 1928 Farmville, Macedonia; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev. C. C.
Shields.

Staton.

1929New Bern, Mt. Calvary; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev.


Staton.

C.

C.

With a Brief History


1930

of

Baptist Organizations
Rev.

93

Scotland

Neck, Mary Chapel;


St.

W. M. Wiggins, Rev.
C. C. C. C.

C. C. Staton.

1931 Greenville,
Staton.

Peter;

Rev.

W. M. Wiggins, Rev.

1932 Pactolus, Hayes Chapel; Rev. W. M. Wiggins, Rev.


Clark.

1933Ayden, Mt. Olive; E. A. Taylor, C. C. Clark. 1934 Blount Creek, Ware Creek; Rev. B. A. Taylor, 1935New Bern, Gilfield; E. A. Taylor, C. C. Clark.
1936

C. C. Clark.

Washington,

1937Hobgood, James Mt. Pilgrim; Rev.


Dunn.

Spring Garden; E. A. Taylor, N. K. Dunn. E. A. Taylor, Rev. N. K.

Note. The session of 1930 at Mary Chapel, Scotland Neck, was It was celebrated with the great Jubilee session of the Association. appropriate and stirring exercises.

Alphabetically Arranged Places of Annual Meetings

Number
Ayden,

of

Times and Dates

1 time: 1933. Beaufort, 4 times: 1871, 1878, 1918, 1924. Bethel, 2 times: 1914, 1923. Farmville, 2 times: 1917, 1928. Greenville, 11 times: 1867, 1869, 1874, 1880, 1899, 1905, 1908, 1913,

1919, 1925, 1931.

Grimesland, 7 times: 1876, 1877, 1883, 1893, 1902, 1915, 1922. Havelock, 2 times: 1872, 1885.

Hobgood,

2 times:
9

1906, 1937. 1865, 1904.

James

City, 2 times:

New
1935.

Bern,

times: 1866, 1890, 1894, 1898, 1909, 1912, 1916, 1929,

Pactolus, 2 times: 1910, 1932. Palmyra, 1 time: 1888. Sladeville, 1 time: 1868. Scotland Neck, 11 times: 1873, 1881, 1887, 1889, 1892, 1896, 1900,
1901, 1911, 1926, 1930.

Spring

Hill, 2 times:
5

1884, 1921.

times: 1875, 1879, 1882, 1891, 1920. Washington, 6 times: 1870, 1886, 1897, 1907, 1927, 1936. Wilson, 1 time: 1895.

Tarboro,

Illiteracy

and Literacy

From 1865 white friends, especially from the North, came among our people and held private schools in different places. This was before the State gave us the public school
system. Daniel Harvey Hill's revised edition of his history of North Carolina for 1923, page 347, says that as soon as our people found that they were free, thousands of them crowded to the towns and cities in which Federal garrisons were stationed, and that New Bern was filled with them.

94

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

That the Freedmen's Bureau, establish March, 1865, to help Negroes, spent for Negro schools five million and two hundred thousand dollars. That the same Bureau and private gifts from the North furnished schools for Negroes. We see by this how inspiration for self-help was born in
east.

Our group soon learned to admire their white friends wherever found, and we often followed their instructions. Our folks learned very fast and soon "fell in love" with
the three R's
:

reading, 'riting, 'rithmetic.

Soon their thirst for learning created in them a desire Some attended Sunday to have schools of their own. schools led by the best informed locally of the race, and studied reading, writing, the Bible, spelling and the religious catechism.

In the annual meetings of the Associations they saw more and more the need of better prepared ministers along literary lines. A new and better era had set in. President

Tupper, under the auspices of the Home Mission Society, white, in the North, was building a high school at the State Capital, Raleigh, for the better education of the colored people. It was Shaw University. In this school some of our people entered for better development, and they received it. The Association's early annual meetings were often visited by H. M. Tupper, white, President of Shaw University, or others closely connected with the University, who spoke of the necessity of an educated ministry and an educated laity. Some who came among us and delivered educational discourses were Revs. Augustus Shepard, Caesar Johnson, J. J. Worlds, E. E. Smith, N. F. Roberts, C. S. Brown, R. I. Walden, W. T. H. Woodard, C. C. Sommerville, S. N. Vass and others.
Self-Help

Within about 15 or 20 years after our organization the Association realized the importance of more certainly helping herself along educational lines. By means of books, papers, contact with literate men and women the Association saw the wisdom of establishing a school of her own for the youth of her churches and congregations. She wanted them better developed in the principles of Christian manhood and womanhood from Baptists' viewpoints. The Association sternly spurned the thought of being satisfied with the raising of a few dollars to print minutes

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

95

and pay the ordinary expenses of the annual meetings. Of course she from the organization had Home and Foreign Missions as her objects. She wanted an intelligent laity. While the Association knew that the twelve Apostles were spoken of by some as being "unlearned" (Acts 4:13), she also knew that Paul, perhaps the most literary of the Apostolic group, exhorted young Timothy (2 Tim. 2:15) to study to show himself approved unto God.

Tar River Institute


in the early eighties, about 1883 or 1884, Revs. Benjamin Sykes, Anderson Boone, Charles Smith, and Brethren Stewart and Mike Hardy, Henry Smith, Jacob Hill, Richard Higgs, Robert Ferrill, Archer Taylor and others, being interested in the cause of literary education, opened a private school of high grade at Scotland Neck. The teachers from time to time were Miss Lizzie Miller, of Pennsylvania; John W. Pope, a graduate of Shaw University; Benjamin J. Davis, a graduate of Hampton Institute of Hampton, Va. Prof. G. T. Hill; Prof. N. L. Smith, a student of Lincoln University; Rev. W. A. Taylor, of Roanoke Institute; Rev. C. E. Askew, of Greenville; Rev. C. C. Clark, of Hampton Institute; Rev. C. C. Staton, of Shaw University. About 1888 or 1889 this school was called "Scotland Neck Normal and Select Institute." It was not called Tar River Institute at that time. While the plant was at Scotland Neck there was quite an educational awakening, and considerable progress was made. During those days at the annual meetings of the Association the little school was spoken of and often "talked up." The Association was persuaded to take considerable stock in it. It appears that the organization had some stock in the school, but not enough to keep it on good finan-

At Scotland Neck, N. C,

1882,

cial footing.

The Association promised

to

give the

financial support, provided the site could be fixed in her working section.

more

school more centrally

Sycamore Hill Church at Greenville heard of the discussion and got busy to bid for the replanting of the school there. There was at that time a society of noble women that had some real estate in Greenville, and they promised that if the school was moved there they would give to it their plot on which a school building could be erected.

96

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Greenville shouted for the replanting of the school in her midst. The Greenville proposition was generally regarded with favor, and the Association took on a stronger interest "The interest in the institution. In 1893 the records read that the Association had in the school property at Scotland Neck was sold for two hundred (200) dollars." Her first building in Greenville was destroyed by a wind-storm in 1910. In 1896 Rev. G. T. Hill was principal of the school at
:

Scotland Neck, and it was then called "Scotland Neck Institute and Training School." Meantime the Association was planning to begin school work in Greenville. We find that she had done some school work as far back as or farther than 1904. But it should be remembered that she did not allow her school interest to eclipse her moral and spiritual
objects.

There was a constitutional reference to education in her minutes of 1893." At the Association at St. Mary, Pitt County, in 1905, she had bought property and paid interest on the principal debt to the former owner, one Mr. Brown, white, of Greenville. Rev. W. A. Taylor was principal of the school at that time. It seems that the Association had operated the school about 35 years, more or less. Cooperation might have saved the school, but between Tar River Institute and other schools no agreement was made. The school has not operated for years.
Auxiliaries

The auxiliaries are the Eastern, Middle and Western Unions the Woman's Department the Sunday School Convention and the Usher Board. All these have contributed
;
;

nobly to the objects of the parent body.

Some

Association Financial Collections

For about 25 years, from 1904 to 1929, the average was about $1,000.00 a year. One of these 25 years had a collection as small as $528.00. If, during the 40 years from 1865 to 1905, the average collection was $250.00 per year, it would give an addition
financial collection

of $10,000.00, or a total of $35,000.00 for 65 years of our These figures, of course, do not take into conhistory. sideration the amount collected during the 1930 and the

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

97

1931 sessions. had no minutes for these two sessions, therefore, the historian did not add the amount. For 65 years there was an average yearly collection of nearly $540.00. There were about 40 years, from 1865 to 1905, during which time the Association's financial affairs have not been clearly discovered.
List of Ministers

We

Of Old Eastern Missionary Baptist Association


(Some Fallen Asleep)
"A" Anthony, Henry Ben
Armstrong, W. L. Augburn, W. R. Askew, C. E. Askew, A. B. Anderson, W. M.
Clark, C. C. Cotton, Henry Cobb, P. R. Clark, Julius Clark, Isaiah

Farrer, E. F. Foster, Hezekiah Freeman, Julius S. Fleming, R.

Cannady, Tony
Cherry, J. E. Clark, R. C. Carprew, A. A.

"G"
Grimes,
Gatlin,

Redmond
Simon

"B"
Brown, N. A. Boone, Anderson Blount, Ganzie
Brooks, N. F.

Gaskin, R. W. Green, W. A.
Glass,

"D"
Deans,
J.

Henry

T.
J.

Barrow, S. H. Berney, C. E. Bryant, W. H.

Davis, N. V. Donaldson, J.

Green, C. F. Gray, W. J. Grimes, Hull


Griffin,

Bynum,

T. L.

Branch, C. B. Baker, S. E. Boyd, J. H.

Davis, S. A. Davis, Napoleon Dance, D. W. Davis, W. M. Davis, Fred M. Dunn, N. K.

W. W.
M. H.

Gaylord, Eli
Gaskill, T.

Graham,

J.

"H"
Hardy, Walter Hill, Godfrey
Harris, T. W. Harris, J. H.

Brown, R. B. Battle, Wiley Buckram, J. W. Brooks, Theodore H. Bazemore, Cane


Blackwell, Silas Baker, Carmel

Drue, Washington Dancy, J. H. Drue, Emperor Dixon, R. A. Davenport, H. L.


J. T. Dickens, P. E.

Hyman, H. W.
Hall, H. H.

Doles,

Bazemore, Joseph Bowers, W. B. Brown, N. W. Bratcher, J. H. Bellamy, C. B. Brown, Elias Benson, Nathaniel Baker, M. Benton, M.

Harris, Elijah H. Highsmith, Joseph H.


Harris, Alfred Hill, G. T,

"E"
Earley, D. W. Eaton, John W.

Erquhart, Evans, T.
Ellison,

Thomas
S.

Hyman, Austin Holiday, Simon


Hardy, Mike Herring, H. K. Hill, Herbert C. Hoggett, N. H. Hardy, Z. W. Heath, Isaac Hassell, W. H.
"J"
Jones, L. R.

Simon Edmonds, G. G. Edmonds, W. T.


"F"
Ferrill,
J.

"C" Coppage, Henry Chase, C. E. Culley, W. H.


Clark,
J.

H.

T.

Foster, T. V. Fields, E. L. Frank, L. C. Flood, A. F.

James, O. M.

98
J. E. Jones, Ivey Joyner, T. R. Johnson, G. A.

Who's

Who Anoong North


Perry, S. A. Pelham, H. E.

Carolina Negro Baptists

James,

Simmons, Henry
Sawyer,
C.
J.

Pelham, S. Pittman, Sherman


Peterson, Samuel

Johnson, Elisha Jenkins, Harris Jordan, J. L.


Jones,

Spicer, C. E. Smith, N. L. Staton, J. C.

"R"
Rounti>e, Henry Rauls, Joseph Rountree, J. W. Roberson, Anderson Roberson, Daniel Riddick, I. S. Riddick, S. R. Rutledge, Mark Reynolds, Manuel

"T"
Tunson, H.
J.

W.

S.

"K"
Kerney, R. L. King, J. L. "L" Lyons, J. S. Lang, J. J.

Taylor, E. A. Taylor, W. A. Tillery, D. L. Tillett, J. E. Tillery, J. E. Tucker, N. T.

Thompson, W. M.
Taylor, J. H. Taylor, W. R. Taylor, Jordan

Lawson,

C. C.

Langley, Charley Long, Fred Lewter, J. W.

Lynch, Virgil

"S" Smith, Charles Saunders, Lott


Spruill,
C.

Thorp, P. H.
Teel, H. T.

"M"
Midgett, P. B.

Spruill,
Sills,
J.

M. B.
S.

Taylor, L. E. Thorpe, W. R.

Staton, C. C.
Shivers, T. T.

Moore, C. W. Moore, Eli

Thurston, T.

W.

Thompson, Jonah

May, Joseph, Sr. May, J. H., Jr.


Moore, W. O. Moore, Geo. A.

Smith, N.

W.

Tucker, N. T. Tyre, E. M.

Shields, S. P. Smith, Jesse B.

"W"
Wynn, M. W. Wiggins, W. M.
Williams, R. T. Williams, W. H.

Smith,
Stith,

Mathewson, M. D. McKnight, John


Moore, W. D. Minger, I. S. Manuel, S. D. Moore, A. D. Manuel, F. M. Morton, S. D.

W. C. E. W.

Scott, J. T.
Scott, J. C.

Shields, J. B.

Sharp, C. H.
Styles, J. A.

Ward, Nelson Ward, Philip Walden, Exum


White, V. A.

Smith, Jacob Smith, David Smith, W. C.


Staton, Anthony Sykes, Minger Small, John

Webb, Solomon Webb, Godwin


Williams, Forten

"N"
A. Nichols, Elias
J.

Nimmo,

Wimberley, E.
Williams, C. G. White, J. B. Williams, L. W.

"0" Owens, W. H.

"P"
Pugh, Simon
Patterson, R. H. Pruden, R. E. Payton, Guy Person, J. C. Person, Joseph

Suggs, David Slade, W. R. Smith, Nelson Sykes, Benjamin Spencer, S. J.


Shields,

Washington, John

Wynn,

B.

W.
J.

Wiggins, W.

Anthony

Smith, Herbert Smith, Jesse


Staton, E. N. Smith. A. R.

Webb, Thomas Wilson. Thadd


Williams, J. T. White, J. D.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

99
at

Charitable or Pension

Fund Proposition Approved

1935 Session at

New Bern

(1) That a charitable or pension fund be created and maintained by this Association for all worthy superannu-

ated ministers and pastors of this Association.


all ministers of this Association take the in raising this fund by paying into a special treasury of this Association one dollar each, annually, as

(2) initiative

That

an annual assessment. At the Mid- Year Session, 1938, it was recommended that each minister pay to this fund
annually the

sum

of $1.50.

(3) That this Association disburse, annually, 10 per cent of her gross financial receipts to augment the said pension fund.
(4) That there be a special treasurer to care for this special fund, and that he shall give bond to this Association for the amount of one thousand dollars to guarantee

the safety of said pension fund.


(5) That, in order to give the Association sufficient time to raise a tangible amount for distribution for superannuated relief, this fund shall not be drawn on until after the annual session of this Association in 1938. (6) That worthy superannuated ministers and pastors shall be eligible for benefits from the said pension fund as

long as they are in good and regular fellowsnip with their churches and this Association.
(7) That the benefits of local ministers shall not be more than one-half the amount of that for active pastors.

Our Noble Women


to the great help

This history would not be complete without reference which our noble women have been to the

Association.

part of the
tion

They have contributed abundantly to every phase or work in the churches, auxiliaries and AssociaA long list of their names could activities generally.
is

easily be given, but to prevent the

personal mention

appearance of partiality, withheld or omitted. They are helpers indeed. Without them the Association's glorious achievements would have been seriously wanting. Their help is

indispensable.

100

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Sunday School Convention and Church Unions


unions

The Sunday School Convention and the three church the Eastern, the Middle and the Western con-

tribute to the objects of the parent

bodythe

Association.

The Boards

Executive

The executive boards of these organizations function during the intervals of the annual meetings. The Entertainments

The entertainment of these annual gatherings from place to place is free of cost to the guests. This liberality is truly characteristic of the Old Eastern Association.
Elections,

Payments, Finances

How Raised
They are

The

election of officers takes place annually.

compensated in proportion to the work done, or according


to the financial ability to pay.

The finances are raised by annual taxation, representation fees, donations and public offerings.

Onward and Upward March


With the Holy Bible as our Standard, and the Lord Jesus Christ as our Leader, our motto must be, "Onward, Christian Soldiers." Onward and upward in the Christian highway, for the best development of every creature, spiritually, morally, intellectually and materially. Members, nearly ten thousand.
Conclusion

Surely many men and women of this Association may point with pardonable delight to this organization for what it has been to them, directly or indirectly, as a stimulus, and an encouragement to greater and higher aims, places and callings in the Master's employ.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

101

West Durham Baptist Church


in the 1892, in a one-room box-house on Ferrel Street, by Rev. W. H. Stanfield, Durham County. Later a small annex was added to the little box-house. After the resignation of Rev. Stanfield, Rev. Thompson took charge of the work for about 12 months. Rev. Stanfield was recalled and carried on the work faithfully during the few years he served as pastor for the second time. Rev. Simmons was called next, and during his administration another annex was added and the membership increased. He was succeeded by Rev. J. T. Peace, of Oxford. The church enjoyed much prosperity during his stay. Rev. Scott followed Rev. Peace. His administration was one of organization. Rev. H. Johnson was the next pastor. He, with At his death, Rev. T. A. the church, purchased a lot. Grady was called. He, too, did much in organizing the church and reducing the debt from $1,800.00 to $350.00. Rev. T. C. Graham, the present pastor, took charge of the work in March, 1921. His first work was the formulation of plans, with officials, to finish paying for the lot on
fall of

THE

West Durham Baptist Church was organized

102

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Xegro Baptists

which this building now stands. After this he set out to arrange a building program. The safe instruction and sound advice of the pastor changed the church almost abruptly from artificial methods, which had been common in financing the church work, to The Bible Method of Financing the Lord's Cause. This, however, came only through prayer and consecration on the part of the members and pastor. The achievements have been astonishing since the members lined up with the Lord's way. During the year 1924, when the building was completed and entered for worship, the church raised and paid out more than $4,000.00 without one entertainment of any kind, and without a single subscription list in the hands of any young girl or any person, with a membership of less than 200. A short time after the dedication of the church the pastor
reported: "And because of the continued fidelity of the small membership, we were very favorably surprised a short time after the rededication of the church with a report from the pastor setting forth the fact that we were worshipping in a church free from debt. Due to your continued fidelity, you are worshipping in a church free from debt, the cost of which is approximately $12,000.00, including furniture and fixtures." This was a most favorable surprise to such a small membership. Since that time these few members have built a Sunday School annex which is, perhaps, the most modern in the State, and are paying for it on "The New Testament Basis." Surely this man of God is making a contribution not only to the Baptist denomination, but to the entire Christian family. In the meantime this church makes monthly contributions to Home and Foreign Mission and Christian Education and pays her bills promptly.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

103

The
THIS church
life of

First Baptist

Church
C.

Franklinton, N.

holds a unique place in the denominational the North Carolina Baptists. The early history dates back when both white and colored worshiped in the same church edifice. The preacher, Dr. Wingate (white), Wake Forest, N. C, preached to the whites in the morning with the colored occupying the gallery, and in the afternoon to the colored with the white occupying the gallery. Later, about 1868, the colored called Rev. M. C. Ransome. From that time on the following pastors have served: Rev. Joshua Perry, Rev. N. W. D. Norman, Rev. A. W. Pegues, and Rev. M. W. Williams. The deacons have been and are: Marcellus Joyner, J. Henderson Fuller, Paul Kerney, Washington Perdue, Dallas Person, Bartoe Cheek, Henderson Kearney, Richard Wynn, Caswell Harris, Jacob Perry, Henry Person, Hezekiah Cook, E. D. Murry, Johnnie Hayes, G. T. Massenburg, Edward Neal, Thomas Perry, and Howard Perry. The Trustees: Vance Keith, Melvin Person, D. W. Person, Lee Williams, Ike Green, and Zollie Kearney.

104

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Xegro Baptists

MARCELLUS JOYNBR
Former Deacon First Baptist Church
Franklinton, N. C.

DEACON JAKE PERRY


First

Baptist

Church

Franklinton, N. C.

MR. HEZIKIAH COOK


(Deceased)
Deacon, First Baptist Church Franklinton, N. C.

MRS. ADELINE
One
of the

ALLEN

Founder Members, First

Baptist Church, Franklinton, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

105

Mrs. Cora Person

Long

Hillsboro Street, Franklinton, N. C, was born September 28, 1858. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Person. Mrs. Long is one of the pioneer educators in Franklin, Nash, Warren and Halifax counties. She received her education at Shaw University and has since labored unstintedly people helping her for them in all phases of life.

MRS. CORA PERSON LONG, 211 South

She is an active member of the First Baptist Church and attends regularly every meeting. She served as president of the Mission Circle from 1920-1938, and president of the Franklin

County Woman's Foreign and Home Missionary Association from 1906-1938. She was married to the late Prof. H. E. Long, former
lege,

president of Christian Col* ^FFranklinton, N. C. Wherever one goes in the State he hears the remark "Miss Cora Person taught me." These are significant words because wherever she taught the community was enlightened, and whoever she taught an indelible impression for good was left on that individual during her sixty-four (64) years as a teacher. She resides in her modest and comfortable home on Hillsboro Street, Franklinton, where her counsel is sought by young and old at this writing (1940).
:

106

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Pleasant Grove Church

THE

Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Belhaven, N. C, was organized in 1901 by Revs. Haywood ForeFranklin.
S.

man and Benjamin


A. L. Parker, and

The pastors; Reverends

P. Knight,

G. T. Woff,*

W. H. A.

Stallings.
J.

The deacons: Alex White,*

H. Bond, H. D. Bond,*

W. H.

Hassell, R. C. Jacocks, M.D., Luther Lacy, John Sutton,* E. D. Slade,* Robert Speller, Robert Hassell,

Richard Adams,* and W. McMoore.

The
rell,

trustees: J. H. Bond, Robt. Speller, G. D.


J.

W. M. Moore, Wm. Buckingham,


and Robt. Jones.

C. Smith, S. R.

Ward,* Har-

Louisa White,* Lucy Bond, Carrie Deaconesses: Bond,* Mollie Hassell, Cora Adams,* Eliza Lacy,* Addie M. Jacocks, Nancy Sutton, Mary F. Slade, Elizabeth Bonner,* and Emma Collins.

Committee on Historical Records: Dr. R. C. Jacocks, chairman; S. R. Harrell, Arthur Bonner, W. M. Moore, Delilah Clark, Louisa Speller, Ethel Bonner, and Addie M.
Jacocks.
Deceased.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

107

Saint John Missionary Baptist Church

New
Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev.

Bern, N.

COrganized
:

1865

Pastors
Isaac Nathaniel

Nathan Benton Thadeous Wilson Elijah James


Deacons:

Rev. Rev. Rev.

J. S.

S.

P.

Johnson Martin
A. Stallings

W. H.

Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

Smith Dozier James Lucas Lawrence Cotton Alex Payton


Hilliard Spencer

Randolph Staton Henry McChestnut


Charlie Sutton

Sanders Jones

Aaron Carter
Charlie Nelson

Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

Nathan Whitney
Reginald Green C. H. Kinsey
Giles

Moyer

Thomas Hines
Charles Sanders

Abron McClinton
F. Faison John Slade C. H. Hamilton Charlie Richardson
S.

Sylvia Skinner Susan Gallop


Priscilla

Deacon Sisters: Martha Slade Hannah Quinn


Susan Hyman Susan Evans Virginia Person

Smith

Nancy Kinsey
Mariah Cotton Pennie Dudley Charlotte McChestnut Martha Green

Mary
Sallie

J.

Ward

Mary Martin
Harriett Boone

Luvenia Stafford

Hamilton Annis Richardson Neta A. Stancil Josephine Marsh Matilda A. Reynolds


L.

Hannah Welkins
Frances Eddie Mary Kelley Daisy Bryant

Lucy

B. Isabella

Edney
Rouse

Carrie V. Franks

Trustees

W. F. Bell Ruben Waters Ned Chadwick E. W. Rouse


Bro.

John Ward
Herbert George
L.

W. Wright

Leander Jones Leo Lathan Alex Coley

Bro. Louis Barnes Bro. Herbert Williams Bro. George W. Wood

Committee ox Historical Records:


Bro. Joseph Martin Bro. Herbert Williams
Sister

Emma

G.

Moye

108

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Friendship Baptist Church, Charlotte, N. C.


Rev.
J.

Lewis Powell, Minister


organized with

FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH was

forty members in 1891, under the pastorate of Rev. Allen Lewis, four of whom are still living Mesdames L. L. Walker, Connie Grier, Rosa Watson and Bella Shepard. The pastors during the history of the church have been Reverends J. 0. Crosby, James Carey, J. D. Hood, C. H. Williamson, P. F. Maloy, G. 0. Bullock, G. W. Watkins, C. C. Adams, B. K. Mason and the present pastor, J. Lewis Powell, who is regarded as one of the State's outstanding ministers. He is interested in all phases of the denominational life and his church contributes regularly to Christian education and missions.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

109

REV.

POWELL

The present church officers are: Deacon Board J. N. Hemphill, Robert Jones, Edward Gist, J. A. Crawford, K. Mickens, James Ford, Sam Barnes and G. H. Richmond, chairman. Trustees Z. Alexander, Sr., Eugene Hunter, G. H. Richmond, Stacy D. Wiggins, J. N. Hemphill, Edward Gist and J. A. Crawford, chairman. Mrs. K. Mickens, president, Ever-ready Club; Mission Circle No. 1, Mrs. M. Johnson, president; Mission Circle No. 2, Mrs. S. Covington, president; Mr. James Ford is president of the Usher Board and Miss V. Grier is president of the Ladies' VolunMr. Paul Stowe is superintendent of the Sunteer Club. day School and Deacon John L. Hemphill is his assistant. The church records are kept by Miss Venetta Grier with Miss Mary Morrow as assistant clerk.

110

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina

JY

egro Baptists

Pleasant Plains Baptist Church

THE

Pleasant Plains Baptist Church

is

located on High-

way No. 30 between Winton and Ahoskie, N. C, about four miles east of the latter named town. This church is among the oldest independent Negro churches in North
Carolina. The free colored people of this community requested four white ministers to organize them into a separate church. No slaves were to be members of this church. The fact that this church was set apart ten years before the outbreak of the Civil War makes plain why such a restriction in the membership was made by those who organized this group into a separate church, for the slaves who became Christians were taken into the church with the white people. From the record quoted below it will be seen that this church began with twenty-nine members. Today the membership is more than six hundred. They raised one-third of the money to build a school house which stands nearby. This congregation has preserved the records of every business meeting since its organization and has contributed largely for education and missions. Dr. C. S. Brown was Services are now held twice a the first Negro pastor. month, Rev. Moses Newsome, S.T.M., is the minister. Following is a copy of minutes of the organization written by
their first clerk,

Lawrence Weaver.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

111

Exact Copy of the First Minutes

"On Friday, December 5, 1851, Elders James Delk, John Newell, Thomas Hoggard and William P. Britton, Jr., by request assembled at Pleasant Plains at which time and place they met with the brethren by whose request the
said ministers met. "After due consultation, together with such preliminary exercises as the occasion required, Elders Delk, Newell, Hoggard and Britton proceeded to organize, set in order and constitute the following persons into a gospel

church known as The Free Will Colored Baptist Church worshiping at Pleasant Plains, Hertford County, N. C, namely: William Holl, William Nickens, William Bizzell, Napoleon Boone, John Read, Wiley Jones, Lawrence Weaver, William H. Hall, Solomon Keene, William Jones, Richard Weaver, James Reynold, John H. Keene, Sarah Hall, Eliza Manley, Martha Lewton, Elizabeth Bizzell, Louiza Keene, Mary Jane Wiggins, Elizabeth Lang, Sarah Weaver, Feraby Keene, Martha Boone, Bela Hall, Eliza Jane Boone, Mary Ann Hall, Sally Manley, Jane Sears,
Sally Nickens.

"On motion resolved that brothers Jesse Keen and William Hall be chosen as deacons for this church. These brothers were set before the presbytery and ordained in scriptural order. Resolved that Bro. Lawrence Weaver be chosen clerk of this church. Brother Weaver was accordingly acknowledged as church clerk."
Pleasant Plains Baptist Church Organized on December 5, 1851, By the Following:

The Reverends James Delk, John Newell, Thomas Haggard, and W. P. Britton. At the time of organization there were twenty-nine members. Jesse Keene and William Hall, were the first deacons. The pastors elected and
served as follows
Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev.

Thomas Haggard (White)


B. F. Barber (White)
C. S. C. F:
.

Brown
Pope

C. S. Morris

G.

W. Watkins
Bonds
1936
C. Somerville

L. T.

W.

Moses Newsome

present time

18511880 18811884 18851910 19111913 19141917 19181926 19271928 19291935

112

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Clerks as follows

Lawrence Weaver John P. Reynold Arajah Smith

1851

1868

E.R.Jones L. E. Weaver

'

18691872 18731886 18871891

1892
18931909

R. H. Bizzelle T. D. Weaver R. H. Bizzelle

1910
. .

W.

C. Reid S. T. Collins

...

...

19111912 19131920 19211928

A. H. Brett

1929

Present Deacons: N. T. Lang, chairman; E. M. WeaH. Reynolds, C. L. Chavis, J. G. Hall, A. R. Lewis, R. J. Chavis, A. H. Brett, secretary.
ver, R.

Present Trustees: C. L. Chavis, Chairman; Hall, C. L. Pierce, Samuel James, F. D. Robbins, Keene, A. H. Brett, Secretary.

Samuel Solomon

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

113

History of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church


of

Orange County, North Carolina


By
G.

W. Burroughs and Ella Trice

PREFACE
months ago, the thought came into the minds of the deacons of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church to meet and get together as many facts as were available of this church from the beginning to the present date, and put them in a story form so that the story may be read by as many as would like to know about the origin of this church.

A FEW

Old Church Building

On

April

9,

1932, the following deacons: G.

W. John-

son, S. M. Nunn, J. H. Riggsbee, W. H. Green, S. W. Trice, Alex Carroll, and fifteen members met with the ex-pastor, Rev. T. C. Graham, and the present pastor, Rev. M. K. Hill

Just here may I say to gather the facts herein printed. to the reader that in as much as you have anything to do with keeping of records of any organization or auxiliary, see to it that they are kept correctly and safely for at a time you know not it may be necessary to know what was done in the past. wish to thank Rev. L. H. Hackney and Rev. J. H. Caldwell who came to our assistance by way of informa-

We

tion,

114

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

New

Mt. Sinai Church

INTRODUCTION
Nearly two thousand years ago the Christian church, made its advent into the world different from all other institutions. It is different in that its head is unlike the head of any other institution. It is remarkable in that no power on earth can stay its progress when the Christian army wants to go forward. This was very clearly seen in Jerusalem not long after the church was oras an institution

ganized.

In spite of

all

the persecutions the Christian

church has continued to spread. As a result in the year 1867 the church spirit began to hover over the community in which Mt. Sinai now stands. It made such an impression upon the hearts of those people who just a few years before pulled off the cruel yoke of slavery, they could be seen going from house to house

and from place

to place so as to sing and pray, and talk together about Jesus Christ their Saviour. These meetings were led by Brother Henderson Jones and Brother Jessie They later arranged to meet in an old school Barbee. house. Miss Mary Bowls, a white lady was teaching school in the house for the colored at this time. There is nothing left to mark the spot but an old persimmon tree.

Sunday School Organized


It doesn't matter how learned or unlearned a group of people may be, some one of that group must assume the

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

115

responsibility of leadership. It was this sense of duty that moved Brother Benjamin Craig to organize a school for the purpose of studying the Bible on Sunday. Brother Anderson Merritt was elected superintendent, and Sister Pantha Burroughs was chosen as teacher.

BROTHER JESSIE BARBER


(Deceased)

One

of the founders Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Durham, N. C.

Organization of the Church About 1871

As the crowd at prayer meeting continued to increase the Sunday school and prayer meeting attendants decided they would like to build and organize a church. Some of these were members of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church (white) They wanted to have their own vine and fig tree under which to sit and worship their God. The people of this community came together, and cut logs to build the house. Brother Jessie Barbee selected the site for the house. Then they bought a plot of ground from Mr. Anderson Couch. The people of this community rallied to the need of these pioneers, and when they had built the log house, the members from Mt. Moriah Baptist Church (white)
.

116

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

came together
them.

to start the church.

Several friends aided

Brother Alex Craig, Sister Peggie Ephram, came from Mt. Hermon Baptist Church; Sister Bettie Trice, Brother Jessie Barbee and Sister Isabella Barbee, and others came from Mt. Moriah; the church was organized, Rev. George Purefoy, Deacon Abel Maddry, Willey Patterson, clerk of the (white) church came to organize this church which took the name Saint Mary. Brother Barbee, Sister Trice and Sister Barbee are still living.

MRS. BETTIE TRICE


(Deceased)

One

of the founders Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Durham, N. C.

First Officers

Rev. E. H. Cole was elected pastor, and Sister Pantha Burroughs was chosen clerk. Brother Jack Couch was a charter deacon that came from the white church. Later Brethren Friday Jones, Cegar Moore were ordained for the deaconship. During the early part of Rev. Cole's administration Brethren Madison Johnson and Solomon Pratt were added to the

deacon board.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

117

Cole's Administration, 1871-1900

For every new undertaking conditions which surround almost always demand something more of the same things that were used before or something altogether new. This was true of Abraham when he was called upon to leave his home. This was true of Moses and the children of Israel when they began their march out of Egypt, and this was no less true with Cole when he took upon his shoulders, as it were, the leadership of this newly organized church "Saint Mary."
it,

REV.

E. H.

COLE

More Room
To
this

church the people came in such large numbers

the log house


this

them; therefore, the

was not large enough to accommodate all of first demand was more room. To meet demand the deacons decided to annex a frame end to

the log building. This they did and used a brush arbor in front of the building. The church was poorly seated, but it was a very comfortable place for these people to worship God.

118

Who's

Who Among North


of

Carolina Negro Baptists

Saint

Mary Became a Member


Saint

Wake and Orange

County Line Association

When
ber of the

Mary was organized she became a memWake and Orange County Line Association

which consisted of six churches. Rev. Cole was head of There was another association known as the New Hope Association with Rev. Calvin Hackney at the head, and as time passed the thought came into the minds of these two leaders to consolidate these two associations. Rev. Cole and Rev. Hackney met to discuss consolidation. After a hot debate, Rev. Cole told Rev. Hackney "if he, Hackney, would accept his constitution and bylaws, he, Cole, would accept his name." This he did and the two were consolidated and has been known since that
this association.

time as the

New Hope

Association.

More Room Needed


any plant or organization This has been Saint Mary's sign from her start up to the present. The building again was too small to accommodate its attendants. They then decided to take away the log end and build on to the frame end. So they rallied together and soon had this finished. They then decided as the Baptists differed as to the true meaning of Saint, they would change the name from Saint Mary to Mt. Sinai, and it has since that time gone by that name. The first text preached in St. Mary's was St. John, 1 Chapter 1 Verse.
of the signs of life in
is

One

growth.

Revival Meetings

Every institution in one form or another, and at one time or another puts on a special membership drive. The church launches her special campaigns in the nature of revival meetings. The campaign has a two-fold purpose, first to revive the church, second to convert sinners and thereby spread the kingdom of God in the hearts of men. The revivals were conducted in August for two weeks and many souls found Christ, and were added to the church. It is said that Rev. Cole baptised more people than any one preacher in the bounds of our association during his administration.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

119

Rose Mary Johnson Sunday School Organized

The membership had grown to be so large and so far from Mt. Sinai they decided to organize in their day school house, a Sunday school where they could meet each Sunday and learn more about God. Brother Madison Nunn was elected superintendent, Sister Mary Peace was chosen
teacher.

DEACON

G. R.

JOHNSON

More Deacons Needed

The membership had grown to be so large in number, and the work of the church more complex, the pastor thought that the church would do well to look among her members,- and find some men that might be added to the deacon board to help solve the different problems which confronted the church from time to time. For some of the older deacons had passed to be with God. The church chose and ordained Brothers Green Johnson, Frank Borland, Simon Strayhorn, S. M. Nunn and R. C. Walker. They were ordained May 1, 1888.

120

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Cool Spring School Organized

The Sunday school is known as the plant bed of the church so the church scope and territory were getting
larger and some of the members too far away to get to the church by school hour, therefore in 1886 in a log school house of Orange County Brother J. S. Jenkins organized a Sunday school which bears the name Cool Spring. Brother Jenkins was elected superintendent, and Brother James Ratler was chosen teacher.

W. M. BURROUGHS

Records

The records of the church up to this time had been kept by Sister Pantha Burroughs Mason, Brother Sanders A new clerk Jenkins and Brother William Burroughs. was chosen, Brother A. N. Johnson, who served as clerk for about thirty years.
Licentuates Preachers

During the administration of Rev. Cole three members were licensed to preach namely Brothers Henry BulThe latter was lock, Henderson Jones, and Isaac Green.

With a Brief History

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121

called to the ministry at about thirteen years of age.

He

of one of the first deacons, namely, Deacon Friday Jones. Isaac was a zealous Christian worker holding up Christ through service and was called from labor to reward in his early twenties just before completing his course in school.

was a grandson

Pastor's Death

In the year of our Lord, 1900, April 27, God saw fit to call Rev. Cole from labor to reward. The whole church was in mourning for having lost their leader who had led

them successfully for thirty odd years. He had stood by them when times were good and bad. He was a good shepherd, and did not leave his sheep when times were hard for wolves to come in and destroy them. After the
death of Rev. Cole the church agreed not to call a pastor until October, 1900. It was further agreed that the church would accept the service by visiting ministers during this period. By an individual's request Rev. H. C. Jones attended regularly for the purpose of meeting any emergency which might arise by the failure of a visiting minister being present. This being true he, Rev. Jones, did most of the preaching during the period the church was without a pastor. When the church met October to call a pastor many of the members were impressed that Rev. Jones should be called because of the amount of service he had rendered.

Pastor Called

The first Saturday in October, 1900, Rev. J. H. Dunwas voted on and elected. Rev. Dunston accepted the call providing Rev. L. H. Hackney would serve half of the time for the first year. This was agreeable with the church and Rev. Hackney.
ston

Why

Called

Dunston Not Weaver

In Wake County, N. C, James Henry Dunston was born before the Civil War, but born free as his parents had been before him. His father's parents had been set free by their owners before his father's birth; but why this was done he does not know. James Henry Dunston, son of John Weaver who chose for his wife Sallie Dunston, said Sallie Dunston remained in the home with her parents for years notwithstanding she was the wife of John Weaver. James being

122

Who's

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born and reared in the Dunston home, the people of that community called him Dunston, his name having gotten on some important records before the necessity of taking his
father's

name occurred

to him.

make
nent.

the change, hence the

He found it difficult then to name Dunston became perma-

DR.

JAMES HENRY DUNSTON

Dunston Administration, 1901-1925


In January, 1901, a new regime began with the able and esteemed leader J. H. Dunston at its head. The same group of officers that served during Cole's administration attended him.

Condition In

Which He Found the Church

The interest of the Christian work was by no means at a low ebb. Everybody seemed to take on new life in the Christian work with such a strong and noble leader. Rev. Dunston stepped on board the ship of about two hunhis

dred members and took up where Rev. Cole left off, and in own way sailed ahead. He started with a salary of $100 and as the church continued to progress his salary
raised.

was

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Dunston a Great Financier


Rev. Dunston was a great financier and taught the people to save their money and buy homes. Thus he aroused many of his people to buy homes to whom he would loan money to help them in securing the homes which many of us now enjoy.

Leadership
the greatest leaders of of the New Hope Association for more than 25 years; also treasurer of the Sunday School Convention more than 35 years. He was a Moses and could lead to success in any place he was put. He led Mt. Sinai to success. Rev. Cole made one step and Rev. Dunston went a little farther.
his day.

Rev. Dunston was one

among

He was moderator

He Carpets

the Church

During Rev. Dunston's administration he aroused the people to carpet the church. He was ever seeing the need to do something to beautify God's house.

Choir Stand

As Dunston was a great lover of music he wanted a choir stand added to the church, so the members rallied Then some of to this demand and built a choir stand. the members were authorized to solicit among the members and raise money to purchase an organ. This they did.

More Deacons
called

the membership was increasing and God having some of the deacons it was necessary to add more deacons to the board. Brother Alex Pratt and Brother

As

Robert Trice were ordained to the deaconship. Brother H. Riggsbee came to us from New Hope Baptist Church with his letter, and was a deacon there, and was connected with the Deacon Board of Mt. Sinai. Also Brother W. H. Davis came from Hickory Grove Church being a deacon there he also was added to the board.
J.

124

Who's

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Clerk

Carolina Negro Baptists

Brother A. N. Johnson having served alone as clerk, to his work lighter the church thought it a good idea to elect an assistant clerk. To this office, Brother G. W.

make

Burroughs was

elected.

G.

W.

BURROUGHS

In a few years Brother A. N. Johnson resigned as


clerk,

place,

and Brother G. W. Burroughs was elected in his and Sister Ella Trice elected finance clerk. These are

the present clerks. Several other improvements were made to the church and its surroundings, possession of more land and various other improvements were made, but later he began to advance the idea of building God a new house. He found some difficulty in leading the people out of the primitive idea of being contented with the old church building. Finally he succeeded in bringing the people into the consciousness of the need of a modern construction and hence the building project began, a building committee was appointed, the building planned, and much of the material was cut from the church grounds, prepared and placed. Also $1,000 was raised toward the building when our leader was

With a Brief History

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125

stricken. He lingered about four months during which period his interest in the new building project remained keen. The day before the end came he went over the building program with Deacon W. H. Green, the chairman of the building committee. He passed from labor to reward September 2, 1925, at 1 :50 o'clock, a.m.

ELLA TRICE
Church Without a Pastor
Rev. Dunston having passed, the whole community was grief -stricken for having lost their leader. The church decided to secure Rev. H. S. Fuller to supply until a call was

made.
Calls a Pastor

to call a pastor.

Saturday in January, 1926, the church met Having heard the record of Rev. T. C. Graham, and what he had done elsewhere, where he had labored, and being a man thoroughly in love with the word of God we felt that he would be a competent man to take up the work which confronted the church, After giving this prayerful consideration the first Saturday in January he, Graham, was voted on and elected. Rev. Graham was born in Iredell County and was a student of Shaw
first

The

126

Who's

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Carolina Negro Baptists

University. At the time he was called at Mt. Sinai he was pastoring the West Durham Baptist Church being recently built by him.

