“The State of Alabama, }
Montgomery County. }
“Know all men by these presents, That whereas, heretofore, to-wit: on
the 1st day of April, A. D. 1859, Charles T. Pollard sold and conveyed
to Wm. B. Bell, as guardian or trustee for Nathan Ellis (now called
Nathan Ashby), a certain lot in the city of Montgomery, State and
county aforesaid, which is described in the deed of said Pollard as
‘Lots number three and four in square number fourteen, Scott’s plat,
in the city of Montgomery.’
“And, whereas, the said Nathan Ellis (or Ashby), is now capable in law
of holding property in his own name, and desires to hold the title to
said lot and premises in his own name; and the said William B. Bell
also desires to relinquish and give up the duties and responsibilities
devolved on him by the said deed as the trustee or guardian of said
Nathan Ellis (or Ashby);
“Now, therefore, in consideration of the premises and for the
further consideration of five dollars, to the said Wm. B. Bell in
hand paid by the said Nathan Ellis (or Ashby), at or before the
sealing and delivery of these presents (the receipt whereof is
hereby acknowledged), I, the said Wm. B. Bell, do hereby release,
relinquish, transfer and convey by quit-claim unto the said Nathan
Ellis (or Ashby), and unto his heirs and assigns, all my right, title
and interest both at law and in equity of every kind or description
whatever, in and to the said lot and premises herein above described.
“In witness whereof, I, the said Wm. B. Bell, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this ---- day of January, A. D. 1872.
“Attest: “William B. Bell.”
“A. R. Bell.”
This manuscript is recorded in “Book 4 of Deeds, page 314,” March 26,
1872.
NOTE.--Seven years elapsed after freedom was declared before Mr. Ashby
received from his “trustee” the transfer of his property. He had been
free ever since 1842, but his “trustee” must hold and manage both him
and his.
Archer, Rev. Maurice M., son of Mr. A. and Mrs. Mary Archer, was born
in Camden, Ala., in 1858. He and his parents were the property (?) of
Mrs. R. J. Adams. He entered the free public schools at an early age,
but did not long remain, because of his father’s death and because of
the demands made upon him as the eldest son in a large family. Mr.
and Mrs. J. S. McBryde, seeing that he was a very capable boy, kindly
aided him in his studies while he was in their employ. Thus he learned
to read and write. At 14 Mr. Archer left Mr. McBryde determined on
securing an education. Advancing by various means, he was soon able to
teach school. In November, 1881, he was baptized into Siloam Church
by Rev. A. Gould, which church he served as clerk and superintendent
of the Sunday School. Feeling a call to the ministry and desiring to
prepare himself for the same, he entered Selma University October,
1883, and passed the session of 1884-5, as he says starting with only
20 cents. By severe sacrifice, by push, pluck and self-reliance, he
pressed onward, till in May, 1887, he graduated at the head of his
class. He was ordained at Opelika, September, 1889, Revs. G. C. Casby,
C. R. Rodgers and others officiating. He has been principal of the
Auburn City School. Mr. Archer is one of our clearest thinkers and most
fluent speakers, and his language is especially good.
Barker, Joseph C.--This patient and cool-headed young man was born
December 20, 1863, near Laneville, Hale county, Ala. His parents,
Sherrod and Caroline Barker, are both living and members of the Spring
Street Missionary Baptist Church, Birmingham, Ala. They are living
monuments of temperance, patience and obedience. Young Joseph was sent
to school when still quite young. Filled with self, family and race
pride, and feeling grateful toward his parents for their strenuous
efforts to educate himself, his sister and brothers, and desiring
to help them in return, at their consent, he sought employment with
a benevolent merchant, who, after noting his higher qualities, gave
him every advantage and privilege available. After three years of
pleasant and profitable services, he left his beloved employer (Mr. J.
M. Manders), who gave him a final settlement accompanied by a worthy
recommendation and valuable presents. He is widely experienced in
mercantile enterprises.
He had two years experience on the United States jetty and log boats
under Capt. J. McKee Gould, who gave him such an honorable and
flattering recommendation as would have been more suitable for a pilot
than for a cabin boy. By studying at home and attending summer schools,
he was prepared to enter Selma University in the session of 1884,
remaining two scholastic years. Under President E. M. Brawley, D. D.,
he won a prize for map-drawing over forty-eight competitors. He has
taught successfully in the schools of Jefferson and other counties.
Was four years secretary of the Jefferson County Teachers’ Institute.
Re-entered Selma University in 1893, and won the only prize offered
for drawing over twenty or thirty competitors under President Dinkins,
D. D. He is now preparing specimens to exhibit at the Atlanta Cotton
Exposition in September.
He is employed by the Monarch Book Company, of Chicago, Ill. To know
him, is to know a man possessed of a great soul, affable, and naturally
gifted in making friends. He is a financier, and is rapidly acquiring
means. As an artist and penman, he is a prodigy. In the session of
1884 he was converted to the Christian religion, and was baptized in
the University pool by Rev. E. M. Brawley, D. D., and joined the St.
Phillip Street Baptist Church under Rev. C. O. Boothe, D. D. On removal
to Birmingham in 1886, he united with the Sixteenth Street Baptist
Church, of which Rev. Dr. Pettiford was pastor.
Last term, he was principal of the Oxmoor public school. He is now
corresponding secretary of the Mt. Pilgrim Sunday School Convention. On
all lines of manhood, Mr. Barker is a genuine success.
Barton, Rev. J. P., of Talladega, comes of Virginia parentage, and was
born in Colbert county, Ala., October, 1844.
In 1871 he united with the Little Zion Baptist Church in said county,
and was baptized by Rev. W. E. Northcross, of Tuscumbia. In 1877 he
entered the work of the gospel ministry in his native section, doing
valuable service within the bounds of the Muscle Shoals Association,
especially in line with the Sunday School work. He has led to the
organization of two Sunday School Conventions and eight churches, and
built five houses of worship. His speeches before our State Convention
have been largely conducive of the sentiment and system which have
given birth to our women’s work and State mission operations. He has
held official positions in connection with our State Convention and
University, and is now chairman of the Board of Visitors of the Colored
Deaf and Dumb Asylum of Alabama. He is easy in society and pleasing in
address. He carries the youth and the masses, and so uses everything at
his command as to impress one that he is an excellent general as well
as a successful pastor. He is full of movement and plan, and is quick
of discernment and clear in expression. He is a lover of science. He
obtained his education in the Talladega College. Mr. Barton says that
he owes much to his wife, whom the writer would honor as one of our
noble women. Mr. Barton is still full of life and growth.
Our general work has always found in Brother Barton a ready and
generous helper. He deserves credit for his industry and enterprise--in
material as well as in church affairs. He relates the following: “In
the winter of 1876-77 I chanced for the first time to meet the late
Harry Woodsmall in one of his Ministers’ Institutes. He remarked: ‘On
to-morrow we will discuss the subject of sanctification; and here is
a little book worth only 15 cents which will be of service to you.’ I
said to myself: ‘What is _sanctification_?’ I never heard of such a
thing before. I bought the book from Brother Woodsmall, and, coming
upon my subject, I read till late at night, in order that I might be in
line with things next day. When the hour came I was up on the subject
of sanctification, much to the pleasure of the teacher.”
Mr. Barton is ever ready to contend for his views, but is remarkably
free from bitterness in discussion, is hardly ever wrong in his opinion
on things, and is a remarkably winning preacher with the masses. Mr.
Barton is now president of our State Convention.
Bacotes, Rev. Mr.--As the Cyclopedia goes to press the Rev. Mr. Bacotes
comes to the charge of the Marion Academy and Marion Church. The writer
wishes he knew something of the history of one so much favored and so
highly recommended as Mr. Bacotes is. He has important trusts in hand.
Battle, Rev. Augustus A., of Hurtsboro, Russell county, the son of
Deacon A. A. and Mrs. Jennie Battle, was born in Tuskegee, July 4,
1860. As his parents were pious people, he was very early the subject
of religious impressions, which in 1881 culminated in a public
profession of faith in Christ. On the third Sunday in August he was
baptized by the Rev. Richard Lloyd, of Georgia. In the year 1879,
aspiring for a liberal education, he entered the Talladega College, in
which he graduated from the normal and the theological courses.
