DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS CHALMERS MCPHERSON BXT3H Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2014 https://archive.org/details/disciplesofchrisOOmcph DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS A partial history of Disciples of Christ in Texas during the past forty-one years, together with personal remembrances of both the living and the dead, addresses, forms, etc. BY CHALMERS^McPHERSON Brite College of the Bible Texas Christian University FORT WORTH, TEXAS CINCINNATI, O. THE STANDARD PUBLISHING COMPANY Copyright, 1920, The Standard Publishing Company DEDICATION TO one who has patiently borne with my peculiarities, overlooked my foibles, smoothed many of the wrinkles from my being; who has been suggestion to my mind, nerve to my heart, muscle to my soul; who has brought sunshine when days were dark, was an anchor when storms were raging, a hand pointing forward when the way was rough, TO MY WIFE This volume it dedicated in love. A REQUEST I CRAVE the indulgence of those who read these pages, that you be charitable when you see what you consider too frequent references to myself. Having been identified with the work of our people in Texas for more than forty years, I could not altogether elimi- nate the offensive pronoun. I shall appreciate your kind indulgence. CHALMERS MCPHERSON. CONTENTS PAGE Introduction, L. D. Anderson 7 Forty-one Years Ago 15 Organizing the Work. Some Beginnings v 35 Texas Missions Enlarging, J. B. Holmes... 55 Texas Bible-school Work, S. W. Hutton 64 The C. W. B. M. in Texas, Mrs. G. D. Smith _ 71 Educational. Texas Christian Ui iversity, E. M. Waits 77 Brite College of the Bible, Colby D. Hall... 90 Carlton College, The Carltons 101 Midland College, J. T. McKissick 108 Carr-Burdette College, Cephas Shelbnrne...ll6 The Texas Bible Chair, Frank L. Jewett...l24 Jarvis Christian Institute, J. N. Ervin 129 Tithing Among Texas Disciples, Arthur A. Everts 139 Texas Christian Lectureship 145 Benevolences. The Juliette Fowler Homes, M. Boyd Keith 151 5 CONTENTS Our Remembered Dead. Preachers of Older Class in 1879 (Ten) 161 Younger Men Here in 1879 (Sixteen) 170 Preachers Who Began Here After 1879 (Fifty -nine Arranged Alphabetically) 187 Those Slightly Known to the Author (Fifty-two) 222 Four Living Preachers 229 A Few Women (Twenty) 233 Our Contributors (Thirteen) 247 The Company Unnamed 255 Studies. Buried with Christ (a study) 259 A Search for "Our Plea" 268 Worth-while Gleanings (Twenty-two) 279 Rhymes. To the End of Your Row 291 Keep Going 291 Forms. Ordination of Ministers of the Gospel 295 Ordination of Elders, Deacons, Deacon- esses 299 Dedication of House of Worship 306 Dedication of Building for Christian Education 308 Laying Corner-stone of Church Building...311 Charles W. Gibson 317 6 INTRODUCTION NO history of the Disciples of Christ in Texas, however brief, would be complete without some reference to the life and work of Chalmers McPherson, a man who, for more than forty years, has occupied a place of honor among the leaders in the church, and by his unswerving integrity, untiring service and un- sullied honor has contributed much to the ad- vancement of her interests. Not only individu- als, but families and communities, find life sweeter, richer and happier because of him. His friends are legion, and he "hath been a succorer of many." Chalmers McPherson was born at Thorold, Ontario, Canada, about seven miles from Niag- ara Falls, on the 20th day of January, 1850. His father came from Scotland, his mother from England, to make their home in the New World. They were pioneers who helped in the transformation of the continent. That home, so full of happiness and hope, was sorely stricken by the death of the husband and father when the lad was in his fifth year. Soon after this bereavement, the mother, ac- 7 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS companied by her two children, went to Ken- tucky to teach. It was here that the children were reared. During the years of the war be- tween the States the mother's responsibilities were multiplied, and her burdens greatly in- creased. Being upon the border between the North and the South, she was called upon to endure unusual hardships, and to face the gravest dangers. But her heroism was equal to the need. Her task, though hard, was nobly done. The education of the boy naturally began, and for some years was carried forward, in his mother's school. Later he attended George- town College in Kentucky, Asbury (now DePauw) University in Indiana, and East- man's Commercial College in New York. His mother encouraged, and to the utmost of her ability helped him to utilize every available opportunity for self-improvement. Like many another, destined for large power and excep- tional service, this youth obtained valuable discipline by "working his way through school." Even in those early days it was recognized that his was a mind of rare quality. When about the age of twenty he started "West," with a companion, "to get rich." He was the proud possessor of thirty dollars. His associate contributed ten dollars toward their venture. Their combined capital was soon 8 INTRODUCTION exhausted, and the young men left St. Louis on foot, still journeying westward. They walked 110 miles. They soon determined to accept the first employment obtainable. They were rewarded by an offer of twenty dollars per month each, with board furnished, by a firm of farmers and traders, Messrs. McCracken and Smith, who lived on the "Three Mile Prairie," in Calloway County, Missouri. The companion tired of the work after a couple of weeks, and departed ; but Brother McPherson stuck to the task for a full year. His em- ployers sought to continue his services for another year, but he decided to return to Ken- tucky — Mount Vernon — and teach school. Soon after returning to Kentucky, in Mount Vernon and Campbellsville, he read law, and in the latter place was examined in open court and received license to practice in the courts of that State. He settled in Burksville, and devoted himself to the practice of law for about four years. With high ideals, careful