DEACON ALEX CARROLL

Graham's Administration
February, 1926, Rev. T. C. Graham took upon his shoulders the work which Rev. Dunston had planned. In a Biblical term, David had planned the house, now Solomon came to build it. Rev. Graham having received Divine His instruction went about the work in a Bible way. plans seemed a little rigid to the people at first, but through his Biblical teaching God's way of doing things, he succeeded in getting them to see his way was right. Thus the building project moved off again. No parties or any kind of entertainments were given to raise money. He, Graham, planned that each member pay a certain amount each month until the building was completed and new pews put in. By so doing we raised from $50.00 to $60.00 per month. We feel happy to know that we have a modern church built the Bible way.

With a Brief History

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127

More Deacons

As some of the deacons had gone to rest, and some having moved their membership, and those living being elderly the pastor thought it wise to choose from among Thus Brethren W. H. the members some young men. Green, Alex Carroll, and Samuel Trice were chosen and
ordained.

Leadership
Rev.

Graham was an

excellent leader.

what

to do, when,

and how.

He knew just He worked among the young

people and aroused them to see the necessity of working in the church. By his character and deportment he had commanded the respect of his people both young and old. He had great care for the religious culture of the young. He organized an usher board of young people. Working among them he raised money enough to purchase a $22.00 individual communion set, this being more sanitary than the primitive method. He was also a good adviser in our

home

affairs.

Mission Society Organized

During Rev. Graham's administration he aroused the to the extent to want to organize a mission circle. We feel happy that a few women answered the call, the circle was set up, and today we have a few who have caught the mission spirit and are doing work for the Master. The women are moving onward and upward, striving to raise the fallen, cheer the faint, and send the gospel to the

women

heathen lands.
Jesus'

It

was a woman who touched the hem

of

garment and was made well. We women feel that Jesus withholds nothing from the touch of our faith.

First Meeting of Rev. J. H.

Dunston and Rev. T. C. Graham, 1920

The meeting of Rev. J. H. Dunston and Rev. T. C. in the autumn of 1920 was one of a singular nature in that it made an indelible impression on the two

Graham

men.

Dunston was on his way to assume pastorial Union Baptist Church of Apex, N. C, while Rev. Graham was en route to Raleigh where he was
Rev.
duties as pastor of

128
a student at

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Shaw University. The wholesome advice and encouragement given to the young man, Graham, by the elder Dunston, as it effected his educational preparation and pastorial obligations, led Rev. Graham to regard him as a father in the gospel ministry from the day of their meeting until their separation by the death of Rev. Dunston.

This meeting and acquaintance made such a peculiar impression upon these men that neither of the two was able to surpress the keen desire to relate it to their relatives in a detailed manner. That first meeting had embedded such a noble Christian future in the heart and mind of Rev. Dunston as he could view the noble traits in the young man as a Christian leader that when he returned home he told his family of the meeting and how favorably impressed he was over this young minister and his remarks were, "I believe this young man is a Christian and one who God has called," he paused and exclaimed, "My hand and heart goes out to worthy young men to enter the field. I want to see God-sent young men coming to take my place for I am growing near the Jordan." He also expressed a desire to be near him that he might learn of the young man by constant contact. In the year of 1921 a part of their dreams were realized in another meeting in Durham, N. C. Where Rev. Graham was called to take charge of the West Durham Baptist Church as pastor. Nov/ the anxious desire of each had availed itself and to find themselves located in the same city their constant contact as pastors was very frequent and always full of
helpfulness and encouragement as
torial obligations.
It is believed that the meeting and acquaintance of these men led to Rev. Graham's five years successful pastoring Mt. Sinai Baptist Church and two years successful pastoring Shiloh Baptist Church. Rev. Graham succeeded Rev. Dunston in both of these churches.
it

affected their

pas-

Graham Resigns
After five years of sacrificial labor, Rev. Graham offered his resignation. His work was becoming to be an annoyance to his health. Having charge of two churches, Mt. Sinai and the West Durham Baptist, being the employe of the latter for every Sunday in the year, pastoring

With a Brief History

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129

SAMUEL NUNN

MRS.

PANTHA BURROUGHS MASON

J.

H.

RIGGSBEE

MRS. MILLIE BARBEE

130
the

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

two proved to be quite a strain on his nerves, therefore he resigned Mt. Sinai, preaching his farewell sermon January, 1931.

Rev. M. K. Hill was secured to supply for us until a was made. He supplied eleven months. Then he was The called to the pastorate and served twelve months. church was divided as to the calling of Rev. Hill for the next year. The deacons thought it best to call some one else. Thus Rev. E. Wimberly of Durham was called and accepted
call

the

call.

He

is

the present pastor.

With a Brief History

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131

Salem Missionary Baptist Church


Columbia, N.

CThis Church Was Founded in


Pastors:

1866

Rev. R. R. Creecy Rev. John McPherson Rev. L. W. Melton Rev. J. H. Johnson

Rev. C. M. Cartwright, D.D. Rev. I. S. Arnold Rev. John Faulk Rev. W. H. A. Stallings, D.D.

Deacons:
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

Jack Brickhouse Moses Simpson Neal Brickhouse Jacob Spruill

Isam Owens
"Austin Alexander Mathias Spruill

Randal Bryant Samuel Bryant

Thomas Brickhouse Abram Green Austin Owens


Berry McClees Austin Spruill Austin Rispers

Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

B. F.

Bryant

W.

D. Marner Robert Griswell Billy Hassell

Samuel Basnight S. A. Baker A. L. Owens Edward Davenport


L.

Jesse Spruill W. Hassell

W. H. Owens Alfred Bush J. J. Woodard


Ellis

Brickhouse

Deacon
Sister Sister Sister Sister
Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister

Sis ters:

Frances Hassell Katie Baker


Octavia Owens Flora Spruill
V. V.
Affie

Owens
Davenport
Spruill

Lizzie
L. V. P. L.

Tenas Hassell

Gracy Spruill Sister Margarette Owens Sister Phyllis Alexander Sister Matilda Spruill Sister Eliza Spruill Sister Lizzie Bryant Sister Jennettie Brickhouse Sister Farmer Green
Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister Sister

Owens Woodard

Venie Owens Margarette McClees

Madeline Brickhouse Katie Bush Treecy Brickhouse Charlotte Brickhouse

Rhoda Griswell
Jannie Rispers Elizabeth Marner

Committee on Bulletin:
Mrs. Bettie Morris Mrs. Tansey Swain Mrs. Oddessa Holly

Miss Lilla Jones Miss Jessye Spruill Mr. Peter Brickhouse

Trustees
Bro. M. A. Littlejohn Bro. C. A. Spruill Bro. Walter Hill

W.

Bro. Grady Spruill J. T. Griswell Bro. Rockyfellow People

Committee on Historical Record:


Mr. Maceo Hassell Mrs. R. L. Jenkins Mrs. Tansey Swain Mrs. Geneva Melton
Mrs. Jessye Spruill Miss Lila Jones Mrs. Eliza Jones

132

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Tupper Memorial Baptist Church


Raleigh, N. C.

THIS church

The church,

times, but it H. M. Tupper started the now renowned institution.

said to be the beginning of Shaw University. itself, has been changed or repaired several still remains on the original site on which Dr.
is

With a Brief History

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133

DR.

HENRY MARTIN TUPPER

Dr. Tupper was founder and first president of Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C.

134

Who's

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Fayetteville Street Baptist


THIS church was bought from

Church

the white people, known then as the John T. Pullen Baptist Church, about 1895. It was organized with twelve (16) members with Rev. Essex Blake as pastor. It has since had the following
pastors
Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev.

Robert Blake
T. B. Edwards A. T. Price

Rev.

Gomer

Rev. Austin Rev. W. H. Mitchner

W.
R.

S. S.

Wyche
Johnson

Rev. M. F. Jones Rev. J. W. Jones, the present


pastor

Moses Elom

The following were deacons:


Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

Seaton Hinton

Joseph High
Sylvester Jeffries Allen Mitchell Bennit Davis Clay Bobbitt
Geo. Lassiter

Bro. Eirl Stanback Bro. Solomon Steptoe Bro. Daniel Flemings

Bro. George

Lassiter

Bro. Prince Creshaw Bro. Whitweb

Seaton Hinton John Chapel

Bro. Sharon Bro. M. G. Watkins Bro. Robt. Fox

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135

The present deacons:


Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro, Bro. Bro. Bro.
N.
F.
S.

Perry

H.

Baker

Henry Davis James Richburg W. M. Scarborough McCoy Farmer Nallie Banks

Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.

Willie

Rogers

Mingo Kelly Frank Dunn


Sidney Dunn Junius Edgerton
Jessie

Hunter

The present trustees: Bro. Samuel Harris, Chairman Bro. McCoy Farmer, Treasurer Bro. Mingo Kelly Bro. Huasell Grant
Clerks:
Sister Lucy Smith Bro. M. G. Watkins Sister Genaders Lucas

Bro. J. W. Bro. James Bro. Willie

White Rankins

Graham

Sister

Carrie Haywood, present clerk Sister Corina Jeffries

This church has recently been remodeled under the present leadership of Rev. J. W. Jones, with the hearty cooperation of his congregation, deacons, trustees and
friends.

WALL STREET BAPTIST CHURCH


Sanford, N. C.

136

Who's

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Carolina Xegro Baptists

PASTOR AND DEACONS, SPRINGFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH


Reading from

Hugh

left to right: Rev. M. W. Williams, Henry Snow, Williams, Donnie Griffis, Otie Green, Melvin Jones, R. R. Henderson.

Springfield Baptist Church,


THIS church holds a unique the Auburn community.

Auburn

place in the religious life of It was organized a few years after the Civil War (1866) under a bush arbor, on a hill about 150 yards west of the present site. After buying the present site they built a log house in which they worshipped for a number of years. Later they built a frame structure. Rev. E. B. Blake was in the organization of the church and served as pastor for quite some time. Following Rev. Blake the following pastors served: Rev. A. A. Jones, Rev. Ransom Johnson, Rev. T. H. Burwell, Rev. R. B. Jones, Rev. J. W. Ligon, Rev. M. W. Williams now serving. The deacons who have and are now serving: Bros. Wyatt Mial, Joseph Morgan, George Busby, Kato Morgan, York Baucom, William Jones, Robert Lane, Chas. Jones, Louis Haywood, Junius Johns, Henry Locklear, Silas Brodie, Henry Snow, Derry Jones, Charlie Avery, Louis Brodie, Thomas Seawell, R. R. Henderson, Hugh Williams, Donnie Griffis, Willie Snow, Melvin Jones, Otie Green.

With a Brief History

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137

DEACON HENRY SNOW


Springfield

DEACON AVERY
Springfield Baptist Church Auburn, N. C."

Baptist Church, Auburn, N. C.

ROBERT LANES
Former Deacon, Springfield Baptist
Church,

LEWIS HAYWOOD
(Deceased) Deacon, Springfield Baptist Church

Auburn, N.

C.

Auburn, N.

C.

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Who's

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First Baptist Church, Halifax

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH,

Halifax, N. C, is, perhaps, the oldest, and certainly one of the oldest churches in Eastern North Carolina. It dates back to the earlyactivities of the Revs. Buck, and Basmore. From the best

information
Buck was the

available, it
first

seems that the Rev. A. N.


pastor.

Among

the other pastors were: Revs. Rousal Mason, Daniel Martin, Prince Ivey, and L. V. Lester. Rev. W. M. Wiggins is the pastor at this writing (1940). This church has had a long record of producing and inpeople to spiring nobler efforts. Preachers,

young

teachers,

doctors,

states-

men, missionary

women
patriotic

Sunday
Christians
citizens.

School workers,

and

Mrs. Mollie B. Williams served the church until her death as "Mother of the Church." Among those who served as superREV. ANNIAS N. BUCK intendents of the Sunday Organizer and First Pastor, First Baptist Church, Halifax, N. C. School were Brothers Moses W. Williams, A. P. Robinson, Edward Cheek, Roger Johnson, and Melo Jones. Among those who served as deacons were: Brothers Washington Johnson, Thaddeus Byrd, Alonzo Northington, Cary Johnson, Alex Arrington, Bros. Pierce, Byrd, Frank Lawrence, Amos Shearins. Rev. James Arrington, who was a former member of the North Carolina General Assembly, also did considerable work in this church during his active
:

career.

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139

Negro Baptist

Statistics

give below a summary of the available statistics of the Negro Baptists in North Carolina. We quote from the United States Census of Religious bodies for 1936, and our findings for 1940.

WE

Churches 1,161 Rural Churches.... 868 Urban Churches. 293

No. Members

Sunday Schools. 1,105

Male Members " Female Sex not reported....

219,803 137,005 82,888 83,570* 135,081*


1,202*

Rural and urban.

Members
Churches Rural Urban Total
(1936)
868
293

Male Female North Carolina


82,888

Sex Not Reported


1,202

Total
219,803

1,161

137,005

Churches Rural Urban Total Male United States


<1936)
5,548

Female
2,259,287

Sex Not Reported


144,952

Total
3,782,464

7,546

23,093

1,378,225

Members Rural Urban


<1940)
873

Total
256,281

297

1,170

155,199

101,082

Associations, 56; State Bodies, 4; Sunday Schools, 1,516; teachers and officers, 14,299; scholars, 95,398.

Ordained preachers (1940), 1,500 (approximately). Licensed preachers 1,000 (approximately). Paid in salaries (1936), $466,537, U. S. Census, both rural and urban.

Estimated salaries 1940, $279,351.20, rural, and other things, including clerks and organists. Estimated salaries 1940, $303,246.00, urban, and other things, including clerks and organists.

Sunday School Sunday School

literature, rural, $26,310.00. literature, urban, $14,650.00.

Evangelism, rural, $34,080.00. Evangelism, urban, $29,300.00.


Missions, rural, $10,524.00. Missions, urban, $8,790.00.

Value of church property $1,000,000.

140

Who's

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ADDENDA
THE BIBLE
This book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword and the Christian's charter. Here paradise is restored, heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mint of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its holy contents.
Selected.

OUR CHURCH COVENANT


Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, we do now, in the presence of God, angels and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ. engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this Church, in knowledge, holiness and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the Church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the Gospel through all nations. also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to

We

We

With a Brief History


avoid
stain

of Baptist Organizations

141

all tattling, backbiting and excessive anger; to abfrom the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Saviour. We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling, and courtesy in speech to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful
;

of the rules of our Saviour to secure it without delay. moreover engage that when we remove from this place we will, as soon as possible, unite with some other Church, where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

We

142

Who's

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Articles of Faith of the Baptists


Arranged by
S. L.

JOHNSON,

D.D.,

EVANGELIST

Boydton, Virginia

ITHE SCRIPTURES
believe that the Holy Bible was written by (1). divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction.

We

men

Scripture Proof Texts: 2 Tim. 3:16, 17 All Scripture is inspired by God, and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; 17, that the man of God may be complete, completely furnished to every good work.
II

Pet.

the will of from God.


II

1 :21 For prophecy was never brought by man; but moved by the Holy Spirit, men spoke

And

Sam. 23 :2 The Spirit of Jehovah spoke by me, his word was on my tongue.

Acts 1:16 ture should be

Brethren,
fulfilled,

it

was necessary that the


Judas,

Scripbe-

which the Holy Spirit through the

mouth of David spoke before concerning came guide to those who took Jesus. (2). That it has God for its author,

who

salvation for its end, and truth without any mixture of error for its matter. Scripture Proof Texts: Prov. 30:5, 6 Every word of

God

is

pure;
shield is he to

A
6

them that trust in him. not thou to his words; Lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. John 17:17 Sanctify them in the truth; thy word

Add

is truth.

Rev. 22:18, 19

testify to everyone that hears the

words of the prophecy of this book, if any one shall add to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if any one shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written of in this book. Rom. 3 :4 Far be it. But let God be true, and every

man

liar,

as

it is

written,

That thou mayest be justified in thy words, And mayest overcome when thou are judged.

With a Brief History


(3).

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reveals the principles by which God will is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true centre of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 2:12 For as many as sinned without law will also perish without law; and as many as sinned with law will be judged by law. John 12 :47, 48 And if any one hears my words, and keeps them not, I do not judge him; for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 He that rejects me, and receives not my words, has one that judges him. The word that I spoke, that will judge him in the last day. I Cor. 4:3, 4 But with me it is a very little thing that I should be judged by you, or by man's day; nay, neither do I judge myself. 4 For I am conscious to myself of nothing: yet am I not hereby justified, but he that judges me is the Lord. Luke 10:10-16 But into whatever city ye enter and they receive you not, go out into its streets and say, 11 Even the dust from your city, that cleaves to our feet, we wipe off against you; yet know this, that the kingdom of God has come near. 12 I say to you, It will be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. 13 Woe to thee, Chorazin Woe to thee, Bethsaida For if in Tyre and Sidon the miracles had been done which were done in you, long ago they would have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the judgment, than for you. 15 And thou, Capernaum, shalt thou be exalted to heaven. Thou shalt be brought down to the underworld. 16 He that hears you hears me; and he that rejects you rejects me; and he that rejects me rejects him who sent me. Luke 12:47, 48 And that servant, who knew his Lord's will, and prepared not, nor did according to his will, will be beaten with many stripes 48 but he that knew not, and did things worthy of stripes, will be beaten with few. And to whomsoever much was given, of him much will be required; and to whom they committed much, of him they will ask the more.

That

it

judge us; and therefore

IITHE TRUE GOD


and
believe the Scriptures teach that there is one, only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent
(1).

We

Spirit,

whose name

is

JEHOVAH,

the

Maker and Supreme

Ruler of Heaven and Earth.

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Scripture Proof Texts: John 4:21, 24 Jesus says to Woman, believe me, an hour is coming, when ye will neither in this mountain or in Jerusalem worship the Father. 24 God is spirit and they that worship him, must
her,
;

worship in

and truth. Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord, and of great power; His understanding is infinite. Psalm 83:18 And they shall know that thou, thy
spirit

name Jehovah,

alone,

Art Most High over all the earth. Heb. 3:4 For every house is builded by some one; but he who built all things is God.

Rom. 1 :20 since the creation of the world, his invisible things are clearly seen, being perceived by the things that are made, even his eternal power and divinity;
that they
Jer.

For,

may be without excuse. 10:10 But Jehovah is the true God; he is the living God, and an everlasting king: At his wrath the earth trembles and the nations cannot endure his wrath.

(2). Inexpressibly glorious in holiness. Scripture Proof Texts: Exod. 15:11 Who is like thee Jehovah? among the Gods, Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, Fearful in praises, doing wonders? Isa. 6 :3 And one called to another, and said, "Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah of hosts The whole earth is full of his glory." I Peter 1:15, 16 But as he who called you is holy, be ye yourselves holy in all your conduct; 16 because it is written, Ye shall be holy, because I am holy. Rev. 4:6-8 And before the throne as it seemed a glassy sea like crystal and in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes before and behind. 7 And the first creature was like a lion, and the second creature like a calf, and the third creature having the face as of a man, and the fourth creature like an eagle flying. 8 And the four creatures having each of them six wings, around and within are full of eyes; and they cease not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was, and who is, and who is to come. (3). And worthy of all possible honor, confidence and

love.

Scripture Proof Texts:

Mark 12:30 And thou

shalt

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations


love the
soul,

145

Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. Rev. 4:11 Worthy art thou, our Lord and our God, to receive the glory, and the honor, and the power; because thou didst create all things, and because of thy will they were, and were created. Matt. 10:37 He that loves father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loves son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me.

Jer. 2:12, 13

Be

astonished,

ye heavens, at this!

13 For my people have committed two evils: Me, the fountain of living waters, they have forsaken, To cut out for themselves cisterns, cracked cisterns that can hold no water. (4). That in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. Scripture Proof Texts: Matt. 28:19 Go ye therefore and disciple all the nations, baptizing (immersing) them into the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the

and be

horrified, stand aghast, says Jehovah.

Holy

Spirit.

John 15 :26 When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will testify concerning me.

Now there are diversities of gifts, but I Cor. 12:4, 6 the same Spirit. 5 And there are diversities of services, and the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of workings, but the same God who works all in all.
IllTHE

FALL OF MAN

(1). We believe the Scriptures teach that man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker. Scripture Proof Texts Gen. 1 :27 And God created the man in his image in the image of God created he him a male and a female created he them. Gen. 1 :31 And God saw all that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning, the sixth day. Eccles. 7 :29 Behold, this only have I found, that God made man upright, but they have sought out many
:

devices.

Acts 17:26
tion of

And

men

to dwell

he made of one (origin) every naon all the face of the earth, having

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and the bounds of their habitation. Gen. 2:16 And Jehovah God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat 17 but of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat.
fixed appointed periods

(2). But by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state. Scripture Proof Texts Gen. 3 :6-24 And the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise; and she took of its fruit and ate, and gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. 7 And the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
:

they hear the sound of Jehovah God walking garden at the breeze of the day. And the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of Jehovah God in the midst of the trees of the garden. 9 And Jehovah God called to the man, and said to him, Where art thou? 10 And he said, I heard thy sound in the garden, and was afraid because I was naked, and hid myself., 11 And he said, Who showed thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree of which I commanded thee not to eat? 12 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate. 13 And Jehovah God said to the woman, What is this that thou And the woman said, The serpent beguiled hast done? me, and I ate. 14 And Jehovah God said to the serpent, Because thou hast done this, cursed art thou of all cattle and of every beast of the field; on thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life. 15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed he shall bruise thee on the head, and thou shall bruise him on the heel. 16 To the woman he said, I will greatly multiply the pains of thy pregnancy in pain shalt thou bring forth children and to thy husband shall be thy desire, and he
8
in the
; ; ;

And

shall rule over thee.


17. And to the man he said, Because thou didst hearken to the voice of thy wife, and didst eat of the tree of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it cursed is the ground for thy sake. In sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. 18 And thorns and
;

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147

it cause to spring up to thee; and thou shalt 19 By the sweat of thy face eat the herb of the field. shalt thou eat bread, till thou return to the ground for out of it was thou taken; for dust thou art, and to dust shalt thou return.
;

20 And the man called the name of his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all living. 21 And Jehovah God made for the man and for his wife garments of skins, and clothed them.
22 And Jehovah God said, Behold, the man has come as one of us, to know good and evil. And now,
belest

he stretch forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever; 23 therefore Jehovah God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground whence he was taken. 24 And he drove out the man and he stationed on the east of the garden of Eden the cherubim and the flaming sword, which turned every way, to keep the way to the tree of life. Rom. 5:12 Therefore, as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin; and so death passed unto all men, for that all sinned.
;

(3). In consequence of sinners.

which

all

mankind are now

Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 5:19 For as through the disobedience of the one man the many were constituted sinners, so also through the obedience of the one will the many be constituted righteous. John 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Psa. 51:5 Behold, in iniquity was I brought forth, And in sin did my mother conceive me. Rom. 5:15-19 But not as the trespass, so also is the gift for if by the trespass of the one the many died, much more did the grace of God, and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound to the many. 16 And not as through one that sinned, is the gift; for the judgment came of one [trespass] unto condemnation, but the gift came of many trespasses unto justification. 17 For if by the trespass of the one, death reigned through the one; much more those who receive the abundance of the grace, and the gift of righteousness, will reign in life through the one, Jesus Christ. 18 So then, as through one trespass it came to all men unto condemnation so also through one righteous act it came to all men unto justification of life. 19 For as through the disobedience of the

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one man the many were constituted sinners, so also through the obedience of the one will the many be constituted righteous.

Rom. 8 :7 Because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, neither indeed can it. (4). Not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation. Scripture Proof Texts: Eph. 2:3 Among whom we also all had our way of life in time past in the desires of our flesh, doing the will of the flesh and of the thoughts, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. (5) Without defense or excuse. Scripture Proof Texts: Ezek. 18:19, 20Yet say ye, Why does not the son bear the guilt of his father? When the son has done what is lawful and right, and has kept all my statutes, and has done them, he shall surely live. 20 The soul that sins, it shall die; the son shall not bear the guilt of his father, neither shall the father bear the guilt of his son; the righteousness of the righteous shall be for himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. Rom. 1 :20 For, since the creation of the world, his invisible things are clearly seen, being perceived by the things that are made, even his eternal power and divinity; that they may be without excuse. Rom. 3 :19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it speaks to those under the law; that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may be subject to condemnation before God. Gal. 3 :22 But the Scripture shut up all under sin, that the promised blessing by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

(1). tion of sinners

IVTHE WAY OF SALVATION We believe the Scriptures teach that


is

the salva-

wholly of grace. Scripture Proof Texts: Eph. 2:5 Even when we were dead in trespasses, alive with Christ (by grace ye have been saved). For the Son of man came to save that Matt. 18:11

which was lost. I John 4:10

Herein

is

love, not that

we

loved God,

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149

but that he loved us, and sent his son to be a propitiation for our sins. What then is Apollos? and what is Paul? I Cor. 3 :5-7 Servants through whom ye believed, and that as the Lord gave to each one. 6 I planted, Apollos watered but God made it grow. 7 So then neither is he that plants anything, nor he that waters; but God who makes it grow. Acts 15:11 But, through the grace of the Lord Jesus, we believe that we shall be saved, in the same manner as

they also.
(2).

Through the mediatorial

offices

of the

Son of

God.

Scripture Proof Texts: John 3-16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only-begotten son, that every one who believes on him should not perish, but have eternal
life.

(3).

Who, according
sin.

to the will of the Father,

became

man, yet without


in the

Scripture Proof Texts: Phil. 2:6, 7 Who, existing form of God, accounted not the being on an equality with God a thing to be grasped; 7 but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, becoming in the likeness of

men.
(4).

ence,

Honored the divine law by his personal obediand by his death made a full atonement for our sins.
:

Scripture Proof Texts Isa. 53 :4, 5 Surely he bore our sicknesses. And our pains he carried them; While we regarded him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our rebellions. He was crushed for our iniquities: A chastisement for our peace was upon him; And through his stripes came healing to us.

(5). That having risen from the dead, he is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, he is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate and

an

all sufficient

saviour.

Scripture Proof Texts: Heb. 7:25 Whence also he is able to save to the end those who come to God through him, since he ever lives to intercede for them. Col. 2 :9 Because in him dwells all the fullness of the

Godhead

bodily.

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VJUSTIFICATION
(1). We believe the Scriptures teach that the great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in

him

is justification.

Scripture Proof Texts: John 1:16 Because out of his fullness we all received, and grace for grace. Eph. 3 :8 To me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Acts 13 :39 And in him every one who believes is justified from all things, from which ye were not able to be justified in the law of Moses. Isa. 3:11, 12 Woe to the wicked! it is ill [with him] For the work of his hands will be done to him. 12 My people a boy is their oppressor, and women rule over them. My people! Thy guides cause thee to err. And the way of thy paths they destroy. Rom. 5:1 Being justified therefore by faith, let us have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (2). That justification includes the pardon of sin. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 5:9 Much more therefore, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from the wrath through him. Zech. 13:1 In that day a fountain will be opened for the house of David and for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness. Matt. 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins, (then he says to the paralytic,) Arise, and take up thy bed, and go to thy house. Acts 10:43 To him' all the prophets testify, that through his name every one who believes on him shall receive remission of sins. (3). And the gift of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in Christ; by means of which faith his perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us by God. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 5:19 For as through the disobedience of the one man the many were constituted sinners, so also through the obedience of the one will the many be constituted righteous.-

Rom. 3 :24-26 Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus 25 whom
;

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God set forth as a propitiation, through faith, in his blood, for the exhibition of his righteousness, because of the passing over of the sins formerly committed during the forbearance of God; 26 for the exhibition of his righteousness in this present time, that he may be righteous, and the justifier of him who believes in Jesus. Rom. 4:23-25 And it was not written for his sake alone, that it was reckoned to him; 24 but for ours also, to whom it will be reckoned, if we believe on him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead 25 who was delivered up for our trespasses, and was raised for our justification. I John 2:12 I write to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for his name's sake. (4). That it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 5:1, 2 Being justified

therefore by faith, let us have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; 2 through whom we have had our access also by faith into this grace in which we stand, and let us exult in hope of the glory of God.

VI^THE FREENESS OF SALVATION (1). We believe the Scriptures teach that the
ings of salvation are made free to all Scripture Proof Texts: Isa. 55:1 thirsteth, come ye to the waters,

bless-

Ho, every one that

by

the. gospel.

ye who have no money come ye, buy and eat Yea, come, buy wheat without money, And without price wine and milk. Rev. 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that hears say, Come. And let him that thirsts, Come; let any one that will, take the water of life
;

And

freely.

(2). That it them by a cordial,

the immediate duty of all to accept and obedient faith. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 17:30 The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked; but now charges men that all everywhere should repent. Rom. 16 :26 But now made manifest, and through prophetic Scriptures, according to the commandment of the eternal God, made known to all nations for obedience to the faith. Rom. 1:15-17 So, as far as lies in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. 16 For I
is

penitent,

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not ashamed of the gospel; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believes, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For in it is revealed God's righteousness, from faith to faith; as it is written, But the righteous shall live by faith. Mark 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand repent, and believe in the good news. (3). And that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but his own determined depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel. Scripture Proof Texts: John 5:40 And ye are not willing to come to me, that ye may have life. Matt, 23 :37 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killest the prophets, and stonest those who are sent to her how often did I wish to gather thy children together, as a hen gathers her chickens under her wing, and ye would not Rom. 9:32 Wherefore? Because [they sought it] not by faith, but as if it were by works of law. They stumbled against the stone of stumbling. (4). Which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation. Scripture Proof Texts: John 3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their works

am

were

evil.

Then began he to upbraid the cities in which most of his miracles were done, because they reMatt. 11:20

pented not. Luke 19 :27 But these my enemies, who did not wish me to reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me. II Thess. 1:8 In flaming fire, taking vengeance on those who know not God, and those who obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

VII REGENERATION
(1). We believe the Scriptures teach that in order to be saved, men must be regenerated, or born again. Scripture Proof Texts John 3 :3 Jesus answered and said to him, Verily, verily, I say to thee, unless one be born from above, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:6, 7 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Wonder not that I said to thee, Ye must be born from above.
:

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Rev. 8 :7-9

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153

And the first sounded and there followed mingled with blood, and they were cast into the earth; and the third part of the earth was burnt up, and the third part of the trees were burnt up, and all green 8 And the second angel sounded; grass was burnt up. and what seemed a great mountain burning with fire was
;

hail

and

fire

cast into the sea; and the third part of the sea became blood 9 and the third part of the creatures that are in the sea, that have life, died; and the third part of the ships
;

were destroyed.
it

Rev. 21 :27 And there shall by no means enter into any thing unclean, or any one that works abomination and falsehood; but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. (2). That regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind.

Scripture Proof Texts: II Cor. 5:17 So that if anyin Christ, he is a new creature the old things passed away; behold, they have become new. Ezek. 36:26 Also I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit will I put within you And I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, And I will give you a heart of flesh. Duet. 30 :6 And Jehovah thy God will circumcise thy heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love Jehovah thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, for the sake of

one

is

thy

life.

Rom. 2:28, 29 For he is not a Jew, who is one outwardly; nor is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh. 29 But he is a Jew, who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in spirit not in letter whose praise is not from men but from God. (3). That it is effected in a manner above our comprehension by the Holy Spirit, in connection with divine
;

truth.

Scripture Proof Texts: John 3:8 The wind blows where it will, and thou hearest the sound of it, but knowest not whence it comes and whither it goes. So is every one
is born of the Spirit. John 1:13 Who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. James 1:16-18 Be not led astray, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the lights, with whom there is no variableness, or a shadow caused by

that

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turning. 18 Of his own will he brought us forth with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. I Cor. 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who from God was made wisdom to us both righteousness and

and redemption. Phil. 2:13 For it is God who is working in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. (4). So as to secure our voluntary obedience to the
sanctification,

gospel.
:

Scripture Proof Texts I Pet. 1 :22-25 Having puriyour souls in obeying the truth unto unfeigned brotherly love, love one another from the heart earnestly,' 23 being born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the word of God, which lives and abides. 24 Because,
fied

as grass, glory as the flower of grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls off; 25 But the word of the Lord abides forever.
All flesh
is

And

all its

And
news

this is the

word which was preached

as good

to you.

I John 5:1 Every one who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been begotten of God; and every one that loves him who begot, loves also him who has been begotten of him.

Eph. 4:20-24 But ye did not so learn Christ, 21 if indeed ye heard him, and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus; 22 that ye put off, as concerns your former conduct, the old man who is being corrupted according to the desires of deceit, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and put on the new man, who was created after God in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye Col. 3 :9-ll have put off the old man with his deeds, 10 and have put on the new man, who is being renewed unto knowledge, according to the image of him who created him 11 where can be no Greek and Jew, Circumcision and Uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bondmen, freemen; but Christ

is all,

and

in

all.

that its proper evidence appears in the holy (5). fruits of repentance, faith, and newness of life.
light is in all goodness

And

Scripture Proof Texts: Eph. 5:9 For the fruit of the and righteousness and truth.

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155
flesh,

but in the And if in you. any one has not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Gal. 5:16-23 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and ye will not fulfill the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh has desires against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh and these are contrary the one to the other, that ye may
8 :9
Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of

Rom.

But

ye are not in the

God dwells

not do those things that ye wish. 18 But if ye are led by 19 Now the works of the Spirit, ye are not under law. the flesh are manifest; which are, fornication, uncleanness, wantonness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, party spirit, jealousy, wraths, contentions, divisions, factions, 21 envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and things like these; of which I tell you beforehand, as I also said before, that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, 23 meekness, self-control against such things there is no law.
;

this reason I bow my knees to the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that he would grant to you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with power through his Spirit as to the inner man, 17 in order that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; 18 that having been rooted and grounded in love, ye may be able to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth, and length, and height, and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that ye may be filled unto all the fulness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to him be the glory in the Church, and in Christ Jesus, unto all the generations of the eternal ages. Amen.

Eph. 3:14-21

For

Matt. 3:8-10 Produce therefore fruit worthy of repentance; 9 and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham for our father; for I say to you, that God is able out of these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10 And already the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not produce good fruit is cut down, and cast into the fire. Matt. 7:20 them.
I

John

5:4,

So then, from 18 Because

their fruits ye will

know

all

that has been begotten of

God overcomes the world; and


overcome the world,

this is the victory that has even our faith. 18 know that

We

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every one

who has been

that was begotten of touches him not.

God keeps

begotten of God sins not; but he himself, and the evil one

VIII REPENTANCE
(1).

AND FAITH

We

believe the Scriptures teach that repentance

and faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in the soul by the regenerating Spirit of God. Scripture Proof Texts: Mark 1:15 Repent and be-

good news. Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, So then, to the Gentiles also God has given repentance unto life. Eph. 2:8 For by grace ye have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. I John 5:1 Every one who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been begotten of God; and every one that loves him who begot, loves also him who has been begotten of
lieve in the

him.
(2). Whereby being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger, and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by

Christ.

Scripture Proof Texts: John 16:8 And when he has come, he will convict the world, in respect of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. Acts 2 :38 And Peter said to them, Repent, and be baptized (immersed) every one of you, in reliance on the name of Jesus Christ, unto remission of your sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, So then, to the Gentiles also God has given repentance unto life. Acts 16 :30, 31 And having brought them out, he said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. (3). We turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus as our prophet, priest, and King, and relying on Him alone as the only and allsufficient Saviour. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 10:9-11 Because, if thou confess with thy mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believes unto right-

With a Brief History


eousness
vation.

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and with the mouth confession is made unto sal11 For the Scripture says, Whoever believes on him shall not be put to shame. prophet will the Acts 3 :22, 23 Moses indeed said, Lord your God raise up for you from your brethren, as he did me; him shall ye hear in all things whatever he shall say to you. 23 And it shall be that every soul that does not hear that Prophet, will be utterly destroyed from among the people. Heb. 4:14 Having therefore a great high priest, who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
;

(1).

IXGOD'S PURPOSE OF GRACE We believe the Scriptures teach that

election is

the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, sanctifies and saves sinners. Scripture Proof Texts: II Tim. 1:8, 9 Be not then ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but endure hardship with me for the gospel, according to the power of God; 9 who saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose, and the grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before eternal ages. (2). That being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end. Scripture Proof Texts: II Thes. 2:13, 14 But we ought to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you to salvation, in sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth 14 whereunto he called you through our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. (3). That it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness. Scripture Proof Texts: I Cor. 4:7 For who makes thee to differ? And what hast thou which thou didst not receive? But if thou didst receive it, why does thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? I Cor. 1 :26-31 For see your calling, brethren, that not many are wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but the foolish things of the world God chose that he might put to shame the wise; and the weak things of the world God chose that he might put to shame the things which are strong; 28 and the base things

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and the things which are despised, God chose, and the things which are not, that he might bring to naught things that are; 29 that no flesh should glory before God. 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who from God was made wisdom to us both righteousness and sanctification, and redemption; 31 that, as it is written, He

that glories

let him glory in the Lord. Rom. 3:27 Where then is the glorying? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? Nay; but by

it

a law of faith.
(4).

That

utterly excludes boasting,

and promotes

humility.

endure

may

Scripture Proof Texts: II Tim. 2:10 For this cause, all things for the sake of the elect, that they also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus, with

eternal glory.
I Cor. 9 :22 To the weak I become weak, that I might gain the weak. I have become all things to all, that I may by all means save some.

Rom. 8 :28-30 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. 29 Because whom he foreknew, he also predestinated to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the first born among many brethren. 30 And whom he predestinated, them he also called; and whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
(5) That it encourages the use of means; that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly accept of
Christ.

Scripture Proof Texts I Thess. 1 ren beloved by God, your election.


:

:4

Knowing, breth

(6). That it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence. Wherefore Scripture Proof Texts: II Pet. 1:10, 11

the rather, brethren, earnestly endeavor to make your calling and election sure; for if you do these things, ye will never fall. 11 For so will be richly supplied to you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Phil. 3:12 Not that ready been perfected but
;

I
I

already obtained, or have

al-

hold of that for which

pursue onward, if I may lay was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

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Heb. 6:11 But we desire that each one of you show the same diligence, for the full assurance of the hope to the end.

XSANCTIFICATION

tion

We believe the Scriptures teach that sanctificathe process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of his holiness. Scripture Proof Texts: I Thess. 4:3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that ye abstain from forni(1).
is

cation.
I

Thess. 5:23
;

And the God of peace himself sanctify

you wholly and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved whole without blame at the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ. II Cor. 7:1 Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. II Cor. 13 :9 For we rejoice, when we are weak, and ye are powerful; this also we pray for, even your perfec-

tion.

Eph.

1 :4

As he

tion of the world, that we should be holy ish before him in love.

chose us in him before the foundaand without blem-

(2). That it is a progressive work. Scripture Proof Texts: Prov. 4:18 But the way of the righteous is as the clear light. Shining more and more, to the noon day. (3). That it is begun in regeneration; that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the especially the Word continual use of the appointed means self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and of God prayer. Scripture Proof Texts: Phil. 2:12, 13 So then, my beloved, as ye always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is working in you both to will and to work, for his good

pleasure.

Eph. 4:11, 12 And he gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers; 12 unto the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministration, for the building up of the body of Christ. As new born babes, long for the spiritual, I Pet. 2 :2 unadulterated milk, that by it ye may grow unto salvation.

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Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, To him be the glory, both now and forever. Amen. II Cor. 13:5 Try your own selves, whether ye are in the faith; prove your own selves. Or know ye not your
of our

selves, that Jesus Christ is in you, unless ye are reprobate indeed. Luke 11 :35 Take heed therefore, whether the light that is in thee is not darkness. Luke 9 :23 And he said to all, If any one wishes to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Matt. 26 :41 Watch, and pray that ye may not enter into temptation. The spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak. Eph. 6:18 Praying at every fitting season in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the

own

saints.

in

whom

Eph. 4:30 And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, ye were sealed for a day of redemption. (4). And in the practice of all godly exercises and
:

duties.

Scripture Proof Texts


liness.

old wives' fables refuse,

Tim. 4 :7 But the profane and and exercise thyself unto god-

as are (1). truly regenerate, being born of the Spirit, will not utterly fall away and perish, but will endure unto the end. Scripture Proof Texts: John 8:31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who had believed him, If ye abide in my word, ye are truly my disciples. I John 2 :27, 28 And the anointing which ye received from him abides in you, and ye have no need that any one teach you; but as his anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is truth, and is not a lie, and even as it taught 28 And now, little children, abide you, ye abide in him. in him that, if he be manifested, we may have confidence, and not turn away from him with shame at his coming. (2). That their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors. Scripture Proof Texts: I John 2:19 They went out

XIPERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS We believe the Scriptures teach that such

With a Brief History

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161

from among

us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have abode with us; but it was in order that they might be made manifest, that all are not

of us.
(3). That a special providence watches over their welfare. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. Matt. 6 :30-33 And if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, ye of little faith? 31 Be not therefore anxious, saying, What shall we eat?

or,

What

shall

we drink?

or,

Wherewith

shall

we be

clothed? 32 For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your heavenly Father knows that ye have need of all these. 33 But seek first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you. And I will make an everlasting covenant Jer. 32:40

with them;
not withdraw from them my benefactions; fear will I put in their hearts, so that they shall not depart from me.

That

I will

And my

(4). And that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Scripture Proof Texts: Phil. 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Phil. 2:12, 13 So then, my beloved, as ye always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is working in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure.

XIITHE
(1).

LAW AND GOSPEL

God

is

We believe the Scriptures teach that the law of the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral

government.

Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 3:31 Do we then make void law through faith? Far be it! Yea, we establish law. Matt. 5:17 Think not that I came to destroy the law or the prophets; I came not to destroy, but to complete. Luke 16:17 But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for one tittle of the law to fall.

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justified in his sight; for


is

Because by works of law no be through law knowledge of Rom. 4:15 For the law works wrath; but where there
Rom. 3:20
flesh will
is

sin.

no law, neither is there transgression. (2). That it is holy, just, and good.
holy,

Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 7:12 So that the law and the commandment holy and righteous and good. Rom. 7:7, 14, 22 What then shall we say? Is the law sin? Far be it! But I should not have known sin, unless through law; for I should not know coveting, if the law did not say, Thou shalt not covet. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am fleshly, sold under sin. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man. Gal. 3 :21 Is then the law against the promises of God? Far be it! For if a law had been given which is able to make alive, truly righteousness would have been from law. Psa. 119 Read entire Psalm. (3). And that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their sinful nature. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 8:7, 8 Because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, neither indeed can it; 8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. (4). To deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible church. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 8:2-4 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus set me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh God, sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, (did, and) condemned sin in the flesh; 4 that the requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
is

XIII A GOSPEL
(1).