He is a young man of high moral tone, and his agreeable manners have
won for him many friends. At present he is pastor at Sylacauga, and
teacher of the city school in Talladega.
P. S.--Since the above was written, our good Bro. Battle has been
called to the Mt. Zion Church in Anniston, and under his industrious
and wise leadership his people have constructed a two-story brick
edifice. To do what he has done in these hard times, in the way of
raising and expending money, is to prove himself a man of no ordinary
parts. The writer has enjoyed the hospitality of his quiet Christian
home, where he has learned that the young minister has found helpful
companionship in the person of a modest, intelligent wife.
Batts, Rev. J. H., of Florence, is an aspiring young man, and is very
active in the enterprises of the Muscle Shoals Association and Sunday
School Convention. Evidently, he has not enjoyed early access to books
and schools, but his thoughts are orderly and clear, and he does not
hesitate to give expression to his views.
Beavers, Rev. Jasper, was born May 9, 1825, in St. Clair county, Ala.
His father and mother were slaves, and of course, he inherited their
lot. He now lives at Easonville, in the county in which he was born,
and is still a useful, as well as a very pious man. In 1851, he was
baptized by the Rev. Jesse Collins (white), and in 1868 was ordained to
the work of the gospel ministry by Revs. Henry Wood, J. Collins and T.
Bush.
He was the first moderator of the Rushing Springs Association. In
spite of the laws of the master forbidding such things, he, in slavery
time, learned to read and write. By his industry and economy he has
obtained real estate worth about $2,000. Brother Beavers is a man of
fine personal appearance, is modest, genial, industrious, honest, firm.
In the early days of our work, there was no more efficient man in St.
Clair County than he. A large family of children are the support of his
old age.
Since the above was penned, Brother Beavers has passed to the world
that lies beyond. He was the most self-possessed and of the most
commanding figure of any man in the Rushing Springs Association,
though no man among them was more modest and humble.
Belle, Rev. John, of Courtland, was born in the State of Georgia
and came to Alabama after the close of the war. He says: “In Stuart
county, Ga., in the first part of 1861, I followed the white preacher
to his different preaching stations, and he would preach to the white
people in the morning and I would speak to the colored people in
the evening. I could not say anything about Moses and the children of
Israel.
“I went on preaching without any trouble for some little time, till at
last, as I could read a little, it was decided that I should be hung.
As I was ready for execution, and as I was praying God for help, a
dispute arose between the white people which resulted in my release. I
again went on, till on one occasion when I had displeased my mistress
with reference to some garden work, and when, as she started to strike
me with the rake, and I fled, she reported to her husband that I had
tried to kill her and that she only saved her life by running into
the house out of my reach. Of course, it was decided at once that I
ought to and should die. On the night before I was to be executed, the
lady became very ill and owned that she was only angry with me for
getting out of her way, and that I had done nothing. She died that
night. However, her dying words had set me free and so I returned to
my work for God, feeling that I could not die till my work should be
accomplished.”
Brother Belle has labored in different States, but his principal labors
have been in Northern Alabama, where he has been one of the chief
organizers of our work in this section, beginning his operations here
in 1868.
It appears that Brother Belle was ordained in Helena, Ark., sometime
in 1867, the late Rev. J. T. White, who was then pastor of the First
Colored Baptist Church, being one of the officiating presbytery.
He is still a strong man. For several years past he has been pastor
at Iuka, Miss., and of the Red Bank Church in Lawrence county. His
pleasant manners have always made him an agreeable companion to his
brethren.
[Illustration: Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Birmingham, Ala.]
Belser, Rev. S. L., pastor of the First Church, Bessemer, deserves the
respect and love of the denomination for his beautiful brotherly spirit
and unassuming manners.
Berry, Rev. G. W.--Although this good man is no longer among us, his
name is still fragrant with his exalted faith and pious life. Like his
stay on earth, his stay in Alabama was short, but useful and endearing.
He was the son of Pickens and Mary Berry, and was born in Edgefield
county, S. C., in 1859. Having studied some time in the Benedict
Institute in that State, he, after doing some effective work in that
State, came to Alabama to take the pastoral oversight of the church
in Eufaula. Here it was that after a short illness he exchanged the
cross for the crown, singing as his soul retired from the earth, “My
Lord calls me and I must go.” To know him was to love him, for his
gentleness of spirit was beautiful to look upon.
Betts, Rev. J. W., of Huntsville, Ala., son of John and Edith Betts,
was born June 4, 1851, near Courtland, in Lawrence county, Ala. In the
fall of 1873 he was baptized into the Courtland Church by the Rev.
Gabriel B. Johnson. Brother Betts is among the younger men of the
Muscle Shoals Association. He is a clear thinker and a lover of books.
He is a business man, industrious and economical, and does not live of
the donations of his people, but the labors of his own hands. His style
is rather didactic for the masses, but it is plain and his doctrine is
in line with the teachings of the “Good Book.”
Berry, Prof. J. S., son of Jack and Clara Berry, of Uniontown, is one
among the most proficient Sunday School workers in Alabama. He is
president of the Sunday School Convention of the Uniontown Association.
His happy, unselfish spirit fills all his work with pleasantness and
sunshine. He is now about 35 years of age.
Blevins, Rev. John, long the leading man and pioneer of Dallas county,
the first pastor of the St. Phillip Street Church after the close of
the war, was for his opportunities and times a very strong man in
the work of organization. May it ever be told of him that he led his
people--his church, to become the foster mother of Selma University in
the time of its infancy and weakness. This fact is one of the brightest
spots upon his memory, and should never be forgotten.
The buildings in which the St. Phillip Street and the Green Street
Churches now worship were built by Mr. Blevins. He died eight or ten
years ago at the age of 65.
Bibb, Rev. Wm. T., son of Linzy and Caroline Bibb, was born in
Montgomery, Ala., in 1853. Brother Bibb is one of the most worthy of
our rising young men. He is not noted for brilliancy, but for constant
application in the race for knowledge, for pushing things to a finish
in search for truth, for the purest life and loftiest piety, he is
hardly to be excelled. Already he has been entrusted with various
pastorates, including one at Marion and another near Birmingham. I
had the best opportunity to learn him while I was pastor at Selma.
Here he was superintendent of my Sunday School and aided me in my ward
prayer-meetings. He completed two courses at the Selma University,
graduating with the title of A. B., and with the highest confidence
of all the faculty. In looking upon his open countenance one
instinctively feels the impress of an honest, earnest man--a man free
from hypocrisy and guile.
Bradford, Rev. William C., pastor of the First Colored Baptist Church,
Union Springs, son of Henry and Elizabeth Bradford, was born in
Montgomery, Ala., in 1862. His early years were spent in the Swayne
school in said city, in which he succeeded in laying the foundation
of a liberal English education. In his eighteenth year, and two years
after his father’s death, he was baptized into the fellowship of the
Columbus Street Baptist Church, Montgomery, by the late Rev. James A.
Foster. Feeling a call to the work of the gospel ministry, he, with
a view to fitting himself for this solemn charge, entered Atlanta
Theological Seminary. In school as well as out among his brethren, he
has managed to occupy a place with those who formed the van.
In the person of his good wife, once Miss M. H. Allen, of Georgia
(daughter of Rev. T. M. Allen, ex-member of the Georgia Legislature),
whom he wedded in 1884, he has found happy and efficient help in his
studies as well as in his calling. For a while Mr. Bradford followed
the tailor’s trade, but at the call of the Gilfield Church in Wetumpka,
the Dexter Avenue Church, Montgomery, in 1886 set him apart to the
work of the gospel ministry. At Wetumpka he built a church edifice
worth about $700. While pastor at Clayton he led to the erection of a
building worth $1,000, and just now is rejoicing with the good people
of Union Springs on his entrance into the new brick structure which was
dedicated on the second Sunday in October, 1892. He was principal of
the city school while in Clayton, and now holds several positions of
honor and trust. Mr. Bradford is one of the strongest and is among the
most successful young men in Alabama. His affable manner commends him
to all. He is now at Tuscaloosa.