preparation and indomitable energy he began what gave promise of becoming a remarkably successful career in his chosen calling. His friends entertained hopes, and no doubt the young lawyer himself dreamed dreams, of po- litical preferment and patriotic service. He had become a Christian while in Mount Vernon. The man under whose preaching he 9 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS obeyed the gospel was Henry Tandy, who "happened" to pass through the town one Sunday afternoon, an utter stranger. A local disciple of the Lord, having learned of the preacher's presence, proceeded to ring the courthouse bell, this being the customary method of notifying the townspeople that a preacher had arrived and was to speak. Mr. McPherson did not attend the service, but on his way home paused by the door and heard the closing portion of the sermon. To his amazement, his closest young man friend went forward and confessed Jesus the Christ. He was very deeply moved. During that night and the following day the claims of God were seriously pondered. Mr. Tandy remained and preached on Monday night, at which time Bro. McPherson began his Christian life. Brethren began to suggest, and erelong to persuade, that he devote his life to the preaching of the gospel. For a time he re- mained undecided, but the appeals became more numerous and insistent. After much serious thought and fervent prayer, he yielded. He preached his first sermon in his home town (Burksville) in June, 1877. One of his inti- mate friends advised him to "go out into the country and preach the first time"; but he replied: "No, I shall preach where there are friends to sympathize with me if I make a com- 10 INTRODUCTION plete failure." Needless to say, the service was a success, and marked the beginning of an unusually long and fruitful ministry. It will be evident that the young preacher was not influenced by the hope of material reward when it is known that during the first eighteen months of service his preaching netted him only thirty dollars. This income was supple- mented by teaching school in order to support himself and wife. On April 20, 1875, he and Miss Ella Sheegog, a talented and attractive young woman of Nashville, Tennessee, who was teach* ing piano in the Burksville School, were mar- ried. Mrs. McPherson has proved a true help- mate, and is justly entitled to a generous credit for the marked success of her distin- guished husband. Four children were born of this union, of whom the two younger, Miss Hallie and Capt. Albert McPherson, are now living. In January, 1879, Brother McPherson and his wife came to Texas. He began his work in the State in Ellis County. His first sermon in Texas was preached at Ennis. His first preaching-points were Ennis, "Waxahachie, Houston Creek and Union Hill. His pastorate at Waxahachie, where he served the church for twenty years, is one of the most noteworthy among our people. During this period the con- 11 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS gregation grew in numbers and grace, keeping pace with the rapid development of the city and State. Though pre-eminently a preacher, Brother McPherson has not restricted his service to preaching. Indeed, some of his most important work has taken other forms. He has been an active and enthusiastic factor in all the general enterprises of the church. He was prominent in the organization and direction of our State missionary work, as well as our edu- cational and benevolent institutions. For three years he was editor of the Christian Courier, which service he rendered with credit to him- self and profit to the churches. He resigned this important post only when his physical condition forbade the exhausting labors re- sulting from a combination of the duties of editor, business manager, proof-reader, adver- tising man and general roustabout. Brother McPherson was the first field secre- tary for Texas Christian University, and his labors contributed much toward placing the institution upon the secure financial basis upon which it now rests. Subsequently he spent three years delivering a series of Bible lectures, known as "Foundation Stones," in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Tennessee, Ohio and Canada. Through these messages he brought faith to many who had been troubled by 12 INTRODUCTION doubts, and strengthened the faith and clarified the vision of thousands. During the past six years he has occupied the chair of New Testament Christianity of Brite College of the Bible of Texas Christian University. Here he wields an ever-increasing influence over that growing host of young men and young women who are fitting themselves for efficient Christian service. His intimate knowledge of, and unquestioned loyalty to, the Bible, coupled with his rich practical experi- ence, fit him admirably for the important work. Friends of the church hope that he will be spared for many years to help in training the young people who are to be leaders to- morrow. L. D. Anderson. 13 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO O-DAY I am in a reminiscent mood, and 1 those who do not enjoy such things should turn aside. On the third day of January, 1879, with a wife and baby girl — the latter now at home with her Lord — I stepped from a train to a platform in Ennis, Texas. Snow was falling rapidly, and a "norther" was blowing. I had left a temperature of eighteen degrees below zero in Kentucky, and remarked, much to the disgust of those who met me, "The weather has moderated considerably." One of those who greeted me was Bro. A. J. Soape, now in Okla- homa. Some months afterwards he laughingly told me that, being curious as to what sort of preacher the four little Ellis County churches had contracted with for a year without so much as a glimpse of him, he "sized me up" for the first few minutes, and then said to himself, "We're bit." However, he treated me well, as did all those Texas strangers, and our work began. My first sermons in Texas were given in Ennis. There was a confession at the eve- ning service. Baptisteries were, in those days, unknown here, and I whispered to a brother: 15 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS "Where can we announce for the baptism?" His reply was, "Mulhall's Tank," which was all Chinese to me. I said to the audience : "Brother Soape will announce the place of baptism." In our room, I remarked to my wife that "a tank" was a most ridiculous place for a baptism, adding I was glad the candidate was not a lady, as I supposed we should have to climb by ladder from the outside, and de- scend on the other by a similar route. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that the "tank" was only that which I had all my life been familiar with as a "pond." The water was covered with two inches of ice, which was cut for my first baptism in the sunny South. My four preaching-points were Waxahachie. Ennis, Houston Creek (near what is now Italy) and Union Hill. To ride my circuit I bought a forty-dollar pony, a Texas saddle, saddle-bags, spurs and a "stake-rope." I knew no differ- ence between the "keep" of a mustang and a Kentucky thoroughbred, and kept my pony for four days in a stall, well fed and groomed. Then I mounted him in Waxahachie, near a woodpile of about ten cords which Brother Trippett had in the street. My horse, true to his ancestry, reared and humped and pitched. I was pulling off a first-class Wild West show altogether unplanned by me. I held on with amazing grip until I thought of the woodpile, FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO and had visions of a mixture of mangled flesh and broken bones and cordwood. Deciding "discretion to be the better part of valor," I released my feet from the stirrups, and, select- ing a spot some distance from the wood, threw myself from the saddle. When I had collected myself, the pony was far away. Mr. Will Briggs, who was near, gave chase and lariated the mustang, and I remounted and rode away in triumph. Much of my preaching was done in school- houses, in private residences, under arbors, under trees — anywhere I could find those who would hear me. Many heard our preaching for the first time, and some wild rumors were afloat. Perhaps I was not so careful as I should have been. At any rate, I recall that during a sermon at Thomas' Schoolhouse I was trying to show that the spiritual and the fleshly heart were not the same, and said : ' ' This heart of flesh has no more to do with our religion than has our heel." For ten years I faced the charge of having preached that "a man has no more religion in his heart than in his heel." There were noble men and women in my field in Ellis County, in that early day. I wish I had space to pay tribute to each. Among them were Dr. and Mrs. R. P. Sweatt, R. V. B. Sweatt and wife, James McCartney and wife, Aaron Trippett and wife, Tate Miller 2 17 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS and wife, J. B. Meredith and wife, J. W. Embry and wife, Brock and wife, McCoy and wife, G. G. Higgenbotham and wife, T. B. Chalmers and wife, A. J. Soape and wife, Dr. Jennings, John Couch and wife, James Couch and wife, Quincy Sweatt and wife, Anson Rainey and wife. These were members of the four churches for which I first labored. Others in the field were Dr. Roebuck and wife, Luther Wells and wife, Jacob Hen- dricks and wife, Henry Hendricks and wife, William Ricketts, and a few others. None of the above were preachers except that Bros. Henry Hendricks and Ricketts did local preaching. All of those here named have passed into the beyond with the exception of Mrs. Dr. Sweatt, Mr. and Mrs. Miller, Mrs. McCoy, Mr. and Mrs. Soape, James Couch, Mr. and Mrs. Rainey, Dr. Roebuck, Mr. and Mrs. Wells and Mrs. Jacob Hendricks; the last named at this writing has just reached her ninety-second anniversary, and is still a regular attendant upon the services of the Lord's house. Mr. Rainey is Chief Justice of the Civil Court of Appeals sitting at Dallas, and is president of the Texas Christian Mis- sionary Board. For twenty years, all told, I preached for the church of Waxahachie. We were almost twins — certainly a pair of babies. The church 18 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO was four months of age when we met, and I, as a preacher, fourteen months its senior. I have always felt that the two children being thus thrown together was a fortunate thing for me. Neither expected much of the other, and neither was disappointed. The congrega- tion, which had been organized by Addison Clark, numbered about twenty souls. The church grew; the preacher— well, let that pass. In January, 1879, among the Texas preach- ers were A. C. and A. P. Aten, "Billy" Alex- ander, A. J. Bush, Jas. Beard, T. R. Burnett, Kirk Baxter, Thomas Barrett, H. D. Bantau, J. A.. Addison and Randolph Clark, T. W. Caskey, Charles Carlton, E. B. Challenner, R. 0. Charles, W. C. Dimmitt, A. M. Douglas, Ed Dabney, Walter Dabney, S. R. Ezzell, J. B. Faulkner, John Ferguson, R. M. Gano, W. K. Homan, W. E. Hall, R. C. Horn, W. L. Harri- son, W. J. Jones, B. F. Hall, John A. Lincoln, E. H. Major, Henry Pangburn, David Pen- nington, John T. Poe, Alfred Padon, J. H. 0. Polly, W. P. Richardson, John Rawlins, Ed Stirman, V. I. Stirman, T. M. Sweeney, W. Y. Taylor, J. L. Thornberry, J. J. Williamson, J. J. Hall, C. M. Wilmeth, James Wilmeth. Perhaps there were others whom I never met. Also, there were some itinerants who had no definite abiding-place. Of those named, A. C. and A. P. Aten, A. J. Bush, Randolph Clark, 19 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS R. C. Horn, David Pennington and B. F. Hall are, at this writing, alive. At that time we had three churches in the State which supported preachers for their entire time — Sherman, Austin, Dallas. There were not exceeding ten of our preachers in the State who were wholly supported from preach- ing. Salaries were, of course, meager. The sum promised me for my 'first year was sixty dollars per month, and I was styled a "stall- fed preacher" by some. I remember a meeting which I conducted for ten days, baptizing a number of persons, traveling eighty miles in my buggy going and returning, for which I received the handsome sum of fifty cents. I preached once a month