CHURCH

believe the Scriptures teach that a visible is a company of baptized believers. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 2:41, 42 Those then and that welcomed his word, were baptized (immersed)

We

Church of Christ

there were added on that day about three thousand souls.

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42 and they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the distribution, the breaking of bread, and the prayers.
(2). Associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel. Scripture Proof Texts: II Cor. 8:5 And not as we expected, but themselves they gave first to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.

(3). Observing the Ordinances of Christ. Scripture Proof Texts: I Cor. 11:2 Now I praise you, that ye remember me in all things, and hold fast the instructions, as I delivered them to you.

(4). Governed by his laws. Scripture Proof Texts: Matt. 28:19, 20 Go therefore and disciple all the nations, baptizing (immersing) them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to observe all things whatever I commanded you and, behold, I am with you all the days, to the end of the age. John 14:15 If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments.
:

(5). And exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges, invested in them by his word. Scripture Proof Texts: I Cor. 14:12 So also ye, since ye are eager for spiritual gifts, seek that ye may abound in them to the upbuilding of the Church. Matt. 16:13-19 And having come into the region of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is? 14 They said, Some, John the Baptist; others, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. 15 He says to them, But who do ye say that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answering said to him, Happy art thou, Simon Barjonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to thee, that thou art Peter, and on this rock I build my church; and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it. 19 I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Matt. 18:18 Verily I say to you, whatever ye bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever ye loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

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Mark 3:14, 15 And he appointed twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, 15 and to have authority to cast out demons. (6) That its only Scriptural officers are bishops or pastors, and deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus. Scripture Proof Texts: Phil. 1:1 Paul and Timothy,

servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.

Acts 14:23 And when they had appointed elders for them in every Church, and prayed with them, fasting, they commended them to the Lord on whom they had believed. Acts 15 :22 Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, having chosen men from themselves, to send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas called Barsabas, and Silas, leading

men among
I

the brethren.

Trustworthy is the saying. If any one longs for the office of bishop, he desires a good work. 2 The bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, sober, discreet, orderly, hospitable, apt in teaching; 3 not given to wine, not quarrelsome, but forbearing, averse to strife, not a money-lover; 4 presiding well over his own house, having his children in subjection with all decorum; (5 but if one knows not how to preside over his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God?) 6 not a new convert, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 But he must also have a good testimony from those without, that he fall not into reproach and a snare of the devil. 8 Deacons in like manner must be grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of base gain; 9 holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them serve as deacons, being without reproach. 11 Women in like manner must be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be husbands of one wife, presiding well over their children and their own houses. 13 For they that have served well as deacons gain for themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. 14 These things I write to thee, hoping to come to thee shortly; 15 but if I delay, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to conduct thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
Tim. 3:1-16

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165

Who was

confessedly, great is the mystery of Godliness manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Appeared to angels, Preached among Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory.

And

Titus 1:1-16 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness; 2 in reliance on the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before Eternal ages, 3 but in its own times manifested his word in the preaching, with which I was intrusted according to the commandment of our Saviour God; 4 to Titus, a true child according to the common faith Grace and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Saviour. 5 For this cause I left thee in Crete, to set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in each city, as I directed thee; 6 if any one is without reproach, the husband of one wife, having believing children who are not accused of rioting or unruly. 7 For the bishop must be without reproach, as God's steward; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, not quarrelsome, not greedy of base gain; 8 but hospitable, a lover of the good, discreet, righteous, holy, self -controlled 9 holding fast the trustworthy word which is according to the teaching, that he may be able both to exhort in the healthful teaching and to refute the gain-sayers. 10 For there are many unruly men, vain talkers and deceivers, especially those of the Circumcision; 11 whose mouths must be stopped; who overturn whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of base gain. 12 One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, idle gluttons. 13 This testimony is true. For which cause reprove them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14 not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, who turn away from the truth. 15 To the pure all things are pure but to the defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but by their works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and for every good work reprobate.
:
;

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XIV CHRISTIAN BAPTISM


believe the Scriptures teach that Christian the immersion in water of a believer in Christ. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 8:36-39 And as they went along the way, they came to a certain water. And the eunuch says, Behold, here is water; what forbids my being baptized (immersed). 37 And Phillip said, If thou
(1).

We

baptism

is

believest with all thy heart thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still. And they went down both into the water, both Phillip and the eunuch; and he baptized (immersed) him. 39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip and the eunuch saw him no more, for he went on his way rejoicing. Matt. 3:5, 6 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about the Jordan; 6 and they were baptized (immersed) by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. John 3 :22, 23 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized (immersed). 23 And John also was baptizing (immersing) in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there; and they came, and were baptized (immersed). John 4:1, 2 When therefore the Lord knew that the Pharisees heard, that Jesus is making and baptizing (immersing) more disciples than John 2 although Jesus himself was not baptizing (immersing), but his disciples, 3 he left Judea, and departed again into Galilee. Matt. 28:19 Go therefore and disciple all the nations, baptizing (immersing) them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. (2). Into the name of the Father, and Son, and Holy Ghost. Scripture Proof Texts: Matt. 28:19 Baptizing (immersing) them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:47, 48 Can any one forbid the water, that who have rethese should not be baptized (immersed) ceived the Holy Spirit as well as we? 48 And he directed them to be baptized (immersed) in the name of Jesus Then they asked him to remain some days. Christ. For all ye who were baptized (imGal. 3:27, 28 mersed) into Christ, did put on Christ. 28 There is neither
;

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Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is no male and female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (3). To show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem his faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, with its effect, in his death to sin and resurrection to a new life. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 6:4 We were buried therefore with him through our baptism (immersion) into his death, that as Christ was raised from the dead, through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness

of

life.

Having been buried with him in your BapCol. 2:12 tism (immersion), wherein ye were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead. (4). That it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation, and to the Lord's Supper. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 2:41, 42 Those then that welcome his words, were baptized (immersed) and there were added on that day about three thousand souls. 42 And they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the distribution, the breaking of bread, and the prayers. Matt. 28:19, 20 Go therefore and disciple all the nations, baptizing (immersing) them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatever I commanded you and, behold, I am with you all the days, to the end of the age.

XVTHE
(1).

LORD'S SUPPER

believe the Scriptures teach that the Lord's a provision of bread and wine, representing Christ's body and blood, partaken of by the members of the Church assembled for that purpose. Scripture Proof Texts: Luke 22:19, 20 And taking a loaf, he gave thanks, and broke it, and gave to them, saying, This is my body which is given for you this do in remembrance of me. 20 And the cup in like manner after supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you. Mark 14:20-26 And he said to them, It is one of the twelve, one that dips with me in the dish. 21 Because the Son of man goes, as it is written concerning him but woe to that man through whom the Son of man is betrayed 22 It were good for him if that man had not been born.

We

Supper

is

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as they were eating, he took a loaf, and blessed and broke, and gave it to them, and said, Take it; this is my body. 23 And taking a cup, he gave thanks, and gave it to them and they all drank of it. 24 And he said to them, This is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many. 25 Verily I say to you, I will no more drink of the fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. 26 And having sung praises, they went out into the Mount of Olives.
;

And

Matt. 26 :27-30 And he took a cup, and gave thanks, to them, saying, Drink of it, all of you. 28 For this is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many, unto remission of sins. 29 And I say to you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you, in the kingdom of my Father. 30 And having sung praises, they went out into the Mount of Olives.

and gave

I Cor. 11 :27-30 So that whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily, will be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he that eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself, if he discern not the body. For this cause many among you are weak and sick, and not a few

sleep.

The cup of blessing which we bless, is I Cor. 10:16 not communion of the blood of Christ? The loaf which we break, is it not communion of the body of Christ?
it

(2). In

commemoration
:

of the death of their Lord.

Scripture Proof Texts

ye eat of this bread,


Lord's death
till

I Cor. 11 :26 For as often as and drink the cup, ye proclaim the

he come. Teaching them to observe all things Matt. whatever I commanded you and, behold, I am with you all the days, to the end of the age. 28:20

(3). Showing their faith and their participation in the merits of his sacrifice, their dependence on him for

and nourishment. Scripture Proof Texts: John 6:35, 54-56 Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life. He that comes to me shall not hunger, and he that believes on me shall never thirst. 54 He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood has eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 He that
spiritual life

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my
.

flesh

and drinks

my

blood, abides in

me and

in him.

(4) And their hope of life eternal through his resurrection from the dead; its observance to be preceded by faithful self-examination. Scripture Proof Texts: I Cor. 11:28 But let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup. Acts 2:42, 46 And they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the distribution, the breaking of bread, and the prayers. 46 And daily attending with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at their homes, they partook of food with gladness and singleness of heart. Acts 20 :7, 11 And on the first day of the week, when we had come together to break bread, Paul discoursed to

them (being about

to depart on the morrow), and pro11 And having come longed the speech until midnight. up again, and broken the bread, and eaten, he conversed a long while even till break of day, and so departed.

XVITHE LORD'S DAY


(1). We believe the Scriptures teach that the first day of the week is the Lord's day. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 20:7 And on the first day of the week, when we had come together to break bread, Paul discoursed to them (being about to depart on the morrow), and prolonged the speech until midnight. (2). And is to be kept sacred to religious purposes. Scripture Proof Texts: Exod. 20:8 Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Rev. 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day; and I heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet. Psa. 118:24 This is the day Jehovah has made; will exult and be glad in it. (3). By abstaining from all secular labor, except works of mercy and necessity. Scripture Proof Texts: Isa. 58:13, 14 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, Not pursuing thy business on my holy day And call the sabbath a delight, [And] the holy of Jehovah honorable; And wilt honor it, not doing thine own ways, Nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking [thine

We

own] words:

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And
father

Then thou wilt delight thyself in Jehovah; I will make thee to ride upon the high places of
I will

the earth;

And

feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy


it.

For the mouth of Jehovah has spoken Isa. 56:2-8

Happy

man who

Who
his

is the man who practices this, and the son of holds fast to it keeps the sabbath from profaning it, and keeps

hand from doing any

evil.

3 Let not the foreigner

who has

joined himself to

Jehovah say,

And

" 'Jehovah will surely separate me from his people' let not the eunuch say, 'Behold, I am a dry tree'

4 For thus says Jehovah to the eunuchs who keep my sabbaths, And choose the things that please me, and hold fast

by

my
5

covenant:

To them will I give in my house and within my walls a monument and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name, which shall not
be cut
off.

6 Also the foreigners who have joined themselves to Jehovah, to serve him, And to love the name of Jehovah, to be his servants,

Such as keep the sabbath from profaning


fast by

it,

and hold

my

covenant;
will I

Even them

bring to

And make them

joyful in

my holy mountain, my house of prayer:

Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon my alter: For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all
people."
8

The

oracle of the
still

Lord Jehovah who gathers the

outcast of Israel,
"I will gather are gathered."

others to him, besides his

own

that

(4). By the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public and by preparation for that rest that remaineth for the people of God.
;

Scripture Proof Texts: Heb. 10:24, 25And let us consider one another, to incite to love and to good works; 25 not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as

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the custom of some, but exhorting one another, and so the more as ye see the day approaching. Acts 13:44 And on the next Sabbath, almost the whole city was gathered together to hear the word of God.

much

XVII CIVIL GOVERNMENT


(1).

ment

is

We believe the Scriptures teach that civil governof divine appointment, for the interest and good

order of human society. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 13:1-7 Let every soul submit himself to the [civil] authorities that are over him. For there is no authority but from God; and those that exist have been appointed by God. 2 So that he that sets himself against the authority, resists the ordinance of God; and they that resist will receive to themselves condemnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And dost thou wish not to fear the authority? Do that which is good, and thou wilt have praise from him 4 for he is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, fear, for he bears not the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil. 5 Wherefore it is necessary to submit yourselves, not only because of the wrath, but also because of conscience. 6 For, on this account ye pay tribute also; for they are God's ministers, attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render to all their dues; tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. (2). And that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored, and obeyed. Scripture Proof Texts: Matt. 22:21 They say to him, Caesar's. Then says he to them, Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are

God's. Titus 3:1 Remind them to submit themselves to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every

good work.

I Pet. 2:13 Be subject to every human institution, for the Lord's sake; whether to the king, as pre-eminent, 14 or to governors as sent through him for the punishment of evildoers, and the praise of those who do well. I Tim. 2:1-8 I exhort then, first of all, that supplication, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men; 2 for kings, and all that are in authority; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and de-

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corum. 3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of our Saviour God; 4 who wishes all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 who gave himself a ransom for all, the testimony to be given in due season; 7 for which I was appointed a preacher, and an apostle (I speak truth, I lie not), a teacher of Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 I wish therefore that the men pray in every place, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and disputing.
(3). Except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ! Scripture Proof Texts Acts 5 :29 But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
:

Matt. 10:28 And fear not those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Dan. 3:15-18 Now if ye are ready when ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and symphony, and all kinds of music, to fall down and worship the image which I have made, [well] but if ye do not worship, ye shall be thrown at once into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God who can de16 Shadrach, Meshach, and liver you out of my hands? NebuchadAbednego answered and said to the king, nezzar, We have no need to answer thee in this matter.

17 If our God whom we serve is able to deliver us king, from the burning fiery furnace, and from thy hand,

he will deliver us.


king, that we 18 But if not, be it known to thee, not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Dan. 6 :7-10 All the royal ministers of the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counsellors and the governors, have consulted together that the kingdom should establish a statue, and make a strong interdict, that whosoever shall make a petition of any god or man for thirty king, shall be thrown into the lion's days, except of thee, pit. 10 And when Daniel learned that the document had been drawn up, he went to his house (now he had in his upper chamber windows opened toward Jerusalem) and three times a day he knelt upon his knees, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he had been accustomed
will

to do.

With a Brief History


Acts 4:18-20

of Baptist Organizations

173

And

having called them, they charged

them not to speak at all, nor teach, in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answering said to them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard. (4). Who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the
Prince of the kings of the earth. Scripture Proof Texts: Matt, 23 :10 Neither be called Guides; for one is your Guide, the Christ. Rev. 19:16 And he has on his garment, and on his thigh, a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF

LORDS.

Psa. 72:11 And all kings shall bow down to him; All nations shall serve him. Psa. 2:1-12 Why do the nations rage, And peoples imagine a vain thing, 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And rulers take counsel together, Against Jehovah, and against his Anointed? 3 Let us break their bands asunder, And cast away their cords from us. 4 He that sits in the heavens will laugh; The Lord will deride them. 5 Then will he speak to them in his anger, And will confound them in his hot displeasure 6 Yet it is I that have anointed my king, On Zion, my holy mount. 7 I will declare the decree. Jehovah said to me, Thou art my Son I this day have begotten thee. 8 Ask of me, And I will give the nations for thine inheritance, And the ends of the earth for thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; Thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. 10 Now then, ye kings, be wise; Be warned, ye judges of the earth. 11 Serve Jehovah with fear; And rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and ye perish in the

way; For quickly

will his
all

anger burn.
their trust in him.

Happy are

who put

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Rom. 14:9-13 For to this end Christ died, and lived, that he might be Lord of both dead and living. 10 But thou, why doest thou judge thy brother? Or thou also, why doest thou despise thy brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment-seat of God. 11 For it is written, As I live, says the Lord, to me every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess to God. 12 So then, each one of us will give account concerning himself to God. 13 Let us therefore no longer judge one another; but judge this rather, not to put a stumbling-block, or an occasion to fall, in a brother's way.

XVIIIRIGHTEOUS

AND WICKED

believe the Scriptures teach that there is a (1) radical and essential difference between the righteous and

We

the wicked. Scripture Proof Texts: Mai. 3:18 Then ye will once more discern between the righteous and the wicked. Between him who serves God and him who serves

him

not.

Prov. 12:26 The righteous will guide his fellow; But the way of the wicked leads them astray. Woe to those who call evil good and good Isa. 5:20

evil;

put darkness far light, and light for darkness; put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Gen. 18:23 And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou even take away the righteous with the wicked? Therefore thus says Jehovah. Jer. 15:19 If thou return, then will I cause thee again to stand

Who Who

before me;
as

thou shalt separate the genuine from the base, shalt thou be: They shall turn to thee, but thou shalt not turn to them. Acts 10 :34, 35 And Peter opened his mouth and said, Truly I perceive that God is not a respecter of persons; 35 but in every nation he that fears him, and works righteousness, is acceptable to him. Rom. 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye present yourselves servants unto obedience, his servants ye are whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? (2). That such only as are regenerate, being justified
if

And

my mouth

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

175

through faith in Jesus Christ and sanctified by the Spirit of God, are truly righteous in his esteem. Scripture Proof Texts: Rom. 1:17 For in it is revealed God's righteousness, from faith to faith; as it is

written,
I

But the righteous shall live by faith. John 2:29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know

that every one that does righteousness has been begotten of him. Little children, let no one deceive you. I John 3:7 He that does righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. Rom. 6:18, 21 And being made free from sin, became servants of righteousness. 21 What fruit therefore had ye then in those things of which ye are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But being judged, we are chastened by I Cor. 11 :32 the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Prov. 11 :31 Lo, the righteous on earth shall be requited Much more the wicked and the sinner. I Pet. 4:17, 18 Because the season is come that judgment should begin from the house of God; and if it begin first from us, what will be the end of those who obey not the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous is with difficulty saved, where will the ungodly and sinner appear? (3). While all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are, in his sight, wicked and under the curse. Scripture Proof Texts: I John 5:19 We know that we are of God, and the whole world is lying in the evil one. Gal. 3:10 For as many as are of works of law are under a curse; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continues not in all the things written in the book of the law, to do them. John 3:36 He that believes on the Son has eternal life; but he that disbelieves the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. Isa. 57:21 There is no peace, says my God, for the wicked. Psa. 10:4 The wicked, through his pride of countenance, will not seek; God is not in all his thoughts. Isa. 55 :6, 7 Seek ye Jehovah while he may be found, Call ye upon him while he is near 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts:

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And let him return unto Jehovah, and he mercy upon him;

will

have

and

to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. (4). And this distinction holds among men, both in after death. Scripture Proof Texts Prov. 14 :32 In his calamity
:

And

the wicked is driven away. But the righteous has trust in his death.

Luke 16:25 But Abraham said, Child, remember that thy life time thou receivedst thy good things in full, and Lazarus in like manner the evil things but now here, he is comforted and thou art in anguish. John 8 :21-24 Then he said to them again, I am going away, and ye will seek me, and will die in your sin. Where 22 The Jews therefore said, I am going, ye cannot come. Will he kill himself? because he says, Where I am going ye cannot come. 23 And he said to them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above. Ye are from this world; I am not from this world. 24 I said therefore to you, that ye will die in your sins; for unless ye believe that I am the One, ye will die in your sins. Prov. 10:24 The dread of the wicked, that shall come
in
;

upon him; But the desire of the righteous he will grant. Luke 12 :4, 5 And I say to you my friends, fear not those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom ye are to fear;

after he has killed has authority to cast into say to you, fear him. Luke 11:23-26 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathers not with me scatters. 24 When the unclean spirit is gone out from the man, it goes through waterless places, seeking rest; and finding none it says, I will return into my house whence I came out. 25 And coming, it finds it swept and set in order. 26 Then it goes, and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they enter in and dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. John 12:25, 26 He that loves his life loses it; and he that hates his life in this world will keep it unto eternal life. 26 If any one serve me, let him follow me and where If any one serve me, I am, there will also my servant be. him will the Father honor. Eccl. 3:17 I said in my heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked; for there is a time for every purpose and for every work.

fear him,
;

who
I

hell

yea,

With a Brief History

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111

XIX^THE WORLD TO COME


(1). We believe the Scriptures teach that the end of the world is approaching. Scripture Proof Texts: I Peter 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand. Be therefore sober, and watch unto prayers. I Cor. 7:29-31 But this I say, brethren, the time is shortened; that henceforth both those who have wives be as though they had none; 30 and those that weep, as though they wept not; and those that rejoice, as though they rejoice not; and those that buy, as though they possessed not 31 and those that use the world, as not abusing it; for the fashion of this world is passing away. Heb. 1:10-12 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning, didst found the earth, 10 And the heavens are the works of thy hands; They will perish, but thou abidest; II And they all will become old, as does a garment, 12 And as a mantle thou wilt roll them up, as a garment they will be changed But thou art the same, And thy years will not fail. Matt. 24:35 Heaven and earth will pass away; but my words will not pass away. (2). That at the last day Christ will descend from heaven. Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 1:11 Who also said, Men of Galilee, why stand ye looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye beheld him going into heaven. I Thess. 4:13-18 But we wish you not to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who are sleeping, in order that ye sorrow not, as do the rest who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, so also those who fell asleep through Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say to you, by the word of the Lord, that we the living who remain to the coming of the Lord, shall by no means precede those who fell asleep. 16 Because the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we the living, who remain will be caught up together with them in clouds into the air to meet the Lord; and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 So then, console one another with these words.

178
(3).

Who's

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And

raise the dead

from the grave for

final retri-

bution.

Scripture Proof Texts: Acts 24:15 Having a hope toward God, which these themselves also look for, that there will be a resurrection both of righteous and unrighteous. I Cor. 15:12-58 But if Christ is preached that he has been raised from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of dead men? 13 But if there is no resurrection of dead men, then neither has Christ been raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised, then is our preaching vain, vain also your faith. 15 And we are found also false witnesses of God because we testified in respect to God, that he raised up the Christ; whom he raised not, if it be so that no dead are raised up. 16 For if no dead are raised up, neither has Christ been raised; 17 and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If in this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all men most pitiable. 20 But as it is Christ has been raised from the dead, a firstfruit of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since through man came death, through man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ will all be made alive. 23 But each in his own rank; Christ a first-fruit; then they who are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then comes the end, when he delivers up the kingdom to God even the Father; when he has done

rule, and every authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he has put all the enemies under his feet. 26 As the last enemy, Death is done away with. For the Father subjected all things under his feet. 27 But even when he says, All things are subjected, it is manifest that the one is excepted, who subjected all things to him. 28 And whenever all things have been subjected to him, then will the Son also himself be subjected to the one who subjected all things to him, that God may be all in all. 29 Else what will they do who are baptized (immersed) for the dead? If no dead are raised at all, why then are they baptized (immersed) for them? 30 why are we also in peril every hour? 31 Daily do I die, I protest by the glorying in you, brethren, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord. 32 If after the manner of men I fought with wild beast at Ephesus, what is the profit to me? If the dead

away with every

rise not.

With a Brief History

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179

Let us eat and drink

For tomorrow we

die.

33 Be not led astray; evil companionships corrupt good morals. 34 Awake to soberness righteously, and sin I say it to not; for some have not knowledge of God. shame you. 35 But some one will say, How are the dead raised? And with what kind of body do they come? 36 Thou foolish one! what thou thyself sowest is not made alive, unless it die; 37 and what thou sowest, not the body that will be sowest thou, but a bare grain, it may be of wheat, or of some other kind. 38 But God gives it a body just as he pleased, and to each of the seeds a body of its own. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh; but there is one flesh of men, another flesh of beast, another flesh of birds, another of fishes. 40 There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; but the glory of the heavenly is one, and that of the earthly is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. 43 It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. 44 It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual. 45 So also it is written, The first man Adam became a living soul; the last Adam a life giving spirit. 46 Yet the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we bore the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 And this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 And when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then will come to pass the word that is written, Death has been swallowed up in victory. 55 death, is thy victory? Where, Where, death, is thy
.

180
sting?

Who's

Who Among North

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56 The sting of death is sin; and the power of 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
sin is the law.
!

Luke 14:14 And happy shalt thou be, because they cannot recompense thee; for thou shalt be recompensed at
the resurrection of the righteous.

Dan. 12

:2

And many of them that


some
to
will
:

sleep in the dust


life,

of the earth shall awake,

some

to

shame

everlasting and everlasting abhorrence.

and

(4).

That a solemn separation

then take place.

Scripture Proof Texts Matt. 13 :49 So will it be in the end of the age. The angels will go forth, and will separate the wicked from the midst of the righteous. Matt. 13:37-43 And answering he said to them, he that sows the good seed is the Son of man. 38 The field is the world. The good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; but the darnel are the sons of the evil one, 39 and the enemy that sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels. 40 As therefore the darnel are gathered up and burned with fire, so will it be in the end of the age. 41 The Son of man will send forth his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all things that cause stumbling, and those who do iniquity, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire; there will be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth! 43 Then will the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He that has ears, let him hear. Matt. 24:30-31 * And then will appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven; and then will all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they will see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. 31 And he will send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Matt. 25:31-33 When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then will he sit on the throne of his glory. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations and he will separate them one from another, 33 as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep he will set on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

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181

(5). That the wicked will be adjudged to endless sorrow, and the righteous to endless joy. Heaven and Scripture Proof Texts: Matt. 24:35-41 earth will pass away; but my words will not pass away. 36 But concerning that day and hour, no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but the father only. 37 But as the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of man. 38 For as they were in the days before the flood, eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, 39 and they knew not until the flood came, and took all away; so will be the coming of the Son of man. 40 Then will there be two men in the field, one is taken, and one is left; 41 two women grinding at the mill, one is taken and one is left. Matt. 25:31-46 When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then will he sit on the throne of his glory. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations; and he will separate them one from another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 The sheep he will set on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then will the king say to those on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry, and ye gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; 36 naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me I was in prison, and ye came to me. 37 Then will the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry and fed thee, or thirsty and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger and took thee in, or naked and clothed thee? 39 When saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came to thee? 40 And the King will answer and say to them, Verily I say to you, in so far as ye did it to one of the least of these my brethren, ye did it to me. 41 Then will he say also to those on the left hand, Depart from me, ye accursed, into the eternal fire, prepared for the Devil and his angels; 42 for I was hungry, and ye did not give me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye did not give me drink; 43 I was a stranger, and ye did not take me in naked, and ye did not clothe me; sick, and in prison, and ye did not visit me. 44 Then will they also answer, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister to thee? 45 Then will he answer them, saying, Verily I say to you, In so far as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye

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did

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it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Rev. 22:11 He that is unrighteous, let him be unrighteous still and he that is filthy, let him be made filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him do righteousness still and he that is holy, let him be made holy still. I Cor. 6:9, 10 Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not led astray; neither fornicators, nor idolators, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with me, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, will inherit the kingdom of God. Mark 9 43-48 And if thy hand causes thee to stumble, cut it off; it is good for thee to enter into life maimed, rather than having the two hands to go into hell, into the fire that is unquenchable. 45 And if thy foot causes thee to stumble, cut it off it is good for thee to enter life lame, rather than having the two feet to be cast into hell. 47 And if thine eye causes thee to stumble, pluck it out; it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire; 48 where their worm dies not, and the fire is not quenched.

(6). And that this judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell on principles of righteousness.

Scripture Proof Texts: II Thess. 1:6-12 Since it is a righteous thing with God to recompense affliction to those who afflict you, 7 and to you who are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power, 8 in flaming fire, taking vengeance on those who know not God, and those who obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus; 9 who will suffer justice, eternal destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power; 10 when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all who believed (because our testimony to you was believed), in that day. 11 To which end we also pray for you always, that our God may account you worthy of the calling, and accomplish every desire for goodness and work of faith, with power; 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. I Cor. 4:5 So then do not judge any thing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the coun-

With a Brief History


sels of the hearts;

of Baptist Organizations

183

and then

will each one

have his praise

from God.
is

Acts 17:31 Because he has fixed a day, in which he going to judge the inhabited earth in righteousness, by a man whom he has appointed, having given assurance to all by raising him from the dead. Rom. 2:2-16 Now we know that the judgment of God is according to truth, upon those who practice such things. 3 And reckonest thou this, man, that judgest those who practice such things, and doest them, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 4 Or despisest thou the riches of his kindness, and forbearance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God is leading thee to repentance; 5 and according to thy hardness and impenitent heart, art laying up for thyself wrath in the day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 6 who will render to every man according to his works 7 to those who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life 8 but to those who are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation, 9 tribulation and distress, on every soul of man that works evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Greek; 10 but glory and honor and peace to every man that works good, to the Jew first, also to the Greek. 11 For there is no respect of person with God. 12 For as many as sinned without law will also perish without law; and as many as sinned with law will be judged by law; 13 for not the hearers of law are righteous before God, but the doers of law will be justified: 14 (for when Gentiles, who have no law, do by nature the things required by law, these, having no law, are a law to themselves; 15 who show the work of law written in their hearts, their conscience testifying with it, and between one another their thoughts accusing or also excusing) 16 in the day when God will judge the secrets of men, according to my gospel, through Jesus Christ.

I saw a great white throne, and from whose face the earth and the heavens fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne. And books were opened; and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life and the dead were judged out of the things that were written in the

Rev. 20:11, 12
sat on

And

him who

it,

books, according to their works.

184
I

Who's

Who Among North

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And now, little children, abide in him; he be manifested, we may have confidence, and not turn away from him with shame at his coming. I John 4:17 In this has love been perfected with us, that we may have confidence in view of the day of judgment; because even as he is, so we also are in this world. Seeing that all these things are thus II Pet. 3:11, 12 dissolving, what manner of men ought ye to be, in all holy conduct and godliness? 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved, and the elements will melt with burning heat.
John 2:28
that, if

MS *r

Who's
Negro

Who
Carolina

Among North

Baptists

186

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. Robert Prentis Daniel


President,

Shaw
2,

University

PERSONALBorn

1902; son of Mrs. Carrie twentyeight years secretary of Virginia State College, after whom the Daniel Memorial Hall on the campus of that institution is named. Married to Mrs. Blanche Taylor Daniel, a graduate of Virginia Union University and registrar of the same institution. A.B. 1924, Training Virginia Union University; A.M. 1928, Columbia University Ph.D. 1932, Columbia University. Positions Professor of Education and Director of the Division of Education, Psychology and Philosophy, Virginia Union University, Richmond; Director, Extension Division, Virginia Union University; President, Virginia State Teachers Association; Visiting Professor of Educa-

November

Green Daniel and the

late Charles J. Daniel, for

o n,

Graduate Division,
Institute

Hampton
Germany,

Foreign Travel
representing Y. M. C. A.

Traveled
:

Summer

School.
in

Italy, Switzerland,

Kings

England, Scotland, France, Holland and Czechoslovakia, Mountain Area National Student

Religious Activities Member, Ebenezer Baptist Church, Richmond, Va., and for several years was the financial secretary of the church. Formerly corresponding secretary of the B. Y. P. U. Council of Richmond. Formerly statistical secretary of the Virginia Baptist State Sunday School Convention and the State Baptist Young People's Unions. Communities Activities Member of the Board of Trustees, Friends Association for Dependent Children, Richmond; member of the Board of Trustees, Richmond Community Center; member of the Advisory Board and Director of Training, Colored Scouts, Richmond Area Council of Boy Scouts of America.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

187

American Psychological Association, NaAffiliations tional Education Association, National Association of Teachers in Colored Schools, Virginia Society for Research, Vir-

Advancement

ginia Inter-racial Commission, National Association for the of Colored People, National Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Occupational Positions Instructor in Mathematics, Virginia Union University, 1922-25; Instructor in English and Education, Virginia Union University, 1925-26 Assistant Professor of Education, Virginia Union University, 1926-28 Professor of Education and Director of Extension Division, Virginia Union University, 1928-36; also Director of the Division of Education, Psychology and Philosophy, 1932-36 Visiting Professor of Education, Graduate Division, Hampton Institute, Summer School, 1935-1936; President, Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, 1936-.

(Courtesy of the

Shaw

University Bulletin)

188

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. P. A. Bishop
A. BISHOP was born in Rich Square, N. C, the town in which he now makes his home. He is the son of David and Hannah Bishop. He attended the public school in Northhampton County, then the W. S. Creecy High School at Rich Square, Roanoke Institute

THE REV. PAUL

in

Elizabeth

City

and Virginia Union University in Richmond, Va. He was ordained at Antioch Baptist Church in Jackson, N. C, in 1928.
Since his ordination his career has been one of inHe creasing usefulness. served and is now serving some of the most prominent churches in his part of the State. Namely First Baptist, Murf reesboro First Baptist in Rich
:

Square; Zoar Baptist, Pendleton; Pottecassi Baptist,

New Haven Sandy Branch


;

N. C. The brethren in Eastern North Carolina several years ago elected him president of the Lott Carey Conference and executive secretary of the District Baptist Conin Roxobel,

vention, historian of the West Roanoke Association and secretary of the Beula Association. In August, 1940, the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina elected Rev. Bishop president. Thus placing him at the head of the more than two hundred thousand Negro Baptists in the State. From the place of a rural preacher, he has reached the highest office which the denomination has to give. Mrs. Bishop was the former Miss Viola Taylor; their children are P. A., Jr., Geraldine, Wendell and Georgia. Being a man of much energy and thrift Rev. Bishop has been principal of the Roxobel Training School for twenty-two years, secretary of Love and Charity Society and founder and manager of the L. & C. Casket Company of Rich Square. He is also treasurer and manager of the
:

Roanoke-Chowan Credit Union.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

189

Aaron McDuffie Moore


September
6,

1863

April

29,

1923

Sunday School, White Rock Baptist Church in Durham, chairman of the Trustee Board of White Rock Baptist Church in Durham, and president of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention. Founder and superintendent of Lincoln
;

SUPERINTENDENT,

Hospital,

Durham founder and president of the Durham Colored Library; organizer of the Rural School Work

among Negroes

in

North

Carolina, and a member of the Board of Trustees of

Shaw
leigh.

University

in

Ra-

Director of the Mutual Building and Loan Association in Durham; vice president of the Bankers Fire

Insurance Company, Dur-

ham;

vice president of the

Mechanics and Farmers Bank, Durham and Raleigh, and president of the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company.
"Tis not given to Mortal Man to see beyond the vale Yet in the eternal fitness of things it must have been That the one Great Scorer closed this record with a
smile."

"For greater love hath no man than this That a man lay down his life for his friends."

190

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. A.

W. Pegues,

A.B., Ph.D., D.D.


DR. A. W.
ated

PEGUES
Lewiston,
to

of

Raleigh, N.
versity,
in 1886.

C, graduPa.,

from Bucknell Uniin

He came

University in 1887 as of the College Department. Later accepted a position as missionary for the Baptist State Convention. He returned to Shaw as Dean of the Theological Department. He served for a number of years as principal of the Deaf and Blind School. Finally going back to Shaw as Dean of the Theological Department

Shaw Dean

where he remained
his death.

until

For 35 years he served as Corresponding Secretary of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention of North Carolina.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

191

John Winston Hairston


JOHN WINSTON HAIRSTON, Asheville, N. C, was born in Stokes County, N. C, June 4, 1878. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Winston and Letitia Hairston. He received his early education in the public schools of Stokes and Davie counties. Later at Shiloh Institute, Warrenton, N. C, then to Livingstone College, Salisbury, N. C. Rev. Hairston was ordained to the Gospel minDR.
istry,

December

4,

1897, at

Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Davie County, N. C. He has pastored successfully the
:

following

churches Cedar Grove, Davie County; First Baptist, Lexington, N. C, and Shady Grove, Salisbury, N. C. He is now pastoring Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Asheville, N. C. Perhaps this church has the largest

membership of any Negro church in North Carolina. His first marriage was to Miss Mary Chambers, Salisbury, N. C. The second marriage to Miss Annie Mae Miller of Asheville. The children: Roy Charles, John Winston, and James Edison. His fraternal affiliations: Mason, Odd Fellow and Phythians. He is first vice president General Baptist Convention treasurer, Western Sunday School Convention; member executive board of
;

tnii

Lott Carey Foreign Missionary Convention member executive board National Baptist Convention; member State In;

Commission of North Carolina; secretary, Rowan Baptist Association, and custodian of the Rowan Association's property. He received his A.B. and D.D. degrees from Livingstone College, Salisbury, N. C, and his D.D. from Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C.
terracial

192

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. C.
REV. CALVIN SCOTT
lina,

S.

Brown

BROWN of Winton, North Carowas one of the most useful and widely known Baptists that North Carolina has produced in two generations. He served some official position in the State Convention for more than
forty

Thirty-nine years. years as president of the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention. He was

the

founder of Waters Training School and operated


it

for fifty years.

He
Eu-

made

trips to Africa,

rope and Haiti in interest He was of mission work.

moderator of the West Roanoke Baptist Association and pastored from three to five rural churches during
his entire public career of

more than a number

fifty years.

For

of years he

was

editor of the Baptist Pilot.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

193

Rev. Joseph

Edward
7,

Tillett

THE REV. JOSEPH EDWARD TILLETT


Moyock, N. C, September

and Matilda

Tillett.

He

was born at 1889. He is the son of Isaac received his early training in the
from Roanoke

public school at Moyock and later graduated Collegiate Institute at Elizabeth City, N. C. He was ordained to the minis-

try at Moyock, N. C, on October 12, 1913. On March 12, 1912, Rev. Tillett was

married to Miss Matilda Duggins. To this union three children were born:

Joseph

R.,

(deceased)

George Edward and Lula Mae.


Rev. Tillett has served the following churches as
pastor,

namely

Weeping
;

Mary Baptist Church, Jamesville, N. C. Long


Ridge Baptist Church, Plymouth, N. C; New Sawyer Creek, Belcross, N. C. and Baptist Rock Church, North West, Va. He is at present the pastor of the Warren Grove Baptist Church, Edenton, N. C, and Cornerstone Baptist Church, Greenville, N. C. Rev. Tillett is the moderator of the Roanoke Missionary Baptist Association, president of the North Eastern District General Baptist Convention and second vice president of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina. He served ten years as secretary of the Roanoke Association and five years as moderator of the Middle Ground Union Meeting, an auxiliary to the Roanoke Association. Aside from his many duties, Rev. Tillett is pursuing a classical theological course in the Pikes Peak Bible Seminary, Manatau, Col. He is vice president of the Winston Mutual Life Insurance Company. Rev. Tillett owns a splendid home and other property in the city. His material progress has been commensurate with his opportunities.
;

194

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. R. R. Cartwrig-ht

REUBEN RALPH CARTWRIGHT


27, 1868, at Belcross,

was born on August N. C, and has back of him years of successful work as pastor and leader. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Miles and Ann L. Jarvis Cartwright. He
went
of
to the public schools
to

Camden County, then

State Normal. Later he attended Roanoke Institute, Elizabeth City,

Plymouth

where he

received

his

B.Th. degree and the Afro-

American Institute, in Washington, D. C, which conferred upon him in 1912


the degree of D.D. He was ordained to the ministry in the Sawyer Creek Baptist

Church
in 1895.

in Belcross, N.

C,

Rev. Cartwright was married to Miss Charity L. Lilly on June 8, 1898, to which union were born five children, three boys and

two girls. The following survive: C. V. D., W. H. C, Marion A., and Nola B. Mrs. Cartwright passed in 1908, and on December 28, 1910, Dr. Cartwright married Miss Sarah C. Martin, of Popular Branch, N. C. To this union were born four children: Rev. J. F. G., M. W. D., R. R., and Annie L. Cartwright. Cartwright taught in the State Normal Collegiate Institute for five years. He resigned this position to become general missionary for North Carolina under the direction of the Publishing Board of the National Baptist Convention. In 1901 he was called to the Oak Grove Baptist Church, Hickory, Va., which he served for 18 years. Among the other churches he has served are: First Baptist, Roper; First Baptist, Rich Square, and many rural churches. He served as president of the North East Bound Union Meeting of Eastern, N. C, for fifteen years, later as moderator of the West Roanoke Association. He served as president of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina. He takes a leading part in all the affairs pertaining to the uplift of his race.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

195

Dr. Nelson H. Harris

ADDRESS

717 S. Blount Street, Raleigh, N. C. Born February 24, 1902, Richmond, Va. Parents Mr. and Mrs. John and Sophia Harris, Chesterfield County, Va. Where educated Grammar School, Richmond, Va., Wayland Aca:

demy, Va., Union (graduated 1924), University Michigan, A.M., 1927, and Ph.D., 1938. Church connections Member First Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C. teacher in School and member of trustee board.

Sunday

Married to Miss Gila B. Harris, Arkadelphia, Arkansas, on September 11, 1925, to which were born three children Jerome, Nelson H. and Swayzene.
:

Fraternal connections Psi Phi, Pi Gamma Mu, which is an honorary sociology society. Member of the Governor's Commission on Adult Education (North Carolina) Member of the Advisory Committee of the Education Division of the Radio Station, Charlotte, N. C. Remarks He has taught at the following places 1924-25 at Warren County Training School, Wise, N. C. 1927-29 he taught Education at Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio. Since 1929 he has been connected with Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. At the present time he is director Teacher Training, Shaw University. During the absence of Mr. H. L. Trigg, he was for 18 months inspector of Negro High Schools for North Carolina.

Omega

WBT

196

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dean John Lee


ADDRESS:

Tilley

719 S. Blount Street, Raleigh, N. C. Born August 7, 1898, Stem, Granville County, N. C. Parents Mr. Harvey N. Tilley, Mrs. Emma Glenn Tilley. Education Completed elementary education at Thyne Institute, Chase City, Va. high school work at National

Training ham, N.