Brooks, Rev. G. J., of Selma, Ala., son of Joseph and Nancy Brooks,
was born in 1830 near Richmond, Va., in which city he lived till his
eighteenth year, when he was carried to New Orleans, La., and from
thence to Texas. 1849 was spent in St. Louis, Mo., and in 1850 he was
brought to Huntsville, Ala. In this same year he was baptized into the
Primitive Baptist Church of Huntsville by Rev. Wm. Harris (colored).[1]
Of this period of his life Mr. Brooks says: “By the will of a Mr.
Kenedy I was left free, but as the administrator of the will, a Mr.
Clark, refused to execute this point in the will, I remained a slave.”
In 1867 he united with the Marion Church, under the pastorate of the
Rev. James Childs. Near this town he taught school, till in 1872 he
went to Kentucky, where, in 1873, he was ordained to the work of the
ministry. After serving various offices in the work in Kentucky, he
came to Selma in 1875, where, after a few years, he became pastor of
the St. Philip Street Church. By the assistance of the white family he
learned to read at the age of 14. In Marion he extended his studies
under Prof. Card, and under Presidents Woodsmall, McAlpine and Brawley
he further prosecuted his studies in the Selma University. Brother
Brooks has held various offices of trust under the State Convention and
the Uniontown Association. His health is now rather below his usual
strength, but his love for the Master’s cause seems nothing abated. His
wife, Mrs. Anna, is among the leading women of Alabama.
[1] It appears that this denomination, Primitive Baptists, had some one
or two ordained colored ministers.
Brown, Rev. Lewis, of Epes, Sumter county, was born near St. Louis,
Mo., March 23, 1835, and came to Alabama in his tenth year. He united
with the church in 1863, and was baptized by a Mr. Edmonds into the
fellowship of the Jones’ Creek Church, by which church he was called to
ordination in the fall of 1868. The chief persons in the presbytery
were Revs. Abner Scarber (white) and Mr. Wright. Mr. Brown’s main
pastoral charges have been Jones’ Creek, nine years; Sumterville,
thirteen years; New Bethel, thirteen years; and Mount Olive, four
years. He has long been moderator of the Bethlehem Association, and
is known and recognized as a firm and tried friend of education and
missions; and his children give evidence of pure and wise aspirations.
Mr. Brown was married to Mrs. Elizabeth Brown, a slave girl on the same
plantation with himself, in 1852. Seven sons and one daughter are the
fruit of the marriage. He is a very industrious and economical man,
and has possession of valuable property, worth $15,000. Seven or eight
hundred acres of his farm once formed part of the plantation on which
he (with 500 others) worked as a slave till 1865. He says that his
master, Mr. Brown, was a Christian, and that after the close of the war
this plantation gave to this county most of its religious leaders.
Burwell, L. L., M. D., the son of Charles and Amanda Burwell, was born
in Marengo county, Ala., October 25, 1867. At the age of seven years he
was given to his brother, Charles A. Burwell, of whom the Doctor says:
“To him my success is largely due.” For quite a while he lived with
this brother on a farm in Perry county. He attended the county schools
till he entered Selma University in the winter of 1883-84. His love for
books and his quickness of apprehension were early manifestations of
native talent which, if properly cultivated, would unfold to his own
honor and to the profit of his people. Each vacation found him upon the
farm, earning money with which to re-enter school. During his entire
course at Selma University his mother was able to spend upon him but
$30. In 1886, he graduated from the above named school with the honors
of valedictorian, and in the fall of the same year he entered Leonard
Medical College, Raleigh, N. C., to take a course in medicine. The
course extended through four years, but he completed it and received
his diploma at the close of the third year, again receiving the honors
of valedictorian of his class. In 1889, he passed an examination before
the State Board of Medical Examiners of Alabama, and began the practice
of medicine in the city of Selma, where he now resides amidst many
friends, a paying practice, and a successful drug business. Commencing
without a dollar, he has saved from his income about $4,000. In school
he was called artist, orator, scholar. He says: “As a doctor I have for
my motto: _Crurare Cito_.”
Brown, Rev. R. E., of Selma, the pushing, energetic leader of several
associations, deserves honorable mention as a man of pluck and push--a
man of courage and observation.
Bynum, Rev. Henry, of Leighton, Ala., was born in Baltimore, Md.,
January, 1820. In 1851, in Colbert county, Ala., he was led to
exercise faith in Christ by the humble conversation and pious life of
a fellow-slave by the name of Isaac. As his master did not believe in
the Bible and its Christianity, his baptism was delayed till 1854. In
1867 he was set apart to the office of the gospel ministry by two white
ministers, one of whom was Dr. Joseph Shackelford, of Trinity, Ala. He
and Rev. Steven Coleman were the first ordained colored preachers in
northern Alabama. He was married the first time in 1857, but his family
were soon taken from him and he has never seen them since. His present
wife is a most excellent lady, and affords him that help which only a
good woman can bestow. He has good property, and he and his wife keep
one of the most hospitable homes in northern Alabama. Bro. Bynum was
the first colored minister in this section to administer the rite of
baptism. He is now awaiting his change with triumphant hope, and still
enjoys fair health.
Caddell, Rev. Perry, pastor in Shelby, Ala., son of Edmond and Edie
Caddell, was born September 9, 1859, in Centreville, Bibb county, Ala.
He was baptized into the Bethel Baptist Church, Calera, by Rev. John
Trainholm, in February, 1873, and was set apart to the work of the
gospel ministry, December, 1877, by Revs. Henry Wood and Mack Jackson.
He learned his letters at the age of 12 years, and, though he has never
had any help from teachers except such as he could get at night school,
he has been a steadily growing man till the present time. He feels that
he owes his beginning in letters to his mistress (Mrs. Caddell), who,
after the close of the war, taught him to read, and to write his name.
Of his father he says: “He was, no doubt, a believer; but in slavery
time he refused to unite with the church for the reason that he felt
that master and slave all the week could not be brothers on Sunday. And
after the close of the war, he would not join for the reason that there
was no colored Baptist church near his home.”
Bro. Caddell is an exemplary man in his family. I have found no family
where the mother and children study the Word of God with more system
and regularity. He has a ready command of language, both in speech and
with pen, and is sociable and genial everywhere.
Capers, Rev. J. R., of Elyton (since gone to Oklahoma), was born in
Camden, S. C., April 22, 1828. In 1845 he was baptized into the Marion
Baptist Church (white) by the Rev. Mr. Devotie, and in 1869 he was
solemnly set apart to the sacred office of the gospel ministry by Revs.
Henry Wood, of Talladega, and Arthur Hall, of Jonesboro. He, with Revs.
W. H. McAlpine, Berry Ware, Jasper Beavers, and others, organized
the Mt. Pilgrim Association, in Mt. Pilgrim Church, in 1868. Of this
association he was the moderator for eleven years. Bro. Capers is known
among his brethren and neighbors as an intelligent, industrious,
thoughtful, faithful, Christian man and earnest gospel preacher. He
is a successful carpenter, and by industry, skill and economy has
attained to the possession of a good deal of choice property. No doubt
he owes much to his good wife, whom he married in 1850, and by whom he
has a large family of thrifty children. Bro. Capers was an organizer
in the Jefferson county work, and has left the impress of his decided
character upon the workers of this section. He is now in Oklahoma
Territory.
Chapman, Rev. F. A., of Flint, Morgan county, Ala., was born in the
county and State in which he now lives, November 12, 1843. In 1861 he
was baptized into the Sand Hill Church by Rev. M. A. Verser, and in
April, 1868, he was set apart to the work of the gospel ministry by a
presbytery which was presided over by the brother who about eight years
before had administered the rite of baptism.
Mr. Chapman is one of the most sober, quiet, pious, earnest,
hard-working preachers in the valley of the Tennessee river. He aided
in the organization of the Muscle Shoals and Flint River Associations.
Most of his time has been spent in mission and pioneer operations. In
1868 he was wedded to Miss Alabama Garth, by whom he has a large family
of interesting children. Their home is a retreat for weary preachers
and a Christian example in their community.