for a church (my second year in Texas) which gave me $150, two brethren paying $120, and the remainder of the congregation $30. The two mentioned moved elsewhere, and the $30 company asked for my services for another year, which honor I could not well afford. In one of my meetings there were two rival leaders of song, so called — husband and wife. I recall an invitation song which was excruciating even to my un- cultured ears. The wife was the first to begin, making a heroic effort, but missing every note in the song. When the husband entered the game he was several words in the rear, but plunged terrifically, and soon had passed the 20 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO partner of his joys and sorrows. Each was singing on an independent key, and it seemed as if they were working off rival tunes. The remainder of us remained neutral spectators, wondering which would reach the close first, as that seemed to be the chief purpose. She skipped and he jumped. Never once were they attempting the same word at the same moment. The whole thing was somewhat like a scenic railway journey, or a kaleidoscope, or the mingling of a bagpipe and a jew's-harp. Com- pare it as one might, it was excruciatingly funny, if such a thing is possible. There were no additions to the invitation from the preach- er. Later both of these worthies were violent in their opposition to instrumental music in the church. Perhaps they feared for the fate of their own leadership. Speaking of instruments in the church house reminds me of two or three incidents. One of the first organs placed in one of our Texas churches was treated a la George Washington-cherry-tree by a good sister. The work was done thoroughly. In the long ago, one of our very best preachers, and one of the most prominent, held a meeting at Palestine, where an organ had been introduced. The meeting did not result in much apparent suc- cess, and the brother was discouraged. Report- ing to the Christian Preacher what he thought 21 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS to be a failure, and attributing the lack of results to the presence of the organ, he gave due notice to all churches using the instrument that none such need ever call upon him for services, as such call would only meet with refusal. Later he preached many hundreds of times in the presence of the instrument, and that without quivering. One of our truest men was addressed by F. D. Srygley, then pastor of the church at Paris, and a most ardent advocate of missionary societies, asking his co- operation in the formation of a Texas mission- ary society. He replied : "If I know what a missionary society is, I am opposed to it." Later, he became a hearty supporter of all our missionary organizations, while Brother Srygley became one of the editors of the Gospel Advo- cate, of Nashville, and opposed such organiza- tions with all his splendid abilities. Here is a story which I have heard Bro. A. J. Bush relate. He was in Texas before me, and this incident was ahead of my time here. Bush had an engagement for a pro- tracted meeting quite a long distance from his home. This was in the day when cattle-stealing was a capital offence if the guilty fellow should be caught, but the stealing was quite a success- ful business when conducted without detection. Bush drove to the place, and when he ca to the neighborhood inquired for the home of 22 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO the brother with whom he had corresponded, but whom he had never met. He arrived and saw a number of men in the yard. One came to his buggy and introduced himself, and told Brother Bush to get out and go into the house ; that he would be gone for a little while, as the group had a cow-thief to hang, and as soon as that should be over he would return, and they would talk over plans for the meeting, which was to begin on the next morning. I have never heard Brother Bush report results from his meeting. Railroads in Texas, forty years ago, were few and crude. The fare was five cents a mile. I heard the first whistle of a train entering Waxahachie. The road ran from that village to Garrett, twelve miles away. The engine bore the name "John C. Gibson," named for the father of C. W. Gibson, whom all our Texas brotherhood knows. To go to Dallas, we changed at Garrett. Frequently eight or nine hours were consumed in making the trip be- tween the two towns — "Waxahachie and Dallas — a distance by rail, then, of forty-two miles. To make the round trip cost $4.20. The little road had a record of its train running off the track one hundred times in a single month. The road with which it connected at Garrett was the Houston & Texas Central, which had been christened "The Angel Maker," because 23 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS of its numerous accidents. Upon one occasion about ten of us waited in the station of Gar- rett, without food or bed or fire, from an hour before sunset to an hour after sunrise of the following day, and the only consolation we received was : "It may come at any minute. ' ' One death caused by that road was mourned far and wide. A preacher had just closed a most successful meeting in Dallas, and was on his way to McKinney for another. He and two other preachers — a Baptist and a Disciple — were engaged in conversation when this man said: "It is a glorious thing to rally the people to the cross of Jesus Christ." At that moment the train left the rails, and rolled over an embankment, and the evangelist passed into eternity. He was a great preacher in every sense of the word. His sermons, exhortations, songs, faith — all were marvels of power. He did not confine himself to conventionalities. Sometimes he was on the rostrum, then at the door of the room, later walking through the aisles, sometimes sitting at the organ as he sang a song which reached every heart. Bro. T. W. Caskey heard him in Dallas — that last meeting — and the great tears streamed down a face unused to such. Often he had been heard to say : ' ' The fountain of tears is dry ; I shed them all over the Lost Cause." After the service a brother asked Brother