School,
C.
;

Dur-

graduated

University Raleigh, N. C, 1925 with A.B. degree 1927, Ph.B. degree, University of Chicago; 1933, M.A. degree, University of Chicago completed resident work for B.D. and Ph.D. degrees at University of Chicago.
;

from Shaw

Wing Baptist, Virgilina, Va. Grassy Creek Baptist, Bullocks, N. C. Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, Durham, N. C; Mt. Vernon Baptist, Stem, N. C. First Baptist, Apex, N. C. Second Baptist, East End, Newport News, Va. Assistant Pastor and Director of Religious Education, Olivet Baptist Church, Chicago, 111. Married Miss Phyllis G. Jones, daughter of Mr. William Jones and Mrs. Lydia Newman Jones, Springfield, 111. She is a graduate of Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va., and Chicago Teachers' College, Chicago, 111. Children from this union are: Glennette Newman, and John Lee, Jr. Educational and religious connections, past and present: Taught public school in Granville County, N. C, one year; teacher in Theological Department, Shaw University acting Dean of Theological Department, Shaw University he
; ;

Ordained the year of 1921 at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, near Stem, Granville County, N. C. Churches pastored: Blue

served as acting president until the administration of Dr. William Stuart Nelson was acting dean of the College was registrar of Shaw University; now dean of School of Religion, Shaw University head of Division of Religion, Psychology and Philosophy, supervisor of Department of Re;
;

With a Brief History


ligious

of Baptist Organizations

197

Promotion of this institution executive secretary of


;

University's Ministers Conference-Institute; Missionary teacher for Southern Baptist Convention. While a student at the University of Chicago was a member of the Divinity School Glee Club; Co-chairman of Interracial Discussion Group; delegate to World's Students' Conference, Milwaukee, Wis. representative at the Big Ten Colleges "Y" Conference; president of the University of Chicago Religious Education Club; member of the International Cabinet of Youth, and was also a speaker at the Northern Baptist Convention, 1927; moderator of East Cedar Grove Association, for Granville, Durham, Person and Orange counties, North Carolina; member of Ordaining Council of East Cedar Grove Association. Fraternities Alpha Phi Alpha. Business connections Founder and owner of Church and School Service Shop, Raleigh, N. C.
;

Shaw

Remarks Author of a system of finance and records for churches which has been successfully used by a number of churches. This system is known as "THE ORDERLY WAY." Several students have earned their tuitions by serving as salesmen for the Church and School Service Shop. This concern was
organized primarily for the purpose of providing various types of much-needed services for -churches such as: counsel, religious books, music, printing, equipments and supplies.

198

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. C. M. Cartwright, D.D.


C. M. CARTWRIGHT, D.D., 598 Brook Ave., Elizabeth City, N. C, was born March 1, 1864, at Deep Creek, Va. The country was then in the midst of the war that determined whether Negroes should remain slaves or be set free. He is the son _ mmmmm Charles and Adeline of Cartwright. After getting what education he could in the public school at Deep Creek, Va., he attended the

THE REV.

Wayland

Seminary

of

Washington, D. C.

He was

ordained to the ministry at Deep Creek, Va., on October 2, 1887. During his longperiod of service, Dr. Cartwright served the following Baptist churches as pastor Zion Grove, Plymouth, N. Mount Eprew, Roper, C. N. C. Jerusalem, Creswell, N. C. Salem Baptist, Columbia, N. C. Weeping Mary, Jamesville, N. C. Zion Bethlehem, Windsor, N. C. First Baptist, Rich Square, N. C. First Baptist, Severn, N. C. Antioch Baptist, South Mills, N. C. and the Corinth Baptist Church, Jarvisburg,
; ; ; ; ;

30, 1887, Dr. Cartwright was married to Miss Elizabeth Bembry of Edenton, N. C. Their children are Mrs. Addie P. Moore, Rev. C. L. (deceased), who was assistant pastor to his father, and Mrs. Fannie Buttler. Rev. Cartwright received the degree of Doctor of Divinity from the Virginia Seminary and College, Lynchburg, Va. He belongs to the Masonic Order. Dr. Cartwright has been

North Carolina. On August

pastor of the Olive Branch Baptist Church of Elizabeth City for thirty-eight years. During this time a church house and modern pastor's home have been built at a total cost of about thirty thousand dollars. The unique thing about this is, that during his entire ministry in this church, no ticket has been sold, nor a single supper given to raise funds to build or finance the running of that church. The people

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

199

have been trained


cause.

in the Bible

way

of giving to the Lord's

Rev. Cartwright is a thrifty man himself and teaches his people to guard against wastefulness. His ownership of several houses sets an example for them to follow. He instructs them on how to purchase homes for themselves. Dr. Cartwright is a man of strong convictions and courage

and stands by what he believes. During this interview, he drew from his pocket a silver dollar bearing the date 1879, and smilingly said, "that I had that dollar in my pocket is the date of our marriage. then and I have kept it since." In spite of his years, Dr. Cartwright is enthusiastic and enjoys speaking to a large
congregation.

He is moderator of the Progressive Baptist Convention North Carolina and vice president of the Ministers' Conference of the Roanoke Baptist Association.
of

200

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. John
REV. JOHN

Thomas Hairston
of

THOMAS HAIRSTON

Austin

Street,

Greensboro, N. C, was born in Davie County, North Carolina, on September 8, 1876. He is the son of the Rev. Wiseman and Susan Mason Hairston. He attended public school in Davie County, then the Normal School at Salisbury, Livingstone
College,
later

Shaw

Salisbury, and University,

Raleigh,

which
was

N. C, from he received the

B.Th. degree in 1908.

He He

ordained at the Cedar Grove Baptist

Church

in

1900.

served as pastor at China

Grove eight years, Mill Ridge two years, Albemarle, three years, and at Spencer and Reidsville

three
tist

years.

He was

BapN. C, in 1907. He is still the pastor of this congregation, and is much beloved by the members of his church to whom he has endeared himself during his long pastorate among them. A large house of worship is in process of erection. The services are now held in the Sunday school auditorium which has been completed. In point of service he is our senior pastor in that city. Rev. Hairston has been married three times. His first wife, Miss Lucile Ingram Hairston (deceased), whom he married on October 8, 1908, bore him two chilrden, Jasper and Geo. Thomas. Their mother died in 1911. In 1913, Rev. Hairston married Miss Nancy Alice Wright of Asheville, N. C. To this union two children were born, Otis L., and Elmer H. The third Mrs. Hairston was formerly Mrs. Yores of Winston-Salem. For many years Rev. Hairston has been moderator of Rowan Baptist Association. He was president of General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina for eight years and at present is chairman of the Special Committee. He is
called to the Shiloh

Church

in Greensboro,

of the Board of Trustees of Shaw University, his people in whatever way providence directs. The erection of the Shiloh Baptist Church (a brick edifice) under his direction as pastor is one of the outstanding achievements of his successful career.

member

and serves

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

201

Dr.

J. C.

White
He

ADDRESS:

921 E. 13th Street, Winston-Salem, N. C.

was born July 28, 1875, at Richburg, Chester County, S. C, the son of Drayton and Lizzie Westbrook White. He was educated in the public schools of Chester and Rock
After being graduated from the high school of Rock Hill, S. C, he attended Benedict College, Columbia, S. C. In 1926 Friendship College of Rock Hill, S. C., conferred the degree of D.D. upon him. He has studied at J. C. Smith University, Charlotte, N. C. He was ordained to the ministry the year of 1900 at Rock Hill, S. C. Since then he has pastored the following churches Ebenezer, Rock
Hill, S. C.
:

Hill, S.
ville, S.

C,
C.
;

St. Paul,

Lowry-

Corinth, Union,

S.

C.
is

S.

C, and

Bethany, Jonesville, Zion, Columbia.

pastoring the First Baptist Church of Winston-Salem, He has succeeded in paying off an $8,000 debt on the parsonage. He has brought the membership up to approximately 700 and the auxiliaries and members of the church are working in harmony. He has held the following offices: moderator of the Gethsemane Association of S. C, president of the South Carolina State S. S. and B. Y. P. U. Convention, assistant chaplain of State prison, Columbia, S. C. During the World War he headed the drive among colored people in Columbia, S. C. and was active in the interest of government bonds and the Red Cross. He has married twice. His first wife, now deceased, was Miss Nannie Hill; his second wife is Miss Medora Renwick. His three children are Josie Bell; Jos. C, Jr., and Almeta. He is trustee of Morris College, Sumter, S. C, and Benedict College, Columbia, S. C.

He

N. C.

202

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Georgre W. Moore REV. GEORGE W. MOORE, 748 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, was born May 13, 1861, in Sampson County, near Clinton, N. C. He is the son of Reddick
and Lexie Thompson Moore.

He was educated
University,

at

Shaw

Raleigh,

N. C. The following churches are among the


Dr. Moore has served as pastor during his long and useful career: In 1886 he was called to the New Hope Baptist Church at Chapel Hill, N. C. After that he pastored First Baptist,
Fayetteville
;

many which

Central

Baptist, Wilmington, N. C; First Baptist,


Reidsville,

Aberdeen,

Goldston, Troy, Mt. Gilead, Holly Springs,


Spring Branch, WakeGethsemane, Mt. Zion, Raleigh, Mt. Pleasant, and Mt. Moriah in Harnett County. He served as moderator of the Kenansville Eastern Baptist Association and also the Deep River Association. For 18 years he was treasurer of the Union Baptist State Convention. He is a member of the Executive Board of the Lott Carey Convenfield,

Oak

City,

tion.

To quote Dr. Moore's own words "During the fifty-six years as a minister of the Gospel, I spent eight hard years of labor as pastor of the First Baptist Church at Fayetteville. From March until August of the first year there, we supported ourselves from money and provisions saved from labor elsewhere. During that time we built and paid for a parsonage. After a great revival I baptized ninety-two persons in twenty-seven minutes." He was for a number of years State Sunday school missionary and during that time organized the Wake County Sunday School Convention. He attended the Interdenominational Sunday School Convention which met in Toronto, Canada, in 1905. Mrs. Moore was formerly Miss Bessie Walker of Bladenboro, N. C. She is a graduate of State Teachers College at Elizabeth City and is now a teacher in the Garner High School.
:

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

203

Mack William Akins


High School Principal
born January 7, 1918, Birmingham, Ala. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Prince and Doods (Clancy) Akins. He was married June 14, 1923, to Miss Mattie Elizabeth Dickerson. One child, Mack William, Jr., was born April 1, 1924.
Education: High School, University, Selma, Ala., 1918; A.B., Virginia

WAS

Selma

Union University, Richmond, Va., 1923 B.S., Virginia Union University, Richmond, Va., 1927. Professor Biology, Va. Union
;

University, 1923-25; Head Department of Science Teacher of Biology, Washington High School, Raleigh, N. C, 1925-29; Principal High School, Raleigh, N. C, 1929. Interfraternal Alliance, Advisory Council, Boy Scouts, Wake County Social Agencies,

Men's Advisory Committee, Negro Affairs; Committee on Participation of Negroes in State and National Park Site, member N. C. Negro Teachers' Association, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
Religion: Baptist.

Address: Washington High School. Residence: 1009 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, N. C.

204

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Ellen Seabrook Alston


subject of this sketch was born in Franklinton, North Carolina. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lovelest and Caroline Eaton. She received her early training at Franklinton, her home town; later at Cambridge, Mass., and Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va.

THE

Much
ties

in

of her early activithe religious field

were in the First Baptist


Church,
Franklinton,
of

which she is a member. She is Chairman of the Leadership Training Conference of the Woman's State Convention, member of the Executive Board, and Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Junior Department of the Woman's State Convention. Mrs. Alston is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Woman's State Convention and a member of the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Board. She is active in her county in that she is serving as President of the Woman's Home and Foreign Mission Union of Franklin County, a leader in the Sunday school work, Secretary of the P.T.A. of Franklin County, and Assistant Secretary of District No. 3, P.-T.A. Mrs. Alston is regarded in educational circles as one of the best teachers in the county, where she is teaching.

She was married first to Mr. Joseph Seabrook and Mr. G. W. Alston, Louisburg, N. C, where they reside with their family of four children: Bernice, Mozell, Georgia Vivian and Iverna Alston, all of whom are in school and making rapid progress. Mrs. Alston is making a worth-while contribution to the denomination and State in the work which she is doing in her church, her county and her State.
later to

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

205

DR.

L.

J.

ALEXANDER

DR.

0. J.

Wise, N. C. Pastor and Builder.

ALLEN
Church

Pastor, Calvary Baptist Norfolk, Va.

,:<: : ::Wi

wsm

^IIllSliilis
WSm
DR.
C. E.

mm
ASKEW

Leader and Pastor

206

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Lewis T.

Bond

THE REV. LEWIS


March
31,

T.

BOND,

Windsor, N. C, was born

1870. His parents were J. T. and Mary Bond. He attended the public schools in his home county and later entered Shaw University where he took two years' college training. Rev. Bond entered public life as a school He later teacher in Anson, Wake and Bertie counties. taught in the high school in Burgaw, N. C. He served as U. S. postmaster at Windsor, N. C. in 1903. As a pastor, he has served the following Baptist churches Sandy Plains, Pineywood Chapel, Conocanary in Bertie County, Elm Grove and Pleasant Plains in Hertford County, Mt.
:

Pisgah in Burgaw, N. C, Canetuck Baptist Church, Pender County, and First Baptist, Warsaw, N. C. He is at present pastor of Mt. Shiloh Baptist Church, Williamston, N. C, and Cumbo Chapel, Rich Square, N. C. On March 27, 1894, Rev. Bond was married to Miss Fannie Gilliam of Windsor, N. C. Their children are Mrs. Otelia Boone, Lewis T., Jr., Thomas, William D., Mary D., Mrs. Eiizabeth Pruden, J. W., Gilliam and Lillie E. Rev. Bond served as missionary for the Eastern District of N. C. from 1906-1909. He owns a 150-acre farm and other property in Windsor, N. C.
:

Prof.
MR.
J.

J.

W. Bond

A.B., Windsor, N. C, was born January Windsor, N. C. He is the son of Rev. L. T. and Fannie G. Bond. He attended the public school at Windsor and then went to Waters Training School, Winton, N. C. He then entered the North Carolina State College at Durham, N. C, from which he was graduated in 1931 with the Bachelor of Arts degree. He accepted a position as professor of English in the W. S. Etheridge High School in 1931, which position he still holds. Mr. Bond is a member of the Saint Elmo Baptist Church, Windsor, N. C. He teaches a Sunday school class and is a member of the choir. He is a member of the Elk Lodge. He owns a farm of seventy acres in a high state of cultivation.
20, 1908, at

W. BOND,

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

207

Prof.

Thomas

J.

Brown

THOMAS J. BROWN of 1404 Wallace Street, Winston-Salem, N. C, was born in Davie. County, N. C, in 1879. He is the son of Jerry and Susan Brown. He attended the public school of Winston-Salem, N. C. In 1906 he was graduated from Shaw University in Raleigh, N. C, with the A.B. degree. He received his Master of Arts degree from Columbia University, New York, in 1934. He is a member of the First BapChurch of Winstontist Salem. He is clerk of this church and secretary of the deacon board. In 1910 he was married to Miss Mary E. Faison of Clinton, N. C. Their children are: Thomas L., Macie E., Eldrige A.
PROF.
(deceased),

and

Wilhel-

mina.
Prof. Brown is now instructor in social science at

Winston-Salem Teachers College, Winston-Salem. He has been connected with this school since 1911. He is U. S. postmaster at Teachers College also. All of Prof. Brown's children are educated. He owns a beautiful home. Prof. Brown, though busy, still finds time for church work and is evidence that not all educated laymen have forsaken the
church.

208

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Bajitists

Rev.
REV.
J.

J. S.

Brown (Deceased)
.

Rocky Mount, N. C., was born in C, April 3, 1883 (died in 1929) He was the son of Rev. and Mrs. Calvin Brown. He was educated at State Normal in Fayetteville, at Shaw University, Raleigh, and at Union University in ^ ^^ Richmond, Va. He was ordained by the Pee Dee Baptist Missionary and EducaS.

BROWN,
S.

Cheraw,

r3W5sga

tional

Association

at

the

age of 16 years.

pastored nearly thirty years. He served the following

He

churches
ton,
in

St.
;

John

in

Aber-

deen, N. C.

N.

Shiloh in MaxFirst Baptist C.


;

Rockingham,

N.

C.

Nashville Baptist near Laurinburg, and First Baptist

Church
C.

in

Rocky

Mount, N.
J.

He married Miss Martha Perry at Maxton, N. C,

on December 29, 1914. Their children are: James Samuel, Jr., Chrystabelle Delphine, and Martha Valeria. Rev. Brown was a member of the Masons, Odd Fellows and Pythians, was secretary of the Pee Dee Association for fourteen years, vice president of the National Baptist Convention, Inc. member of the National B. T. U. Board, and president of the General Baptist State Convention from 1922 to 1928. He also was principal of the public school at Hasty, N. C, and the Pee Dee Institute in Hamlet, N. C. Rev. Brown was a notable pastor. He began the pastorate at the tender age of 16 years. His work grew and prospered and in every case his greatest gains were the spiritual growth of the church. His churches and Sunday schools always outgrew the house in which he found them. His services were often sought by the brethren to help in settling church disputes. He was elected president of the State Convention at the beginning of what is sometimes called the Baptist recon;

struction period.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

209

The program of unification of the Baptists of the State was worked out under his administration. The Board of Promotion was organized and the headquarters for the Baptist denomination was permanently established in Raleigh. The first five-year plan was tried under the Board of Promotion. The first all-Baptist celebration was held in Raleigh, and a full-time State missionary was placed in the field, whose salary was paid by the white Baptists of the
State.

Rev. Brown died in Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md., February 3, 1929.

210

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists-

Mrs. Martha
MRS.

J.

Brown
University,

MARTHA

J.

BROWN, Shaw

Raleigh,

N. C, was born at Maxton, N. C. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Perry, Maxton, N. C. She was educated at the Thompson Institute in Lumberton, N. C, and the National Religious Training School in Durham, N. C. She was married to Dr. J. S. Brown on December 29, 1914. Their children are James Samuel, Jr., Chrysbelle Delphine,

and Martha

Valeria.

She has been matron and University hostess at


University for eleven She organized the Junior Department of the Woman's Baptist State
years.

Shaw

Convention

in

1925.

She

was

supervisor of the Junior Department for 12


first

She also was founder of the boys' work in the Colored Baptist church in 1923. The Woman's Baptist State Convention adopted the boys' work as a part of their work at the convention in Wilmington, N. C, in 1925. The boys' organizations were "Busy Bees" for boys from six to 12, and Knights of Daniels, for boys from 13 to 18 years of age. She was a special worker for the Woman's American Baptist Home Mission Society for five years, and was elected State missionary for the Woman's Baptist State The Woman's Convention Convention of N. C. in 1930. Convention has grown numerically, financially and spiritually, having grown steadily and increased its missionaries' salaries during the worst depression in the history of the United States. For six years she was the only missionary on the field for any department of the church. She taught the spirit of missions in its correlation of the entire church
years.

program.

Woman's Convention and

missionary conferences sponsored by the held each summer in the ten missionary districts of the State, were organized by Mrs. Brown These conferences have been a great blessing to in 1936. the local workers.

The

district

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

211

In 1938, the convention adopted a resolution from the Junior Department to re-establish the Pattie Shephard Chair of Religious Education at Shaw University so in June, 1939, the first Woman's Leadership Training Conference for Mission Workers was held at Shaw with the plans and program worked out and directed by Mrs. Brown. This conference, though only three years old, is said by many older members of the convention to be the greatest work started by the convention in many years. In the summer of 1940 Mrs. Brown planned and directed the first Rural Life Missionary Conference under the auspices of the convention at Bricks Junior College, in Bricks, N. C. This conference, as well as the one at Shaw, is destined to become a great training center for the Baptist women and young Plans are being studied and people in missionary work. worked out for a missionary camp to be held at Bricks each

summer.

p.

.'::U|^^^^^^^^^^

DR.

E. M.

BRAWLEY
;

Durham, N. C. Former Pastor, White Rock former


Teacher,

Shaw

University

212

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. G. 0. Bullock, D.D.

BULLOCK, missionary for the Western DisNorth Carolina from 1900-1902. He pastored the Friendship Church in Charlotte and the First Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, N. C. He is now pastor of the Third Baptist Church in Washington, D. C.
REV.
G. 0.
trict of

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

213

Rev. Frank L. Bullock


P. 0. Box 403, Enfield, N. C, Halifax County on April 20, 1896. His parents are Rev. H. B. and Mrs. Augusta Bullock. He was educated at Bricks High School in Bricks, North Carolina, at Union University in Richmond, Va., and took extension work at Howard University and Atlanta He was orUniversity. dained to the ministry at Enfield, North Carolina in 1921. He is pastoring at Mt. Zion in Seaboard, Cool Spring in Garysburg, at Daniel Chapel and St. Paul in Enfield, N. C. He has pastored Best Grove in Goldsboro, and Faithful Band in Pleasant Hill, N. C. He has been the auditor in the Neuse River Association for the past seven years and was its corresponding secretary for five years. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Joyner in 1918 to which union one child was born, Dorothy. She died at the age of 16 months. His wife died one year later. He then married the second time to Miss Bertha A. Davis of Wilson, North Carolina, to which union no children have been born. Rev. Bullock has assisted in the educational field as well as done a commendable piece of work in the ministry. He had the responsibility of supporting his family at an early age because of the death of his father. He helped to send to school five brothers and sisters, as well as supplying their every-day needs. Hence, he had to wait later to complete his education; but he continued through the medium of extension work from Howard and Atlanta universities. He is a hard worker and has saved his means. He owns a beautiful home in Enfield and is making a splendid contribution to the cause of Christ through the Baptist Church.

REV.

FRANK

L.

BULLOCK,

was born

in

214

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Bessie E. Barrett

ADDRESS:

723 S. Person Street, Raleigh, N. C. Place of birth Raleigh, N. C. Parents Benjamin and Phoebe Siers Manly. Where educated Garfield School Washington Graded School; St. Augustine's College, Raleigh, N. C.

Received

missionary

training under the tutelage of Miss Miller, Miss Mae Hamilton; the late Dr. B. Brawley, Sr., and Mrs. Ellis, all of Shaw University, Raleigh. Sunday School training was taken under the Southern Baptist Convention

Board from which department she received a d i p lo m a. Diploma received from the B.Y.P.U. in the School of Methods.

Member of the First Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C. Positions held in religious organizations: Sunday School teacher; sponsor of B. Y. P. U. leader of B. A. U. leader of Missionary Circle and president of Woman's Auxiliary of Wake Forest Association chairwoman, Deaconness Board. Married to John C. Barrett. Children John Henry and William C. Fraternal affiliations: Matron of the Order of Eastern Star; president of Woman's Club, Raleigh, and is one of the outstanding sponsors of the Mary Talbert Home for Girls, Raleigh, N. C.
; ; ;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

215

R.
PROF. ROBERT

W. Brown

WASHINGTON BROWN was born in Rockingham, N. C, 1875. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. James and Sophia Brown. He received his early training in the public schools of Reidsville and the graded school, Winston-Salem, N. C. He later graduated from A. & T. College, Greensboro, and also
matriculated at the University of Pennsylvania, and Shaw University.

At an early

age he joined the First Baptist Church, Winston-Salem. In 1921 he


joined the West End Baptist Church, Winston-Salem, where he

remained
death,

until

his

1941

(April),
official

serving in
positions.

many

Prof. Brown served as president of the Western Sunday School Convention (See Western Convention) for thirty-six years and president of the State Baptist Sunday School Convention of North Carolina for a number of years, which positions he was occupying at his death. He married Miss Alice Virginia Curry. To this union were born: R. W., Jr., Willette B., James, Imogene B. Ellis, Ernestine McCoy, and Francis H. Also eleven (11) grandchildren. Mrs. Brown passed November 7, 1940. Prof. Brown served in the city school system forty-one (41) years and principal of the Woodland Ave. school thirty-four (34) years. He was affiliated with the Masonic and Pythian lodges of North Carolina and other civic organizations. He was founder of the Mutual Life Insurance Company in 1907, and was secretary-treasurer at the time of his passing. Prof. Brown's contribution to the Baptist denomination and to the race will live on.

216

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Roberta

Bunn

MRS. ROBERTA BUNN of Selma, N. C, was born in Warren County, Feb. 20, 1866. Her parents were Haywood and Roann West. Sister Bunn, as she is often
called,

-^^--^^^^^j^^^^

attended the public school in Johnston County. She did her college work at Shaw University in Ra-

N. C. She was engaged in missionary work in North Carolina in 1886 and is still actively engaged in the same to date. She taught in the public
leigh,

schools for twenty-five During this period years. of teaching she led many children to accept Christ. She is a member of the First Baptist Church in
Selma, N. C. She has taught Sunday school for
many years, and was organist for the church until she taught others to do the playing. She has served as corresponding secretary of the Woman's Baptist State Convention and also as field missionary. In 1885 she married Mr. Arthur Bunn. Mr. Bunn died twenty-eight years later. There were two daughters born to them: Mrs. Sabina B. Winstead and Mrs. Marian W.
Womack.
Mrs. Bunn is now engaged in church work only. She spends a part of her time in Washington, D. C, with
her daughters.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

217

Miss Mary A. Burrell


MISS MARY A. BURRELL is perhaps the best-known woman in North Carolina among the thousands of women in the Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary
Convention. She has traveled awakening an interest in Missions and the cause of
Christian Education. She is the Corresponding Secretary of the Convention and has been the nucleus around which this great organization has been built. Her plans have been
in every part of the State,

sound though simple, and the pamphlets which contained them are in nearly
every home and circle in the State. Miss Burrell before she took her training at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, for mission work, was for many years an active teacher in the city public schools of Raleigh, N. C. She is regarded as a valued member of the First Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C, and a Trustee of Shaw University.

When a more detailed history of the Baptists of this State is written, Miss Mary A. Burrell's name will be chronicled as one who loved the cause of Christ and made a valuable contribution to the cause of kingdom building in our Baptist denomination.

218

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. E.

W. Burke, D.D.
(Deceased)

Gastonia, N. C.

THE

subject of this sketch is not one of North Carolina's native sons. Rev. E. W. Burke was born in Burke County, Ga., July 18, 1878. He is the son of Allen and After completing the public school in his Kittie Burke. home county, he attended the Walker Baptist Insti-

Augusta, Ga., from which he graduated with


tute,

In later B.Th. degree. years this same institution conferred upon him the honorary degree of Doctor
of Divinity.

Rev. Burke was ordained preach in the year 1897, and served the following Baptist churches in his home state of Georgia Zion Baptist Church, Job Baptist Church, Spring Telfair, Ga. Bay Springs, Camp Spring, at Sunhill, Ga. He pastored both the New Providence and the New Zion Baptist churches at Augusta. He also served the Bold Spring and Magnolia Baptist churches and also Jerusalem Baptist Church in Augusta. He was for three years Moderator of the Harris Baptist Association of Georgia. This record shows that prior to his coming to North Carolina Dr. Burke had contributed much to the progress of the Baptists in Georgia. In 1923 he came to North Carolina to become the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Gastonia, which he served for about seven years. For the past sixteen years he has been the pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist Church, Gastonia. Rev. Burke was the Moderator of the Western Missionary and Educational Convention of Western North Carolina and Northern South Carolina. He was general
to
;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

219

manager of school He was postmaster

activities of Western Union Academy. of Highland Station at Gastonia, N. C.

president of the Inter-denominational Ministers Alliance of Gastonia. He was a manufacturer of a medicine from his private formula which is registered with the Treasury Department of the U. S. Government. He owned a comfortable home in the city of Gastonia and other property in the county near by and was an enthusiastic worker in the cause of Christian Education.

220

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

-ilffllllSlfli

y^lSftflv^f:

&

REV. THOS.

BURWELL

Pioneer Preacher Kittrell, N. C.

REV. J. W. BLACKNALL Former Educator and Preacher


Garysburg, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

221

Rev. Charles Caesar Clark (Deceased)

BORN May

15, 1883.

Catherine Clark.

Educated

ParentsMr. and Mrs. Rufus and H. N. I., Henderson, N. C,

and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Degrees: B.S., B.Th. To whom married: (1) Miss Lula Harris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Harris; (2) Miss Marie Alexander, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dock Alexander, Middleburg, N. C; (3) Mrs. Carva Rogers, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leco
Pace.

one wife and five by his second wife: Lula, Marie, Francis, Cathersix children

Had

by

first

Mable and Charles. Ordained May 15, 1904, at his home church, Mt. Pleasant, Vance County, 15 miles north of Henderson, N. C. Churches pastored: Martin Street, Raleigh, seven years; First Baptist, Clayton, N. C; St. John, Middleburg, N. C; Stokes Chapel, Middlesex; Lisbon Street Baptist Church, Clinton, N. C. Mt. Pleasant, Vance County, Locust Grove, Wise, N. C. Treasurer of Wake Association for ten years. Fraternal connections Member Ivanhoe Lodge, No. 272, F. A. & A. M., Neuse, N. C. Remarks: First served as teacher at Butchett Chapel, Warren County, N. C. served as principal at this place for seven years. Was principal for one year at Ridgeway School then being called to Mt. Pleasant School, No. 1 near Drewery, Vance County, where during his administration a school with five rooms was built. Served at this place
ine,
;

for eight years.

Later called to Gethsemane High School, where he served as principal for five years, and later as principal of Heck's Grove School, Warren County, N. C.

222

Who's

Who Among

North Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. Lovelace

Brown Capehart, M.D.

BORN

September 28, 1863, Bertie County, N. C. ParentsMr. and Mrs. P. Capehart. Residence 312 Smithfield Educated State Normal School, Street, Raleigh, N. C. N. C; A.B., Shaw University, Raleigh, Elizabeth City, N. C, 1884; A.M., 1887;

LL.B., 1885; M.D., University,


leigh,

Shaw

Leonard

RaCollege, Medical N. C, 1907; M.D., Long Island Medical ColY., lege, Brooklyn, N. Interne, Leonard 1923 Baptist Hospital, 1908. Aside from being an outstanding factor in the profession he medical has been active in the field of education and to contributed largely
;

educational

movements

in the South. His educational activities are as follows Instructor, English, Shaw University, 1885-92; principal, Raleigh Public School, 1896-99; instructor mathematics, Jackson College, Jackson, Miss., 1899-1903. He has given his time to his practice since 1907, and has constructively made himself a contributing element to movements for better health among Negroes throughout the country. Aside from being a member of the National Medical Association and the North Carolina State Medical Association, he has for many years been prominent in fraternal organizations in North Carolina. During the year of 1928 he was made Grand Master of the Masons of North Carolina. During his administration the deficits of the organization were covered and a large asset was given the Grand Lodge. He is prominent in Elk and K. of P. circles. In religious and civic affairs he is a pronounced Baptist and worker for the wholesome development of his race. March 8, 1893, he married Miss Lillian Love, of Raleigh. From this union there are six children Henry Martin Tupper (Deceased) Lieut. Lovelace B., Jr.; Myrtle Lillian;
:

among Negroes

Edwin

L.;

William W.; John T.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

223

Rev.
KEV. W.
T.
ville,

W.

T.

Curry (Deceased)

CURRY of St. Paul, N. C, was born in TolarsN. C, in Roberson County. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Peter Curry. He received his training at the State Normal School in Fayetteville, N. C, and also attended Shaw University. He was ordained at the Union Association in 1914 to the gospel ministry. He has pastored successfully New Bethel Church, Little Pleasant Hill in Roberson County for ten years, White Creek for fourteen years, Pleasant Hill for eighteen years in Clarkton, First Baptist in Red Springs and Oak Ridge, Grace Creek in Cumberland County and Round Branch in Bladen County. He served as vice moderator of the Union Association.

He married Miss Mary M. McMillan

to

whom was

born

the following children: Tommie J., Mary E., and James D. Curry. He was a Mason and Odd Fellow. He owned his home

and farm and was interested in all civic and religious affairs in his community and county. He educated his children and they are doing well; all are married. He made a splendid contribution to the Baptist in North Carolina.

224

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. John
REV. JOHN
Hill,

Haywood

Caldwell
C.

Chapel Hill, N.

was born in Chapel N. C, on October 17, 1862. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Wilson and Clara B. Caldwell. He received his training in the county schools of Orange County. He was ordained to the ministry at Barbers' Chapel (Orange County) in October, 1882. (Three years after he entered the ministry.) He has pastored the following churches Mt. Olive (Montaque)
River, Terrells Creek (37 yrs.), First Baptist in Mebane, Mt. Moriah in Orange County, North East Chapel in Durham County, Good Hope, New Mt. Zion in Durham County, New Hope in Chatham County, Piney Grove in Orange Gilead in Mt. County, Orange County, Mt. Bright
in

HAYWOOD CALDWELL

Haw

Hillsboro,

Bethesda in

Orange County, Barbers' Chapel in Orange County, and

New

Merritt in 1883, to the following children were born: Benjamin, Samuel, Sarah, John Thomas, Cornelia, Hattie Livery, Charlie, Julia, Emmitt, and Lawrence, and was married the second time to Miss Lovey Williams on June 4, 1933, to which no children have been born. He is a member of the Good Samaritan Lodge. He was moderator of the New Hope Association five times. He was also president of the New Hope Sunday School Convention four or five times and secretary of the Union for forty-four years, and resigned because of his age. He is a member of the Ministerial Board at present, and has been for more than thirty years. He owns his home in Chapel Hill and lives there in comfort.

Hill in Wake County. He was married to Miss Emma

whom

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

225

He has been very active during his ministerial career He has built three churches: New Hill, Good Hope, now known as Mt. Zion in Durham, N. C, and Terrell's Creek Baptist Church, where he pastored thirty-seven years. He
has remodeled several others of the fourteen churches he has pastored. For sometime during his early life he served us as agent for the Quakers in delivering Bibles. He said that he told the Lord, "That if the church of which he was a member came to need a preacher that he would preach." After consulting with Rev. Hackney, his pastor, he yielded to the Holy Spirit and Rock Hill Baptist, his home church, voted him license to preach. Rev. Caldwell has had a very remarkable career as a preacher and has been very successful in all his efforts. Rev. Caldwell was one of the leaders in the educational movement of the New Hope Association.

226

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Harry
REV.

Cowan (Deceased)

was born in 1810. His exact birthdate is January 20. He was born near Mocksville, North Carolina, and was called "the Father of the Negro Baptist Preachers in North Carolina." He joined the church at the age of sixteen. He was given permission to preach by his master, Thomas L. Cowan, and preached seventy-five years, during which time he organized forty-nine churches and baptized about eight thousand, five hundred persons. He died March 11, 1904, at the home of his step-daughter, Mrs. Hall, in WinstonSalem, North Carolina.

HARRY COWAN

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

227

Mr. H.
MR. H.

C. Coefield

C. COEFIELD, Box 134, Enfield, North Carolina, was born in Enfield, Halifax County in 1872. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Anna Coefield. He received his education in the public schools of Enfield and

the high school at Enfield.

New Bethel

of the Baptist Church, superintendent of the Sunis

He

member

day school, a deacon and a trustee and former treasurer of the Halifax County

Sunday School Convention, and trustee of the Neuse


River Baptist Association.

He married Miss Grace


(deceased) to following children were born: Bennie, Harris, Curtis, Nathaniel, James, Rev. Junius and Julia. The second wife is

Bradley
whom
the

Mrs. Margarette Pierce. There are no children by the second wife.

He is a Mason and Odd Fellow, a foreman of the fire department at Enfield, N. C. He is a great worker among, and on most all of the committees in the County Convention and Association. Mr. Coefield is a merchant and undertaker and has
succeeded well along both lines. He has been and is one of the leading men in Enfield and Halifax County. He owns a farm and raises staple crops. Mr. Coefield is active in church, civic and business affairs. In all community activities he is found a willing worker. He owns his own home, fourteen tenant houses in the town, a thirty-acre farm and other valuable holdings. He has done well in securing some of the world's goods and educated his children, all of whom are doing
well.

228

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Roeler Chavis


MRS. ROELER CHAVIS
attended the public schools of

Randolph County. She was married to James Madison Chavis. During the first few years of matrimony two daughters, Cora and Roxie, were born. Later Mrs. Chavis resumed her studies, graduated and passed examination for a teaching position at Asheboro Court House, and began her teaching career around the year 1896.

/-a^f

During the year 1901, Roeler Chavis was called to the great field of expansion for missionary work. Heeding the call she went forth with great enthusiasm and eagerness to do all in her power toward the uplifting of humanity. First, she began house-to-house canvassing those inspired under her wise leadership joined in the cause, and went to the community

church, the First Baptist Church of Trinity, N. C. Here they set-up the Woman's Home Missionary Union, with the Reverend A. Welbourne, pastor, acting organizer, and affiliated with the State Baptist Woman's Missionary Convention.

Near 1904 this union had made such favorable progress and enlargement that Mrs. Chavis advised an expansion into nearby counties, formulating the Western Convention. She was named president of this great convention and maintained that office from the beginning to its termination which lasted during a period of approximately
fifteen years or

more.

During the period of her loyal administration this great convention grew and grew. From the faithful few who had started the number of followers had increased to hundreds. They came from far and near. Much was done toward the home mission by giving aid in the way of donations and clothing to the orphanage at

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

229

Meanwhile, Mrs. Chavis traveled extenit. Foreign mission scholarships were granted to Africa and Liberia by representation through the Lott Carey Convention in which capacity Mrs. Chavis served as an executive officer for some time. Mrs. Chavis attended the Missionary Training School at Durham, North Carolina, and also in Nashville, Tenn.,
Winston-Salem.
sively in the interest of

not only for self-interest but in the interest of others that she might offer the best toward humanity. Mrs. Chavis says she has worked both hard and long, but she is no ways tired and not thinking about giving up as yet.

HON. H.

P.

CHEATHAM

(Deceased)
Public school teacher, ex-Member Superintendent of of Congress, Colored Orphanage, Oxford, N. C, and Baptist preacher.

230

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. C. C. Crawford
of 1007 Lincoln Street, C. C. Kinston, N. C, was born in Wayne County, N. C, March He is the son of Stanly and Penina Crawford. 26, 1888. He received his training at Shaw University. He was ordained at Barnes Chapel Baptist Church, Wayne County, July 13, 1913. He pastored the First Church, Walstonburg, N. C, for fifteen years the First Baptist, Dunn, N. C, five years Keathern Chapel, Harrel's Store, N. C, five years and Piney Grove Baptist Church, Clinton, N. C, eight years. He has been pastor of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Clinton, for seventeen years. He is also pastor of Banks Chapel, Falling Creek, Shiloh, Rocky Mount; and First Baptist, Roseboro. In 1908, Rev. Crawford was married to Miss Laura Lane. They have six children Hazel L., Mildren H., Penina T., Dock C, Ethel May, and Clenuntine. Rev. Crawford is treasurer of the Ministerial Alliance of Kinston, N. C, and vice moderator of the Western Union Baptist Association. During his service as pastor the following church property has been improved: First Baptist, Walstonburg, built in 1916 at a cost of $2,000.00; the First Baptist Church, Dunn, $10,000.00. Rev. Crawford owns a comfortable home in Kinston, N. C. He may rightly be called a progressive minister.
;
; ;

THE REV.

CRAWFORD

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

231

Rev. A.

S.

Croom

of

Durham, N.

C.

THE REV. ANNANIAS SAMUEL CROOM

was born at La Grange in Lenoir County, June 30, 1879. His father, Rev. Emperor Croom, was a Baptist preacher. His mother was Nancy Walters Croom. Young Croom grew up on the farm and at the early age
of twelve years he accepted Christ and joined the Ebenezer Baptist Church. He was ordained to preach at his home church in 1902. He finished the public school, then entered the Bricks School at Enfield, N. C, and spent seven years there. Having to work, this boy made himself an asset to the school by his energy and industry. He worked as
florist

days

and dairyman. Some he milked twenty

I-

cows. After leaving this school he entered Virginia Union University for his
theological training.

He

is

For a number of years he was pastor of the Dixonville Baptist Church, Salisbury, N. C, and principal of the Piedmont Institute. Rev. Croom is now pastor of the Union Baptist Church of Durham, N. C, president of the Baptist Ministers' Alliance, and member of the Board of the State Convention. He is an attractive speaker and is in demand as an evangelist. On October 25, 1905 he was married to Miss Pearle Bullock of Whitakers, N. C. They have two daughters, Dorcas and Blanche. Rev. Croom is a member of the Order
of Masons.

an experienced teacher as well as a prominent preacher.

232

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

Thomas

E.

Copeland

ADDRESS

is 817 E. Davie Street, Raleigh, N. C. He was born in Franklin County, N. C, August 14, 1886, the son of Calvin and Margaret Copeland. He was educated in the public schools of Wake County, N. C, and Shaw University, Raleigh. He has been an ardent member of First Baptist Church, Ra-

for a of and, being imbued with the spirit to enter the ministry and combine his religious activities with his
leigh,

number

years,

mechanical work, he was ordained to the ministry at First Baptist Church, Raleigh, July 6, 1938. He is not pastoring any church, but he accepts every opportunity to render service

wherever possible. He formerly farmed but he was


mechanically

inclined,

exhibited by his constructive works in such WmBmmBm 'fit"39MHHKI lines as carpentry, farm engineering, masonry and landscaping. He is now busily engaged in the supervision of landscaping and construction work. He is a striking example of the type of minister who is successful in his trade and a splendid asset to the religious program of his denomination. He married Miss Dicie B. Chavis, daughter of Atlas and Nannie Chavis of Raleigh. Before her marriage to Rev. Copeland, April 28, 1910, Mrs. Copeland was actively connected with educational and religious movements. She attended Shaw University and taught school for four years. There are seven fine children from this union. They are: Clinton, Atlas, Naomi, Thomas, Maycie, who is taking her pre-medical course at St. Augustine's College and is to graduate in the 1940 class Reuben and John. Rev. Copeland is a Mason and a member of the Raleigh Union.
is
;

which

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

233

Prof. H. D. Cooper
born August 24, 1907, in Elizabeth City, N. C. His parents are Rev. and Mrs. T. S. Cooper of Sunbury, N. C. Prof. Cooper is now residing- at Ahoskie, N. C, where he is rendering splendid service in the field of education. He received his education at Hampton Institute and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, where the degree of B.S. was given

WAS

him.

He is now working on his master's at Hamp-

ton Institute. Professor Cooper is at present principal of the

Ahoskie

Colored

High

School where he is doing outstanding work. This school has 21 teachers with more than 800 pupils enrolled.

The school has

six

busses to transport the students. During the five years he has been at Ahoskie the school has expanded from a ten-teacher school to twenty-one teachers; there are two brick buildings with 21 classrooms, an auditorium and auxiliary rooms. Because of his native ability, training and devotion to his work, resulting in splendid achievements for the good of the community, his influence is a potent factor in the progress of the race. Professor Cooper worked his way through Shaw University as typist for the late Dr. Benjamin Brawley. While a student at this university he was for two years editor of the student's journal; and student assistant in the Physic Department. His college fraternity is Omega Si Phi. He is a member of Olive Branch Baptist Church, Elizabeth City, N. C, and is active as a Sunday School teacher and otherwise. He married Miss Symera Newson of Ahoskie to which has been born to this union one boy, Glen Eliot. Mrs. Cooper has been a splendid asset to Professor Cooper in many ways, especially as a teacher in
his school.

234

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. L. T. Christmas (Deceased)

THE REV.