In a speech which he made before our last State Convention, he
said: “The brethren ordained me in 1868, not because of my fitness for
the work, but in recognition of a necessity. There was need for a Negro
to baptize Negro believers, and I was chosen as an answer to this want
without any examination.”
Chandler, Rev. F. C., is pastor of Walnut Street Church, Rosedale, and
bears a good name.
[Illustration: Rev. S. L. Belser, Pastor Red Mountain Baptist Church,
Bessemer, Ala.]
Clark, Rev. Henry, of Opelika, son of David and Patience Clark, both of
Virginia birth, is one of the fathers of the work in Lee county.
Brother Clark was baptized at Auburn, Ala., by Rev. H. C. Toliver, of
Tuskegee, in 1860. He was set apart to the work of the gospel ministry
June 27, 1868, by Revs. W. E. Lloyd, D. D., and Thomas Glenn, since
which time he has been busy going about and doing good. He has been a
harmless, industrious, pioneer preacher, laying foundations upon which
others have builded. He is a tried and faithful friend of missions and
education. The writer has always felt that his every pledge was worth
every cent it promised. Notwithstanding he has had no educational
advantages, still he has, by study of books and by association with men
of letters, obtained no inconsiderable store of knowledge.
The churches of Lee county and the Alabama Association owe much to the
faithful, efficient labors of Brother Clark. His loving heart ever
adorns his face with the smiles of peace and good will. Truly, he is a
harmless man, ever ready to do a brotherly deed.
Colley, Rev. Moses, of Talladega, son of Rev. Boney Sawyer, who
was a preacher over fifty years ago, is about 55 years of age. He
has never had any school advantages, but has attained to a fair
knowledge of books. He is a remarkably clear headed man, dignified and
self-possessed. Mr. Colley is a hard working, successful farmer, and
by this calling, he has obtained a comfortable support for himself and
family. He was baptized by Dr. Renfroe in 1856, and was ordained to the
ministry in 1872. He held several important pastorates in Talladega,
and was once moderator of Rushing Springs Association. He is guarded
in speech, but his manners are always affable. No act of folly or
crime mars his good name. For many years he has held the pastorate at
Mardisville, where he is esteemed no less for his piety than for his
sound doctrine.
Collins, Rev. Asa Cyrus, of Hazen, Ala., was born November 1, 1861, in
Dallas county of this State. Lost both parents at the age of 8 years.
Was baptized by Rev. A. Waller in his sixteenth year, and soon began
preaching. In September, 1881, he was officially set apart to the work
of the gospel ministry. Mr. Collins has been pastor at various points,
and is held in high esteem by his brethren. For several years he has
been moderator of the Dallas County Association, over which he presides
with credit to himself and with pleasure to the body. Brother Collins
is still a rising young man.
Curry, Rev. J. C., of Mount Meigs, Montgomery county, the son of Rev.
Philip and Venus Curry, was born in Marion, Ala., October 17, 1852.
He was baptized at Felix, Ala., by Rev. D. R. Willis in 1873. On the
occasion of his call to the pastorate of the Friendship Church, Shelby,
Ala., he was ordained to the work of the gospel ministry by Revs. P.
Caddell, M. Jackson, and Henry Scott. Mr. Curry is liberally educated,
having been among the first students of Selma University. He is a
close, clear thinker, a forcible speaker and a good preacher. He has
been pastor at Shelby, pastor of the Dexter Avenue Church, Montgomery,
and is now pastor at Mt. Meigs and Tuskegee.
At different times he has been engaged in the newspaper business;
and I am informed that he is now assisting Prof. B. T. Washington
in collecting certain statistics for the Tuskegee school. Mr. Curry
is a man of rare energy and will force, and being endowed with good
intellectual gifts there is no reason why he may not become one among
the strongest men of the State.
Curtis, Hon. A. H., of Marion, Ala., was born in Raleigh, N. C.,
December 29, 1829. He came to Alabama in 1839 with the Haywood family.
He was the property (?) of E. Haywood, and served as a waiting boy in
the store of Stockton & Hunt for many years. He moved to Marion in
1848 and was the body servant of R. T. Goree for two years. After this
he was barber for some years. Succeeding by industry and economy in
obtaining some cash, he, in 1859, paid Mrs. E. Haywood $2,000 for his
freedom, and during the same year went to New York and was emancipated.
After the war he engaged in mercantile pursuits and the barber
business. In 1870 he was elected to the lower house of the General
Assembly of Alabama, and in 1872 he was elected State Senator from the
Twenty-second senatorial district. No other colored man ever presided
over the Senate of Alabama. He was connected with the legislature
of the State for eight years, and not only enjoyed the respect of
his fellow legislators of all parties but closed his service in this
connection with growing confidence in his integrity. He was baptized
in 1851. In 1850 his marriage occurred. His wife was a suitable helper
for him and is still alive enjoying the honors and success which
justly crown their offspring. The Curtis brothers and sisters are a
praise to their parents. The senator was a strong man in society, in
church, in State. He died near Marion, July 20, 1878, as the result of
a bruise from a fall from his buggy. Three of his sons are successful
physicians; two are north; Dr. A. J. Curtis is in Montgomery.
Davis, Rev. Philip, late of Talladega, was born in 1813, in the State
of Virginia, near the North Carolina line. He was baptized in 1841,
and about the year 1843 he began to speak to his neighbors of the
doctrines and hope of the gospel. Early in life he married, and became
the father of a large family. After he was brought to Calhoun county,
Ala., he continued his labors in the ministry of the gospel, as he had
opportunity, constantly increasing in favor with both God and man; and
this was true of him to the day of his death, which occurred December
30, 1881. I first met this pious man in December, 1875, in Talladega.
He was not a learned man, but he knew the holy scriptures, and was
wise in the things of salvation. The more he was known the better he
was loved; and his unassuming, gentle, chastened, self-forgetting
spirit, as exhibited at home and abroad, was simply charming. As I have
looked upon this unmixed, full-blooded representative of the Negro
race, arrayed in the beauty of the Christian spirit, I have felt proud
of him as a witness for my people. He was not fully installed in the
ministry until the close of the war. The late Dr. J. J. D. Renfroe was
the leading man in the presbytery who officially set him apart to the
sacred office. His last words were: “Like one of old, I have finished
my course and am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure
is come.” He left a pleasant home for his family.
Davis, Rev. C. M., of Flint, Morgan county, was born in the State of
Tennessee. He was led to faith in Christ and was baptized by the Rev.
F. A. Chapman. He says that his early life was rather wild, but when
his eyes were opened he turned with all his heart. In 1885, in May,
he was set apart to the ministry by Revs. F. A. Chapman and C. C.
Matthews. Mr. Davis is one among the most promising young men in the
Flint River Association. He is a discerning, aspiring man, who believes
in studying to know the truth, so that he may not have reason to feel
ashamed of his teaching, nor spend his time and energies without
producing effects. The writer had special opportunity to know him at
the State school, where the former was teacher and the latter was
student. He is clear-headed, kind and conscientious.
Dawson, Rev. Iverson, of Eutaw, is a man rich in natural endowments,
both of body and mind. Upon no man in Alabama has nature been
more profuse in the bestowment of choice gifts. He is tall, well
proportioned, kind hearted, genial, sociable, magnetic, clear-headed
and ever sanguine. He is, no doubt, the strongest man in the Bethlehem
Association, of which body he has been clerk for many years; and in
every section of the State, and in every phase of business, he is
recognized as a man of power and character. As a public speaker, he is
both pleasing and instructive.
The vote, which in 1887 retained our university at Selma, was largely
owing to his influence and labors.
Mr. Dawson has a pleasant home and an interesting family in the town of
Eutaw, where he now serves as pastor. His home is placed on the roll of
asylums for tired missionaries. He is a brave, fearless opponent and a
true and trusty friend. At this time, he is editing a paper in his town
in the interest of the republican party. The writer sincerely wishes
that every motion of his strong manhood might be laid wholly upon the
church’s altar, and that he could consent to leave the running of
political papers to others.