Caskey about 24 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO the dry fountain, and he replied : ' ■ He took an unfair advantage of me, and sang a story about a little baby dying when I wasn't look- ing for it." Of course, by this time, every reader knows who the great preacher was — - Knowles Shaw. Bear with me a little longer. That which is now one of our very best of Texas churches was exceedingly feeble. The time of this story was after several of our Texas churches had introduced the organ into its services, and among these was that where I was laboring — "Waxahachie. A few women and a solitary man at Longview conceived the idea, somehow, of asking me to assist the church in a meeting. None of them were on "the official board." I accepted their invitation, being altogether in the dark as to the fact that I was invited un- officially. The ladies called upon the "ruling elder" with a request for the "meeting-house." This was promptly refused. The elder was then informed that I had accepted their invi- tation, and, if the house was not available, other arrangements could be made. Supposing he could carry his point, he agreed to leave the matter to the small congregation. The ladies "got busy," and secured a majority vote. When I arrived — totally ignorant of all that had happened — the elder was out of town. To avoid being "stuck," the people had plastered 25 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the seats, which had been painted with ever- lasting paint, with newspapers. On one of these I saw a full page from the Firm Founda- tion, containing a column article of which I was the text. Modesty forbids my quoting therefrom. For fifteen days I preached with- out an addition, but there was something per- haps better than additions at that time. "The people had a mind to work," and they worked. They employed L. A. Dale, a young man of Lake Charles, La., as their preacher. When he began his work the elder locked the church door. Some one entered by an open window, removed the lock, put a new one in its place, took the key in his pocket, and Dale continued his work as if nothing at all had occurred. Two elders entered suit against "the digres- sives, " and these employed W. K. Homan as their attorney. Then it was that honors thick and fast were conferred upon me. Homan told me he asked one of the witnesses if he knew who had been the originator of all the disturbing things he had mentioned as "inno- vations." such as organs, Endeavor societies, ladies' aid societies, to which question he promptly replied: "Yes. It was that fellow McPherson, of Waxahachie. " The church houses used by our people in 1879 were thoroughly up to date for what was practically a frontier region. They would not 26 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO be so designated to-day. The largest and best equipped did not have more than two rooms; one had a basement. We often preached to congregations in the country where our only light was from one small brass lamp without chimney. With such a light in front of the speaker, he could not distinguish his nearest auditors; he could not so much as discover an outline of those who sat a few feet away. The majority of us were traveling preachers, which is to say we rode Spanish ponies, wore spurs, conveyed our Bible and change of clothing in saddle-bags, and took our stable along with us. The last was a lariat — a rope about forty feet in length, carried in coils over the "horn" of the saddle. With this rope we "staked out" the pony. In 1879 — that first year in Texas — I at- tended the "State meeting" held at Thorp's Spring. Add-Ran College was located there. Something like one hundred visitors were in attendance. The villagers graciously received us into their homes, where we lodged and breakfasted. Dinner and supper — we had not yet arrived at the lunch and evening dinner stage — were served in the open, on home-made tables, under an arbor covering, and the liberal Texas winds abundantly furnished all the sand necessary. There I met, for the first time, the Texas preachers of that day. We were rather 27 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS short on "system," and our organization was doubtless exceedingly defective. In fact, we had no organization at all beyond a very meager one in the local congregation. There was no co-operation of forces whatever. We met and preached and sang and prayed, and loved one another, and went to our fields of work the better for the experience. There were deep faith and holy enthusiasm. Perhaps our vision was narrow, but those men and women believed something, and that with the whole heart. Their labors did not cover large terri- tories, but they stood for something definite, and for that definite position they dedicated their all. Neither position, promotion nor larger salaries characterized the spirit which stirred them to labor. I am not minimizing the value of organization nor of well-laid plans. For these I have contended through the years, and on them we must insist, but never should they be the object of faith nor the goal of ambition. For the zeal, the piety, the devo- tion, the faith, the life of those heroes and heroines of yesterday there can be no substi- tutions. And it had just as well be said that for their faith, their labors, their methods, their consecration, we may find no cause for a blush. He who points to them with a sneer, sneers at men and women of the type that laid foundations for the possibilities of to-day. For 28 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO them let a prayer of thanksgiving go up to God. These reminiscences could be continued at great length, but this is near the place to close. They have their value, and this is large, but he who has come to live in the past rather than to visit there, lias ceased from usefulness. Those days were pioneers for the present ; to-day is the pioneer for to-morrow. The toilers of yesterday laid the foundations for the builders of to-day ; we must lay foun- dations for larger things. "Face the future" must be our motto, and "forward" the com- mand which we heed. It is