L. T.

CHRISTMAS

was among the outstanding

(deceased) of Raleigh, N. C, leaders of his group in the

early days of Baptist beginnings Carolina. His birth date being on


his childhood days

among Negroes in North November 5, 1855, places

back

in the

dark days before the

War

Between the States. About the year of 1882, he was elected to the North Carolina Legislature where he served for two terms. He pastored in Charleston, W. Va., for two years, and in Oxford and at Wilmington, N. C. The modern church edifice at Central Baptist Church was constructed under his
administration. He pastored for short periods at other places in the State. For a number of years he was State Missionary for the National Baptist Convention. He was a devout man of fine physique and impressive learning.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

235

Prof. T.
PROF.

S.

Cooper

T. S. COOPER of Sunbury, North Carolina, was born at Windsor, Bertie County, North Carolina. He is the son of Noah and Vina Bond Cooper. He completed the course at the Elizabeth City Normal School in 1902. In 1920

Mr. Cooper attended Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va.,

and

later finished his schol-

lastic

training at Virginia

Union University in Richmond, Va. He has an M.A. degree from a school in Chicago, 111. Prof. Cooper
of the Baptist Church, Elizabeth City. This church has granted him license to preach. However, Mr. Cooper gives his time to educational work rather than preaching. He began his public service as supervising principal of the Elizabeth City public schools. For 36 years Mr.
is

a loyal Olive

member

Branch

Cooper has been principal of the public school at Sunbury, N. C. This school has been an accredited high school since 1930. Mr. Cooper is another one of our faithful school men who has toiled through the dark period of very limited resources for the educational development of Negro boys and girls in North Carolina, and who can now see and enjoy some of the fruits of his labor. He is president of North Eastern District Parent-Teachers Association, president of the Alumni Association of Teachers College at Elizabeth City. He is former historian and assistant secretary of the Roanoke Baptist Association. He is a Mason, Odd Fellow and K. of P. He was married on November 23, 1904, to Miss Roberta Overton of Elizabeth City. Their sons are R. S. and H. D. Both are college graduates. One son graduated from Shaw University and the other one from Lincoln University. Prof. Cooper owns his home in Elizabeth City, equity in his father's estate in Bertie County and other property.

236

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

W.

S.

Creecy, A.B., M.A. (Deceased)

S. CREECY was perhaps one of the best loved and most respected men of Northampton County. He received his education at Shaw University, which institution later conferred upon him the degree of master of arts. His pastorate was some of the largest churches in Eastern North Carolina. He served as moderator of the Beulah Association and auditor of the General Convention of North Carolina. Perhaps the most outstanding single piece of work during his career is the

THE LATE W.

Square Academy, which has served and is


Rich
serving as the educational center for that entire community. Rev. Creecy educated his children and could be counted on for all civic and religious activities not only in his community, but in the State. He pastored at the time of passing: Mt. Olive, Lewiston, Piney Wood, Painesville, Parkers Grove, Mapleton, and Bethany Baptist Church, Harrellsville, N. C.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

237

Rev. N. A. Cheek

THE

subject of this sketch, Rev. N. A. Cheek, was born Warren County in 1863. His parents were Byrd and He received his training in the public Matilda Cheek. schools of Warren County and at Shaw University. It was
in

at Kearney's Chapel Bap-

Church where he was ordained in 1898. He has pastored: Kearney's Chapel in Middleburg for twentytwo years, Dickies Grove in Vance County for sixteen years, Shiloh in Warren County for twenty years, and Haywood in Franklin
tist

At

County for twenty years. this writing he is pas:

toring Belton Creek in Granville County, Olive

Grove in Warren County, and New Liberty in FrankCounty. Rev. Cheek was married to Miss Annie Garner to which union the following children were born:
lin

B. N., G. E., Bettie, Matilda, Mary J., Annie L., Mollie E., Nathaniel, William H., G. C, D. J., and James S. His second marriage was to Mrs. Mary Allen, to which union there are no children.

He is moderator of the Original Shiloh Association, secretary to the Ministers' Conference and a trustee of the Shiloh Institute. Rev. Cheek is not only a preacher, but a farmer as well. He owns and operates 233 acres of farm land, and has educated more children perhaps, than any other father in Warren County. He is regarded as one of the leading citizens of Warren County from which ever angle you may see him.

238

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

William E. Covill
E. COVILL, of Belhaven, N. C, was born in Hyde County, N. C, April 20th, 1889. His parents were George and Mary E. Covill. Young Covill attended the public school of Belhaven and took minisstudies at Shaw University. He was ordained at Belhaven, N. C, in 1923. He has served as pastor the following churches St. Milliard Baptist Church, Belhaven, N. C. Mahla Chapel, Hyde County, and Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in the same county. He is at this writing the pastor of the St. Riddick Baptist Church, Belhaven, N. C; Job's Chapel, Swan Quarter, N. C; Mt. Sinai, Pamlico County, and the Mt. Zion Bapaist Church, Arapahoe, N. C. In 1909 Rev. Covill was married to Miss Hattie Mackey. They have nine children Lee Thomas, Bernice, Mary E., Walter L., Edward L., Joseph, Samuel, Martha and Luther. He is secretary and Missionary of the Hyde County Baptist Association and president of the Ministers' Alliance. He is also president of the District Union No. 2 of Pamlico County. He is a member of the Executive Board of the New Bern Eastern Baptist Association. Rev. Covill owns his home in Belhaven, N. C, and is interested and active in community welfare. He is a zealous worker in the Baptist cause in eastern North Carolina.
terial
: ;
:

REV. WILLIAM

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

239

Rev. N. K.
REV. N.
is

Dunn
C,

K.

DUNN
in

was born

Edgecombe County on

of 802 Bradley Ave., in Tarboro, N. Sept. 30, 1904.

He

the son of Mr. Nelson and public school in Tarboro, N.

Mary Dunn. He attended the C, the State Teachers College

A.

in Elizabeth City and the T. College at Greens-

&

boro, N. C. Rev. Dunn was ordained to the ministry at

the Spring Garden Baptist

Church in Washington, N. C, in October, 1927. He has pastored the following churches Chest Grove Spring Hill, N. C; Mount Shiloh, Winterville, N. C, and First Baptist in Morehead City, N. C. He is now
:

serving the following First Baptist in Roanoke Rapids, N. C, Oak Grove, Garysburg, Pleasant Hill, Scotland Neck,
places:

N. C,

and Anderson

Chapel, in Faulkland, N. C.

He married Miss Lucy Mae Faison on July 2, 1931. Besides being a preacher he has been engaged in teaching. For several years he was principal of the Woodland Graded School. He is now giving full time to the work of the ministry. He is secretary of the N. E. District Convention; secretary of the Old Eastern Association, and member of the Executive Board of the Neuse River Association. He is a member of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina. He is president of the Inter-denominational Alliance of Tarboro, N. C. He is also a member of the Citizens Fraternal Funeral Home of Roanoke Rapids, N. C. Rev. Dunn is young and energetic and no doubt will do a large work for the Master and Baptists in North Carolina.

240

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr.
DR.
vis.

J.

B.

Davis

J. B. DAVIS was born February 1, 1885, in Montgomery, Ala. His parents were William and Clara Da-

He

in Pensacola, Fla.,

received his early training in the public schools, and the Pensacola normal schools. He received his A.B. degree

from Shaw University and M.D. from Meharry Medical

College in Nashville, Tenn., and interned at Agnes Hospital, RaSt. leigh, North Carolina. His church connections,

where he was very


is

active,

Main

Street

Baptist

Church in Louisburg. He served there on the deacon board. He served for fourteen years as president of the North Carolina State B. Y. P. U. Convention; a member of the executive boards of the State Sunday School and Lott Carey Conventions; contributing editor of the Union Reformer and the Baptist Sentinel and chairman of the Building Committee under Dr. G. W. Watkins in the erection of a modern church in Louisburg, N. C. A member of the Associated Negro Press, he was one of the five alumni who went before the Trustee Board of Shaw University and the American Baptist Home Missionary Society to request a Negro president which was later granted. For some time, he served as medical examiner for the National Life Insurance Company, recording secretary for the State Medical and Dental and Pharmaceutical Society for 20 years also a member of the medical section of the Executive Board of the National Medi;

cal Association.

Dr. Davis married Miss Gertrude Williamson, daughJohn H. Williamson and first cousin to Rev. Chas. H. Williamson to which union has been born Judge B., Jr., Carrie Pauline, Lula Beatrice and Reid Astley Davis.
ter of the late

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

241
is

As

the reader will note Dr. Davis

affairs pertaining to the well being of all people.

very active in He is a

Mason and a member of the Executive Committee of the Negro Affairs for North Carolina. He has and is contributing to the welfare and development of the Negro in
all
is

phases of life and his contribution as a Baptist layman noteworthy.

FRED

M.

DAVIS

Pastor First Baptist Church Wilson, N. C.

242

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. A. H. Dixon
REV. A. H. DIXON, Rose
Hill,

N. C, was born January

2,

1875. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Samuel and Hanna Dixon. He received his early training in the public schools of Duplin County and has been a regular student at the School for Ministers at Burgaw High School, Burgaw,

N. C. Rev. Dixon has pastored the following churches since his ordination at

Chapel in 1907: Grove Street, Kenansville; Red Hill, Clinton; Piney Grove, Clinton; Mt. Pleasant and Bear Skins in Clinton.

Hayes

He

is

now pastoring

Piney Grove, Bethel Light,

Rosa Green, and McEaleh


Chapel.

He

is

vice
all

moderator

Middle District Union, and

and recommunity. He married Miss Lucy A. Graham of Rose Hill, and they have the following children: Alden, Katie, Fisher, Lardia, Thomas, Viola, Arthur L., and Dorothy P.
active in
civic

ligious affairs in his

Dixon.

He

is

Mason and spends much

of his spare time on

his farm.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

243

Flossie Elizabeth

Dunston
of the

MRS. FLOSSIE ELIZABETH DUNSTON, widow


late Rev.

James H. Dimston, of 716 Glenn Street, Durham, N. C, was born in Orange County. Her parents were John and Bella Burroughs. After finishing the public school
in her native county She entered Shaw University and studied for several terms. She taught in the public and schools of Wake Counties for eleven years. She became the wife of Rev. J. H. Dunston in April, 1914. She being his second

Orange

wife

found

her

husband
in

well
into

established

his

church work.

She entered
cooperation

hearty

with him and for about twenty-three years they

worked together for


tual

spiri-

development of

the

people in his churches. She

among

has been an ardent worker the mission circles of the city, and served as secretary of the City Union for sixteen years. She recently resigned on account of illness. She is a member of the Mt. Sinai Baptist Church of Durham.

244

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Frank W. Davis
year of 1861 marked the beginning of a civil strife that virtually rocked these United States from side to side like a drunken man. It was during this year in Halifax County, North Carolina, there was born to Mr. B. and Alice Davis, a son whom
they named Frank W. Not having any school to which he might go, young Davis picked up little scraps of learning when and whereever he got a chance. He attended Sunday School and there learned to read and to write. Many Negroes got
their first book knowledge in those days in the Sunday school. He has been a member of the St.

THE

James Baptist Church of Rocky Mount since 1890.


Superintendent of the Sun-

day school, chairman of the deacon board and member


of

every

other

organiza-

tion in that church.

His wife was Miss Kizzie Jones. She was the mother children: Joseph H. L. Gertrude, Alice B., Onelia A., Frank W., Jr., Peroscoe J., Josephine D., and James E. His second wife was formerly Mrs. Annie Worlds. He has been a deacon in St. James Baptist Church since 1891. Brother Davis has been one of the active members of this church since his connection. In fact, he has filled every responsible office in the church except the pastor's place, and when the pastor was not present, he served as chairman of the meeting and conducted the service. He is very active in the Neuse River Association, where he and a few others are the oldest living members. He has been a member of the Trustee Board of the Neuse For River Association for more than thirty-five years. some time he was one of the leading draymen in Rocky Mount and has built up a business which was profitable
of

eight

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

245

and dependable from 1894 until 1940. His holdings in Rocky Mount attest the thrift and business tact of this
christian worker. He owns seven or eight houses aside his home, which is both beautiful and comfortable on East Thomas Street. He has educated all of his children who are now teaching and doing well. Mr. Davis is not only in a superactively engaged in his business now visory capacity. His son, Peroscoe, runs the shoe shop situated on East Thomas Street. Brother Davis is a living example of Christian integrity, thrift and hard work for the younger men not only in the Baptist church, but in the Negro race. Brother Davis is a member of the order Mason, K. of P. and Eastern Star.

from

Illillfllli

inmp
WmmwM'

~~

DR. J. E. DILLINGER Former Sunday School and Church


Worker, Greensboro, N.
C.

246

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. James H. Dunston (Deceased)


(deceased), of Durham, N. C, County, North Carolina on October 3, 1851. His parents belonged to that small group of Negro people scattered throughout the South which had obtained their freedom before the Civil War. Thus, young Dunston, the boy, destined to do so much for himself and his group, had no opportunity for school in his youthful days. Being the son of a free Negro made it doubly hard for him for had he been a slave with such ambition to learn to read as he had it is likely that his mistress or some of her young children might have taught him. But no such chance would easily come to the free Negro. However, the lack of privilege did not destroy

REV. JAMES H.
was born
in

DUNSTON

Wake

that hunger that had for learning letters. In 1866, he became a Christian and united with the church. He was then fifteen but could not read. Finally his opportunity came a young Negro man who had somehow learned to read opened a school in the community. Young Dunston got a blue-backed speller and started upon his educational career. After three weeks, having learned about all his teacher was able to teach, James stopped school and according to his own statement, that three weeks was all the time he ever spent in school. He had learned his alphabet and could spell and read just a little. From this meager beginning, he did not stop until he had accomplished his long desire to read the Bible. He was ordained to preach in 1882. He continued to study and thereby made himself a very capable and acceptable minister of the Gospel. During his long years of service he pastored the following churches: Shiloh, near Morrisville Mt. Moriah, Mebane, N. C. North East Chapel in Moncure, N. C; Mt. Sinai in Apex, Mark; ;
;

James

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

247

ham Chapel, Good Hope, now New Mount Zion. Wherever he preached he taught thrift and health. In one community he secured two thousand acres of land and cut it up in small farms and taught his parishoners how to buy these farms and thus built up around his church a large group of home owners. He not only helped to build good homes but also aided them in building good schools for their children. This truly devout man gave the tenth of his income to the Lord and the Lord prospered him not only in a large number of following church members, but also in houses and land and an abundance of the good things in material wealth. He was rightly called by one of his friends as the "Mystery Man." Rev. Dunston was twice married, first to Miss Celia Green who died in 1912; there were two children: Joshua and Rivanna (both deceased). In 1914, he married Miss Flossie E. Burroughs. She and their two adopted children survive. Rev. Dunston died in 1925, after serving fortythree years as an ordained Baptist minister.

REV.

N. V.

DAVIS

Former Moderator, Reedy Creek


Association, Weldon, N. C.

248

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.
KEV.

J. T.

Doles

J. T. DOLES, 508 Roanoke Ave., Elizabeth City, North Carolina, was born in Garysburg, N. C. (Northhampton County). Mr. and Mrs. Wiley and Nannie Doles are parents of this strong and able Christian son. After

his

studying and completing high school work at Garysburg, we find him

making

his

way

to

Shaw

'$"- *%

University where he received the degree of A.B. and B.Th. He studied at Pennsylvania University, also the University of Chicago and Columbia University. In the historic church.

Tupper Memorial, on

May

20, 1900, he was ordained to the Gospel ministry.

j|f%
ji
;

Since then he has labored as pastor at Piney Wood

Chapel and Zion Tabernacle in Gates County, First Baptist in Tarboro, Second

Baptist at Windsor and Louisburg, First Baptist at Powellsville, N. C, and Lewiston. His first marriage was to Miss M. E. Deloatch to whom was born: J. T. Doles, Jr., who is now practicing law in New York City. He was married to Miss Ethel D. Green of Portsmouth the second time, who is a graduate of the Elizabeth City State College. Rev. Doles has not only preached and pastored, but has given unstintedly of his time and talents to the shaping of lives of our young people. He is at present teaching in the Elizabeth City Teachers College, where he has been a great influence on the lives of many young people for the past thirty-five years and where he still holds the chair of American history and a conductor of weekly religious services.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

249

Rev.

J.

W. Diggs

subject of this sketch, Rev. J. W. Diggs, of Pee Dee, N. C, joined the church at an early age and showed such signs of fervor and anxiousness for the cause of Christ that he was soon granted permission to preach. His preaching made such an impression on his home people that in 1919 they ordained him to the gospel

THE

ministry.

Since

that
*
!
'

time he has been pastoring from three to five churches


in his
tions.

and other AssociaAt present he is pas-

toring four of the largest churches in the Zion Association of which he is the

g ^

honored
serves
as

Moderator.
a

He member and

supporter of the State and Lott-Carey Foreign Mission Conventions. He has spent considerable sums in the education of his children, and supports Shaw University and the Hallsboro Institute. Rev. Diggs sometimes refers to himself as "land poor" because of the heavy taxes however he makes a plenty to eat on his farm, thereby setting a splendid example of "live at home." We regard Rev. Diggs as a
;

worthy leader

in the

community and

State.

250

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. T. H. Dwelle
son of Rev. George H. Dwelle and Mrs. Eliza Dickerson Dwelle, was born in Americus, Ga. After completing elementary training in the public schools of Augusta, Ga., he entered Haines Normal
Industrial
School,

THOMAS HENRY DWELLE,

from

which he entered Lincoln University, Chester County, Pa., where he received the degree of A.B. and four
years later finished the theological

department

with

degrees of S.T.B. and A.M. When asked as to whether he had difficulties to overcome in acquiring an
education, he replied: "The story is too long and intri*

Hi
.

but through many and varied sufferings the


cate,

Hand led on to better things." man whose religion is sincere and intense, his abiding faith in
Divine

.^rnm^.

Jm

~~-m

the leadership of that Divine Hand has never failed him, nor has he shrunk from following where it led and his life of faith and consecration is rich in its good
fruitage.

The formation of his character and ideals, he attributes in large measure to the influence and training of his father and teachers. As a boy he was fond of boyish sports, such as boxing, football and foot-racing. He has traveled extensively throughout that portion of the United States east of the Mississippi and in the Dominion of Canada, also has visited the Pacific Coast and Mexico once. He is a widely read man, and fond of all lines of substantial reading with the emphasis upon the Bible. Converted at the age of eight, it was not until he reached manhood and was preparing for the medical profession, that he felt and yielded to a call to the ministry. After his graduation from the seminary, he first taught at Thomson, Ga., where he was principal of the colored public

With a Brief Hist ory of Baptist Organizations

251

His first pastorate was at the Cumming Grove school. Church, then at the Union Baptist Church, both of which were in his home city of Augusta. For several years he was the moderator of the oldest colored Baptist Association For two years he served as the in Georgia, the Ebenezer. president of the Colored Civic League. As Religious Secretary, Rev. Dwelle served during the World War five months at Y 83 in Camp Lee, Va., and six months in D area at Camp Meade, Md. Under the Community Service, he was sent as supervisor of colored work among soldiers in seven cities of North Carolina, Raleigh being headquarters. While in the work, he was called to the pastorate of the Tupper Memorial Baptist Church at Raleigh and served without pay for twelve months as prison chaplain at the State penitentiary under Warden Busbee. In 1924, June first, he began the pastorate of the First Baptist Church of Fayetteville, N. C, where much improvement physically has been made and where decided spiritual progress is evident. In 1939, the alma mater of Rev. Dwelle conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Divinity. For five years Dr. Dwelle served as professor of social science at the E. E. Smith High School of Fayetteville. Dr. Dwelle was made a Mason in Oxford, Pa., a Knight of Pythias in Raleigh, N. C. a Mosaic Templar, in Augusta, Ga. a member of the order of Love and Charity in Fayetteville, N. C, and is now the Vice Grand Worthy Superior of
; ;

this State.

252

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. T.
MRS.
T. S.

S.

Eaton

304 Clark Street, Henderson, N. C, North Carolina. She is the daughShe attended the ter of Mr. and Mrs. James M. Walden. Waters Institute in Winton, N. C. and Shaw University in

EATON,

was born

at Winton,

Raleigh.

She is a member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Henderson, and secretary to the


Mission
Circle,

home and

foreign missions. She is also teacher of a Sunday school class which she has taught for forty years and has been treasurer of the Sunday School for the past thirty years. She is the recording secretary of the Womans' Home and Foreign Missionary Convention of North Carolina, and one of the women who has helped to guide its affairs so successfully.

She was married to Prof. Thomas S. Eaton, who was the former

register of deeds, in

Vance County. (Deceased.) Mrs. Eaton has been active in religious, educational and civic work in Henderson, Vance County and in North Carolina for many years and is still actively engaged. She is very progressive as a teacher and business woman also; she owns a valuable home and other property in Henderson. The town authorities have named a street
in her honor.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

253

Rev.

W.

D. Evans

ADDRESS:

Route 1, Box 62, Wake Forest, N. C. Born: January 15, 1899, Durham County, N. C. Parents: Joseph and Lelia Evans. Educated Public schools of Wake County, N. C, Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Ordained
:

minister

August
and

1,

1928,

Glen Grove Baptist Church,

New Home

Durham
:

Baptist Association. Churches pastored Bunn Chapel, Bunn, N. C. Elizabeth, Nash County, N. C. and Evans Grove, Wake Forest, N. C. Churches now pastoring Johnson Creek, Granville County, N. C; White Oak Baptist, Nash County, N. C. Cal;
:

vary Baptist, County, N. C. Vernon Person County, N. C.


;

Durham
Hill,

Ofor-

held in religious ganizations


fices
:

Moderator
and

New Home

Durham

Association, also served as clerk of this Association.

Married Miss Eva Bell Eaton, of Creedmore, N. C. this union are the following children: Eugene, Willie Lee, Evarie, Joda, Jessie Edward, Carlay Lindberge, Eulois

From

Roosevelt,

Cleothera

Carolina.

Fraternal

connections:

Mason.

He

179 acres of fertile soil in Wake County, N. C. a well-rounded farmer and businessman and a successful preacher.

He owns

is

254

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

William Ellerbee

THE

Negro Baptists
to

much

men

of North Carolina and the race owe of the type, who through the years have

stood for righteousness, and

William Ellerbee,

among such was who was born in Richmond,

the Rev.
Virginia,

sii
-..**.,

October 21, 1853. His parents were Albert Garnett and Mariah Bowen. When William was three months old, he and both parents were sold. The father and mother were sold to different people, but the boy and
his

mother went together. They never saw the hus-

^i
a

band and father again. His mother passed when he was ten years of age. On June 15, 1874, he was married to Miss Mary Graham. The following children were born to them: Eugene, Luther,

Estelle
Julia,
Jr.,

Alice,

Clings

man,
bee,

William Eller-

Percy,

Benjamin

and Minnie. Rev. Ellerbee was ordained to the ministry in 1891, at Piney Grove Church. Although he had a family to support, he studied three years at Shaw University. He has pastored the following churches Pleasant Grove, one year Mt. Moriah, 14 years Wake Bap;
;

Grove, Juniper Level, 18 years; St. Amanda, nine years; Oak City, Method, 23 years East Durham, six years Piney Grove, Granville County, 12 years; Tallaho, eight years; Mt. Vernon, Granville County, and Rogers Grove, 19 years. Rev. Ellerbee has done much work in bringing souls to He Christ, repairing and erecting church buildings. served as moderator of the Johnston County Association and on the Executive Committee for twelve years. He lived and died a crusader for truth and righteousness.
tist
; ;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

255

Prof.

W.

S.

Etheridge

S. ETHERIDGE of Windsor, N. C, was born January 3, 1862, at Coleraine, N. C. He is the son of Mrs. Mebane. He attended the public school in his home county and in 1881 finished from a normal school conducted by Mr.

PROFESSOR W.

Handson White as
pal.

princi-

Later on Mr. Etheridge entered Shaw University at Raleigh, N. C, from which he was graduated in 1887 with the B.S. degree. Prof. Etheridge began
public life as a school teacher in Norfolk County, Va.

1902 he founded the Berty Academy, a Baptist school operated by the West Roanoke Baptist Association. As principal Mr. Etheridge conducted this institution for twenty-seven years. In 1929 this
In
school was merged into a state high school and named

the
in

Etheridge High School in honor of this pioneer in Eastern North Carolina. After giving thirty-seven years in this one school, Prof. Etheridge is still active and enthusiastic in his efforts to contribute to the intellectual, moral and spiritual improvement of the people of his community. His school has a faculty of sixteen teachers. Prof. Etheridge is a member of the Sandy Point Baptist Church. He owns a farm of one hundred acres.
S.

W.

Negro education

256

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof. Charles Rivers Frazer

ADDRESS:
August

121 East South Street, Raleigh, N. C.


3,

Born-

1879, Auburn, Alabama. ParentsMr. and Mrs. Edmund and Estelle Mitchell Frazer. Educated A.B. Shaw University, 1900 studied at Brown University, Provi-

dence, R. I., 1900-1902; A.B. University of Chicago, 1907. Married Miss Daisy Christian, September 7, 1907. Children are C h a r 1 e s R., Jr., born September 8, 1916; Eva Louise, born October 18, 1920.

Professor of Foreign Languages, Shaw University, 1902-11.

Dean

Shaw
1921.

University,

Cashier

of 1911Raleigh
;

Branch Mechanics & Farmers Bank vice


Raleigh Branch Negro Business League; chairman Finance Committee Negro Welfare Chest; director Mechanics and Farmers Bank; treasurer Capital Building and Loan Association; treasurer North Carolina Baptist State Sunday School Convention; member of K. P., Phi Beta Sigma, National Teacher Association, North Carolina Teachers Association, vice president-secretary-charter member and founder Inter-Collegiate Athletic Association reveal many of his activities. He is field representative of the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company and associate corporations. Member First Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C. director of Music of First Baptist Church. Though modest and unassuming he is possibly one of the most outstanding factors in the building of Negro business and community life in Raleigh.
;

president

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

257

Prof.

W.

H. Fuller

PROF. W. H. FULLER, 20 E. Worth Street, Raleigh, N. C, was born in Wake County near the town of Apex, N. C. He is the son of Mr. William M. and Mrs. Mary Herndon Fuller. He attended the public school of Wake County and later entered Shaw University

from which he gradu-

ated with the bachelor of arts degree. He afterward studied at Columbia University and received from that institution the M.A. He also received degree. the M.A. degree in education from Shaw University. He is a member of the First Baptist Church of Raleigh, N. C.

His wife was formerly Miss Nannie W. Green of Warrenton, N. C. They had one son, William, Jr. (deceased). Mr. Fulle^ was one of the organizers of the Progressive Real
Estate Company. He was secretary-manager for several years. He retired from the company, leaving it in good financial condition. Professor Fuller has been active in the field of education since he graduated from Shaw University. He taught
at

Wake Forest, N. C, then in the State School for the Deaf and the Blind for a number of years. Then he was appointed principal of the West Raleigh Graded School. Later he was transferred to the Crosby-Garfield School which position as principal he still holds. He has been an inspiration to many boys and girls, who have come under
his supervision.

school system,

Mrs. Fuller, also a teacher in the Raleigh a real partner to her husband. Without much ado these two people go about their work in a modest
is all

yet dignified manner that commands the attention of good people who know them.

258

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Miles
FISHER, MILES
was born October

Mark

Fisher
Clergyman, Author,

MARK Educator,

He is the son of the late Elijah and Florida (Neeley) Fisher. He was educated at the Chicago Public Schools and High School, Chicago, 111., 1904-1914, Morehouse College, Atlanta, Ga., 1914-1918, A.B. 1918 Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, Chicago, 111., 1919-1922, B.D., 1922; University of Chicago, Chicago, 111., 1921-22, A.M., 1922. He was Y. M. C. A secretary, Camp Sher29, 1899, at Atlanta, Ga.
;

man,

Chillicothe,
;

Ohio,

1918-19 Lecturer, AntiSaloon League, summer of 1920; pastor, Zion Baptist Church, Racine, Wis., 19201922 president, Baptist State Convention of Wisconsin, 1921-22; instructor, English, Virginia Union University, Richmond, Va., 1922-23; professor, Ecclesiastical History, Richmond, Va., 1923-28; assistant pastor, Fourth Baptist Church, Richmond, Va., 1924-27; pastor, 16th Street Baptist Church, Huntington, W. Va., 1927; author, "Life of Lott Carey," centennial biography, Foreign Mission Board, National Baptist Convention, 1922; reprinted in The Journal of Negro History, Vol. VII; "The Master's Slave Elijah Fisher," biography of father; Judson Press, Philadelphia, Penn., 1922; "The Negro and the World War" research essay, The Journal of Religion (University of Chicago), Vol. V., Sept., 1925; PoliticalRepublican; Religion, Baptist. Pastor of White Rock Baptist Church, Durham, N. C, 1933 to the present; member of the Executive Board of the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, 1938. Address, 1219 Fayetteville Street, Durham, N. C.
;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

259

Prof. H. C. Freeland, B.S.

MR. H.

188, Winton, N. C, was born on November 5, 1904. His parents are William H. and Annie B. Freeland. He attended the public school in Tallahassee and the A. & M. College of
C.
in Tallahassee, Fla.,

FREELAND, Box

He later entered the North Carolina College at Durham, N. C, from which he graduated with the B.S.
Florida.

degree. He is now pursuing studies toward his M.A. degree at Columbia University, New York.

This modest and painstaking young


late Dr. C. S.

man

succeeded the

Brown, D.D., as principal of the Waters Training School at Winton, N. C. For a number of years Mr. Freeland was Dr. Brown's assistant and upon the death of the former, he was chosen to head the school. He has shown himself a sane leader of young people and Waters
Training School is still making progress in keeping with the high standard set by the North Carolina State Department of Education. Mr. Freeland is a member and deacon of the First Baptist Church of Winton, N. C. treasurer of the Chowan Sunday School Convention, and vice president of the N. E. District of the State Teachers Association. Prof. Freeland is a member of the State Inter-racial Commission, a Mason and member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. In 1933, Prof. Freeland and Miss Emma C. Hall were married. To this union has been born one daughter, Shirley Yvone.
;

260

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Orion P. Foster


P. FOSTER of Burlington, N. C, was born September 3, 1898, at Iron Station, Lincoln County, N. C. He is the son of George and Permelia Foster. He attended the public school in his home county then went to

THE REV. ORION

Western Union Academy at Rutherfordton, N. C, and

later
College,

entered Friendship

Rock Hill, S. C, from which he graduated with the L.I. and B.Th. degrees. Rev. Foster attended Shaw University for one

semester.

He was

ordained

to preach at Iron Station, N. C, in 1918. He began public life as

a teacher in the Mt. Zion


in Moore County, North Carolina, and is now principal of Hayward High

School,

School,

Chatham

County,

which position he has held


four years. He has served as pastor the following Baptist churches: Edwards Grove, 10 years; Black River Grove, one year; Lamberts Chapel, Siler City, N. C, seven years; Oak Grove, Liberty, N. C, 10 years and Mt. Olive, Moncure, N. C, 10 years. He is now the beloved pastor of the First Baptist Church of Burlington and the Saint John Baptist Church, Dunn., N. C, where he has served eight and five years, respectively. At Burlington the church has moved to a new site and the building veneered with brick and improved otherwise. Under his leadership, the church at Dunn has been finished and modernly equipped. Rev. Foster is moderator of the Deep River Baptist Association. This association paid the expenses of seventeen persons at the 1940 session of the Ministers' Institute held at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. He is organizer of the I. O. of St. Luke. On March 26, 1922, Rev. Foster was married to Miss Pluma M. Lewis of South Carolina. Their children are: Edith Goldene, Omega Evangeline, and Paul Lawrence
for
;

(deceased).

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

261

A. B. Fulf ord
REV. A.
B.

FULFORD,

of

January

25, 1890, at

son of J. S. and Melissa schools at Swan Quarter and at Belhaven, N. C, and was ordained to the ministry on October 24, 1924, at Job's Chapel Baptist Church, Swan Quarter, N. C. Rev. Fulford has pastored the following Baptist churches: John's Chapel, Job's Chapel, St. Miller Baptist Church, Hyde County; Bryant Chapel, Baptist Union. He is at present serving the Old Richmond, Faithful Hannah and St. Lydia Baptist churches in Hyde County and the St. Stephens &:<*% Baptist Church in Pamlico County. They His wife was formerly Miss Helen Holiday. have three children Barzilla, Arnetta, and Abel. Rev. Fulford is Moderator of the Hyde County Baptist Association. He is treasurer of the Hyde County Union, chairman of the board of the local school committee and owns his home in Swan Quarter. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Odd Fellows, K. of P. and Loving Charity, and the local Credit Union.

Swan Quarter, N. C, was born Swan Quarter, N. C. He is the Fulf ord. He attended the public

262

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. T. V. Foster
T. V. FOSTER, 413 Carolina Ave., Rocky Mount, N. C, was born 49 years ago in Tarboro, N. C. His parents, Samuel and Tempa Foster, did what they could for him by sending him to the J. B. Harper Training School, Rocky Mount, N. He was ordained to the C.

REV.

ministry in

the

St.

Luke

II

Church, Edgecombe County, in 1920, and has pastored the folBethlelowing churches hem, Nash County; First Baptist, Middlesex; Shocco Chapel, Warren County;
:

Baptist

First Baptist, Halifax.


|

He

is

now

pastoring
; ;

Little

Hope, Rocky Mount Bath's Chapel, Tarboro St. Stephens, Tarboro, and Leggett's Chapel, Leggett, N. C. He married Miss Katie Whitaker, to which union the
following

Jj
erine.

born

Hyman,

children were Joseph, Bea-

trice, T. V., Jr., and Cathan Odd Fellow and Mason; owns his home in Rocky Mount, N. C, and serves as Vice-President of the Tar River Union and Moderator of the Neuse River Association, which has more than 90 churches. Rev. Foster has made very marked progress in his ministerial life as well as in a material way.

He

is

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

263

mgmmii

REV.

FARRAR
and poem

Known

as a gifted prose writer.

DR. R. L. FILES Pastor, Mt. Zion Baptist Church Winston-Salem, N. C.


Great Revival Preacher

REV
Former

J.

W.

FAULK
Church
C.

Pastor, First Baptist

Weldon, N.

264

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. L. P. Gregg
L. P. GREGG, Baptist parsonage, Henderson, North Carolina, was born on January 12, 1895, in DarlingHis parents were Albert and Carrie ton, South Carolina. Gregg. He attended the Darlington public schools, Savannah, Ga., high school and

REV.

Shaw
leigh

University

in

Ra-

where he received his A.B. degree and did graduate work at the University of Chicago. He was ordained to the ministry in 1923 at Darlington, S. C, by the Pee Dee Baptist Association.

He has

pastored

the

Macedonia Baptist Church in Darlington, S. C, has


been assistant pastor of the Olivet Baptist Church in
Chicago, 111., and is now pastoring the Shiloh Baptist Church in Henderson, North Carolina.

He
the State

is

vice president

of

Sunday School Convention; a member of the Executive Board of the Sunday School Convention, a member of the Executive Board of the Alumni Association of Shaw University and a member of the Executive Board of
the Middle Baptist Association.

He married Miss Rachel Rose Jackson and they are the parents of three children Dorothy, Perry, and Rose. Rev. Gregg is known as one of the progressive pastors of North Carolina. He has built a very nice parsonage since he has been in Henderson, and has bought more land in addition to the present site on which he has conducted a He is very proDaily Vacation Bible school each year.
:

nounced

in his views and can always be counted upon to stand for righteousness. He is a Mason, and is interested in community and

civic activities.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

265

Henry Rufus Goodson


HENRY RUFUS GOODSON
died April
3,

was born June


a native of

22,

1932.

He was

Wake

1854; County,

Being about twelve years old when the Civil War he attended the early public school in his home county. Having a brilliant mind, he advanced rapidly, and soon was able to teach in the rural schools. Negroes at that time took a large interest in politics in North Carolina. Mr. Goodson was the only Negro man to serve as jail warden In the performance of his duty he for Wake County. assisted in hanging of a man. The convicted man cried and plead so pitifully, Mr. Goodson's heart was touched, and following that he resigned. He was twice married. To the In 1893 he married a first union nine children were born. second time to Miss Susie A. Lewis, sister of the late Dr. P. S. Lewis of Charlotte, N. C. Mrs. Goodson still survives. She is the mother of ten children. All of Mr. Goodson's children lived to become grown. Few laymen among the Baptists of North Carolina, have been more active than the subject of this sketch. He first joined the Baptist Church at Wakefield, N. C, then removed his membership to First Baptist Church, Clayton, N. C, where he lived the remainder of his life. He was once the president of the Johnston County Sunday School Convention, vice president of the State Baptist Sunday School Convention, president of Negro State Fair. Stockholder in the Union Reformer, sold the land on which a large cotton mill now stands at Clayton, and gave the ground on which the Negro school is built, receiving only a small house in exchange. A good citizen and devout Christian. Passed to his reward on April 3, 1932.
N. C.
closed,

266

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. G. D. Griffin
REV.

GRIFFIN was born August third, in 1872 Pasquotank County. He attended the public school of his home county during his boyhood. He was licensed to preach in 1894 and ordained in 1896. That same year he
G. D.
in

was
at

called

to

pastor the

Little Zion Baptist

Bowers

Hill, Va.,

Church where

he served for four years.


In 1897 he was called to Galathia Baptist Church and served there eight years. He also pastored Zion Hill Baptist Church, Coleman, N. C, seven years; Gale Street, Edenton, two years Creek, a n t e o, Roanoke Island, six years, and the Mount C a r e 1 Baptist Church of which he was a member, eighteen years. He was called to the First Baptist Church at Hertford, N. C. This church under his administration was developed from a one-Sundayper-month service to an every Sunday worship. Rev. Griffin attended the State Normal School at Elizabeth City for two years and the Roanoke Collegiate Institute of the same city for four years. He graduated from the latter in 1901 with the degree of B.Th. He was elected president of the Roanoke Collegiate Institute and served for three years, resigning because of increasing duties as a pastor. He was moderator of the Roanoke Baptist Association for ten years. He was managing editor of the Roanoke Tribune, afterward called the Hertford Messenger, for six or more years. In 1912, he was given the honorary degree of doctor of divinity by Gaudelope College of Texas. On March 3, 1916, Dr. Griffin received a call to the Beulah Baptist Institutional Church of Tampa, Fla. He took up his duties there on July 1 of that same year. During his pastorate there much material improvement was made and the membership increased in two and one-half years from 300 to 750.
;

Haven

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

267

In 1929, Dr. Griffin accepted a call to the 10th Street Baptist Church of Camden, N. J. He served there for six years and was then called to the St. John Baptist Church of the same city. After four years at that church, Dr. Griffin resigned and returned to his home state. Soon after returning to Elizabeth City, his former home, Dr. Griffin was called to Bethany and Piney Wood Chapel churches. These churches were made vacant by the passing of their pastor, Dr. W. S. Creecy of Rich Square, N. C.

268

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. C. E. Griffin
REV. CLIFTON
City,

ELWOOD GRIFFIN
first

North Carolina.

was born in Elizabeth His parents were Rev. and Mrs.

C. H. D. Griffin.

He

received his

education in the public schools of Elizabeth City, N. C. He also attended school in Norfolk at Virginia State College. He was ordained to the ministry in 1930. After attending Shaw University, he received the following degrees B.Th. in 1933, A.B. in 1935, and B.D. in 1935. He is pastoring the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, the First Baptist Churches of e b a n e, Roxboro and N. C, and the Lovely Hill Baptist Church, in Warren County. In December, 1928, he
:

married Miss Dorothy MilPortsmouth, Va., of who is a graduate of Virginia State, and a teacher. In December, 1928, he married Miss Dorothy Miller of Portsmouth, Va., who is a graduate of Virginia State, and a teacher. Rev. Griffin is chairman of the executive board of the Civic League in Mebane, where he is pastoring, and has served several terms as president of the Ministers Alliance In connection with this work the in Alamance County. organization has won several prizes during the "Better Home Week." During his college career, he was guided by Dr. B. Brawley and Dean F. P. Payne under this influence he was
ler
;

a great debater.

His church activities, especially at Mebane, where he, with the cooperation of his congregation and friends, constructed a very modern church edifice, and at Roxboro, where the church has been remodeled, had much to do in attracting the attention of the brethren in the State. In January, 1940, he was elected to the office of Executive Secretary of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

269

D. C. Gore
D. C. GORE, Whiteville, North Carolina, is Moderator of the B runs wick- Waccamaw Association, recording secretary of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina, pastor of some of the largest churches in Eastern North Carolina and a leader of the Baptist forces in Eastern North Carolina.

REV.

270

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof. Charles Francis Graves PROF. CHARLES FRANCIS GRAVES,


in Elizabeth City,

601 S. Road St., N. C, was born on May 24, 1878, at Yanceyville, N. C. His father, William Pinkney Graves, was His mother, before her marriage was Miss a carpenter. Carolina Williamson. When a boy the parents of Prof. Graves moved to Hickory, N. C, and there young Graves attended the public and high schools under such teachers as Dr. J. E.
Dellinger,

R.

B.

McCrary

and Dr.

C. C. Sommerville.

He also attended school at Reidsville, N. C. In 1901 he


was graduated from Shaw
University with the B.A. degree. In 1905 he received the honorary degree, master of arts from the same institution. Since that time Prof. Graves has studied at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a deacon and
director of Religious Education in the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Elizabeth City. Mrs. Graves, who is deceased, was the former Miss Hattie Forester Chavis of Union, N. C. He has three children Rudolph, a dentist Mildred and Merlyn, public school teachers. Prof. Graves was formerly connected with the following business institutions: President of the Peoples Building and Loan Association and vice-president of the Albemarle Bank. The work that Prof. Graves did as principal of the Roanoke Institute is perhaps his greatest contribution to his people and the Baptist denomination in North Carolina. Beginning in 1902 with one acre of land, one building, one teacher and twelve pupils, he built the school up to ten acres of land, four buildings, nine teachers and three hundred pupils, and an accredited high school by the Department of Education of North Carolina. He resigned this position in 1932. Up to that time more than six hundred pupils had been graduated from the institute.
: ;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

271

Prof. Graves has served both as vice president and president of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention and also secretary of the same body. He was a member of the Theological Commission of the State Convention. He is now principal of the Bank Street Public School in Elizabeth City, N. C. He is also director and instructor in the Senior Department of N. B. S. S. and P. T. U. Congress and a member of the Executive Board.