Dinkins, Charles Spencer, D. D., general Sunday School missionary
of Alabama for the American Baptist Publication Society, was born
September 15, 1856, near Canton, Miss. Mr. Dinkins never knew his
father, and his mother, Mrs. Sarah Dinkins, died when he was only 13
years of age. One year prior to her death, he was led to faith in the
salvation of God as presented in the gospel, under the preaching of
Rev. Jordan Williams, by whom he was baptized into the fellowship of
the Mount Zion Church, Canton, in the fall of 1868. For such a boy,
at such a time, to make the favorable acquaintance of such a man as
Mr. Williams, was a peculiar providence. As in the cases of Saul and
Ananias, and Philip and the eunuch, God brought the parties together.
Mr. Williams, perceiving the superior talents of the youth, privately
inquired of him whether or not he desired to educate himself, and when
the affirmative reply was obtained, he at once influenced his church to
provide the means.
On Friday night, January 28, 1870, Mr. Dinkins took the cars for
Nashville, Tenn., arriving at that point on Sunday morning. That day
he met the good Dr. Phillips, who cordially accepted him at once, and
remained his admiring friend to the close of his (Dr. Phillips’) long
and useful life.
In referring to his early life, Mr. Dinkins says: “When I was 9
years old, my mother bought me a blue back speller and taught me the
alphabet, which I learned in one night. My first teachers were Mrs.
and Miss Highgate, of Philadelphia, and Hon. J. J. Spellman, now of
Jackson, Miss. Before leaving the old plantation, I saw something of
the horrors of slavery, which I can never forget.”
At the age of 16 he began teaching, which work he pursued during
summer, returning to Nashville to continue his studies in the fall and
winter. He graduated from the classical course of the Roger Williams
University, Nashville, in the spring of 1877, as valedictorian of his
class, among whom were Messrs. N. H. Ensley and H. M. G. Spenser. In
1878 he returned to take a post-graduate course and was appointed a
member of the faculty. In the latter part of this same year he entered
Newton Theological Seminary, near Boston, Mass., where, during the time
of a full course, from which he graduated in 1881, he was associated
with some of the most prominent educators of the country. In this
course he took theology, church history, Hebrew, Greek, homiletics,
etc. How Mr. Dinkins was seen by this institution, the following story
may be allowed to signify:
Just before the death of Dr. Phillips, the writer met him in Nashville.
_Dr. Phillips_--How is Brother Dinkins?
_The Writer_--He is well and _doing_ well.
_Dr. P._--He is a very capable and worthy person. Dr. Hovey, the
president of Newton, said to me on one occasion when I asked after some
students who had gone from us to him, “Mr. ---- is very _sensitive_, but
Mr. Dinkins is very _sensible_.”
Dr. Dinkins has held various prominent positions, among which may be
mentioned: Member of the faculty of the State University of Kentucky;
pastor York Street Church, Louisville, Ky.; teacher of languages in
Selma University; pastor Second Baptist Church of Marion, Ala.; and
principal of the Marion Baptist Academy; and has been tendered the
presidency of the University of Kentucky, and many times he has been
earnestly solicited to return to the faculty of Selma University. His
examination for ordination before the ministers of Louisville, Ky.,
in 1883, was an occasion of much comment by both white and colored
pastors, in praise of his ability. The writer has had occasion to watch
him very closely since his entrance upon work in Alabama, and he does
not hesitate to write that Charles S. Dinkins, in point of scholarship,
industry and high sense of honor, is not excelled by any man we have
had among us. In 1890 the State University of Louisville, Ky., then
under the presidency of the late Dr. W. J. Simmons, conferred on him
the title of D. D. On the day which closed his twenty-fifth year, the
15th day of September, 1881, he was wedded to Miss Pauline E. Fears,
the friend and classmate of Miss M. A. Roach (now Mrs. M. A. Boothe),
by his fatherly instructor and faithful friend, Dr. D. W. Phillips.
The marriage took place in the Roger Williams University, Nashville,
Tenn., a school of which they are both graduates. Perhaps some future
historian will write of Mr. Dinkins: “An eventful life, not the least
eventful point in which is the finding and wedding of a woman so well
suited to a man of such rare gifts.”
Five children--two boys and three girls--grace their home as the fruit
of the marriage.
Closing this sketch, the writer would remark that if Mr. Dinkins
has a fault, it may be described thus: _An exceeding tenderness of
conscience_, whereby one may be so entirely possessed by present views
of law and duty as to forget that new light and other views may modify
appearances.
P. S.--He is now the trusted president of Selma University, and none
of his predecessors have made, in the same length of time, a better
mark than he has made. His personality moves in lofty purposes and
is a source of pure thoughts and pious emotions which affect all his
surroundings.
[Illustration: Dr. U. G. Mason, Physician and Surgeon, Birmingham,
Ala.]
Dosier, Rev. John, the founder and for twenty years pastor of the
church in Uniontown, was a man of great moral worth. I once heard a
politician who was associated with him in the legislature of Alabama,
remark:
“John Dosier was an honorable man _everywhere_, and I never saw a man
who did not believe _every word he said_.”
He, like Mr. A. H. Curtis, passed through his political preferments
with stainless reputation.
He was a very old man at the time of his death, which occurred only a
few years ago. He was born somewhere near the beginning of the present
century. By some means he, during the days of his bondage, learned
to read Greek, which knowledge he turned to good results upon his
study and interpretation of the Scriptures. He was one of Alabama’s
most worthy pioneers. He was a temperance man. Upon one occasion in
a session of the Uniontown Association, some one complained that he
smelled a very disagreeable whiskey odor in the house.
Mr. Dosier remarked: “With the consent of the body I will find the man
who has been drinking.” It was agreed that he might make the search.
Accordingly, he passed from man to man, requesting that he might smell
his breath. He located the man, who, for lying about it, was excluded
from the body.
The writer never met a man for whose veracity he had a higher regard.
Donald, Rev. R., of Birmingham, was born in Alabama June 10, 1854. He
is the founder of the Tabernacle Church, Birmingham, and the builder of
the First Church, Pratt Mines. He has worked hard and sacrificed much
for the cause. His name will remain in many churches. He owes much to
his noble, patient wife.
Edwards, Rev. A. J., of Lowndes county, is a teacher as well as a
preacher, and in different sections of the State he has labored with
good results in the interest of morality, education and religion. Mr.
Edwards is blessed with much body as well as with much soul. Good
health and jovial spirits abound, and hence he is ever an enjoyable
companion. He is still a young man, full of manly pride, commendable
ambition, and a love for the pure and charitable, in view of which we
may hope that his day is only in its dawning, and that a brighter noon
and evening are before him.
Ellis, Rev. Henry, of Flint, Morgan county, son of William and Martha
Ellis, was born in May, 1856. He was baptized in 1871, and in 1875 he
was ordained to the ministry by Revs. Charles Davis and M. J. Hooks.
He is now pastor of St. Peter’s Church, which is composed of some of
Morgan county’s best citizens. He deserves special praise for his
attention to his Sunday School. Mr. Ellis also preaches to a church
near Courtland. This brother is a warm friend to missionaries and
delights to aid good causes.
Fisher, Rev. C. L., B. D., son of Alexander and Elizabeth Fisher,
was born in St. Bernard parish, twenty miles below New Orleans, La.,
February 16, 1866.
On the first Sunday in February, 1875, he was baptized into the
Broadway Street Baptist Church, New Orleans, La.
_Ordained_--He was set apart to the work of the gospel ministry by the
Second Baptist Church in Evanston, Ill., September 29, 1887, where he
was student-pastor.
_Educated_--He graduated from the college department of Leland
University, New Orleans, La., May 28, 1884, with the degree of B. A.,
and graduated from the Baptist Union Theological Seminary, Morgan
Park, Ill., May 5, 1887, with the degree of B. D. On May 27, 1891, he
received from Leland University the degree of Master of Arts.
_Positions_--In 1888 pastor of Mt. Zion Church, Little Rock, Ark. In
1889-92 he is teacher of languages and instructor of ministers in Selma
University, Selma, Ala. For the last two years of this time he is
pastor of the Tabernacle Church of the city of Selma. In the office of
State Sunday School Missionary, under the American Baptist Publication
Society of Philadelphia, he has for several years rendered very
profitable service for the Baptists of Alabama as well as Mississippi.