barely possible that the reader of these pages of reveries may raise that meddle- some, never-to-be-downed question, "How old is he?" "He" is not "old" at all. His youth may be of the stretching sort, but it is youth. And that youth has on this day — January 20, 1920 — touched the line of seventy years. Seventy years is but a span of life. I have no faith whatever in that theory which seems to please the occasional one, that I have lived in other days and in another sphere. The conclusive proof for this seems to be a passing nutter of "It seems as if I have seen or heard or felt this before, sometime, somewhere." I look back to no "previous existence" save that which was found in the divinity when God 29 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS "breathed the breath of life." Then, and not till then, did "man become a living soul." These seventy years have been the first span of my personal being. Mingled with those years have been opportunities, temptations, invita- tions, inspirations. They point to a future. ' Twould be but an idling of precious time if I should repine now because of the failures which I have brought to pass. Let the faults and the virtues, the wrongs and the rights, the weak- ness and the strength, the sins and the redemp- tions of that span of years become an inspira- tion to that which is calling — the work for to-day and for to-morrow. May He whose hand has touched and guided His people in the other days be with us even to the end. On this anniversary, counting you, my read- ers, as "my loving nieces," I appropriate these lines from Walt Mason, copied from the Amer- ican Magazine. Under the title of "The Sere and Yellow Leaf" he wrote: "I'm all in, or pretty near it, so many years would indicate ; but time can not daunt my spirit, or my youthful airs abate. Not for me the carpet slippers, garments long since out of style, predigested food in dippers, or a sickly graveyard smile. Till my system goes to pieces, falls apart beyond repair, I'm on deck, my loving nieces, with my coat-tails in the air. You can't shelve your frisky uncle; you 30 FORTY-ONE YEARS AGO can't back him off the street, though he has a large carbuncle and two ring-bones on his feet, I am old as years are counted, but I'm young, in fact, my dears, for my soul is not encum- bered with the cobwebs of the years. I'm not ever backward gazing, with a dotard's vacant stare, claiming that all things amazing, all things great, are buried there. I am living in the present, and the present is the stuff, and I find this world so pleasant I can hardly get enough. Oh, my whiskers may be snowy, and my step be kind o' slow, and my bald spot rather showy, but I'm young, I'd have you know. I'm not one to thirst and hunger for the aspect of a sage, and I'll keep on getting younger till I haven't any age." 31 Organizing the Work 1. Some Beginnings 2. Texas Missions Enlarging 3. Texas Bible-school Work 4. The Christian Woman's Board of Missions in Texas 3 33 /hoW 9ffi gnixirusg ORGANIZING THE WORK SOME BEGINNINGS IN ye olden time, before I ever set foot on the soil of Texas, I know not who conceived the idea of a "State meeting." My first association with this was at Thorp Spring, in 1879. Disciples came together for social and religious contact. No committee was appointed save one '. ' on resolutions, ' ' whose duty it was to thank citizens, newspapers and railroads, and dissolve. No business of any kind was attempted beyond the selection of the time and place for the next meeting. We chatted, sang, preached, prayed, said "good-by" and sepa- rated. No program had been prepared beyond the announcement of subjects for sermons, the speakers being selected after arrival. Bro. J. A. Clark was in charge of this at my first meeting. The subject announced for one of the afternoon sermons was "The Inspiration of the Scriptures." Brother Clark asked me to take this period, and, in the goodness of his heart, suggested that I would be free to choose a different theme if I should so desire. But why should I so desire? I was sufficiently young and uninformed to attempt anything. 35 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS The picture of Bro. C. M. Wilmeth and other brethren serenely sleeping through the address is still vivid. My mental commentary was: "You men do not know a good thing when it comes to your very doors. ' ' Since then, others have slept through my sermons, but I under- stand better now. In 1880 we met at Waxahachie. William E. Hall, of Austin, offered a resolution pro- posing church co-operation in State missionary effort. He and I made the only talks in favor of the resolution. Gen. E. M. Gano opposed it in a fervent speech. The vote was about a half-dozen for, and all others against. In 1881 the assembly was at Bonham, and the year following in Fort Worth. Here, F. D. Srygley, of Paris, proposed a plan that individuals and congregations place funds in the hands of the elders of a local congregation, for use in State missionary effort. This was adopted and Waco was chosen. Dr. Thomas Moore was in reality "the board," though no one dared to use such a word. He employed C. M. Wilmeth as evan- gelist. The work accomplished but little, be- cause we were a set of infants in such matters. However, it was the germ of co-operation. In 1883 we met in Ennis, and the program for the first year was renewed. Brother Wilmeth was editing and publishing a small paper known as the Christian Preacher. Some of us felt that 36 ORGANIZING THE WORK either he should turn the paper into other hands, or some one else should undertake the evangelistic work. The year following, the meeting was at Bryan. A private meeting was held. I recall some of those who were a part of it; Charles Carlton, W. K. Homan, Homer T. Wilson, G. A. Faris, J. S. Kendrick, W. C. Dimmitt, Judge Spencer Ford and I were there. Perhaps there were others. I am the only surviving member of the group. We agreed that in making our pledges for the work we would each make the condition that the evangelist employed should give his entire time to that work. Brother Carlton led in making the first conditional