272

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

REV. T. A. GRADY Durham, N. C. Moderator, New Hope Association.


Pastor and leader in the Baptist denomination in North Carolina.

DR. 0. R. GORDON Former Pastor and Leader Western North Carolina


Asheville, N. C.

of

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

273

Miss Ardelle
MISS ARDELLE
Carolina,
is

C.

Garrett
daughter of Mr.

C.

GARRETT,
3,

W.

E.

and Hattie Garrett of Rt.

Box

15, Ahoskie,

North

one of the foremost leaders among the Baptist

young women of North Carolina. She received her literary training at Waters Training School, Winton, N. C, Teachers College at Elizabeth City and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. She holds an "A" grade teachers' certificate from the State Department of Education. She is principal
of the Pleasant Plains School, secretary of the Woman's Department of the Pleasant Plain Baptist Church, teacher in the Sunday School and supervisor of playground and recreation, president of the Missionary Circle in the home church; vice-president of the Women's Missionary Union of Eastern North Carolina and secretary of the Chowan Miss Sunday School Convention of Hertford County. Garrett is also assistant secretary of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention of North Carolina and secretary of the Parent-Teachers Association at Pleasant Plains. Miss Garrett is an honored and influential leader in the Christian, educational, cultural and civic development of the people of her home and community.

274

Who's

Who Among

North Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Franklin B. Holt


REV. FRANKLIN
lina,

B.

was born

of Youngsville, North Caroin Maysville, North Carolina, on No-

HOLT

vember

20, 1899.

His parents were Mr. and Mrs. I. W. and Margarette Holt. He received his A.B. degree from Shaw University and also his B.Th. degree. He was ordained in 1931 by the Trent River
Association.

He has pastored the First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, N. C, and the Flat Creek Baptist Church
in

Vance County.

He
Flora

is

Bostic

married to Miss of Rocking-

ham, N. C, who

is a graduate of the State Teachers

College
N. C.

She
is

in Fayetteville, is engaged in
is in-

educational work.

He
ligious

a Mason and
in
civic

terested

and

re-

work

in his
is

community.

serving as principal of the graded school is a contributing factor in the educational and religious life of the community, and has served as principal since 1937. He is a young man of promising future both in the religious and educational fields. Both he and his wife take an active part in the general welfare of the community, both of whom are well
Rev. Holt
in Youngsville

where he

liked.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

275

Buttler Franklin Holly


F. HOLLY of Albemarle Street in Edenton, N. C, was born near the banks of the Chowan River He graduated from in Chowan County, North Carolina. the State Normal School at Plymouth, N. C, in 1897. Since that time he has attended twenty - seven schools. He began teaching in the public schools in 1892. His first school was near a place in Chowan County, at that time called "Wild Cat." It is now known as Ryan's Grove. He taught this school for six years, having sometimes as many as 126 pupils packed

MR. BUTTLER

summer

into a small building, teach-

the grades from the the seventh. He sometimes remained in the school building from eightthirty a.m. until sundown. From this school he was 'IPl!llS3 transferred to a public school about ten miles from Edenton. After twelve successful years in this and a school at White Oak Station, Prof. Holly was appointed principal of the Edenton Public School. He held this position for twenty-two consecutive years. During this period the school was known as the "Buttler Holly School." Since the consolidation of schools this is now the Edenton High School. Prof. Holly is still a member of the nineteen-teacher faculty of this school. To this date, 1939, Mr. Holly has taught school in the county of his birth for forty-seven consecutive years. He has been a member of the Baptist Church for fifty-seven years. He served as secretary of the Providence Baptist Church in Edenton. He was a trustee for more than twenty-five years. He owns his home on Albemarle Street in Edenton and several tenant houses and some farm land in Chowan County.

ing

all

first

to

276

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. James A. Harrell, B.D., D.D.


REV. JAMES
A. HARRELL, 5 Hyde Park Street, Hertford N. C, was born November 15, 1873, at Corapeake, N. C. His parents were Henry and Hagar Harrell. He attended the St. Paul Normal and Industrial School at Lawrenceville, ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Va. He later went to Union University, Richmond, Va., from which he received the B.D. degree. He also finished a course in the American School of Correspondence, Washington, D. C. Rev. Harrell was ordained July 30, 1896. He has served the following churches as pastor: Antioch Baptist Church, South Mills, N. C; Gale Street Baptist Church, Edenton, N. C. Mount Eprew, Roper, N. C. and the First Bap; ;

Church, Suffolk, Va., where he remained for


tist

eighteen

years.

For

ten

Rev. Harrell has been the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Hertford, N. C. He has been twice married. First to Miss Mary Anne Palmer, Springs, Va., November 22, 1897. To this union two children were born: Edward A. and Henrietta. The second marriage was to Miss OUie Graves of Reidsville, N. C. Rev. Harrell served as moderator of the Sharon Baptist Association of Virginia for eight years, vice president of the Phoenix Bank of Suffolk, Va., eight years, and

years,

Nansemond Collegiate Institute, five years. now president of the Ministers Union of Eastern North Carolina. He is a Mason. Rev. Harrell owns a home
president,

He

is

in Suffolk, Va.,

and a farm located near the

city.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

277

Rev.

J. F.

Haywood

Raleigh, N. C. Born August 31, 1873. Parents Louis and Joanna Haywood. Educated: Franklinton, Warrenton, and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Ordained minister at Oberlin Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C. Churches pastored: Springfield Baptist Church, Auburn, N. C. Dawson Street Baptist Church, Ra:

ADDRESS

held: SecreBaptist Ministers and Deacon Union for


leigh.

Offices

tary

Wake

fifteen years.

Married Miss Lucy

J.

Jones, June 25, 1905, Auburn, N. C. To this union there are six children: two

boys and four girls. Rev. Haywood is regarded as one of the best Sunday School teachers in
the State.

278

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. B. L. Hinton

AMONG the prominent and faithful leadership of the Negro


Baptists of North Carolina, there are many courageous of this sketch is one in that number. Mrs. B. L. Hinton of Roanoke Institute, Elizabeth City, is a native of Gates County. Her parents were Toney and Eliza Armstrong. She finished from the State Normal School at Elizabeth City in 1897. On May 8, 1898, she was married to Mr. Albert Hinton. Mr. Hinton died May 21, 1933. Mrs. Hinton has two adopted children: Blanche and Marshall. She has taught in the public schools of Gates, Hertford, Pasquotank, and Camden counties. During these years, she has taught more than two thousand children. For seven years Mrs. Hinton has been elementary teacher in Roanoke Institute. She is also secretary of the Trustee Board and secretary of the Woman's Missionary and Educational Union. She was a member of the Lebanon Grove Baptist Church when she lived in Gates County, where she still owns a home. Upon moving to Elizabeth City she joined the Olive Branch Baptist Church of which the Rev. Dr. C. M. Cartwright is pastor.

women. The subject

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

279

T. C.

Hubbard

subject of this sketch, Prof. T. C. Hubbard, Box 581, 5, 1899, Preston, Md. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Amanda Hubbard. He was educated at Hampton Institute, Hampton, Virginia. He is a member of St. Elmo Baptist Church, Windsor, North Carolina. ySW0M%s^-PM'^i^

THE

Durham, N. C, was born May

He married Miss Lurlina E. Kell, Robersonville,

N. C, to which union was born one son, Calvin E. Hubbard. He is connected with the Elks and Masons. For eighteen years he served as county agent for Bertie County, and was
later appointed supervisor in F. S. A. for North Carolina.
is president of N. C. chairman of the finance committee of Ma-

He

Elks,

sons, served as superinten-

dent of St. Elmo Sunday School, president Bertie County Sunday School Union and recently appointed to his position as county agent for Durham County, where Mrs. Hubbard, his son and he, now reside. Mr. Hubbard is a young man and takes a keen interest in the general welfare of his people in their civic, economic,

and religious

life.

280

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

DR.

H. HACKNEY (Deceased) Chapel Hill, N. C.


L.

ill!

Founder and pastor

Baptist Church, leader in the New Hope Association. A strong supporter of the State Convention and Shaw University.

of Rock Hill until his death.

i||
If!
I
si

11111
Hii mm

REV.

R. H.

HARPER

(Deceased)

Rev. Harper was one of the organizers of the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention
in 1867.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

281

Rev. A. A. Heartley

THE

subject of this sketch, the Rev. A. A. Heartley of Clay-

C, Box 161, was born in Johnston County, North Carolina, on February 25, 1882. After attending the public school, he studied at Shaw University. While not a college
ton, N.

graduate, Rev. Heartley is gifted with an apt mind and by application to study, has developed himself into an acceptable preacher and pastor. He was ordained at Raleigh, N. C, in 1916. He has pastored the Wingfield Baptist Church in Eckman, W. Va., and the following in North Carolina St. John, Dunn, N. C. Falling
:

ill

N. C. First Baptist in Benson, and is now the pastor of the


in Fayetteville,

Run,

First Baptist

Church

in

Spring Hope, N. C. church has made progress during his


there.

This

much

stay building improved and the membership increased by baptisms.

The

Mrs. Heartley was formerly Miss Geneva Vinson. They have two children. Aside from being a pastor, Rev. Heartley owns and operates a successful farm.

282

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mr. M. D.
MR. M.
wood.

Haywood

D. HAYWOOD, 215 E. Cabarrus St., Raleigh, North Carolina, was born in Auburn, N. C, Wake County, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis and Johannah Hay-

He

received his training in the public schools of

Wake
C,

County,

Institute,

Warrenton,

Warrenton N.

Institute,

later called the Shiloh and at Shaw

University, Raleigh, N. C.

Mr. Haywood married Miss Lucile Grant in 1908. Mrs. Haywood passed on in 1930. He has an adopted daughter, Elwyna, whom they educated at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Mr. Haywood taught for

some time. He later took the Civil Service examination; passed, and began carrying mail for the city of Raleigh, and has been in active service for thirtytwo years. He is a Mason and an active member of the First Baptist Church, Raleigh, where he serves as general superintendent of the Sunday School and Chairman of the Board of Deacons. He is also active in the civic life of the city. The religious forces of the State are greatly strengthened by having such safe and constructive leaders as Mr. Haywood serve as a church and Sunday School worker.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

283

Mrs. Annie L. B. Holden

WHEN ONE

begins to travel in Franklin County and inquire of the educators, the Holdens' name will loom high among the many. The subject of this sketch, Mrs. Annie L. B. Holden, whose activities in the educational
field

entitles

her

to

be

counted. Mrs. Holden saw the light of day May 1, 1873, Macon, N. C. She is the daughter of Mr. and

Mrs. Esau and Jane Boyd, and received her training Warrenton Institute, at Warrenton, N. C, and

Shaw

University, Raleigh,

N. C. Mrs. Holden is connected with the Baptist Church, Youngsville, N. C. was married to Mr. I. W. Hol;

November 15, 1899. To which union one son, Isaac Boyd Holden, was
den,

born. She has taught school since 1894 in the counties of Warren, Halifax, Franklin

many

and Wake, and is at this writing guiding successfully of the young minds in the fields of education and

religion in

Wake

County.

For twenty years Mrs. Holden served as recording secretary of the Knights of Gideon of North Carolina. Mrs. Holden owns her home in the town of Youngsville and is
regarded as one of the substantial citizens of Youngsville.

284

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Isaac William Holden


Youngsville, N. C, who passed on to his reward (1932), was the honored son of William and Mrs. Harriett Holden. He received his early training at Louisburg and studied later at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. He was an active worker and member of the Youngsville Baptist Church. Married twice. His first wife was Miss Emma Alston, Louisburg, N. C. There were three children: Mrs. Carrie W. Long (deceased), Dr. P. S. Holden, Jersey City, N. J., and R. A. Holden, New York. His second marriage was to Miss Annie L. Boyd, Macon, N. C. There was one son born to this union, Prof. I. B. Holden, Winston-Salem, N. C. Mr. Holden served his race as a leader in all walks of In fact, the record life for more than half a century. shows that he served as a teacher in the public schools for
fifty-two (52) years.

THE LATE ISAAC W. HOLDEN,

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

285

Magistrate H.
MR. H.

C.

High

C. HIGH, magistrate, 410 Green Street, Raleigh, N. C, was born in Raleigh, N. C, on May 25, 1900. He is the son of John A. and Hettie High. He attended He took correspondthe Elementary School in Raleigh. ence courses in law and

I g|

public speaking. He joined the Martin Street Baptist Church in his early boyhood. He is the clerk and a trustee of the church; also Sunday School teacher and deacon and a leader in the B. Y. P. U. He is Scout Master of Troop No. 54. This Boy Scout troop is sponsored by the Martin Street Baptist Church. In

iiiii

||||

1918 he married Miss Sarah Ann Terrell of Raleigh, N. C. They have ten children and one grandchild.

In 1936 Mr. High was


elected magistrate for Raleigh Township. He still

holds the place as magistrate, perhaps the only one in the


State.

286

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Nathaniel L. Horton
REV. NATHANIEL L. HORTON, of Clayton, N. C, was born in Wake County on March 25, 1871. His father was Nash Horton and his mother's name was Elizabeth. He attended the public schools of Wake and Wilson counHe later studied at ties. Shaw University m preparing himself to preach Rev. Horton Gospel. has pastored the following Baptist churches Mt. Carmel, Benson, Pine Level; Green Chapel, Kenly, N. C; Mt. Moriah, West Raleigh, N. C; Sandy Fork, Nash County; New Bethel, Wilson County; Macedonia, Stantonsburg, and Evergreen Baptist Church, Clayton, N. C, where he
the
:

"

***iw

still serves. At Sandy Fork and Macedonia new church buildings were erected under Rev. Horton's administration. The church at Stantonsburg was organized by him. The work done by this hard-working minister is another demonstration of what can be done by using gifts and time in making good in the Master's cause although chances for greater preparation be denied us. Rev. Hor-

ton has spent to date (1940) forty-nine years in the church. In 1906 he was married to Miss Sally Morgan. They have the following-named children: Esther R., Kenneth, Wayland, Alonzo and Alphonso (twins), and Madge. Rev. Horton is a member of the Masons. He owns his home in Clayton, N. C. He is an active member of the Johnston District Baptist Association.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

287

MRS. LAURA

HACKNEY

Wife and helper of her husband in the building and pastoring of Rock Hill Church, Chapel Hill.

A. Halifax, N. C. President, Northbound Association. Editress, The Mission News.

MRS. M.

HARGRAVE

288

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. G.

W. Holland

Baptist Church, corner Sixth and Chestnut Winston-Salem, was organized by Reverend G. W. Holland as a missionary coming from Danville, Va., This organization took place in Hinshaw's Hall in 1879. which formerly stood at the corner of Fourth and Chestnut streets. Not long afterwards the present site was purchased and a frame building was erected, but the basement was not enclosed. When the graded school was organized for the city in 1886 the basement was enclosed and part jp, m of the school was taught in it. The Sunday School 1 was also held in this baseI ment.
First
Streets,

THE

this

About the year 1890 frame building was moved to another part of

M
|
:

the lot; and after several 1 years of raising funds, the present brick building was erected. As a minister Reverend Holland was very active, not only with the work of his church, but he organized fourteen other churches in the city and county. Some of them are at present the most prominent Baptist churches in this part of the State. At his death, Doctor J. A. Whitted was called to the pastorate of this church. The other pastors following are Doctor G. 0. Bullock, Reverend Edward Gholson and Doctor J. H. Thomas. Doctor J. C. White is the present pastor. This church has given to the ministry some of its most prominent members, among whom may be named Dr. P. S. Lewis, Rev. Nathaniel Turner, Rev. P. J. Joyce, Rev. J. W. Jones, Rev. Porter Phillips and Rev. Kenneth Williams. Among the prominent church workers, Miss Addie C. Morris stands out preeminent. Working under a board of missions, she built a house on the church lot in which her

^^

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

289

among

work was conducted. She spent many years of service the church members and young people of the city. This church has had a steady growth and wielded a

helpful influence in the city, the Rowan Baptist Association and in the State programs for educational and missionary

advancement.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH


Winston-Salem, N.
C.

290

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. C. P. Ivey
Rev. C. P. Ivey, of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, in the town where he now resides in the year of 1901. He is the son of Rev. Prince and Victoria Ivey. He attended the public school in Halifax County and did his high school work at Shaw University. He was ordained to preach about twenty years ago. He has pastored the First Baptist Church, Battleboro, N. C; Kelford Baptist Church and Pleasant Plains Baptist Church He is now pastor of the following at Drewryville, Va. churches: Riddick Chapel, Bethel; St. Chapel, Enfield, N. C. South Street, Littleton, N. C, and Antioch, Skipwith, Va. His wife was formerly Miss Stella Martin. Their children are: Elizabeth, Hazer, Clinton, Jr., Hilda, Selone, McClara, and Jacqueline. Rev. Ivey owns his home. He is President of the Neuse River Baptist Union, Vice-President of the Neuse River Baptist Association, a member of the order of Odd

THE

was born

Fellows. He is also an active member and worker in the State Convention work. He is a young man with a bright future.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

291

Rev.
Raleigh, N.

J.

W. Jones
Street,

REV. JOHNNIE WILLIAM JONES, 818 East Martin


Parents

C, was born in Wilsons Mills, N. C, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. William and Jennie Jones. He re-

ceived his training in the public schools of Johnston County, and studied theology at

Shaw

University. Ordained

to the Gospel ministry in

1902, at
tist

Okey Grove BapChurch and has pas-

tored

the

following

churches: Spring Hill, Bethlehem, Wake Chapel, Friendship, Oak City, Four Oaks, Hawkins Chapel and Watt's Chapel. He is pastor i n g the Fayetteville Street Baptist Church at this writing (1941). He is moderator Johnston Association (19 years); treasurer, Ministers Alliance, Raleigh chaplain, Raleigh;

Durham

Alliance.

292

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

REV.

G.

W. JOHNSON, D.D.
of

(Deceased) Rev. Johnson was for

Moderator

the

many years Rowan Baptist

Association. pastor of the


tist

He was also former New Mount Zion BapWinston-Salem, N. C.

Church

in

MRS. AMELIA JOHNSON


Treasurer of the Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Convention of North Carolina, Raleigh,
N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

293

Dr. George

Thomas Jones

late George Thomas Jones was born in Lewiston, N. C, the son of Mr. and Mrs. George Jones and Louise Jones Clark. He received his early training under the private tutorship of Miss Annie Lewis (white) and his high school work at the then State School, Elizabeth City, N. C. He matriculated at Shaw University and took his B.S. and degree in pharmacy. Following this he entered into the drug business with the Hamlin Drug Store in Raleigh, N. C. Later he became the secretary-treasurer of the Mallet Drug Store. Soon after he be-

THE

Normal

came manager, which place


he held until his death in 1937. Dr. Jones married Miss Alice Carrington.

Both of these people loved


church work, and they were great inspirations to each other. Both being musical, they took great pride in their respective choirs. He organized and promoted in the First Baptist Church, Raleigh, of which he was a member, one of the most efficient church orchestras in the State. He served the church in the
capacity as choirster, Sunday School teacher, clerk of the church, and in other ways. Dr. Jones was not only interested in church, but the business and civic life of the city found a ready helper in him. Dr. and Mrs. Jones own a very beautiful and comfortable home on Cabarrus Street, where she now resides.

294

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

REV.

Andrew Joshua Jackson ANDREW JOSHUA JACKSON was born


Rev.

on the

25th day of December, 1830, in the town of Hempshire, Amherst County, Virginia. He was born a slave. At the age of four years his master, a Mr. Jackson,
sold

him and

his

mother on

the auction block in Richmond, Virginia, to the highest bidder, a Mr. Benelton, who carried them with others to New Orleans
to sell

them. His mother was stricken with smallpox. Her dying


request was that the sales agent, Mr. George Washington Barnes, take the child, "Jackson" as he was
called.

Mr. Barnes bought him and brought him to Halifax, North Carolina, where he grew up under the care
of his new master, who apprenticed him to a blacksmith, where he learned the trade. After the Emancipation, Jackson "Barnes" dropped "Barnes" from his name and prefixed "Andrew Joshua." He became interested in the education of the Freedmen, and used his money and influence in securing teachers in Halifax, North Carolina. "Andrew Joshua Jackson" was ordained in the First Baptist Church in Halifax, N. C, in 1868. He organized the First Baptist in Wilson, N. C, where he pastored. His wife, Caroline Garrett, and their children, who attained maturity Casca, a teacher Andrew Thomas, lawyer, graduate of Howard University (both deceased), and Leonora T. Jackson, graduate of Shaw University, were born slaves. The latter, Miss Leonora T. Jackson, taught for many years in the public schools and colleges in North Carolina and Missouri. The children born after Emancipation died in infancy. Rev. Andrew Joshua Jackson died at his home in Halifax, N. C, July 20, 1924.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

'

295

Rev. B. F. Johnson
B. F. JOHNSON was born in Lynchburg, Va., November 11, 1897. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Owen and Dollie Johnson. He received his high school training at the Evington High School in Virginia and Vir-

REV.

ginia Seminary, Lynchburg, Va.


College, Greensboro, N.
bia, S.

He

C, and Benedict

also attended A. & T. College, Colum-

C, and The Canfield Bible School, Chicago, 111. Rev. Johnson was ordained in the Trinity Baptist Church, Columbia, S. C, May 24, 1924. He has pastored successfully Trinity Baptist, Columbia, S. C; Sandy Grove, Lumberton, N. C; Antioch, Goldsboro; First Baptist, Kinston; First Baptist, Fremont; First Baptist, Clinton Wayne's Chapel, Mt. Olive, and Mt. He is Moderator of Western Calvary, Goldsboro, N. C. Union Association 24 churches, 5,000 members. His marriage to Miss Nellie M. Nixon has resulted in five children: B. F., Jr., Willie E., Robt. H., Mildred and Chas. W. He is a Mason and Odd Fellow. He owns a beautiful home in Goldsboro and other property in Columbia, S. C, and Evington, Va. Out of his means he has educated two brothers and two sisters.
;

296

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

!"-.

DR. W. H. KNUCKLES Leader in Eastern N. C. Baptists Lumberton, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

297

William
to the religious
life,

J.

Kennedy,

Jr.

WHEN one thinks of Durham,


to our denominational
life.

North Carolina, with respect one instinctively thinks of White


it is

Rock Baptist Church and the great contribution


If

making

we

will take the

time and

read

the

biographies

of

many of our Durham business men we can see why these Durham churches are able to make such a contribution.

Mr. William
Jr.,
is

J.

Kennedy,

a living illustration of what can be done if the laymen-business are given a chance in our denominational life.

men

Mr. Kennedy was born June 15, 1889, the son of Mr. and Mrs. William J. Kennedy, Sr. He was married to Miss M. L. Spaulding on December 27, 1917, and they have three children: Misses M. C. and C. A. Kennedy and W. J. Kennedy, III. Mr. Kennedy is vice president and secretary of the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company. Which one can see is a very important position and requires time, tact and accuracy, yet he finds time to devote to civic and religious life. He has been treasurer and business manager of the church since 1924; he is serving on the Board of Trustees, teacher of a men's Bible class, and has been for twenty years and is the assistant superintendent of the Sunday School.- He has made and is making a worthwhile contribution, not only to White Rock, but to the
;

State's religious life.

298

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Rachael A. Luton

AMONG
in

the outstanding religious and educational workers North Carolina is Mrs. Rachel A. Luton of Windsor, N. C. She was born in Powersville, N. C. Her parents are Daniel and Hester Simonds. She was educated at State

Teachers College, Elizabeth City, North Carolina. She holds an A-Grade certificate and is now working on her degree. For some time she was engaged in
the furniture business after which she became Jeanes Supervisor of Negro schools in Bertie County, North Carolina. In this particular field she accomplished a remarkable work. She has

been active in this phase of education for more than

twenty years.
Mrs. Luton is a member of Pinewood Chapel Baptist Church. She has distinguished herself in the
activities of the Baptist

denomination

in

Eastern North

as president of the Woman's Home and Foreign Mission Convention of Eastern North Carolina. Various civic and economic movements for the betterment of colored people in her section are loyally supported by her. She was one of the organizers of the Atlantic District Fair. This organization has an estimated value of $25,000 or more. Mrs. Luton owns her home and other property, including a nice farm. Mrs. Luton was married to Charles Clinton Luton September 9, 1906. From this union was born two children: Charles E. and Joseph Bruce.
Carolina.

She

is

now serving

With

Brief History of Baptist Organizations

299

The Reverend Daniel William Lamb


LAMB of Elizabeth City, N. C, was born on January 30, 1912, at Weeksville, N. C. He is the son of Rev. Arthur W. and Viola Lamb. He attended the Union Chapel Public School in Pasquotank
REV. DANIEL WILLIAM
County. In 1940, he graduated from the Roanoke InElizabeth City, stitute, N. C. At the early age of 18, he began to preach and was ordained at the Union Baptist Church in Pasquotank County in 1932, in which church he confessed faith in Jesus Christ when he was only eight years old. Having started thus early in life, Rev. Lamb, though a young man, has already become an important contributor to the progress of the Baptist cause in Eastern North Carolina. The indications are that this young minister will continue in strength and usefulness, as he grows in years and experience. Rev. Lamb has served the following Baptist churches as pastor: St. Johns Baptist, White Oak Chapel, St. John and Tynes Grove in Chowan County, N. C. He has been recently called to the pastorate of the Tyne Street Baptist Church of Suffolk, Va. He is a member of the Executive Board of the Roanoke Baptist Association and corresponding secretary of the Alumni Association of Roanoke InstiHe is a tute, a Baptist School at Elizabeth City, N. C. member of the order of Masons. On September 30, 1935, Rev. Lamb was married to Miss Jessie Mae Clark of Roper, N. C. They have one child, a daughter, Ruth Viola. They live in their own home at 508 Pear Tree Road, Elizabeth City.

300

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs.
MRS.

Maud W.

Lassiter

W. LASSITER of Virgilina, Va., was born in Granville County, North Carolina, September 12, 1892. She is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William and Louise Warren. She attended the New Jonathan Creek Public School near her
home. She also attended Boydton Institute, Boydton, Va., and later went to North Carolina College at Durham, N. C. She was converted and joined New Jonathan Creek Baptist Church when she was only ten years old, and beginning in the Sunshine Band,
she has given her services thus far to the Master's cause in Sunday school and missionary circle work. She and is a choir teacher and secretary of the Sunday school. She is now a member of the Wharton Memorial Baptist Church. She is also still serving the community in which she grew up by teaching in the public school, and also as secretary of the Sunday Union and a health worker among the Negroes of Granville County. On December 10, 1919, she was married to Mr. Charles Lassiter of the Jonathan Creek Community. She has been a widow since March 24, 1935. She has one daughter Miss Gertrude Louise Lassiter, now a student in Lincoln Hospital, Durham, N. C.

MAUD

member

With

o Brief

History of Baptist Organizations

301

Rev. Duffie Porter Lewis


REV. DUFFIE PORTER LEWIS of Louisburg, N. C, was born in Warren County May 19, 1892. His parents were
James and Clara Lewis.

He attended the public schools in Portsmouth, Va. attended college at Shaw University from which he received his A.B. and B.Th. degrees. He has also done two years graduate work at Columbia University. He was ordained in 1915 at Hicks Grove in Warren County.

He

He

is

moderator

of

the Baptist County Line Association in Granville County, and is successfully pastoring the South Main Street Baptist Church in

Louisburg and Blue Wing


Baptist Church lina, Va.
in

Virgi-

He married Miss Lillian Wyche of Henderson, N. C, who is a well-trained and cultured woman. He has two

chil-

dren: Ethel Majette and John Clark. He is principal of the John Armstrong Chandler High School at Roanoke Rapids, which has sixteen teachers and 600 students. He has a teacherage and four more class rooms have been added since he has been there. Rev. Lewis is among the young men who believe in doing things. He has done a creditable piece of educational work at Roanoke Rapids, and is contributing to the general uplift in every way. Intelligent, industrious, thrifty, and Christian gentlemen rightly describes him.

302

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

MISS MINNIE

C.

LYON

Missionary in Africa Since 1920.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

303

REV.

J.

ADDISON LEWIS

Pastor First African Baptist Church, Goldsboro, N. C. Statistician, General Baptist Convention.

REV.
is

J.

W. LUCAS

regarded as one of the Progressive Leaders in Eastern Carolina


Baptist circles.

304

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

DR.

J.

W. LIGON

Educator, Editor and Preacher Raleigh, N. C.

DR.

P. S.

LEWIS

Pastor and Leader Charlotte, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

305

Rev. A. A. Morrisey

ADDRESS:

749 Blount Street., Raleigh, N. C. Born April N. C. ParentsMr. and Mrs. Alexander and Esther Morisey. Educated Clinton, N. C, Shaw Married Miss Mamie Ellison, University, Raleigh, N. C.
14, 1874, Clinton,

Abbeville, S. C. Children:

A. A.,

Jr.,

Mary

E.,

John

Church conO., Grace. nections: Ordained minister 1902, at Chapel Baptist Church,

Brown
N.
;

near

Clinton,

C.

Churches pastored: Red


Hill, Clinton,

N. C.

Lit-

tle Field,

Sampson Coun;

ty;
tist

Lisbon Street BapChurch, Clinton At;

Chapel, Goldsboro, N. C. First Baptist, LaGrange, N. C. First Baptist, Smithfield; Sec;

kins

ond Baptist, Fayetteville, N. C; Gray's Creek, Cumberland County, N. C; Marietta, Lumberton; Felt's Grove, Wake County; Stokes Chapel Middlesex, N. C. Now pastoring Adorem, Wallace, N. C. Jones Hill, near Spring Hope, N. C. Wakefield, Zebulon, N. C.
: ;

connections are: Corresponding secretary of Association, president Ministerial and Deacon Union, Association member of Ministerial Board of Kenansville Association member of the Executive Board of the West Union Association; Missionary. Fraternal and business affiliations: Odd Fellow, Good Samaritan and Knights of Gideon. Connected with Union Supply Company.
Official

Wake Wake

306

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. H. L. Mitchell
the son of the late Rev. C. S. Mitchell North Carolina, attended high school at the Waters Training School, Winton, North Carolina, and is a graduate of Shaw University, Raleigh, North Carolina.

H. L.

MITCHELL,

and Mrs.

C. S. Mitchell of Gatesville,

In the year 1933, shortly after H. L. Mitchell finished at Shaw, his father was taken sick and died on July 2. The death of Mr. Mitchell caused two important places to become vacant. He was secretary of

Missionary Association for more than thirty years, and County Agent for Gates County for nearly twenty years. He was the second Negro county agent to be appointed in the State, having started work in 1912.

the Roanoke

Baptist

On November

16, 1933,

H. L. Mitchell was appointed to the position as county agent in Gates County, which was formerly held by his father. Later he was called as pastor of the Mill Neck Baptist Church, Como, North Carolina. He also served as assistant pastor to the late Dr. C. S. Brown at Winton in his various churches. After the death of Dr. Brown, he was called to the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church of Hertford County and the First Baptist Church, Winton, N. C. While in Shaw University, Rev. Mitchell worked in the office of Dr. Wm. Stuart Nelson, president, and accompanied him on most of his trips in the State. Thus he was given the opportunity to learn much about the State work of the conventions and Shaw University. Because of his interest in the State Convention he has attended each session since
leaving

Shaw

at his

own

expense.

in Gates County, he has urged the people to do at least one definite thing for the advancement of the county at large. In 1939

Each year that Rev. Mitchell has worked

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

307

a school bus drive was launched, which resulted in two new buses that are transporting Negro boys and girls to and from the high school for the first time. At present Rev. Mitchell is county agent of Gates County, pastor of the Mill Neck Baptist Church, Como, N. C, and the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church of Hertford County; auditor of the West Roanoke Missionary Baptist Association, member of the Executive Board of the North Eastern District Convention, historian of the North Carolina Extension Agents Association, associate editor to the Union Reformer, and president of the Gates County Education
Association.

Lucy
MRS. LUCY

F. Marriott

F. MARRIOTT, Wendell, North Carolina, will be remembered by many of the former students of Shaw University during Dr. Tupper's time, when she attended school there. After leaving Shaw, she taught school

Wake County for several years. Mrs. Marriott was well known in the Wake Baptist Association as an
in

ardent missionary worker. She was the mother of nine


all of whom were sent to school. Some are active in the educational field as well as religious, and are making a worthwhile contribution. Among them are Prof. Marriott,

children,

Misses Lena and Blonney Marriott. Perhaps the work done in Riley Hill Baptist Church as a missionary could be counted the most outstanding contribution to the religious cause in our denominational life.

308

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Sallie A. Mial (Deceased)

MRS. SALLIE
was the wife

A.

MIAL

of the late Rev. G. W. Mial of Raleigh, was one of the earlymissionaries of the Wo-

man's Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. She was the founder of the "What I Can Society" for the young girls in the Baptist churches. A woman of great zeal and faith.

Rev. C. R.
REV.

Murry

C. R. MURRY, 434 McCoy Street, Clinton, N. C, was born May 22, 1884, at Willard, N. C. He is the son of Rev. R. C. and Charlotte Murry. He attended the public school at Burgaw, N. C, later studied at Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va., and was ordained to preach in 1913 at Point Caswell, N. C, and has been pastor at Point-Caswell, Friendship, Man Hollow, and Hills Chapel. He is now serving Snow Hill, Andrews Chapel, Clinton, N. C; Mount Zion, Armor, N. C. Christian Chapel, Rose Hill, N. C. He is former moderator of the Western Union Baptist Association. He first married Mrs. Frances Almira Filyam on June 4, 1906. She died June 14, 1921. In December, 1937, he was married again to Mrs. Repsis Anderson of Clinton, N. C. He has two children: William H., and Oscar. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, is president of Ministers Alliance at Clinton, N. C, and also operates a 100-acre farm.
;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

309

Rev. P. M. Mayfield
REV.
P.

M.

MAYFIELD,

628

S.

Long

Street, Charlotte,

was born March,

1865, Wynnsboro, S. C.

The son of
at

Colonel and Mrs. Mariah Mayfield.

He was educated

Friendship College, Rock


Chester, S. C.

Hill,

S.

C, and ordained to the


'*"*.

Gospel ministry in 1915, at

He has

pas-

tored Mt. Hermon, St.

Luke

and Gethsemene Baptist Churches and is now pastoring St. Paul, Charlotte,

N. C. Rev. and Mrs. Mayfield have three daughters and are making a worthwhile
city

contribution

to

the

welfare of the community,

and State. He has built up the St. Paul Church from thirty-five (35) members in 1915, to more than a thousand (1,000) in the
past twenty-five years.

310

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Frank A.
MR.

B.

Martin

FRANK A. B. MARTIN, 410 Park Ave., Rocky Mount, N. C, was born in Chatham County, April 10, 1874, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Pomp and Annie Martin.
He
received his training in the public schools of Raleigh, North Carolina.
"

K^

#*^*

Mr. Martin is a member and deacon in the St. Baptist James Church, Rocky Mount, N. C, and promoter of the Junior Choir and active in every phase of the church life. For a number of years he
served as President of the

Edgecombe County Sunday


School Convention.

He

be-

lieves in religious training,

and

always espouses the cause of Christian Education.

He married
becca
Perry,
of

Miss

Re-

He owns his home and is trician in the city of Rocky Mount, N. Mrs. Martin reside comfortably.

Raleigh. Mr. Martin is, perhaps, the only electrical contractor in the city of our group. regarded as an outstanding elec-

C, where he and

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

311

W.
ty, Virginia,

B. Morris (Deceased)
born in Louisa Coun29, 1862, died suddenly at his home, St., Charlotte, N. C, on June 23, 1928.

WILLIAM BERKELY MORRIS was


May
514 South

Graham

He came

to Charlotte in the year of 1880.

He was

con-

verted and united with First Baptist Church in the spring of 1882. He was one of the 112 persons baptized on that same day and received into the church. He was a deacon of this church, but his greatest work done there was as superintendent of For that Sunday School. thirty-five years, he joyfully led that Bible school. It was a refreshing experience to enter that church

on Sunday morning and see the welcome smile on the face of this, one of our
greatest

superintendents.

Loyal to his pastor, faithful his church and to throwing his full force into the Bible school work, were
characteristics of this happy Christian. On June 25, 1885, he was married to Miss Rosa M. Coleman of Louisa County, Va. To this union was born three children: two daughters and one son. All of whom with their mother still survive. That same energy and enthusiasm exhibited in church work, Brother Morris carried over into the world of business. He served as an employee of the Standard Oil Company for thirty-nine years. Starting with them in Charlotte, when kerosene oil was in demand as gasoline is today. At the time of his retirement on pension by the company, the Charlotte Observer had the following to say: "The hand of God painted the skin of William B. Morris an Ethiopian hue but He gave him a heart free from the dross of life's frailties in the form of dishonesty and the desire to cheat.

312

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

"Morris, for thirty-nine years was a faithful and trusted employee of the Standard Oil Company, one of the nation's most powerful trusts, and during the period of his activities, collected for the company a sum estimated at $785,000." And Morris said, "Every day I checked up and never was a penny short." When he retired, the officials of the company gave him a handsome gold watch and a Known in the $1,000.00 paid-up life insurance policy. business world in Charlotte as "Billy Morris," he was one of the most widely known citizens there during his career.

Rev.
REV.
pastor,

Henry Morris Moore,

A.B., D.D.
D.D.,
lecturer,

HENRY MORRIS MOORE,

A.B.,

and author, are the merited titles belonging to the Rev. Henry Morris Moore, L.I., A.B., D.D., of 615 E. Second Street, Charlotte, N. C. He is a native of Greenwood, S. C, and the son of Edmond and Harriett Moore. He is a graduate of Bower Normal School at Greenwood, S. C, and Benedict College at Columbia, where he received the L.I. and A.B. degrees in 1907. In 1911, Benedict conferred upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity. He began his public career as pastor of the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Spartanburg, S. C., and served at St. Paul, Andrews, S. C, from 1908-1915. He was principle of Union

High School, Belton, S. C, for three years. The following are some of the churches Rev. Moore has served as pastor: Mt. Pleasant, Liberty at Honey Path,
Pleasant Hill, Mt. Pleasant, Abbiville, and the Second Calvary Church at Columbia. He was president of the State Sunday School Convention of South Carolina from 1906-1925. He is a trustee of Morris College and also Benedict College at Columbia, S. C. In 1925, Dr. Moore was called to the Ebenezer Baptist Church of Charlotte, N. C. The choir and usher board of his church in South Carolina made a trip to Charlotte, N. C, and presented him to the Ebenezer congregation. Dr. Moore found the Charlotte Church $1,500.00 in debt. This debt was paid in ten years. Dr. Moore is the author of several
S. C.
;

books.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

313

Rev. Charles A. Marriott, A.B., M.A.


PROF. CHARLES
A.

MARRIOTT,

principal of the

Garner

High School, Garner, N. C., was born at Wendell, North Carolina. His parents are Charles F. and Lucy F. Marriott. He received his A.B. Degree from Shaw University in 1927 and his M.A. Degree from Columbia University in 1940. He was ordained to the ministry at the Martin Street Baptist Church, Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1927. Mr. Marriott established

and developed a
school

fine

high

in Wayne County during his first two years

out of

Shaw

University.

After coming to the Zebulon High School, Professor Marriott was successful in getting the salaries of the teachers of that school on the eight-

months basis. Previously, the teachers of that school were paid for just six months by the county. The State Department also permitted the addition of the tenth and eleventh grades to the high school department as a result of the work accomplished and the influence exerted by Professor Marriott. In 1932-1933, Professor Marriott established the Garner High School in an old, dilapidated hall. He influenced the State Commission to make some additions to the teaching staff during that same year. He (with the cooperation of his staff and friends) operated his bus during his first years at Garner. Thus the enrollment of the school was greatly increased. Mr. Marriott has influenced his county school authorities to purchase a new site (IOV2 acres with home for the janitor) and to build a very modern school plant with much modern equipment costing several thousand dollars. Aside from being a successful school man, Rev. Marriott is an active pastor. He is the pastor of the Williams

314

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Chapel Baptist Church, near Wilson, North Carolina, and


the
First Baptist Church at Zebulon, where he has served for ten years.

North

Carolina,

is

He is Secretary of the Wake Baptist Association. He also gifted poetically, and writes plays for his school

(monologue)

Mrs. A. M. Moore
MRS. A. M. MOORE, Durham, N. C, is one of the wellknown missionary women
North Carolina. She is teacher of a class of parents in White Rock Baptist School, Sunday which position she has held
in

for thirty-five years. Mrs. Moore is president of the Dorcas Club, which lends its support to the Nursery School paying on the mortgage of the delinquent girls' home; responsible for a room in the Lincoln Hospital, and contributes to the A. M. Moore
;

Tubercular Fund. She is an ardent worker in the church in whatever capacity she
is called

upon.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

315

Rev.

J.

H. Moore, D.D.

THE REV. JOHN

H. MOORE, now of Charlotte, N. C, was born at Clarkston, N. C, April 30, 1884. His father was the Rev. D. J. Moore, After completing his training

in the public schools, University, where he

Rev
re-

Moore matriculated

at

Shaw

until he completed both his college and theoreceiving logical studies, the B.A. and B.Th. degrees. His first charge after leaving Shaw was the pastorate of the Mt. Bright Baptist Church in Hillsboro, N. C. He soon won the hearts of

mained

his people,

and this church prospered and increased in

numbers and was improved in building and equipment. When Dr. J. E. Shepard
founded the National Religious Training School at Durham, N. C. Rev. Moore became Dean of the Theological Department. In further preparation he attended Chicago University. Dr. Moore was then called to Florida to take charge of the First Baptist Church of St. Augustine, Fla. After a number of years in the South, where he taught as well as preached, he was called back to his home state to take charge of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Next he was elected Secretary of State Missions and served in this office for five years, working under a cooperative plan between the white and Negro Baptists of North Carolina. He was then called to the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Rocky Mount, N. C. Mrs. Moore, who was formerly Miss Eliza Blanks, is a member of the State Board of the Woman's Home and Foreign Mission Convention of North Carolina. They have three sons. Dr. Moore is one of the few ministers in the State who has the distinction of having been called back to a second pastorate of the same congregation. He is now back at the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, and the work there seems to be going smoothly.

316

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

W.

J.