He has recently been recalled to the pastorate of the Tabernacle
Church, Selma.
Than is Charles Lewis Fisher, Alabama Baptists have no more thorough
scholar, profound logician and industrious pastor. His physical form
is a little frail. Should this not hinder length of days, early future
years must present him to the world as one of our greatest theologians
and metaphysicians. He is not less modest than he is learned, not less
benevolent and respectful than he is self-reliant and dignified.
Fykes, Rev. A. J., of Pratt City, is the much beloved pastor of the
Canaan Church, Bessemer.
Fluker, Rev. Solomon, of Sylacauga, Talladega county, was born in
March, 1833; was baptized in 1866 by a Rev. Mr. Smith (white), of
Talladega. He soon began to preach, and ere long he had become a
leading minister in his section of the country. For nine years he was
pastor of the church in his town. He is a very meek, unassuming man,
careful for the welfare of his family, and hospitable towards his
brethren. Of late he has been a great but patient sufferer, and hence
has been compelled to cease from active labors in the ministry. We owe
much of our success in this section of the State to the industry and
exemplary character of this faithful man. He has left the cross for the
crown.
Foster, Rev. L. P., of Selma, was baptized by Rev. Jerry Shorter in
Eufaula in 1876. Mr. Foster, some time after his marriage and mature
manhood, moved to Selma and graduated from the normal course of Selma
University. He is a stirring, industrious, self-reliant man, who
purposes to make his own way in the world without striding the back of
any other man. He has occupied different pastorates and has served as
missionary of the Eufaula Association. He has a comfortable home--free
of debt--and lends a helping hand to missionary and educational
enterprises.
Foster, Rev. James A., late of Montgomery, was born in the State of
Kentucky, in which he grew to young manhood. He died in the city of
Montgomery in December of 1891--died as he had lived, in love and
honor with men and in peace with God. Twenty-five of his fifty-four
years had been spent in the gospel ministry, from the sacred offices
of which he retired in great joy. He was ordained to the work of the
gospel ministry by Revs. I. T. Tichenor, D. D., Nathan Ashby and
Jacob Bellser, in the city of Montgomery, in the year 1867. His first
pastoral charge was the church at Mt. Meigs, which he served till he
resigned to accept the call of the Columbus Street Church in 1871. He
was the first recording secretary of the State Convention, and was the
next man to Mr. Ashby to preside over the Convention as president. He
was trustee of the State Normal and Swayne Schools, and moderator of
the Spring Hill Association.
Mr. Foster was a man whom nature had variously and richly endowed. Had
he possessed early educational advantages--advantages suited to his
rich natural resources--he would have held a place among the sons of
the giants. His sermons were always earnest, and frequently his vast
audiences were melted into weeping by a pathos that was as mysterious
as it was mighty. He was loved, honored, followed, and obeyed. In the
two churches in which he was pastor he, it is said, baptized 10,000
persons, married 600 couples, and preached 4,000 sermons. His loving,
courtly manners won and maintained for him such a tender regard as few
men ever possess. Nor was this confined to his own flock and race, but
it was shared more or less by the whole people, white and black. The
following will show something of his liberality:
“Montgomery, May --, 1891.
“_Dear Bro. Boothe_: On hearing that you need some money for your
work, I look over my account with the Lord and find that I owe him
five dollars. Enclosed you will find this amount. May God bless you.”
The last letter I received from him, one month before his death,
contained a donation to the mission work.
His wife says of him: “Some time before his sickness, he talked of
nothing but heaven. I could plainly see that his mind had left the
world. I tried to interest him in house and home affairs; but he would
talk of nothing but of God’s grace and of the home of the saints.”
He was a model husband and father, and is sadly missed from his home,
as well as from his church and community. A good man has gone from
labor to reward--from cross to crown. He was thoughtful of the welfare
of his loved ones, and hence carried an insurance on his life, the
payment of which has rendered them some assistance since his death.
He was one of the original incorporators of Selma University, and was a
life member of the Home Mission Society.
“Servant of God, well done;
Rest from thy sweet employ.”
Forbes, Rev. W. R., now of Columbus, Ga., is still associated with our
Alabama work. He is now about 37 years of age, is possessed of a fine
personal appearance, is affable, studious, sociable and industrious. He
is a Virginian by birth and came to Alabama in 1889 to begin work at
Clayton and Eufaula.
Franklin, Rev. Samuel, of Mt. Meigs, was born June 4, 1849. He was
converted to the Christian faith January, 1866, and ordained to
the work of the ministry March, 1876. Brother Franklin is among
the energetic enterprising men of his part of Montgomery county.
Notwithstanding he earns his living at farming, he is busy in the
interest of the affairs of the house of God. At present he is pastor at
Pike Road Church.
[Illustration: Rev. J. P. O’Riley, Trussville, Ala., Pastor Compton
Baptist Church.]
Franklin, Rev. William, of Mt. Meigs, was born October 30, 1852. He
was baptized by the late Rev. Washington Stevens, of Montgomery, July,
1871. He was ordained in 1881 by Revs. P. Lucas, W. Stevens and his
brother, Rev. Samuel Franklin.
He is a thoughtful, enterprising man, and has the pastoral charge of
several country churches. Being self-reliant, persevering, as well
as economical with time and means, he has risen somewhat above the
crushing heels of poverty and want. At the age of 25 years, he did not
know the English alphabet, but by persistent application to study, he
now reads and writes and keeps his own accounts.
His face bears those hospitable marks which make one feel easy and at
home in his company and restful amid his family.
On a trip to Mobile, our train stopped at the bridge of the Tensas
River to allow a freight train to clear the track. Mr. Franklin’s gaze
upon the bridge led the writer to think he was frightened. As the
freight train left the bridge, Mr. F. remarked: “If it will hold up
that train, it will ours, too.” I said: “Maybe that train has just put
it into the condition to let us through.” “Yes, and I’ll pull my shoes
off now in time to swim,” said Mr. F.
Freeman, Rev. James H., of Moulton, Lawrence county, is one among
the very worthy young men of our State. He has had comparatively no
advantages for learning, and yet his sober and comprehensive views of
life have spurred him onward in search of information, till now we have
but few young men in Alabama who use better language, have clearer
ideas of the Christian life, and make a more orderly speech than Mr.
Freeman. Better still, his neighbors speak of him as a _good man_--a
man whose conduct is a living epistle of the faith which he professes.
French.--Of the many substantial people of Talladega county who deserve
honorable mention, none are more worthy in all regards than the French
family. Messrs. Emanuel, William, and Prince French would be an honor
to any race of people, no matter what the degree of their civilization
and the purity of their moral culture. The two first named teach in
the public schools; the latter is a preacher, and all of them are
prosperous land owners, as well as faithful members of the Baptist
church.
Gachet, Rev. Adam, of Barbour county, Ala., was born in Randolph
county, Ga., March 10, 1837. At the age of 16 he was carried to the
county and State in which he now lives. His childhood was wholly
deprived of parental love and care, and he says he never knew anything
of a relative. Depressed by his loneliness, he early felt the need of
the friendship of God, which he sought and soon obtained, to the great
joy of his heart. With this sweet peace soon came an impression that he
was called upon to speak of this wondrous love to his fellow-slaves.
In April, 1854, he was baptized into Enon Church. On June 7, 1869, he
was set apart to the work of the gospel ministry. He is one of the
pioneers in the work of the Eufaula Association, having preached the
introductory sermon of the first session of that body. From the first
till now he has been a member of their executive board, and is now a
member of the board of trustees of Selma University. Notwithstanding
Bro. Gachet has had no educational advantages, he reads intelligently
and writes some. He has labored, and now labors, in some of the most
important churches in his section of Alabama. He is still active on all
lines of progress. He has a large family, who seem to do him honor.
Bro. Gachet is no more.