pledge, and we followed. The work was placed in the hands of the elders of the Sherman Church, which meant that Brother Dimmitt was the new board. This was with the approval of Dr. Moore. He employed F. S. Young, now deceased, who served for two years. A small advance was made in the way of rendering assistance to what was then the new and struggling little band of San Antonio. This church had previously been planted through the labors of Bro. David Pennington, now of Taylor. Returning to the Bryan meeting, Brother Dimmitt offered a resolution requesting the ladies of the churches to organize themselves into local groups in aid of State Missions. At 37 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS once the atmosphere became "blue," the clouds rolled heavily, lightnings flashed and thunders cannonaded. C. M. Wilmeth was the center of it all. Eloquently and earnestly and pa- thetically he pointed out breakers ahead. As soon as he could get the floor, Brother Dimmitt quieted the storm by withdrawing the resolu- tion. At this meeting a wee step was taken to- ward organized State work. A committee, con- sisting of G. A. Faris, John C. Gibson and myself, was named to call together the workers in Bible schools for the purpose of more ad- vanced work. How such a resolution ever passed has always been a cause of wonder to me, but it did pass, and that without a dissent- ing vote. This will be mentioned again in this article. In 1885 the State meeting assembled in Sherman. Here a strong effort for more effi- cient organization was made. Resolutions to this effect were presented, and for an entire day were discussed. C. M. Wilmeth, R. C. Horn and W. H. Wright led the opposition. The two last named later most heartily co- operated with organized missionary work. We believed we had come to our opportunity. Brothers Carlton and Caskey, both ardent friends to the movement, thought the time was premature. One offered a motion to table the 38 ORGANIZING THE WORK resolution; the other seconded it, and others of us yielded. They were our beloved fathers, and we would not oppose their judgment. The next year (1886) we met in Austin. Leaving the history for a time, let us return to our Sunday-school Committee appointed at Bryan. That story forms an important link in the history. The committee called a meeting to be held in Waxahachie during the autumn of 1884. This was attended by about twenty- five persons, not including those of us who lived in "Waxahachie. I now recall W. H. Bagby, Henry Pangburn, R. T. Skiles, Luther Wells, C. M. Wilmeth, A. J. Soape and C. C. Cline. Brother Cline was from Kentucky. G. A. Faris was one of the Waxahachie company present. I had the honor of being selected as chairman. G. A. Faris was named as chair- man of the Committee on Resolutions. The committee reported favoring the organization of a Sunday-school convention, with a Board of Directors and the employment of a Sunday- school evangelist. This was strenuously op- posed by two persons — C. M. Wilmeth, of Texas, and C. C. Cline, of Kentucky. An amusing thing took place during the discussion. One section of the resolution was to the effect that the Executive Board should consist of five persons — the president, vice- president and secretary of the convention, and 39 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS two others to be named by the Chair. W. H. Bagby, now of California, made the point that the resolution was inconsistent in that it called for a board of fi.e, and yet specified the three officers and two others to be named, adding : "That does not make the proper number." The chairman asked if he was to understand that three and two did not make five. After a moment's hesitation, Bagby replied: "Mr. Chairman, that is a perfect illustration. I clearly saw an inconsistency where none ex- isted. Brothers Wilmeth and Cline think they have found something radically wrong with our proposal. The wrong is on a par with that which I saw — altogether in the imagina- tion." Bagby was accused, by his friends, of a plot ab initio. This he denied. The resolu- tion was adopted. So far as I recall, the only vote cast against it was that of Brother Wil- meth, Brother Cline being a non-resident. James H. Rosecrans, now of Breakabeen, New York, was called as Sunday-school evan- gelist. This he accepted, and remained with the work for four years with increasing suc- cess. He had a difficult time getting started. Brethren were afraid of anything like a con- vention or a board. Even those who favored such things seemed afraid to be the first to move.. Bro. Rosecrans began to grow dis- couraged as he drifted from point to point 40 ORGANIZING THE WORK without finding an open door. Add-Ran Col- lege, of Thorp Spring, was the first to agree to receive him, but this was immediately followed by a letter saying to Rosecrans: "We have been informed by a prominent brother, . . . and if these things are true, we do not want you either in Thorp Spring or in Texas." Rose- crans promptly demanded a complete investi- gation, which was made by Addison Clark, and the charge was proven to be false in every particular. The exoneration was perfect. It was a shameful effort to wreck one of God's noblemen, but the guilty party was fully ex- posed. A few weeks later a most successful institute was conducted at the college. In the meantime. Rosecrans' first work in the State was made possible by A. 0. Riall, who was teaching at Denton, and preaching both there and at Pilot Point. Two weeks' work was given to the two places. Thus it was, in a sense, that A. 0. Riall became the father of our organized missionary work in Texas. A worthy service rendered by a worthy man. At the close of four years Rosecrans resigned, and the State organization in the interest of Bible-school work soon began to wane. But the influence of that effort did not cease. The success of the first eighteen months went very far toward making the organization of our State missionary work possible. 