Moore

subject of this sketch, Rev. W. J. Moore, was born Perquimans County in 1888. He is the son of Mr. Jas. A. and Mrs. Jennie Moore. He felt called to the ministry more than twenty years ago and was ordained in Pool's Grove Baptist Church, Perquimans County, and has pastored successfully the following churches: Ellis Temple, Winfall Mt. Delane, Roper. At present, Union Chapel, Weeksville; Corinth Baptist, Jarvisburg; Weeping Mary, Jamesville, and New Piney Grove, Gates, have the benefit of his efficient service. Rev. Moore is progressive and takes the lead in doing things wherever he goes. He is Moderator Middle Ground Union, Roanoke Association; vice-chairman Trustee Board,
in
;

THE

Roanoke

Institute.

In 1909 he led to the altar Miss Minnie Johnson, to which union were born twelve children: Edgar L., Joseph M., James E., Horace E., Dupont L., Samuel, Percy, W.

He is J., Jr., Helen L., Mildred V., Hazel and Ruby Mae. sending these children to school and teaching them how to earn a living anywhere their lot may be cast on the fourhundred-acre farm and in the comfortable and beautiful home located thereon. To visit his home and see the hogs by the hundreds and more than ten thousand chickens, and mules and tractors, etc., one would readily decide that he makes a plenty to eat and has enough for mar-

keting.

He is regarded as one of the most outstanding citizens of Hertford County, Route 3, Box 171.

Edward Malone
Route 1, Box 113, Neuse, N. C. Born April Joined 1853, Wilmington Street, Raleigh, N. C. the church in 1873. Member of St. Matthews Baptist Church, Wake County, N. C. Positions held in the church superintendent of Sunday School, teacher in the Sunday School, chorister and a trustee of the church. He married From this union Miss Betty Rogers, November, 1873. there are eleven children Maggie, Annie, Eddie, Esther, Orean, Maud, Viola, Metterine, John, Iven, Elizabeth Malone. Fraternal affiliations Mason and Odd Fellow.
15,
: :

ADDRESS:

With a Brief History

of Baptist

Organizations

317

William Henry Moore


subject of this sketch was converted at fourteen and ordained to the gospel ministry before he was twenty. He was born at Currie, Pender County, March 15, 1869, the son of Henry and Emily Murphy Moore. He has been married twice. His first marriage, March 8, 1893, to Miss Cora E. Corbitt.
passed, August 19, In 1909, June 2nd, he married the daughter of Rev. Jno. M. and Mallie

THE

She

1907.

Hill, Miss Clara A. Hill. He has four children: Mamie

E.,

Edna

F.,

Annie

L.,

and

Jannie Elizabeth Moore. Rev. Moore attended the


public schools and the Long Creek High School. He taught for a while and studied under Prof. J. F. Moore of the Black River Academy, and later did special work at the University Law School, Chicago. He has the degree of D.D.

from Guadaloupe College, Texas. He has the B.Th. degree from Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Dr. Moore has pastored many rural churches and is at present pastoring the Shiloh Baptist Church, Wilmington, where he has been since 1904. He is active in fraternal organizations: Grand Chaplain of N. C. Masons, Grand Chief of the Good Samaritans, member of K. of P. and other lodges, but he is remembered most in the denominational gatherings. He has served in nearly every capacity in the Baptist State bodies, Sunday School, B. He is at present the Corresponding T. U. Conventions. Secretary of the General Baptist Convention of North
Carolina. Dr. Moore is a living exponent of persistent hard work and study. He has a beautiful and comfortable home on Red Cross Street where Mrs. Moore and he reside.

318

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

CHARLES FRANCIS MESSERVE,


A.B., A.M., LL.D.

(Deceased) Second President of Shaw University,

Raleigh, N. C. (1893-1919)

REV.

D. M. MDODANA Native of South Africa

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

319

DR.

P.

W.

MOORE

Educator and Teacher


Elizabeth City, N. C.

REV.

G. A.

MIALS

(Deceased)

Known among

the Baptists for his

splendid work for the orphan children and the Union Reformer.

320

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

President,

mrs. viola McMillan Woman's Home and


Mission

For-

eign

Convention of

North Carolina

REV.

J.

H.

MARTIN

REV.

B. K.

MASON

Former Pastor, St. James Rocky Mount, N. C.

Charlotte Pastor and Builder

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

521

Rev.

J.

E. McGrier, A.B., B.Th.

J. E. McGRIER, A.B., B.Th., Box 108, Warrenton, N. C, was born in Abbeville, S. C, in 1897. He is the son of William and Minnie McGrier. He was educated at Shaw University from which he graduated with the degree of A.B. and

THE REV.

B.Th. He was ordained to the ministry at the Tupper Memorial Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C, and has pastored the Union Baptist Church, Tarboro, N. C, the Little Zion Baptist Church, and the Baptist Church at Areola in Warren County. He is now the pastor of Warrenton Baptist Church

and Ashley Grove Church


in

Warren County.

He

is

the corresponding secretary of the Reedy Creek and Shiloh Baptist Associations. He is a member of the Executive Board of

Warren County

S.

S.

and

B. Y. P. U. Convention and also of the General Baptist and the State S. S. Conventions. His wife was the former Miss Luvenia E. Evans of Raleigh, N. C. In addition to being a pastor, Rev. McGrier is principal of Coley Spring Elementary School in Warren County. He holds a principal's certificate from the State Department of Education. He is president of the County Welfare Board and president of the Warren County Teachers Association. He is chairman of the Board of Directors of the Warren County Drug Co., Inc. a member of the Council of the Community Center and recreational activities of his community. Mrs. McGrier is employed in the Warrenton school system. They have a beautiful home in Warrenton. These two young people are making a splendid contribution to the church and society.
;

322

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.
REV.

J.

D.

McCrae

J. D. McCRAE, of East Wilmington, N. C, was born in Marlboro County, S. C, on June 9th, 1883, the son of Pinkney and Laura McCrae. He attended school at Benedict College, Columbia, S. C. and the North Carolina College for Negroes at Durham, N. C. He was ordained to the ministry at Vance, N. C, by

the

of the Shiloh Association in 1910, and has served the following churches as pastor Antioch, Goldsboro, N. First C; Baptist Church, Battleboro First Baptist Church, Enfield,

council

Baptist
:

N. C, and Little Whitakers, N. C. now pastor of the

Zion,

He

is

First Baptist Church of Fairmont, Mt. Pisgah Baptist

Church, Burgaw, N. C, Canetuck, at Curry, N. C. He is president of the Middle District B. Y. P. U. Convention, Vice-Moderator of the Middle District Association, and secretary of the Executive Board. On December 27, 1916, he married Miss Bertha Batts. Their children are Arlin Henderson, James Norris, Aaron Adell, Isaac Davis, Charity Senolia. Rev. McCrae is a member of both the Masons and Odd Fellows. He is president and owner of the Benevolent Burial Association of Fairmont, N. C. He is business manager of the Ministers' Institute conducted at Burgaw, N. C. Rev. McCrae is a man of great energy and likes to do things. Aside from his many other duties, he is a successful farmer.

and

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

323

R. L.

McDougald

subject of this sketch, Mr. Richard Lewis McDougald, 609 Fayetteville Street, Durham, N. C, was born in Parents: Mrs. Ida V. Whiteville, N. C, April 11, 1896. Stevens. Education: New York City, North Carolina College for Negroes, Durham, N. C. Religion: Baptist Trustee White Rock Baptist Church. Married: Miss Dorothy E verette. Children Virginia McDougald O'Dan-

THE

Arona M. McDougald, and Dorothy McDougald.


iel,

Fraternal:

Omega

Psi

Phi fraternity. Business: cashier, Mechanics and Farmers Bank,

Durham North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Co.,


;

Durham; Banker's Fire Insurance Company, Union Insurance Realty Company, Southern Fidelity Mutual Insurance Company, Mutual Building and Loan Association, Mortgage Company of Durham. Not only the Negro Baptists of North Carolina are proud of the success and the contribution he is making to their development, but he is regarded throughout the State and country as one who is contributing to the developing of
the entire

Negro race

in their material uplift.

324

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. D.

S.

Nichols
principal of

THE REVEREND
Harriett Nichols.

D. S.

NICHOLS,

Roanoke

Institute, Elizabeth City, N.

C, was born
at

in Currituck

County, N. C, April

12, 1885. He is He was educated

the son of

Abram and Roanoke Institute

and Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He was ordained to the Gospel ministry at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Berkley, Va., 1918 and once pastored the St. Paul and the Ebenezer Baptist Churches
in

North Carolina. His wife was the form-

He went
number

er Miss Marjorice Stewart. to Florida and

served as a pastor for a of years and also as State missionary. He next accepted a position as foreign missionary under the National Baptist Convention, Inc., and worked for seven years in Liberia, West Africa. After his return to America, Rev. Nichols traveled extensively, visiting churches, schools and universities, preaching and lecturing. He then accepted the office of associate pastor of the Great Zion Baptist Church of Philadelphia, Pa., which he served for about eleven years. From this place, he was called to Elizabeth City, N. C, to take the principalship of the Roanoke Institute. He has given new impetus to this
institution

by adding a theological department and other improvements. The Baptist of the Roanoke Baptist Association have confidence in Rev. Nichols as the head of this Baptist institution owned and operated by them for many
years.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

325

Rev.

J.

A.

Nimmo

THE

subject of this sketch was born in St. Brides, Va., October 26, 1888. He is the son of Henry H. and Mary His early training was received in the public J. Nimmo. schools in Virginia. He attended Redwood Academy, and

Roanoke Institute

in Eliza-

beth City. Rev. taught school in North Carolina for more than six years. He was ordained to the gospel ministry in 1914, at the Willow Grove Baptist Church, and has pastored the following churches: Willow Grove in
St. Brides, Va., St.

Nimmo

James

Elizabeth City, Cumbo Chapel in Rich Square, and Zion Hill in Colerain. At present he is the pastor of the Baptist Church in Greenville, N. C,
in

Sycamore
his labors

where

have been

exceedingly

fruitful.

He is corresponding secretary to the Roanoke Missionary Association, and moderator of the Old Eastern-Middle Ground Union. He married Miss Mable Y. Smith, daughter of Rev. A. A. Smith, to which union has been born four children: Melrose A., Roswell C, James A., and Inez M., all of whom he is striving to educate. He is an Odd Fellow and Mason and has been careful to use his means wisely. He owns his home and other valuable property. Rev. J. A. Nimmo is classed as one of the outstanding ministers and leaders of Eastern North Carolina and the State.

326

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof.

W. N. Nelson

PROF. W. N. NELSON, 903 Lindsay

Street, Greensboro, N. C, was born in Tusculain, Ga., on December 3, 1873. He is the son of Mr. Limas and Pharabee Nelson. He received his A.B. and M.A. degrees from Georgia State College, in Savannah, Ga. He later did graduate work at the University of Chicago and

Columbia University, and studied electrical engineering at the American Institute of Technology. He is a member of the United Institutional Baptist Church of Greensboro, and fills the positions of church clerk, superintendent of the Sunday School and secretary of the Board of DeaIn December, 1905, cons.
he was married to
Miss

Agnes B. Pentacost of Rome, Ga. Professor Nelson taught at the A. & T. College at Greensboro from 1903-1918. He spent one year in the World War, ten months of which were spent over-seas. From 1920-1922 he did interracial work in the State of Florida. For several years he has been engaged in insurance business and was once state manager of the Standard Life Insurance Company of Atlanta, Ga. The National Benefit Insurance Company of Washington, D. C, and traveling representative of the Royal Knights of King David, in Durham, N. C. He is now special representative of the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company in Durham. He is a member of the Elk Lodge. He is vice president of the Western Sunday School Convention, vice president of the State Sunday School Convention, and president of S. S. and B. Y. P. U. Convention of Guilford County. He has a medal given him for outstanding religious work while at A. & T. College.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organization*.

327

Rev.

W. H. Owens
106, Columbia, N. C., was born County in North Carolina. His

REV. W. H. OWENS, Box


in Tyrrell

at Columbia, father and mother were Charlie and Elizabeth Owens. He attended the elementary, and high school at Columbia, N. C, and took a correspondence course of study from the
.

...

Moody

Bible Institute of Chicago, 111. He studied for a short time at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. He was ordained at the Salem Baptist Church in Columbia, N. C, in August, 1929. Has pastored the St. Matthews Baptist Church in Bertie County and is now

the pastor of the St. Stephen's Baptist Church in Elizabeth City, St. Paul Baptist Church, Tarboro, N. C, and Baptist Rock in Hickory, Va.

Rev. Owens

is

interested

in the material progress of

the group as well as their spiritual needs. He operates a general merchandise business in Columbia and has been blessed to accumulate considerable property. He is rightly called one of the well-to-do Baptist preachers of Eastern North Carolina. He is a successful pastor and takes an active part in all affairs for the welfare of the community. He is a member of the Executive Board of the Roanoke Association and secretary of the Ministers Union of that

same organization.

328

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof Andrew W. Perkins


ADDRESS:
Born, 1893, Mecklenburg Parents, Mr. Tallie and Mrs. Esther Perkins. Educated: Public schools of Concord, N. C; high school and college training, Shaw University from which he graduated with B.S. degree received two years training in the Theological Department
County, N. C.
;

Hoffman, N. C.

Orinstitution. dained minister at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Salisbury, N. C, 1932. Assistant pastor for sevof this
eral

months respectively
the
First

at

Baptist

Church, Concord,
Friendship Baptist Church, Hamlet, and the Baptist Church, First Rockingham, N. C. Organized B. Y. P. U. and
Bible class at First Bap-

Church, Hoffman, N. C. Married Miss Elizabeth Jones, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jones, Rocky Mount, N. C. He has taught at the following places: Pollocksville, N. C, for four years where he started the first Negro high school in Jones County; at present principal of the colored high school at Hoffman, N. C. Has been here ten years. During his administration the school has advanced from elementary to three years of high school work four rooms and two teachers have been added has procured transportation for stutist

dents

community.

school and personally erected a gymnasium for the farm with

He owns and

demonstration objectives.

and business leader among

operates a 52-acre regarded as an educational his people in his area.


Is

With a Brief History

of Baptist Orgmvizatioyis

329

Dr.
DR.

Harmon Perry

H. PERRY, 458 Moore Street in FayetteN. C, saw the light of day on September 9, 1864. He is the honored son of Mr. and Mrs. William H. and Adeline Perry of Louisburg, N C.
ville,

HARMON

He

received

his

training

in the

early public

schools of Louisburg; later

at matriculated University from which he received his B.S. degree in


1889

Shaw

and

his

pharma-

ceutical degree in 1894.

In 1884 he professed faith in Christ and joined the Olive Branch Baptist Church, Wake Forest, N. C. Upon moving to Fayetteville, he joined the First

Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon of that church. He married Miss Helen E. Scott, a graduate of Scotia Seminary in Concord, to which union the following children were born: Dr.

Harmon

H., Jr.,

who

is

doing well in New York and Miss Grace Scott Perry, who is making her home with her brother in New York. Dr. Perry has been in business since 1896, Feb. 4, making forty-four years continously in Fayetteville. He is among the many Shaw men who married a real help meet in every sense of the word. They have worked, saved and educated their children who are doing exceptionally well in their respective fields. Mrs. Perry studied in Boston University when not engaged in teaching. Dr. Perry has been

and religious and business life of Cumberland and adjoining counties. He has virtually given away a small fortune in his county helping his own people.
active in the civic

330

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Roderick Hayes Patterson


REV. RODERICK

HAYES PATTERSON of 419 Hayes Avenue, Ahoskie, N. C, was born in Tunstall, Va., on October 4, 1889. His parents were D. S. and Mary M.
VirUniversity with the B.Th. degree and was ordained in Tunstall, Va., in 1918, to the gospel ministry and has pastored the First Baptist Church in
ginia

Patterson.

^M^M^,_^m^_^_B_____^____

He graduated from

Union

Tappahannock,
Johns',

Essex
N. C. ing the
tist

V a., S t. Mt. Zion in County, and First


New
in
is

Baptist
He

Powellsville,

now

pastor-

Ahoskie BapChurch in Ahoskie and

New

the Union Baptist Church


in Tarboro, N. C.

He is serving now as vice-moderator of the Lott Carey Conference and corresponding secretary of the
West Roanoke Association.
Dixon of Baltimore, Md., to Miss Lelia J. Bond. There are two children: Wilhelmina and George. Rev. Patterson built the church parsonage since he has been to Ahoskie and increased the membership of the church considerably during his pastorate. He owns a farm of more than 120 acres and several houses and lots in town some fine hogs of good breed and raises plenty of food stuff for the family and farm purposes. He is regarded as a safe and sane leader among the host of Baptists in Eastern North Carolina.
I.

He married Miss Blanche


died in 1924 and

who

was married next

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

331

Rev.
REV.
was

Thomas Parker

THOMAS PARKER born in Gates


4,

County, October

1830.

He

was carried from there to Florida, but was later brought back to Wilmington, N. C. He was baptized
ored

and joined the First ColBaptist Church in

1863. He was ordained at the third annual session of the State Convention which was held in Wilmington, N. C. (1870). More than four thousand persons were baptized during his ministry. Rev. J. 0. Hayes, North Carolina's first NeBaptist missionary, gro was among the number. He was also the moderator of the Kenansville Eastern Association for twenty-six years.

332

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Hayes Peterson

AMONG

the progressive factors living in Kelly, North Carolina is Rev. Hayes Peterson. His parents were Jackson and Margarett Peterson. He was educated at Peabody School, Wilmington, North Carolina. Inherently endowed to achieve for the good of humanity, he accepted the call to preach and was ordained to the ministry in 1889 by the Middle District Association. He has successfully pastored at the following

churches Falling Run, Grades, White Creek, and


:

Christian Chapel. He is pastoring Lakes Chapel, Spring Green, Mount Elam, Mount Pleasant and Mount Pilgrim.

He is moderator of the Middle District Association. Rev. Hayes was first married in 1879 to Miss Harriet
Andrews
to

whom were

born three children: Andrew, John and Lou. His second marriage was to Miss Rosa Crenshaw. To this union were born four children: Gladys, Maggie, Lucy and Johnsie. Rev. Peterson is active in Masonic circles. He is regarded as a highly successful business man and farmer. He conducts a well-stocked store and operates a mill and owns over 1,000 acres of land. He is a "native ideal" for our aspiring young folk who are looking for the main chance in the realm of economics.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

333

Rev. U. G. Privott (Deceased)

THE REVEREND
Church
1889, in

U. G. PRIVOTT, formerly of 306 W. Street, Edenton, N. C, was born on May 29,

Chowan County. He was

Emily Privott.

He

the son of Theophius and attended school at Elizabeth City, N. C.

After leaving school, he taught in the public schools of Edenton and Enfield, N. C, and did insurance work. Rev. Privott was ordained to the ministry at
the
Olive

Branch Baptist

Church, Elizabeth City, in 1916. Being much in demand as a preacher, he was sought by many churches. He has pastored the following:

New

Shiloh in

Cam-

den County, Second Baptist in Plymouth, N. C, Lebanon Grove in Gates County, Big Bethel in Perquimans County, Zion Chapel, Mt. Arraratt, Mt. Shiloh, Wood-

ward Plains, Peterson's


Chapel and Saunders Grove. At the time of his death, April 16, 1940, Rev. Privott was pastor of Chapel Hill, Indian Woods, and St. John Baptist churches. During his ministry he baptized 1,700 persons. He was a member of the Foreign Mission Board of the Roanoke Baptist Association. He was married to Miss Louise Simmons on October 10, 1910. To this union were born the following children: Ezekiel W., Levi P., Veria D., Ulysses C, and Queenie L. Miss Veria is a registered nurse and is serving in the Good Sheperd Hospital, New Bern, N. C. Rev. Privott owned his home in Edenton, N. C.

334

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

A. C. Parrish

ADDRESS:

P. 0. Box 12, Method, N. C. Born September 1, Parents: Cary Adline Parish. Educated at 1893. Method public school and Shaw University. Member of Oak City Baptist Church for 35 years, superintendent Sunday school for 15 years, deacon, clerk, member trustee board and finance committee and treasurer, member executive committee and Sunday school board of Wake Baptist Association, president Wake

County

Sunday School Convention


for eight years.

Married Miss Cozie Atwater, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Atwater, Method, N. C, June 2, 1915. Children: Two sons and four daughters. Fraternal connections: Mason and Raleigh Union Society, past master of Masonic lodge, served as secretary of eighth Masonic district of North Carolina, once served as chairman of committee of Boy Scout Troop of Method, N. C, eight years president of Berry O'Kelly P.-T. A., president Citizens Civic League of Method, chairman of the trustee
board of Oak Grove Cemetery, Method.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

335

Prof.
PROF.

J.

W.

Paisley

J. W. PAISLEY, 1434 Stadium Drive, WinstonSalem, N. C, was born in Guilford County, N. C. Prof. Paisley holds a bachelor of arts degree from Shaw University, and a master of arts degree from Columbia University, New York. He is a member of the First Baptist

Church of Winston-Salem and also chairman of the


Board. He has served as chorister and superintendent of the Sunday school. He was recording secretary of the Western Sunday School Convention for nineteen years. Mrs. Paisley was formerly Miss Mammie E. Phifer of Charlotte, N. C. They have two children: John, Jr., and Tessie M. L. Paisley Hill. Prof. Paisley is Grand Secretary of Masons, a member of the Eastern Star and the Pythians of North
Carolina. Prof. Paisley taught in the public schools of Wake, Forsyth and Davie counties. He has been instructor in the John Chavis School in Raleigh, N. C, and Slater State Normal in Winston-Salem. He is now principal of the Kimball Park School, Winston-Salem, where his service is held in high esteem. He is the author of three books "The Voice of Mizrams," "Problems in Cursive," "Manuscript
:

Deacon

and Mirror Handwriting," and "Ras Broads." His book on mirror handwriting has created much interest in some of
the larger schools and is recognized as a distinct contribution in this particular field. Both of his children are educated and Prof, and Mrs. Paisley seem very happy in their comfortable home in Winston-Salem. He is counted among the worthy laymen of North Carolina Baptist who has and is contributing to the general uplift of his race irrespective of denomination.

336

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. E.
REV.

S.

Parker

E. S. PARKER of 207 Albermarle Street, Edenton, N. C., was born at Tyner, N. C, on Sept. 3, 1899. His parents are John and Dina Parker. As a boy he attended the public school in Chowan County. Next he went to Roanoke Institute at Elizabeth

9^M

**

beth city where


^

Dr c M>

Cartwright had been the pastor for many years. In 1932, Rev. Parker was called to the Mt. Shiloh Baptist Church at Aurora, N. C-, and in 1935 the Gale Street Baptist Church, Edenton, N. C. He is still serving these
churches. Rev. Parker is still engaged in educational work. He has been teaching in Greenville for the past thirteen years. He is president of the Pitt County Teachers Association and also president of the Alumni Association of Roanoke He is assistant secretary of Roanoke Baptist Institute. Association, and corresponding secretary of the ProgresHe is a member of the Lamba sive Baptist Association. Chapter, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. On June 5, 1924, he

was married to Miss Fannie L. Auterbridge of Edenton, N. C. They have one child, Virginia, and although his father died when young Parker was just fourteen years old, he has succeeding in educating himself by his own
efforts.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

337

The Late Rev. Shepard


BORN

S.

Person

in Franklinton, N. C, February, 1873. Died in September, 1921. He received his early education at Shiloh Institute, Warrenton, N. C, and his college and theological training at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, graduating

in 1901.

His educational and ministerial works are as follows


Principal of the public school, Hamlet, N. C, four or five years. Principal of

Dickerson Academy, Pinehurst, N. C, eight years.


Principal of Western Union Spindale, Academy,

now

Rutherfordton, N. C. While principal he paid this institution out of debt, for which he never was compensated. Principal of Girls'

Training School, Franklinton, N. C. Public school teacher and principal in the State until his death.

His ministerial charges included churches of Baptist denomination in the vicinity of his various schools, the Friendship Baptist Church, Charlotte, and the Shiloh BapHe served as moderator of the tist Church, Kittrell, N. C. Wake Association for several years and was engaged in many phases of religious education in the communities in which he worked until his death. He was married to Miss Emily Joyner of Franklinton. To this union three children were born Rosalind Elizabeth Person, who is a graduate of Shaw University and a teacher in one of the high schools of the State Marcellus Joyner Person, who died at the age of four years and Shepard S.
: ; ;

Person, Jr., who Shaw University.

is

member

of the 1941 senior class at

338

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

BURGAW HIGH SCHOOL


Buegaw, N.
C.

Rev. C. F. Pope
C. F. POPE, 316 E. South St., Raleigh, N. C, was born August 23, 1868, in Northampton County, N. C. He is the son of John and Pennie Hall Pope. He is a graduate of Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, and has also done graduate work at the University of Chicago; Columbia University, N. Y., and Hampton Institute in Hampton, Va. He was ordained at Raleigh, N. C, in 1901. For a period of years, he was the beloved pastor of the New Liberty Baptist Church and also pastored the Pleasant Plains Baptist Church in Hertford County, where he still holds membership, that being his home church. He also served the New Providence Baptist Church near Raleigh. He married Miss Lizzie Edmondson of Lexington, Va. Their only child,

REV.

a daughter, Lois Beatrice, died in infancy. Rev. Pope is a member of the Order of Masons. He taught in the public schools in Hertford County fours years; Waters Institute (now Waters Training School) in Winton, N. C, three years Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C, eleven years and for twenty-five years, has been principal of the Burgaw Colored High School at Burgaw, N. C. In this last named position no doubt Rev. Pope has achieved the crowning work of his useful career. Here he has the opportunity to look back over a quarter of century
;

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

339

work among young

people.

He

rejoices

and justly

so,

at

the evidences of his painstaking handiwork. Up to within a few years ago, the graduates from this school were the only source from which the schools of Pender County received their teachers. For a number of years this school was supported largely by Middle District Baptist Association, which still owns the building but the county operates the school. Rev. Pope is loved and respected by the people of both racial groups, and it is pleasing to see how the students and even the little ones greet him with an affectionate smile. In this work of twenty-five years at Burgaw, N. C, Rev. Pope had by his side a little woman who was an energetic and courageous worker. Well trained for school work, she stamped the imprint of her personality upon every phase of the work at Burgaw. So the present Burgaw High School stands as a monument to the efforts of two lives of service consecrated to God and their fellowmen in upright living and in unstinted labor. Mrs. Pope passed to her reward in the spring of 1940. Rev. Pope is still carrying on the work at Burgaw.

Extension Class of

Shaw

Dr. G.

University at Burgaw High W. Watkins, Teacher

School.

340

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mr. Guyon Perry


MR.

GUYON PERRY,
:

Box

213, Route 2, Wendell, N.

C,

was born November 19, 1872, Wendell, N. C. His parents Mr. and Mrs. Legan and Elizabeth Wall Perry. Brother Perry, perhaps, is one of the best known and respected laymen in Wake
County.

He

is

a progressive

farmer and has made good. He is very active in church and Sunday School work. His membership is in Riley Hill, where he has served
as
clerk

for

quite

some

time; also chairman deacon board. In the Wake Association he is regarded as one of the strong laymen. In the Wake County Sunday School Convention, he is the treasurer. Also treasurer Ministers and Deacons Union. In nearly all organizations for the religious

and
in

civic

growth of

citizens

County, Mr. Perry can be found. He, with his wife, Mrs. Perry, have spent a small fortune in the education of their children. His contribution to the denomination is one of distinction.

Wake

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

341

Miss Mabel P. Powell


P. POWELL, of Clinton, N. C, was born in North Carolina in Sampson County. She is Clinton, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Powell. After finishing high school, she attended the State Normal School at FayNorth Carolina. etteville, She is now completing her work for a B.S. degree in

MISS

MABEL

education at Teachers' College at Fayetteville, N. C. She has been a member of the Andrews Chapel Baptist

Church since early childhood. For a number of years she served as secretary and as superintendent
and teacher in the Sunday school and is now church
clerk.

Since graduation Miss Powell has taught in the

Sampson
school years.

County public
for

system

ten

She worked for the North Carolina Mutual Life

Insurance Company during the summer of 1939. She worked in the State Training School for Girls at Hudson, N. Y., served for six years as secretary of the B.T.U. State Convention, and is at present district superintendent in the

Northeast and Cape Fear Convention.

342

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

W. H. Peace
MR. W. H. PEACE
was born
in

of 116 W. South Street, Raleigh, N. C, Henderson, N. C, on September 15, 1857. He is the son of Charles Granderson and Jane Davis Peace. He received his school training in the public school and Shaw University, which was then

known

as

Shaw

Collegiate

Institute.

Below we quote

a short autobiography written by Mr. Peace especially for us. He writes: "I attended public school in Henderson, N. C, then came
Collegiate Insticalled a university at that time. After attending for about three terms, for lack of funds, I had to leave the school, and soon afterward I began teaching school and taught till 1889 when I entered the Railway Mail Service as a postal clerk, from which I was retired on
to
tute.
It

Shaw

was not

August 20, 1920, having served 31 years. I have served the First Baptist Church here in Raleigh as financial secretary, Sunday school teacher, trustee, deacon, sexton and one of the ten group leaders." Brother Peace first joined the Shiloh Baptist Church in Henderson; next the Oak City Baptist in Method, and later the First Baptist Church of Raleigh, where he still remains. He has been married twice. The first time was to Miss Captonia Wall of Millbrook, N. C, and the second marriage was to Miss Fannie M. O'Kelly, Raleigh, N. C. The children are: Blanche, Minnie, Lula, Gwendolyn, Faye, W. H., Jr., and John C. Mr. Peace is regarded in Raleigh and throughout the State as one of the many layman in the church who are loyal to every cause which the Baptist espouse.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

343

Mrs. Ella C. Pegues


MRS. ELLA CHRISTIAN PEGUES,
Street, in Raleigh,

of

125

E.

South

North Carolina, was born in Richmond, Va. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wallace She received Christian and Josephine Wyatt Christian. She is connected her education in Richmond, Virginia. with the First Baptist Church in Raleigh. She was married to the late Dr. A. W. Pegues to which union was born two children Mrs. Ernestine Pegues Hamlin and Albert Pegues (deceased). For several years she taught in the public schools of Richmond and Raleigh, N. C. Ten years as a teacher of English at Shaw University; and for several years teacher of speech at the School for the Blind and the Deaf in Raleigh, North Carolina. Perhaps, Mrs. Pegues' most outstanding work as a teacher has been in the field of religious education. For years she has taught the Sunday School Teachers Class of
:

the First Baptist Church. Since 1923 she has been a teacher in Sunday School Methods at the Baptist State Sunday School Convention and has also taught Baptist Doctrine in various institutes in Eastern North Carolina. Mrs. Pegues is the general group leader of the membership groups of the First Baptist Church, is the first vice-president of the Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Convention of North Carolina and has shown unusual ability as a leader and exerted a remarkable christian influence in the positions which she held and which she now holds.

344

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. Walter A. Pattillo, D.D.

.:.. it;'

THE

subject of this sketch, Rev. Walter A. Pattillo, D.D., in Warren County, N. C, on November 9, 1950. He served as a slave under Mr. James E. Pattillo for about fifteen years. After slavery, drove wagons and worked at a sawmill to support his mother and was thereby deprived of the advantages of school. He commenced his education under his old master, and by hard study succeeded in mastering the rudiments of an education. He married Miss Ida Hart, daughter of Osburn and Elizabeth Hart of Granville County, N. C, on the twentieth of November, 1870. He professed religion in August, 1873. Baptized by Rev. Edmund Bratcher and joined Michael's Creek Baptist Church the second Sunday in November, 1873. He received his permit to preach in 1874 and was ordained in 1875. He taught a subscription school in Michaels' Creek Church, then a log cabin. His first pupil relates that his first questions were "Can you repeat the Lord's prayer ?" "Can you repeat the Ten Commandments?" "Can you count to one hundred?" He taught in public school until he had accumulated enough money to enter Shaw University in 1876, where he remained with the assistance of his church and

was born

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

345

white friends, until he graduated with the A.B. degree. He then spent about twenty-five years teaching in the public schools of Granville, in Warren, Vance, and Halifax counties.

He was the first superintendent of the Colored Orphanage Asylum, where he published the Alliance Advocate in the interest of the asylum. He also published the Alliance Advocate of North Carolina Colored Farmers Alliance and the Baptist Pilot, the organ of the Baptists of North Carolina,
1891-1893.

He was a member of the Home Mission Board of the Baptist State Convention and was president of the Middle Baptist Association for a number of years. He was principal of the Oxford School for about 15 years. He pastored the following churches: Michael's Creek Baptist Church, 1874-92, 1900-06 Blue Wing Grove, 1877-1908 New Jonathan Creek, 1879-93; Olive Grove, 12 years; Cedar Grove, three years Flat Creek, Williamsboro, N. C. First Baptist, Oxford, N. C, 1895-1903; Mount Olive, South Boston, Va., 1905-08; Shady Hill, Roxboro, N. C, 1904-08; Penn. Ave., Oxford, N. C, 1906-08 (last sermon, I Cor. 16:22) Pleasant Grove, Roxboro, N. C, 1907-08. He was honored with the degree D.D. by his alma mater, Shaw University, in the spring of 1905. He preached about 34 years during which he delivered nearly three thousand sermons, including funerals, and baptized about 3,100. Aside from his ministerial work, his strong fort was the middle ground he occupied in a most conservative attitude, in bringing about peace and goodwill between the colored
; ; ; ; ;

and white

races.
life

He

departed his

Tuesday morning, May

12, 1908.

346

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

H. P. Pettiford

THE

subject of this sketch is one of those quiet, unassuming Christian citizens of whom the people at large know too little. H. P. Pettiford, of Oxford, N. C, was His born in Granville County on December 20, 1875. parents were Thomas and

Mary

tended the

Pettiford. public

He

at-

schools

at Oxford and the Mary Potter Memorial Institute He is a in the same city.

graduate
tion.

of

this

institu-

He
of

has been a
First

mem-

Baptist Church of Oxford for forty years. Has served on the deacon board for twentyseven years. Thirty-four years ago he was married

ber

the

to

Miss Helen C. Cannon, Mrs. of Darlington, S. C. Pettiford passed to her reward several years ago. Mr. Pettiford has no children of his own, yet he has reared and helped to edu-

One of these, Miss Cornelia Green, makes cate several. her home with him and holds a position as public school teacher at the Colored Orphan Asylum at Oxford. In the business world, he is an example of what a person can do by exercising initiative, industry and thrift. He worked and saved sufficient money to pay cash for the home in which he now lives before he was married, and bought other property since. He has been a contractor in laying concrete for twenty-three years. During that time he has had good success. He is a liberal contributor to his church and other benevolent causes. Loves to do things for others, uses his car on rainy Sundays to assist old people and others who need help in getting to and from church services. Such laymen are needed in all of our churches.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

347

Dr. H.

I.

Quick

ADDRESS

Stewart Street, Rockingham, N. C. Born Rockingham, N. C. Parents: John and Elizabeth Quick. Attended Shaw University. Ordained to the ministry at Holly Grove Baptist Church, Richmond County, N. C. Churches pastored: Bethlehem, St. Luke, Scotland County, N. C. St. John, Hoke CounCenter Grove, ty, N. C. Moore County, N. C. HenWmfflk:

107

S.

November

17, 1859,

mmm

Grove, Rocky Ford, Deep Creek, Anson County, N. C. Elizabeth, Monroe, Union County, N. C. Providence, Richmond County, N. C. November, 1938, retired from active pastorry
;

BHHH
mi

ing.

Offices held in religious organizations Clerk of Pee Dee Association, five years moderator of Pee Dee Union, and 26 years moderator Pee Dee Association. Married Miss Helen Elebee. For 57 years they labored together. Their children are Wendell, John, Harrison, Corina, Nannie, Nutie, Blanche, Coachia, Rhoda. Fraternal affiliations Mason, Royal Knights, K. of P. All of Dr. Quick's children had excellent educational advantages, because of his desire to prepare them for a life of high usefulness. A number of them attended Shaw University. Howard University and A. & T. College. Dr. Quick owns more than 500 acres of land, 17 houses and lots in Rockingham, and two store buildings in the business district of Rockingham. At one time he operated a ten-horse farm.
: : :

348

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Annie Beatrice Brandon Rogers


Mrs. Annie Beatrice Hairston Brandon Rogers of Oxford, N. C, was born July 10, 1879 in Yadkin County, N. C. Her father was the Rev. W. H. Hairston, a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her mother was formerly Miss Emma Green. Mrs. Rogers received her education at Bennett College, Greensboro, N. C. She
a member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford, N. C. She is the president of the Missionary Circle, has been corresponding secretary ten years; taught the Philathea Bible Class ten years; adult class eight
is

years. She first was married to Deacon Peyton Brandon (deceased). Her present husband is Mr. John C. Rogers, nephew of the late

Dr. John A. Whitted. She has reared three adopted


children from the Oxford These they have educated at Mary Potter, Shaw University and St. Augustine. Mrs. Rogers taught at the Oxford Colored Orphanage before her marriage. After her first marriage she built a house and conducted a private school for five years. Then she went back to the orphanage and remained until she was asked to take a position in the elementary school in the city. After serving twenty-three years she resigned. She was corresponding secretary of W. B. H. M. Convention of North Carolina for eighteen years. She is now vicepresident of that organization. She assisted in the Granville County health work for three years.

Orphanage.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

349

Mrs. A. L.
MRS. A.

Ransome

L. RANSOME, 114 West South Street, Raleigh, N. C, is the widow of the late Dr. M. C. Ransome of Oxford, N. C. She was born June 5, 1855, at Murfreesboro, N. C. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Calvin J. Weaver, (deceased). She was edu-

cated at Shaw University. Mrs. Ransome is a member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford, N. C, and watchcare member of the First Baptist Church of Raleigh, N. C. She makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. A. B. Johnson of Raleigh. She is the mother of six children: Dr. T. M. Ransome, (deceased) U s t e s Ransome, (deceased) Dr.
;
;

Eugene
ford,

Ransome
C.;

of Ox(de-

N.

Willie,

ceased; Mrs. Omelia R. Johnson, Raleigh, N. C, and Marcellus (deceased). She served for thirty-one years as treasurer of the Woman's Baptist Home and Foreign Mission Convention of North Carolina. She resigned in 1931 and the convention elected Mrs. Johnson (her daughter) who still occupies that position.

350

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. L. A. Raeford
L. A. RAEFORD, Route 4, Box 166, Fayetteville, N. C, was born July 8, 1872, in Fayetteville, N. C. His parents were Edward and Ruthie Raeford. He attended the public school of Cumberland County and finished from the State Teachers College then

REV.

as State Normal in He Fayetteville in 1894. was ordained to the ministry in 1910 at Beauty Spot

known

Church Church

in

Cumberland

County, in North Carolina. He has pastored Mt. Olive


in

Cumberland

County, Second Light and First New Light in Bladen County, and Sa-

New

vannah Church

in

Cumber-

land County. He is now pastoring Second New Light, Flat Swamp, Union Hill, and Red Hill. All are
in

Cumberland County exis

cept one which

in

Bladen

County.

He has
district superintendent of the

held offices as

Union Convention, recording secretary of the Union Association, and vice president of the Ministers and Deacons Conference. He married Miss Lang McNeill of Cedar Creek and has the following children: James D. and Robert Lee. He is a Mason, Odd Fellow and K. of P. He owns a small farm and a home and other valuable
property in Fayetteville.
religious

Rev. Raeford has been active in


in the

community for quite some time. He has sent his children to school and they are making good in their respective fields. Rev. Raeford has been a power for good in Cumberland County, working hand in hand with the late Dr. E. E.
and
civic

work

Smith.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

351

Dr. Nicholas F. Roberts (Deceased)

NICHOLAS F. ROBERTS, was a mathematician and Bible scholar and spent the larger part of his life at Shaw University. He graduated with the first class sent out by this institution in 1878; taught at Shaw for more than fifty years. He served as president of the State Sunday School Convention a number of years and held other important positions among the Baptists of North Carolina.
DR.

352

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

HON.

J.

T.

REYNOLDS

(Deceased)

Hon. Reynolds was elected corresponding secretary of the State Baptist Sunday School Convention in 1879 and served for twelve
years.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

353

Dr. M. C.

Ransome (Deceased)

M. C. RANSOME, D.D., LL.B., was born at Franklinton, N. C, about the year 1849. He attended private school at Franklinton, and spent one year at Biddle University, now Johnson C. Smith, from which he was
graduated, receiving diplo-

THE REVEREND

mas from the


logical

college theo-

law departments. He passed the state board and received a license to practice law. However, he did not engage in the law business to any great extent. He devoted his time to teaching in the public schools and to preaching
the Gospel. He taught school for about fifty years. He pastored: The Tupper Memorial Baptist Church, in Raleigh, N. C; Mt. Bright in Hillsboro, the First Baptist in Oxford, N. C, and other rural .churches in Franklin and Granville counties.

and

354

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

William Madison Rich

is the efficient superintendent of the Lincoln Hospital, Durham, N. C; President, Tri-State Conference of Hospital Administrators, which includes North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia; Member, American College of Hospital Administrators (only two other Negroes in the United States have qualified to become members of this college) Chairman of the Finance Committee of the White Rock Church member of the Board of Trustees, White Rock Baptist Church.
; ;

MR. WM. M. RICH

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

355

Typical of the
tributing
to

MISS LUCY A. ROYSTER many teachers


the

con-

Religious and Educational forces in our denominational ranks. Miss Royster is a member of the Durham Graded School System.

mmmmm

iSI
v:iggm UWM 111

iji!

MR.

A.

J.

ROGERS

Sunday School Worker and Layman


Raleigh, N. C.

356

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

Thomas

B.

Smith

McCullers, N. C. Born June 15, 1881, Panther Branch Township, Wake County, N. C. Lived in this township for seven years. At the age of seven years, father and mother died. At the age of twelve years was hired out

ADDRESS:

work for $2.50 to $3.00 a month. At this age he had only reached the third grade in school due to the fact that he
to

had not been given the


opportunity. Later took a four-year high school course at Shaw University. Confessed Christ at the age of thirteen; at

which time he became


in church work conducting Praise Services at Juniper Level Baptist Church, of which he was a member. Called to the ministry at the age of 38 years and licensed at Juniper Level Baptist Church. Later was ordained and was called to pastor the Baptist Church at Cary, N. C, where he is strll pastoring successfully. At the age of 25 years was married to the Miss Luvenia Thompson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Moses and Fannie Thompson. From this union nine chilrden are being reared and educated. Upon marrying decided to purchase a home at a time when he was farming on shares. He made a down payment of $1.00 on the purchase of his home. Today he owns three farms valued at approximately $8,000. Interested in movements for economic, educational

active

and

and

civic progress.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

357

Joseph
ADDRESS:

I.