Goldsby, Alexander, was born February 6, 1819, in Edgefield district,
S. C. He came to Alabama in 1830. His father, who was a native African,
was born on the ocean while his mother was on her way to America. His
mother was born in Maryland. In 1844 he was baptized into the white
church at Selma, Ala., by the Rev. Mr. Collins. In 1845 he was ordained
to the office of deacon, in which position he served for thirty-eight
years. He was a very honorable man, and was not less respected by
the white people than he was loved and followed by his own. He was a
successful blacksmith, usually hired his time, and hence he was to
a very considerable degree his own master. In 1843 he married Miss
Nicey Goodwin, and a large family of children is the fruit of the
marriage. His massive head and deliberate manner, his strong will and
dauntless spirit, his good sense and genuine piety, made him a leader
of the people and a pillar in the house of God. A man more capable of
friendship at great personal costs, I have never known. Especially from
him, aided by Deacons Charles White, Nick Claiborne, Tall Underwood,
and E. Ross, our cause in Dallas county has risen up. At or near the
close of his seventy-third year, “Father Goldsby” bravely, triumphantly
and peacefully passed from the earth to that city which knows no night
and needs not the shining of the sun. He was one of the chief leaders
of the band which met on Friday night, near Selma, forty or fifty years
ago, to pray for freedom. His name is honored in his children.
Green, Rev. Lawson J., son of Lawson and Martha Green, was born near
Livingston, Sumter county, Ala., August 4, 1859. Though he was so
young, he says his heart still bears the impress of the horrors of
slavery. Under his father’s direction, he soon learned how to farm.
Notwithstanding the colored people of this county were greatly hindered
by the kuklux, Mr. Green utilized every educational facility within his
reach to attain to a knowledge of letters. After he had gone as far as
he could in the schools in and around Livingston, in 1879 he entered
the Selma University, then under the management of Rev. H. Woodsmall,
of Indiana. From this institution, he graduated in 1884 under the
presidency of Dr. E. M. Brawley. At different times and places he
has followed the work of teaching. He taught in his own county, was
principal of Tullabody Academy at Greensboro, was a member of the
faculty of Selma University, and was also of the faculty of the Baptist
Academy at Marion. His principal pastorates have been at Greensboro,
Ala., and Selma, of the same State. As Brother Green is full of good
health, pluck and mental energy, there is no reason why he should not
have a long and useful life as a Christian leader. He has held various
honorable positions in the general work, and is now secretary of the
Board of Trustees of Selma University.
P. S. He is now in Birmingham, pastor of the Spring Street Church and
principal of an independent school on the south side of the city.
He will long be a power in the denomination, if watchfulness and
temperance attend him.
Gulley, Daniel T., of Selma, son of John L. and Amy Gulley, was born
near Snow Hill in Wilcox county, Ala. He was the property of James
Gulley, whom he served as “waiting boy” till the close of the war.
Doubtless this position was favorable in the direction of refinement
and culture. A taste and relish for the study of books would naturally
come of such environments. Utilizing some school advantages which
came to hand, he soon, as the result of hard work, attained to such
a beginning in letters as enabled him to officiate as clerk of the
Antioch Church.
At the opening of Selma University on January 1, 1878, he, at 9 o’clock
A. M., was the only student on the ground. He completed a course in
this institution with the class of 1884. On the fourth Sunday in
February, 1873, he was baptized into the Antioch Baptist Church by the
Rev. Willis Stalworth. Here he served as clerk of the church and as
superintendent of the Sunday School. From the beginning, he has been
a substantial friend of ministerial education. He was ordained in the
session of the State Convention held in Selma in November, 1883, Revs.
M. Tyler, W. H. McAlpine, J. Dosier, E. K. Love, E. M. Brawley, W. R.
Pettiford, H. Stevens and the writer, officiating as presbytery. He has
held various pastorates and different positions in the general work,
and is now Sunday School missionary under the Publication Society.
Hampton, Rev. James, of Leighton, Ala., was born and reared near where
he now lives. On July 25, 1858, he began life’s journey a slave, in
line with the condition of his race. In 1869--in September--he was
baptized into the Mount Pleasant Church by “Father” Henry Bynum,
and on June 18, 1882, he was solemnly set apart to the work of the
gospel ministry by Revs. B. King, H. Bynum, O. Jackson and T. W.
Morris. Brother Hampton is one of the leading men of the Muscle Shoals
Association, and justly so, for added to his natural talent are many
graces of character which come only of labor, aspiration, study, faith,
and exalted purpose.
Without the aid of schools, he has attained to a creditable knowledge
of letters. He is a builder, an organizer, a pastor and business man.
With him and his family, the tired missionary may find a place for rest
and refreshment. He lives upon his own fruitful farm near Leighton, in
Lawrence county, and is a light which shines upon all the Christian
enterprises around him.
Hawkins, Prof. D. D., of East Lake, Jefferson county, deserves
honorable mention for his services for religion and education. The
people of East Lake are comparatively prosperous and progressive, and
to no man are they more indebted for this condition of things than to
Deacon and Professor Hawkins. As church officer and as school teacher
he has long and faithfully served his church and his community, and his
spirit and labors have been like the leaven which the woman hid in the
meal.
The writer has ever found him a quiet, industrious, hospitable brother,
with ready heart and open hand in support of every good work. He is an
honor to his school--Selma University.
Hall, Rev. S. M., pastor of the First Colored Baptist Church at
Warrior, Ala., is one of our most robust, handsome and spotless young
men. He was born in Walker county, Ala., October 26, 1867. Attended
the public schools of his community for five years. In October, 1885,
he joined the Oak Grove Church in Walker county, receiving baptism
the same month. He has attended the Birmingham Institute two years,
and has given three years to the work of teaching. He is one of those
jovial, happy, friendly souls which one always enjoys. His hard work
in the study of books shows that he sees and appreciates the value of
knowledge, and recognizes that there is no easy, lazy road to learning,
to culture and refinement.
[Illustration: Miss Ella Knapp, Missionary, Birmingham, Ala.]
Hawthorne, Rev. Lambert, of Evergreen, was born March 15, 1859, in
Pine Apple, Wilcox county, Ala. When he was only six years of age his
mother, Mrs. Sarah Hawthorne, died and left him and two other sons to
such cold charities as might chance to fall in their way. From the time
of his mother’s death till he was 18 or 20 he was an apprentice to
Col. J. R. Hawthorne, of his native county. This gentleman sent him to
school, sometimes paying $2 per month to his teacher, thus enabling
him in his early years to lay an educational foundation upon which he
has continued to build. As might be expected of any person possessing
his native talent and industrious turn of mind, he has successfully
drawn upon every literary opportunity that has fallen in his way, to
increase and beautify his store of knowledge and wisdom. He studied in
Talladega College, entering that institution 1875 and leaving in 1879.
In 1879 he was induced, doubtless by denominational influences, to
enter Selma University.
Both as teacher and as preacher he has been a very busy man. At
different times he has been principal of the city schools of Opelika
and Union Springs, and now he presides over the Evergreen High School.
His most prominent pastorates have been the First Church, Union
Springs, and the Bethel Church, Evergreen. For the latter church Mr.
Hawthorne is now completing a good church edifice. In 1873 he was
baptized at Pine Apple by Rev. W. Allen. In 1883 he was ordained to the
ministry in Opelika by Revs. Thomas Glenn, H. Clark, N. B. Robie, D. D.
(white), and others. In 1880 he was wedded to Miss Laura E. Drake, of
Opelika, an affable lady, by whom he has six children. Mr. Hawthorne is
energetic, sociable and full of work.
Holloway, Rev. W. H., who spent two years in the Presbyterian
Theological School at Tuscaloosa, is preaching and teaching at Thomas.
Affable and industrious, he is making friends and followers.
Hunter, Rev. Henry, of Faunsdale, son of Reuben and Abigail Hunter, is
now (June, 1892) about 77 years of age. He was baptized by Rev. James
Caldwell since the close of the war, and in 1866 he was set apart to
the work of the gospel ministry in a council of which the Rev. James
Caldwell was chairman. Speaking of his education Brother Hunter says:
“By chance I learned to read the Bible.” He is one of the pioneers of
Marengo county in the work of the colored Baptists. He is naturally
talented, is unassuming, deeply pious, and is known by his brethren as
being sober, upright and honorable. He has property worth about $1,000.
He is quietly expecting a peaceable end to his earthly career, and like
Abraham, has his eyes upon another country where the wicked shall cease
from troubling and the weary shall be at rest.
Hutchins, Rev. P. S. L., of Gallion, son of Reuben and Sylvia Hutchins,
was born October 13, 1862, in Barbour county, Alabama. In 1879 he was
baptized into the Eufaula Baptist Church by the Rev. Jerry Shorter.
He, in youth, was a person of observing, active mind, and hence by
the time he came to early manhood he had fairly prepared himself for
the position of school teacher. He took the college course in Selma
University, from which institution he graduated with the degree of A.
B. in May, 1890. On May the 31st, of the same year, he was publicly
and officially set apart to the work of the gospel ministry, Revs. M.
Tyler, C. L. Puree, C. L. Fisher, J. Q. A. Wilhite, R. T. Pollard, L.
J. Green, A. N. McEwen and the writer, officiating as presbytery. At
the time of this writing Mr. Hutchins is pastor at Gallion and also at
Newberne. At both these points he has succeeded in leading his flocks
to the erection of good church edifices. He is full of energy and pluck
as well as of literary aspiration. Like O’Bryant and other rising men
among us, he is a _moving_ man, and has muscles as well as brains.
He is physically as well as mentally strong, and so, if wisdom,
prudence and Providence shall continue to be his companions, a long
life, a growing life, a useful life, an honorable life is to be his.
P. S.--Since writing the above Mr. Hutchins has been abundant in labors
in building houses of worship at different points. Great physical
strength is proving to be a very convenient instrumentality under the
powers of a strong mind.
Jackson, Rev. A. C., the son of Roderick and Ellen Jackson, was born
in Pickens county, Alabama, December 13, 1848. He was baptized into
the African Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa, Ala., by the late Rev. Prince
Murrell.
He was ordained to the work of the gospel ministry at the request of
the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Birmingham, by Revs. J. R. Capers
(one of the most worthy organizers of the Alabama work), Henry Wood
and N. G. Scurlock. The writer first met Brother Jackson in Mobile,
in 1875, in company with Rev. P. Murrell. His Birmingham work was
crowned with success. Beside what he did in the matter of increasing
the membership, he laid at the hand of his successor in the pastorate
of the Sixteenth Street Church about $3,000 worth of salable land and
the present church site. He is accepted by his brethren as being an
honest, earnest, industrious, studious man, especially noted for his
hospitality to his brethren. Beside the pastorate above mentioned, he
has been a builder and leader of other churches. He is now president
of the Sunday School Convention of the Mt. Pilgrim Association and
chairman of the Ministers’ Conference of Birmingham. He has had sore
trials, but in all his changes his love for Jesus has been manifest to
all.
Jackson, Rev. John W., pastor of the First Colored Baptist Church of
Eufaula, was born at Whitesville, Ga., about thirty years ago.
_Educational Advantages._--He has enjoyed only such advantages as the
free public schools of Atlanta, Ga., afforded him, but because of his
native talent and studious application to the study of books, and his
association with men of thought, he is possessed of a fair education.
His unassuming manner and happy, brotherly spirit win and hold for
him the love of his brethren in the ministry as well as the tender,
confiding respect of his flock.
He was led to faith in Christ in his sixteenth year. In December, 1890,
he was installed into the work and office of the gospel ministry by a
council, in which Revs. W. H. Tilman and E. J. Fisher, of Atlanta, Ga.,
officiated. He was called to labor in Alabama May, 1892. The Eufaula
Church, of which he is pastor, was organized about the year 1867, and
is therefore one among the oldest churches in the State. This church
began on the river bank in a little board shanty, but they now worship
in a nice large frame building on a main street of the city. Mr.
Jackson follows in this pastorate Revs. J. Shorter, J. Q. A. Wilhite,
G. W. Berry, Mr. Forbes, and Mr. Bassett; and he feels gratified with
the assurance that he leads a church from which have gone forth some of
the best people in the country. “_Be thou strong, therefore, and show
thyself a man._”
Jackson, Rev. Dennis, of Tuscumbia, is an honest, industrious man who
has a large place in the love of his brethren.
James, Rev. Lewis D., son of James and Priscilla James, was born in
Sumter county, Ala., December 24, 1859. Baptized by Rev. A. Gordon, of
Gainesville, Ala., in August, 1875. Had limited educational advantages
in youth, but has since his manhood increased his stock of information
by study, in which labor he has been aided by Prof. E. D. Lord and Dr.
A. F. Owens, of Mobile, and Dr. Pettiford, of Birmingham.
He was ordained to take charge of the Bethel Church at Warrior, Ala.,
October, 1888, by Revs. A. C. Jackson, J. W. White, A. D. Jemison and
W. R. Pettiford, D. D. His brethren of the Mount Pilgrim Association
have laid on him various positions of honor, such as president of the
Sunday School Convention, district missionary, etc.
James, Rev. Van B., pastor at Avondale, is a brother of Rev. L. D.
James. He is a progressive, industrious young man, whose breast is
filled with longings for a higher life for his people. His preaching is
characterized by thought rather than by emotion. In all the interests
of the devotion he shows himself substantially concerned.
Johnson, Rev. Gabriel B., of Courtland, Ala., son of Beverly and Sophia
Johnson, was born in King George county, Va., in 1849. Two years before
the beginning of our civil war, the subject of our sketch, with three
other children and his mother, were brought to Alabama as slaves. He
was led to seek Christ in consequence of a revival conducted near
Courtland by Revs. F. Bowman and S. Watkins. In 1867, in February, he
was baptized by a white brother. Shortly after his baptism, he began to
speak for Jesus in the public meetings under the authority of a license
from his church. In 1873 he was solemnly set apart to the sacred office
of the gospel ministry, Revs. G. Garrett, J. Belle, B. Swope and C. S.
Gibson officiating, after which he was called to the pastoral charge
of the Courtland Church, in which capacity he now serves. His first
marriage was to Miss Millie Davis, daughter of Harry and Susan Davis.
As the fruit of this marriage, there were seven children born to him,
four of whom still live. In 1887, and some time after death had robbed
him of this good woman, he was wedded to Miss Mariah Jarman, daughter
of John and S. Jarman, of Leighton, Ala.
He has had but poor educational advantages, but has used to
considerable effect such as have come within his reach. He has had
some access to the free public schools and a few months in the Roger
Williams University, Nashville, Tenn.
He has been Sunday School missionary under the joint appointment of the
Muscle Shoals Association and the American Baptist Publication Society,
has for several sessions assisted Prof. H. H. Stewart in the Courtland
public school, and is at present the moderator of the Muscle Shoals
Association. He has the confidence and love of his brethren, and will
doubtless ascend into still greater things. Being physically strong,
he will be a young man for years to come. His kind manner and polite
disposition readily commend him to the favor of all persons who are
inclined to be friendly, and hence a host of friends follow him with
good wishes.
Johnson, Rev. Daniel, Oakland, Lauderdale county, Ala., son of Lewis
and Martha Johnson, was born near Florence, Ala., November 11, 1844.
Baptized by Rev. H. Beckwith in 1872. Ordained by Rev. H. Beckwith,
Thos. Bruhes and A. Davis, in January, 1880.
Brother Johnson has been pastor of Zion No. 1 for some time past and is
a cheerful supporter of all the general enterprises of the denomination.
Johnson, Rev. Richard, pastor of St. James Church, Birmingham, is one
of our worthy pioneers, in the Macon county churches.
[Illustration: Rev. J. H. Eason, A. B., Professor in Selma University.]
Jones, Rev. C. P., pastor Tabernacle Church, Selma, hails from
Arkansas. We have nothing of his history. He comes to us highly
recommended by those who knew him best, and so far he is making an
excellent impression in his praise. Beside his moral worth and fine
intellectual talents he has other personal graces very rarely seen.
The writer loves especially his earnest devotion to his sacred
calling. He is of Georgia nativity, is about 27 years of age and is a
good scholar. He has been in Alabama only three months. What he has
accomplished in books is proof that he is a man of studious habits.