Stredwick

783 Hillsboro Street, Raleigh, N. C. Born Parents Mr. John June 11, 1898, Raleigh, N. C. Stredwick and Mrs. Emma Stredwick. Educated at St. Augustine's College and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. As a layman, for years he has been active in church affairs. A number of years has been a communicant of Oberlin Baptist Church, Raleigh. Has been superintendent
of this church's Sunday School for four years. He is a member of the B. Y. P. U.

Married Miss Henrie


Jeffries of Raleigh.

Her

parents are Mr. and Mrs. N. L. Jeffries. For a number of years Mrs. Stredwick has been a teacher in Lucille Hunter School, Raleigh.

Fraternal connection: Lodge, F.A.A.M., No. 55.

Was made

member

of

Mentor

Has been engaged

in the ton-

sorial business for fifteen years. Is deeply interested in the spiritual, educational, civic, social and economic status of his race.

358

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr.

James

E.

Shepard

President, North Carolina State College for Negroes

WAS

born in Raleigh, N. C, November 3, 1875, the son Augustus Shepard, D.D., and Mrs. Hattie E. (Whitted) Shepard. His parents were prominent in North Carolina, especially in movements for the wholesome development of their race. When Dr. Augustus Shepard died he was pastor of the well-known White Rock Baptist Church, Durham, N. C. He accentuated high standards in every community of which he became a part, and he was nationof Rev.
ally

known

in

religious

circles.

The
sketch

subject

of

this

at University, Raleigh, 1883-90. He graduated from the Department of

was

educated

Shaw

Pharmacy

(same

institu-

tion) in 1894; later taking a private course in theol-

ogy; received the degree of 1912; the degree of A.M. from Selma University, Selma, Ala., 1913; Litt.D., from Howard University, Washington, D. C, 1925. November 7, 1895, he married Mrs. Annie Day Robinson, of Danville, Va. Their children are Marjorie A. and Annie Day. Annie Day married the son of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac H. Smith, of New Bern. Mr. Isaac H. Smith, now deceased, was nationally known because of his business acumen and outstanding success. His son, to whom Miss Annie Day Shepard married, followed in the footsteps of

D.D. from

Muskigum

College, Ohio,

his father as a successful realtor.

Dr. Shepard is a member of White Rock Baptist Church, Durham, N. C, of which he has been a vitalizing From 1905 to 1909 he was field factor for many years. superintendent of work among Negroes for the InternaAt the World's Sunday tional Sunday School Association. School Convention held in Rome, Italy, 1907, he was a dele-

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

359

gate and the only Negro speaker at this highly significant


event.

Because of his rugged determination to help remedy certain conditions affecting his race and because of his varied experiences in movements of racial cooperation for

mutual progress and wholesome development, The Nawas founded by him during the year of 1910 in the city of Durham. The school had among its outstanding objectives such features as Chautauqua and certain courses for religious workers. In the beginning this effort was of national import. During the year of 1923, The National Religious Training School became the Durham State Normal School. In 1925, Dr. Shepard's aspirations and activities to make the school a college were realized The North Carolina College for Negroes ultimately becoming an outstanding accredited college with a representative faculty and students from many states. Now his institution is offering graduate courses leading to the M.A. and M.S. degree in the following fields: Social Science, Science, Mathematics, Education, English. A Department of Law will be established. "The -faculty of the North Carolina College for Negroes, the University of North Carolina, and Duke University will offer strong co-ordinated courses in the above-named
tional Religious Training School

departments." It is noted that he has been vitally connected with many splendid movements and has served as follows A member of the board of directors of the Merchants and Farmers Bank, Durham; president of the North Carolina State Teachers' Association; State president of the Interdenominational Sunday School Convention; a director of the State Industrial Fair Association; member of the trustee board of Lincoln Hospital, Durham; among the first members of the National Negro Business League P. G. M., F. & A. A. Masons for the jurisdiction of North Carolina and was re-elected as the head of this organization at its last meeting; was Grand Patron for the Order of Eastern
: ;

Star. He is active in many civic organizations. Has traveled extensively in Europe, Asia and Africa. He is internationally known as a scholar, lecturer and educator. Dr. Shepard has held the following Federal positions Comparer of Deeds, Recorder's office, Washington, D. C, 1898; Deputy Collector U. S. Internal Revenue, Raleigh,

N. C, 1899-1905.

360

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. William Frederick Smith

ADDRESS:

State College Station, Raleigh, N. C. Born November 8, 1889, Wake County, N. C. ParentsEmmanuel and Frances Smith. Educated at public schools, West Raleigh, and Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. Or-

dained minister at Oberlin Baptist Church, Raleigh, N. C. Churches now pastoring: Williams Grove, New Providence,
tist,

Matthews, First BapHolly Springs, N. C. Married to Miss Hattie


St.

Allen.

Children

Edna

C, Marguaritte ginia, Arthur

M., Vir-

BarJ., bara J. Two of his children were educated at

Hampton

Institute

and

State College, Elizabeth City, N. C. They are now teaching. The other children now in are
school.

Rev. Smith, although young in the ministry, is a builder of churches. He built the Cary Baptist Church and has about completed the Holly Springs Baptist Church. He is recognized as an evangelist as well as a

Remarks:

pastor.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

361

The Reverend D.
THE REVEREND
Carolina,

L.

Simons
Powellsville,

D. L.
in

SIMONS,
March

North

the son of Daniel and Cherry Simons. After finishing the public school, he attended Bertie Academy, a school operated by the West Roanoke Baptist MM!M!1S! Association. He next attended the Teachers' College at Elizabeth City. He
16, 1886.
is

was born

He

^^

was ordained to preach in May, 1911, by the brethren of the West Roanoke Asso-

He has served the following churches as pastor: Mount Ararat, Bertie County; Elm Grove, Hertford County; St. Elmore,
ciation.
St. Paul,
tist.

and Ashland Bap-

Rev. Simons is now moderator of the West Roanoke Baptist Association, treasurer of the General Baptist Convention of North Carolina and chairman of the Finance Committee of the Lott Carey Conference of the West Roanoke Baptist Association. He is also a member of the Foreign Board of the same organization. Rev. Simons is also engaged in the field of education. He is principal of the Colerain Graded School, a member of the Mason, Odd Fellows and secretary of the Endowment Board of the Loving Charity. On June 17, 1917, he married Florida E. Jenkins. The children are Mildred M. and Dennie L., Jr. They have a beautiful home and own other valuable property including a farm which is operated by tenants.

362

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. A. Shepard, D.D.

REV. SHEPARD was

missionary for the American Baptist Publication Society in North Carolina for 12 years. He was the first president of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention and pastor of White Rock Baptist Church of Durham, N. C, at the time of his death.

REV. W.

N.

SHAW

Pioneer Preacher of
Littleton, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

363

Rev. John Richard Stanford

of 12.6 Roberson Street in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was born in Whitesboro, N. J., April 20. 1916. His parents were Rev. Matthews Dock and Mrs. Mariah Stanford. He attended the Georgetown High School in Jacksonville, N. C, and studied at Shaw University and North Carolina College for Negroes in Durham, North Carolina.

REV. JOHN RICHARD STAFFORD

He was ordained in the White Rock Baptist Church Durham, N. C, in 1937. He is now pastoring the Rock Hill Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He married Miss Rebecca McLean of Lillington, N. C,
in

in December, 1939.

University and lington, N. C.

is

Mrs. Stanford is a graduate of Shaw a teacher in the graded school in Lil-

364

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof.
MR.

J.

B. Small

J. B. SMALL, B.S., 129 E. Church Street, Edenton, N. C, was born June 24, 1894, in Bertie County, N. C. He is the son of Fred and Lovinia Small. He attended the public school in his home county and the Bertie Academy at Windsor, N. C. Later he entered the A. and T. College at Greensboro, N. C, from which he graduated in 1924 with the B.S. degree

in

agriculture.

He then
'Kelly

taught vocational agriculture


at

Berry

Training School for two years. Mr. Small graduated

from Iowa State College


1928 with the
did graduate

in

degree

of

bachelor of science.

work

same

school.

also at this After his

He

graduation, Prof. Small was called back to the A. and T. College as teacher of agriculture and superintendent of the greenhouse. In 1931, he was elected principal of the Gibsonville Public School and teacher of agriculture. He taught one year at Virginia State College at Petersburg, Va. In January, 1937, he was appointed county agricultural agent for Chowan and Perquimans counties with headquarters at Edenton, N. C. He still holds this position. He is an active member of the Providence Baptist Church, Edenton, N. C, leader of the men's Bible class and a loyal supporter of the pastor in carrying forward a progressive church program. He was married to Miss Nellie L. Bond of Bertie County on September 8, 1929. Their children are: Rosalind L., Linelle B., J. B., Jr., and Angus D. Mr. Small is a Mason and a member of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

365

Emanuel Matharis Saunders


REV.

EMANUEL MATHARIS SAUNDERS,

of Raleigh,

N. C, was born in Washington, N. C, October 25, 1893. He is the son of Nathaniel and Mary Saunders. He was compelled to leave the public school at the age of twelve years in order to help support his mother. He learned shoemaking and soon built up a business large enough to employ others in his business. He joined the Spring Garden Baptist Church, Washington, N. C, when he was seventeen years of age. Soon afterward he made known his call to the ministry. Realizing his education was too limited for this task, he studied much at home and then entered the Lutheran College at Greensboro, N. C, where he spent two years. Then he spent about two years at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. On account of failing health he was compelled to stop school before graduating. Since then he has done some school work through correspondence. Although Rev. Saunders calls himself a self-made man, he has been very active as a pastor. He has served the following Baptist Churches: Tupper Memorial, Raleigh, N. C. Ebenezer, Wilmington, N. C. Good Hope, near Raleigh Lee's Cross Roads, near Clayton, N. C. First Baptist, Four Oaks, N. C. Jones Hill, near Spring Hope, N. C. First Baptist, Watha, N. C. Sandy Plains, near Whiteville, N. C. Morning Star, Oxford, N. C. Smith Chapel, Warsaw, N. C. In 1934 he married Miss Victoria Ligon, a public school teacher in Wake County. They have one daughter, Emma
; ;

Jene.

He is now corresponding secretary of the Southeastern Baptist Convention, secretary of Evangelistic Board of the General Baptist Convention, chairman of the Executive Board of the State B. T. U., and member of the Executive Board of the General Baptist Convention and also of the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention of U. S. A.

366

Who's

Who Among

North Carolina Negro Baptists

Dr. C. C. Spaulding*
DR.

CHARLES CLINTON SPAULDING

was born

in

Clarkton, N. C, in Columbus County, on August 1, His parents are Mr. B. M. and Mrs. Margaret 1874. Spaulding. As a boy he attended the public schools and after

moving

to

Durham, went

to

the high school there. In 1900, Mr. Spaulding

was married
nie

to Miss FanJones of Washington, D. C, to which union was born five children: MarChas. Clinton, garet L.
;

John A.; Booker B.; and Fannie V. Spaulding.


Jr.;

Mrs. Spaulding passed to her reward on August 19,

He was later married Miss Charlotte Garner on January 3, 1920. In 1899 Mr. Spaulding with Mr. Merrick and Dr. Moore organized the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company at Durham. In one capacity after another he has served until today finds him as the president of the company, which is the largest insurance company in He is also the world owned and operated by Negroes. president of the Mechanics and Farmers Bank in Durham and Raleigh. This, too, is the largest bank in the country operated by Negroes. Mr. Spauling is chairman of the board of trustees of the White Rock Baptist Church in Durham and is interested in every phase of its religious and educational development. Not only is he interested in the educational and religious development of the White Rock Baptist Church, but there are very few movements for the development of the people in Durham in which he is not in some way identified. He is chairman of the National Emergency Advisory Council for Negroes, treasurer of the National Negro Bankers Association, trustee of Howard University
1919.
to

With a Brief History


in

of Baptist Organizations

367

in Oxford,

Washington, D. C. trustee of the Colored Orphanage N. C. trustee N. C. College for Negroes. He has served the Baptist forces in North Carolina as
; ;

vice-president and president of the Baptist State Sunday School Convention and on many of the important executive boards where his council and advice have been sought. He is serving as trustee of Shaw University, also chairman of the executive committee and treasurer of the same institution, where again his counsel is of untold worth. Mr. Spaulding is admired for his frankness, facility and courteousness in all his business affairs. He leaves a good impression upon all with whom he comes in contact. His life has been and is a busy one, yet, he is one of the most unselfish men you can find. For sometime he was the president of the National Business League and now is presidentemeritus. He is always trying and finding time to render service. He is not only a worthy example to the Negro boy, but to any boy who desires to succeed. He is a layman in our Baptist forces who has paved the way and beckons to the young men to follow.

^^^^fc

DR.

RICHARD SPILLER
Gospel Preacher

Durham, N.

C.

368

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Hattie E. Shepard


MRS. HATTIE SHEPARD, 2004
Fayetteville Street, Durham, N. C, was born at Hillsboro, N. C, eighty-one years ago (1940). She is the daughter of Austin Annie Whitted. She was trained at Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va. She is the widow of the late Dr. Augustus Shepard and was his companion-helper in the erection of the great White Rock Baptist Church, Durham, N. C, in which she has worked for more than forty years. She organized the Missionary Circle of that church 42 years ago with 40 women. She is still a Sunday School teacher and church

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

369

worker, and is the only surviving charter member of the Woman's Baptist Home and Foreign Missionary Convention of

North Carolina. She is the mother of twelve children, six girls and six boys: Dr. James E., President N. C. College, Durham;
Dr. Charles S.
(deceased), Mrs. Sadie Foster, Charlotte,
H., Willie Lee, Richard, Talula May, Lillie Eunice, Benina Lois, Hattie Marian, Theresa L.

N.

C; Hubert

of the

Mrs. Shepard was for a number of years President Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Convention, and to such pioneer women among the Baptists of the State large credit is due for the progress made in the religious development among the women and girls of our now numerous denominational family.

DR.

E. E.

SMITH
to

Educator-Preacher and Minister


Liberia, Africa Fayetteville, N. C.

370

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

W. H. A.
THE

Stallings

Rev. W. H. A. Stallings was born in Edenton, Chowan County, N. C, where he attended the public school of Edenton. Later he finished a prescribed course in the Albemarle Training School, including a course in the Bible. He took a three-year course from the Moody Bible InChicago; also a stitute, post course given by the American Institute, ChicaHe also finished a go. Business Course in the Franklin Institute, Rochester, New York. Rev. Stallings also took a course in law from LaSalle Institute, Chicago. He received the degree of D.D. from Guadaloupe College, Sequoin, Texas. Ordained to the ministry in 1901. Has pastored several churches in eastern North Carolina. He is now pastoring the Salem Baptist Church, Columbia, N. C, where he has been for thirty-five years; First Baptist, Belhaven, /for- thirty years; Saint John Missionary Church, New Bern, for twenty-two years. Rev. Stallings has been active in the educational field also. He taught school for fifteen years. He has also built several churches. Among them are: St. Luke, Bertie County; St. Paul Baptist Church, Bertie County; Melton Grove, Perquimans County; Salem, Tyrrell County, and St. John, New Bern, North Carolina.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

371

Mrs. Alberta Stinson


MRS. ALBERTA STINSON was born
in Lillington, N. C. (Harnett County), the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert and Harriet Raglan McLain. Upon the death of Mr. McLain, Mrs. McLain moved to Raleigh where she could

secure employment and educate her daughter. Fortunately, her mother found work in the home of Mr. Baxter Durham (white), while she sent Alberta to the Washington Graded School and the First Baptist Church. When Alberta was fifteen years of age her mother, seeking better conditions, moved to Philadelphia, Pa. Again she was successful in finding employment in the home of a prominent white doctor. Later her mother took her to New York City where she joined a Mission Church. This gave Alberta an opportunity to appear on programs in various parts of the city. While in New York she was married to Mr. Lonnie Shepard Stinson to which union was born, a daughter, Gladys Natal. She moved next to Holly Springs, N. C. Here she joined whole-heartedly in the church work at Holly Springs Baptist Church, where her influence has been felt throughout Wake County and the State in church

work. She served as Corresponding Secretary to the Wake County Sunday School Convention for five years and later as concert manager for seven years. She has sent her daughter Gladys to N. C. College for Negroes, Durham, and to Shaw University, Raleigh, who later married Mr. George Talmadge, a graduate of Hampton and now acting director of Industries and Trades, St. Paul's School, Lawrenceville, Va. Mrs. Stinson is still active in missionary work and travels in the interest of the Good Samaritan.

372

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. C. C. Staton
C. C. STATON, Box 125, Weldon, N. C., was born January 6, 1891, Goldsboro, N. C. Parents Daniel A. and Fannie Staton. Educated at Union and Shaw Universities. Ordained February 15, 1915, New Bern, N. C. Churches pastored: New Bern, Guilfield, New Bern; First Baptist, Severns Union, Tarboro; First Baptist, Monroe; First Baptist, Weldon; Martin Street, Raleigh; Institutional Baptist, Greensboro; Union Baptist, Passiac, N. J. Pastoring Roanoke, Salem, Garysburg, Bethlehem, Seaboard, Piney Grove, Macon. Secretary and vice president Old Eastern Association, and member of the Executive Board Eastern Convention of North Carolina. Married Miss Hattie Shepard, New Bern. Children: Thelma, Romulus, Charles C, Jr. Rev. Staton not only preached in his effort to help his

REV.

people, but spent five years in the school room teaching as principal of Tar River Institute, and the public system of Halifax County. He has served many of our churches as an evangelist. He is a member of the Evangelistic Board.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

373

Rev. Robert Shepard

State as a "Lover of the orphan children." After serving for several years as superintendent of the Colored Orphanage in Oxford, N. C, he

REV. ROBERT SHEPARD is among the people of the

affectionately

remembered

went to Winston-Salem and did much towards the establishment and securing the necessary help of the Winston-Salem
Orphanage.

374

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

The Late Mrs. Pattie Shepard

MRS. PATTIE SHEPARD, wife

of Rev. Robert Shepard, Oxford, N. C, served as president of the Woman's Home and Foreign Mission Convention from 1892 until 1929, thirty-seven years of real service. Under her leadership the convention grew rapidly in departmental work and influence. Marvelous were her work, faith, and courage to stand for what she knew to be right. God blessed her in her efforts. To quote Mrs. Rogers report, 1915: "Mrs. Shepard, as captain of the ship, has steered clear of rocks and shoals, and the little barque, though tossed at times by winds of misunderstandings and pelting stones of criticisms, some just and others supposedly, it floats quietly and serenely on, under her guiding hand."

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

375

David A. Thomas
DAVID
A.

THOMAS

was born

in Franklin

County south

of Louisburg, North Carolina, on the farm of his parents, Henry and Geneva Thomas. His mother died when He was the fourth of a he was quite a young lad. family with seven children. David was known by vhis parents as a very rude boy and full of life and energy. He had great love for athletic sports and outdoor
life.

Due
system

to the poor school

in his

home

county,

young Thomas was taken


out of the county schools his father together with his other younger brothers and a sister and sent to a church boarding school to complete the grades. Then his father sent him to Shaw University to begin high school.

by

grammar

It was at this institution that he completed the high school course of study. Thomas then left Shaw University to enter Virginia Union University where he spent his freshman college year, but returned to Shaw University the next year, 1922. He completed his college work at Shaw University in 1925 and later did graduate work in school administration at Hampton and Columbia University. Professor Thomas was called to Nash County by the County Board of Education in 1925 to accept a proposition of building the first county high school in that county for Negroes. He accepted the call and with the fine cooperation from both the County and State Boards of Education, he was able to develop the first Nash County Negro high school to standardization in a period of four years. This school was known as the Nash County Training School, at Nashville, N. C. Professor Thomas was then called to accept the deanship of the Franklinton Christian College, Franklinton,

376

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

North Carolina. He remained there only one year since this was the last year that the school operated as a unit and later merged with another college. Professor Thomas was immediately called back to Nash County to assume the responsibility of building up the educational system both high and elementary, in the western half of the county. In this part of the county he labored for a straight period of eight years, building a standard high school at Spring Hope, and greatly lifting the standard of all schools in this western district. In 1938 Professor Thomas received a call to accept the principalship to the Clinton city school system for Negroes in Clinton, North Carolina. He entered upon this new task whole-heartedly. Since going to this work, Mr. Thomas has greatly expanded the whole school system. At this writing he still labors with the Clinton Negro public school. Professor Thomas is known throughout the State of North Carolina as a very outstanding educational, moral and religious leader. He was ordained to the Gospel ministry in 1929. The churches, civic, and religious organizations look to him from time to time to turn aside from his regular

school duties for aid.

Dr.
DR.

J.

A. Tinsley

JAMES A. TINSLEY, Weldon, N. C, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert B. and Mollie D. Tinsley, was born in Henderson, N. C, November 28, 1884. Educated Henderson
:

University, M.D., 1909. Married Miss Elizabeth N. Meadows. Children Gladys, Hortenze, James, Reginall. He is a member of the First Baptist Church, Weldon, N. C. Dr. Tinsley is regarded as one of the strong laymen in the Eastern part of the State which supports the church in all of its movements. He is not only active in church work,
College, A.B.
;

Shaw

but in civic and community activities.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

377

Mrs. Cora Pair

Thomas

THOMAS is the daughter of Rev. H. Pair of Wake County. She finished the Missionary Training Course at Shaw University and studied in the Theological School of Fisk University. She married Rev. W. H. Thomas and went to Africa, where she still works.
MRS.

378

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

W. H. Thomas

KEV. W.

A.B., B.Th., a native of Jamaica, at Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. He married Miss Cora Pair of Wake County, N. C, and sailed for Africa in the fall of 1908 as missionary of the Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Society. He established the Brewerville Mission in Liberia, which he still conducts. This mission station consists of a tract of land on which are several school buildings.

H.

THOMAS,

West

Indies,

was educated

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

379

MR. MANSFIELD

THORNTON

Educator and former Register of Deeds, Warrenton, N. C.

DR. M. A.

TALLEY
Pa.
Secretary.

Pittsburg,

Former General Field

Now

and director Sunday School Congress, Nalegislator, pastor,

tional

Baptist Convention.

380

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

S.

N. Vass, D.D.

DR.

S.

St.

Shaw

N. VASS, a native son of North Carolina, attended Augustine Institute, Raleigh, North Carolina, and University in the same city. Soon after graduating, he was appointed by the

American Baptist Publication Society as missionary in Virginia and a few years

thereafter he was made district secretary of the

Southern States.

After
of a

more than a quarter came


school
editor of literature

century in this work, he be-

Sunday
for

the National Baptist Board in Nashville, Tenn. In his mature years he was recognized as an able Bible teacher and scholar. He is the author of "How to Study and Teach the Bible." He passed at his home in Raleigh in October, 1938.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

381

Dr. A. B. Vincent (Deceased)

of years was the Eastern District Missionary. He pastored the First Baptist Church at Oxford, owned and published a magazine The Searchlight. Later he moved with his family to New York where he passed away several years ago.

DR. A. B. VINCENT, for a number

382

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Charles H. Williamson
REV. CHARLES H. WILLIAMSON was born
lin

in

Frank-

County. His parents were Solomon and MorningHis paternal grandparents were Jim and Williamson. Martha Williamson, his maternal grandparents were Richard and Dollie Dunston Perry.
Rev. Williamson received
his early education in the

Franklin
schools,

County
the
earlier

public

and later Academy, where


one
of uates.

at Albion

he

was
grad-

He attended Shaw University from which he received his B.S. degree in 1888, his A.B. in 1892, and
his

A.M.

in 1896.

He was ordained to the gospel ministry in 1888 at the Tupper Memorial Baptist Church in Raleigh, N. C, by a council composed of Dr. Tupper, Skinpastorate

ner and Shepard. His first was at the Tupper Memorial Church, Oberlin
in

Baptist, Holly Springs in Wake County, Friendship Charlotte, and First Baptist in Warrenton.

Dec. 31, 1917, he was married to Miss Laura J. of Henderson, N. C, a woman of fine culture and special accomplishments as a music teacher (Boston Conservatory of Music). Rev. Williamson was the missionary for the State Sunday School Convention during those years which brought life and light to the work in North Carolina. He was also a representative of the American Baptist Publication Society. He helped in the organization of the State B. Y. P. U. Convention of N. C. and served for sometime as secretary of the State Sunday School Convention soon after the state meeting in Warrenton in 1890. He has a record of fifty years' teaching in North Carolina. Among the counties in which he has taught are: Franklin, Granville, Wake, Mecklenburg and Warren,

On

Merriman

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

383

Green-Hall near Katesville in Franklin County, he mentions as the first school he taught. For several years he was president of the Shiloh Institute in Warrenton, N. C. He taught and built the school building at Lilesville, N. C, in Anson County. At this writing (1940) he is serving as principal of the Cephas Spring School in Vance County, Many of the younger men will remember him as editor and business manager of the Baptist Sentinel (1907-1915). His work as director-general of the Negro Division of the Jamestown Exposition, and the handling so well and making such a creditable showing stand Out, perhaps more prominently than any other single piece of work done during his educational and business career. Certainly Governor Glenn and officers of the exposition who were in position to know regarded it as such.

We regard the work which Rev. Williamson has done as a very great contribution to the development of Negro Baptists in North Carolina.

Rev.
widdie, Va.

Wm.

M. Wyatt

REV. Wm. M. WYATT,


Wyatt.
It

Salisbury, N. C, was born in DinHis parents are Mr. and Mrs. William was in the Normal School, Dinwiddie, Va.,

his early training. He later received his college training at Livingston College, Salisbury, N. C. He was ordained to the gospel ministry at Lexington, N. C, and has had a successful pastorate at First Baptist Church, Lexington, and is now the pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Salisbury, N. C. He is also assistant secretary of the Rowan Association; a member of the Trustee Board of that Association, and a member of the Executive Board of the Lott-Carey Convention. Rev. Wyatt married Miss Rosalie Freeman, to which union there are two children, Misses Rosalie and Virginia

where he received

Wyatt.

He is active in the religious and civic life of the community and an able and strong supporter of the objects for which the Convention works in North Carolina. He is making good as a minister, and as a young man he has a bright and promising future.

384

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mrs. Elvirah Catherine Watson

WATSON was born at Macon, N. C, June 5, 1875. She is the daughter of Mr. Henry and Mary Pennington of Warren County. She attended the public school at Warrenton, N. C. She was converted at an early age, and became a member of the First Baptist Church of Macon, N. C, where she has been an active member for fifty years. During this entire time she has never missed three service days i n succession. She has
MRS. ELVIRAH CATHERINE
,

served

as

president

of

Mission Circle and has taught a Sunday school class for about fifty years. Aside from her ho me church, she has been corresponding secretary and is now president of the Woman's Auxiliary to Progressive Baptist Convention.

Home

On December
she

29, 1902,

H.. L. Watson of Macon, N. C. seven daughters, the names of whom appear in the life sketch of Mr. H. L. Watson, the father. At the time of her marriage Mrs. Watson was U. S. postmistress at Churchill, N. C. She has worked side by side with her husband in the education of their children, all of whom have finished high school and some have gone through college.

was married to Mr. To this union were born

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

385

Rev. V. T. Williams
1000 East Martin Street, Raleigh, N. C. Born 1891, Robeson County, North Carolina. Parents William Henry Williams and Lenora Monroe Hill. Educated Public schools of Robeson County; Fayetteville State Normal Shaw _
:

RESIDENCE
March

29,

University.

Ordained minister, December, 1916, under authority of First Baptist Church, Parkton, N. C. Churches pastored First Baptist, St. Paul; First
:

Baptist, Abbotsburgh; Swans Creek, Cumberland County

Mt. Pisgah, Gethsemane, Durham, N. C. Baptist Grove, Martin


;

Hoke

County

Street, Raleigh. Now pastoring Martin Street Baptist Church, Raleigh, Baptist Grove, Bethle-

hem and Mallabys Cross Roads, all in Wake County, N. C. Was secretary, Durham Baptist Ministers Alliance, 1927-28; member Executive Board Wake Baptist Association member Executive Board Baptist State Convention of
;

North Carolina; secretary Steering Committee, State Baptist Convention of North Carolina; member Executive Board Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention 1933, presi;

dent Interdenominational Ministers Alliance, Raleigh, N. C. 1937-38 secretary of the same organization. Married Miss Nettie Brewington and has four sons and two daughters. Deeply interested in the spiritual, educational, economic, civic and social status of his race.

386

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.

S.

H. Witherspoon, D.D.

S. H. WITHERSPOON of Raleigh, North Carolina, served as a missionary of the convention and also as corresponding secretary of the convention. He was pastor of the First Baptist Church in West Raleigh, N. C, at the time of his passing.

REV.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

387

C. G.

White, B.S.

PROF.

in Bertie County, North school at the State Normal He attended Carolina. School at Plymouth and A. & T. College at Greensboro, N. C. He later entered Hampton Institute from which he C. G.

WHITE

was born

graduated with the B.S. degree. Mr. White is one of


the pioneers of education in Eastern North Carolina. He began what is now the C. G. White High School in one room 14x22. He and wife taught a sixhis months term and received a joint salary of only For the second $84.00.

year this sum was inLater, creased to $96.00. two other schools were consolidated giving room for four teachers with a combined salary of only $256.00. His was the first consolidated school in Bertie County. Mr. White and
his wife,

who was a former Miss Sessoms, taught in the daytime and worked at night on the school building. Mr. White is an excellent carpenter and did most of the work in construction of the first building of any consequence on
the grounds.

From

this

small

beginning,

with

one

half-acre

of

ground and an enrollment of 96 students, this good man and his wife are happy to see the fruits of their labor in
a standard high school with a building of seventeen rooms, seventeen teachers and 623 students enrolled this year (1939). There is also a home economics and vocational department. Students from Mr. White's school have gone to various colleges and finished with honors. Mr. and Mrs. White are both loyal members of the Baptist Church at Powellsville, N. C. The C. G. White High School is named in his honor.

388

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Mr. Henry L. Watson

HENRY L. WATSON of Macon was born in Warren County, North Carolina. His parents were Louis and Lucy Watson. He attended public and private school in his native county. He went to a private school two nights a week and worked on the farm during the day. By this method he succeeded in preparing himself to teach in the public school of the
MR.
county.

He joined

the

church when he was sixteen years of age and has been active in the church

and

Sunday

school

work

ever since. He is now the superintendent of the First Baptist Sunday School of Macon and he is also a deacon of the same church. President William McKinley appointed Mr. Watson, postmaster of the town of Macon, N. C. He held this position with credit for

four and one-half years. Mr. Watson owns his home in the town of Macon and other town property and a seventyacre farm in a good state of cultivation. One unique thing about Mr. Watson's career is that at the time of his marriage he was postmaster at Macon, N. C, and his bride who was Miss Pennington was postmistress at Church Hill, N. C, in the same county. Mr. Watson is also engaged in the mercantile business. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 10 in Macon, N. C. For a number of years he has been the recording secretary of the Reedy Creek Baptist Association of North Carolina. Other important facts concerning this rather unique family are mentioned in the life sketch of Mrs. Watson which appears on another page.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

389

Dr.

J.

A. Whitted (Deceased)

J. A. WHITTED, former Corresponding Secretary of the Educational and Missionary Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, raised $5,000.00 toward the erection of the Tupper Memorial Building- at Shaw University. He pastored the First Baptist Church of Winston-Salem, author of "The History of the Negro Baptists of North He also served as a pastor in Birmingham, Carolina." Ala., and in Philadelphia, Pa.

DR.

390

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. L.
REV.

W. Wertz

LANG W. WERTZ, of Hamlet, North Carolina, was born in Helena, South Carolina. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Lang and Rebecca Wertz. He received his education at the Newberry High School in Newberry, South Carolina; Friendship Institute; and a course in law from the American Technical Society.

He was

or-

dained to the gospel ministry at the First Baptist

Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1914.


Rev. Wertz has pastored the following churches Mt. Zion Baptist Church near Charlotte; St. Phillips in Huntersville St. John's in
: ;

Statesville

Bright

Hope-

well in Laurinburg, Spring

Branch

in

Wagram.

He

is

pastoring the Union Baptist Church in Lexington and St. Luke in Hasty,

now

North Carolina. He married Miss Clara L. Hardy of Newberry, South Carolina, to which union there are two children Rev. Jas. F. and Andrew J. Wertz. Rev. Wertz is active in fraternal circles as follows R. W. G. Deputy of Mason; Past Exalted Ruler of Cross City Lodge, Elks Odd Fellow K. of P. and Eastern Star. In the religious and educational field, Rev. Wertz is a member of the Executive Committee of the Baptist General Convention of North Carolina, also of the Lott Carey
:

Convention; auditor of the Baptist State Convention of founder and builder of the Catawba Academy of Statesville, North Carolina vice-moderator of the Pee Dee Association. In the civic world, Rev. Wertz has also been active. He organized the Building and Loan Association of Hamlet, of which he is serving as president. Rev. Wertz is perhaps the best known preacher in the Baptist Conventions of North Carolina for his keen sense of procedure along parliamentary lines.

North Carolina

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

391

Rev. Joseph Weldon Wiley

WELDON WILEY, pastor of the First BapChurch, in Weldon, N. C, was born October 8, 1902, He received his high in Orange County, North Carolina.
REV. JOSEPH
tist

school training at Palmer Memorial Institute at Sedalia, North Carolina.

He graduated from Shaw


University, Raleigh, N. C, with the A.B. degree in 1930. In 1933 he received the degree* of M.A. and S.TB. from Harvard University,

Cambridge, Mass.

ordained at Mebane, N. C, on October 12, 1928. He has pastored the

He was

Jones Chapel Bap t i s t Church, Rich Springs, N. C, and the St. John's Baptist He is in Woburn, Mass. now the pastor of the First Baptist of Weldon, N. C. He is principal of the Brick Tri-County High School, in Brick, N. C. This is a thirteen-teacher institution, also a training center for N. Y. A. workers. On December 24, 1930, he married Miss Georgia Anna Parks of Goldsboro, N. C. Their children are Carol Yvone, Joseph Weldon, Jr., Forest Parks and Cora Beverly. Rev. Wiley is a Mason, Elk and a member of the Phi Beta Sigma
:

Fraternity.

Rev. Wiley
cational

is

doing a creditable work both in the edu-

and pastorial fields. He is regarded as one of the most outstanding leaders in the educational field in Eastern North Carolina

392

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev.
REV.

W. M. Wiggins

Willie M. Wiggins was born in Spring Hill, North Carolina, where he now resides. His birthdate is August 1, 1871. His parents, J. W. and Nancy Wiggins, gave him what opportunity they could to get an education in the public schools of

Halifax County. He acquired his training to large


extent through private study, reading and traveling.

He was ordained to the ministry in 1896 in the Chapel Baptist Cherry's Church, Hobgood, North Carolina, and has pastored the following churches Mt. Pilgrim, James City, N. C, thirty-five years; St. Mary's, twenty-four years; Tillery's Chapel, twentyfour years, and the Galilee Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., five years. He is now an active pastor of

the

Halifax,

Roanoke

Chapel and the Morning Star in Halifax, Jackson and Battleboro, North Carolina, respectively. He is a member of the Mt. Giebut Baptist Church, Spring Hill. Rev. Wiggins was first married to Miss Mollie Anthony, and his second marriage was to Miss Jannie Alexander. They have three girls Ruth, Martha and Frances, all of whom are married. He is affiliated with the Masonic Order and the civic organization in his community. One would say that Rev. Wiggins' most outstanding piece of work other than in the religious field was the work The whole Association, of which at Tar River Institute. he served seventeen years as Moderator, had such confidence in him that they made him president of the school. He was gifted to raise money, and the Institute reached a high peak during his term of office. Perhaps his most He is regarded outstanding gift is that of a preacher. as one of the best gospel preachers in Eastern Carolina. He is now serving as President Emeritus of the Old Eastern Association.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

393

Miss Beatrice Winston


Beatrice Winston of Oxford, North Carolina, was born in Granville County. She is the daughter of Mrs. Mattie Winston Harris. After graduating from the Mary Potter Memorial Institute in Oxford, North Carolina, she attended the North Carolina

MISS

College
is

at

Durham,

North Carolina.
1941, she receive an
tificate in

In June, expecting to

cation,
field.

"A" Grade cerElementary Eduand is planning to


study
in

do further

her

For several years she has been doing very effective work as a teacher in
the public schools of Granville County. At present she is employed at the Buchanan School in the northern part of the county. She is loved by children and parents. Miss Winston is a member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford, where she is a faithful worker in the various departments of the church. She is a teacher in the primary department of this church, a member of the senior choir and trainer of the younger group. The First Baptist Church of which Miss Winston is a member has many capable young people in service. The superintendent of the Bible school is a young man of ability and zeal. With such helpers as Miss Winston, who is planning to take up special work in Religious Education, the cause of Christ in that community appears to be falling into the hands of a group that will make the most of the heritage given them.

394

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Rev. James F. Wertz


REV. JAS.
F. WERTZ, of Maxton, N. C, early childhood days in Charlotte, N.

who

spent his

C, and whose

parents are Rev. L. W., and Mrs. Clara Wertz. He received his early training in the graded schools of Charlotte, N. C. He did his college work at the North Carolina College for Negroes, Durham, N. C, and Shaw University,

Raleigh, N. C.

He
and

was

converted

joined the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, N. C, at the early age of 10 years. His early entry into the ministry is accounted for in a large degree by the religious training

and background in his home. He holds two of


our outstanding churches:

the

Shiloh

Baptist,

Maxton, N. C, and the First Baptist in Southern Pines, both of which are growing in membership and prospering under
his pastorate.

Rev. Wertz, for a good while, spent much time teaching in the public schools of North Carolina and traveling. He is married to Mrs. Alberta Wertz who is a graduate of Shaw University, President of the Pee Dee Home and Foreign Mission Association, and teacher in the Elementary School at Wagram, N. C. They have three children: Clara Lula Bell, Langston Walter, and Jas. F., Jr. Rev. Wertz is the Secretary of the Pee Dee Association, one of the progressive Associations of the State; Dean of Religious Training in Sunday School and B. T. U. Methods for the S. S. and B. T. U. Conventions of North Carolina; a member of the Executive Board of the B. T. U. Convention and President of the North Carolina B. T. U. Training Union. He is one of the outstanding and promising young men in the North Carolina Baptist denomination.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

395

A.
MR. A. W. WOOD,

W. Wood

of 1009 St. John Street, Tarboro, N. C, was born in Franklin County in 1871. His parents were Alfred and Lucy Wood. When a boy he attended the, public schools in his native county. He is a member of the Eastern Star Baptist Church of Tarboro, N. C, and has served as a deacon in this church for forty-two years. He married Miss Maggie Downie. Their children are: James, Maggie, Newton,

and Mary Bell. Mr. Wood has been ac-

tive in the religious

work

at home and in the Association, which is the Neuse

River,

and

has

been

member

of the Trustee Board for thirty years. He was the Corresponding Secretary for six years. He owns his home in Tarboro

and has arranged a home


family. His property good health and still mason and contractor.

for each member of the very valuable. Mr. Wood is in making progress in his field as a
is

He is respected as a thrifty and law-abiding citizen in Tarboro by both races.

396

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Head
iary,

MRS. M. W. WILLIAMS of the Young People's Auxil-

Wake Baptist Association; teacher at School for the Blind and the Deaf, Raleigh, N. C; former supervisor of schools, Halifax, N. C.

MRS. GEO. W. WATKINS Head of the Mary B. Talbert Home and leader in Community Affairs
Raleigh, N. C.

With a Brief History of Baptist Organizations

397

MR. MOSES W. WILLIAMS


(Deceased)
slave; married Miss Mollie after the Civil War; educated ten (10) children; accumulated some property; was active in the educational, civic and religious life of his county and State; was jailer and constable for Halifax County; trustee, Neuse River Institute; superintendent, First Baptist Church school, Halifax, N. C.

Born a Burton

DR. A.

L. E.

WEEKS

Jersey Founder of a School in Eastern N. C.

New

398

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

H. WILLIAMS and Mrs. Moses W. and Mollie Burton Williams, Halifax, N. C. He received his M.D. from
J.

DR

Son

of Mr.

Meharry Medical
Tenn.

College, Nashville, Practiced until his death in 1918. Norfolk, Va., A Sunday School worker and friend of edu-

cation.

REV.

J.

W.

WOOD

Preacher and Leader Weldon, N. C.

With a Brief History

of Baptist Organizations

399

Col.

James H. Young- (Deceased)

COL.

JAMES
and

H.

YOUNG

was very prominent

litical

civic affairs as well as fraternal

in the poand re-

He was colonel of the North Carolina regiment Negro Volunteers in the Spanish-American War, superintendent of the Sunday school of the First Baptist Church of Raleigh, N. C, and active in the State convention, being president for two years.
ligious.

of

400

Who's

Who Among North

Carolina Negro Baptists

Prof. C. S. Yates
present address of Prof. C. S. Yates is 301 First Street, Ahoskie, N. C. He was born in Harrelsville, N. C, March 21, 1878. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Washington and Barbara Yates. He received his education, for the most excellent work that he is doing, at State Teachers College, Elizabeth City, N. C. For more than forty years Prof. Yates has been effectively moulding the lives of young people as teacher and an influential factor in the educational movements in Hertford County. He is now teaching at Waters Training School, Winton, N. C. He was responsible for the first bus for Negro school children being placed in Hertford County. Prof. Yates is widely known because of his untiring religious activities. He is a member of New Ahoskie Baptist Church and a staunch devotee of the Sunday School and is a teacher in same. He is president of the Chowan Baptist Sunday School Convention, Hertford County for more than 20 years he served as secretary of this organization. For 25 years he has been secretary of the West Roanoke Asso;

THE

ciation.

deeply interested in rural life and he is a "dirt" is at present serving as president of the Roanoke-Chowan Credit Union. Prof. Yates is an invigorating factor in the affairs of the well-known Atlantic District Fair Association. He is a former president of this splendid organization. In fraternal circles for many years he has been active. He is a Mason and a member of Love and Charity lodge. He is secretary of Hertford County Undertakers Union.
is

He

farmer; he

Prof Yates was


this union there

first married to Miss Maria Ricks. From were born seven children; Eunice Make-

peace, Euclid,

Ray G., Viola V., Chas. S., Eliza B., Juanita 0. His second marriage was to Mrs. Irene V. Newsome.

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