41 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS As stated above, the Sherman State meeting adjourned to meet in Austin. This gathering was July 7-9, 1886. In advance of the meeting, a call was issued, signed by Dr. W. A. Morris and D. Hardin Walsh, elders of the Austin congregation, containing these words: "All churches in harmony with this movement are cordially invited to send their delegates or representatives." The "movement" referred to was in anticipation of an attempt to organ- ize forces for more effective labors in missions. The original program prepared by those brethren for the meeting lies on my table as I write. This provided for devotional services, organization, appointment of committees, re- ports, miscellaneous business, six subjects and speakers to be later announced, one address on "How to Raise Money for Missionary Pur- poses," the speaker to be chosen later, and three addresses for which both subjects and speakers were announced. These were "Ad- dress of Welcome." by Dr. W. A. Morris: "The Wants of the State." by W. C. Dimmitt, and "Mission Work," by Chalmei's McPher- son. Many assembled, including those who were not "in harmony with this movement." Indications of a coming struggle were every- where manifest. W. K. Homan was selected as chairman — the very man for the place. The Committee on Resolutions consisted of B. F. 42 ORGANIZING THE WORK Gooch, J. S. Kendrick, D. W. Pritchett, J. H. Rosecrans and Chalmers McPherson. All these were ardent advocates of organized work. In- stead of reporting the usual resolutions, the committee submitted a series of seven para- graphs intended to be the basis of co-operative effort. I know of no existing copy of those resolutions. They should have been preserved, as they were the makers of history. The oppo- sition leaders were C. M. Wilmeth, W. H. D. Carrington, J. D. Tant and Dr. Carroll Ken- drick, the latter being a former citizen of Texas, but then of California. Those who favored the resolution agreed privately to allow the opposition to do all the public speaking. The committee reported on the forenoon of Wednesday, July 7. Immediately a motion was made to postpone action until the third — the final — day, "to give time for considera- tion." The only speech made by the friends of the measure was from the chairman of the committee in opposition to postponement. The motion was lost. A resolution was adopted limiting each person to one speech of five minutes on each section of the resolution. It soon became evident that the opposition pro- posed to kill the movement by continually offering amendments, substitutes, etc., and speaking on each until time for final adjourn- ment. The chairman nipped this plan in the 43 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS bud by ruling that a person who had spoken on any phase of a section had made the only speech to which he was entitled while that sec- tion was under consideration. The speaking — all one-sided — continued to near the close of Wednesday afternoon. Each section was adopted without change. When the vote on No. 7 was announced, a brother began the song, "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name." Bro. Charles Carlton arose, tears and smiles mingling, motioned the company to arise, and led the song to the close. The next issue of the Christian Preacher said of this song and of the singers : ' ' They sang as lustily as niggers at a corn-shucking, while good men and women sat and wept." Something like twenty-five hundred dollars was placed in the hands of the Board. A. J. Bush was chosen as our first Corresponding Secretary. He served with efficiency for about nine years. There is another chapter connected with this history which must not be left unrecorded. Following the adoption of the resolutions, W. H. D. Carrington called for all "who wish to do missionary work on the Scriptural basis" to meet him in the basement of the church immediately. The convention adjourned for the afternoon, and we who favored such mis- sionary work as Brother Carrington had de- 44 ORGANIZING THE WORK scribed repaired to the basement. I say "we," because I have always favored Scriptural work. I was a part of the work which had been started, and, if there was other such work to be done, I wanted a share in it. Hence I went to the basement with others, doing so over the protest of many of my brethren. But, why should I not be there? And I was. Brother Carrington and Brother Tant were selected, respectively, chairman and secretary. I asked if I were permitted to enroll as a member. The reply from the chairman was in substance : "Yes, if you are willing to contribute finan- cially to the work." Thus, those brethren, at their first step, went beyond anything which we had done, in that they placed their mem- bership on a money basis. I made my pledge, and was thus initiated. The assembly ad- journed to meet in Weather ford a few weeks later. As I recall the incident now, those brethren only pledged one or two hundred dollars for their work, and this was never paid, as no work was ever attempted. Only a very few persons attended the next gathering at Weatherford, and those adjourned to meet with the "First Christian Church" of Dallas at the same time we were to meet with the "Commerce Street Church" of the same city. The two "conventions" assembled. C. M. Wilmeth, R. M. Gano, W. H. Lemmon and 45 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS R. C. Horn were the prominent ones of the First Church assembly. W. K. Azbill was present, attending sessions of both bodies. His laudable purpose was reconciliation. At his instance, each body appointed a committee for conference. After hours of consideration, a report was agreed to. This was adopted by both bodies. The agreement was, in substance, for a union of the two upon the basis that the annual gathering should be known as a "meet- ing ' ' rather than a ' ' convention ' ' ; the ' • Exec- utive Board" should give place to a "com- mittee," and those participating should be known as "messengers." C. M. Wilrneth voted "No" in one of the assemblies, and J. D. Car- ter, S. Y. Trice and I did the same in the other. The following forenoon was named as the time for the united body to assemble in the Commerce Street Church. R. M. Gano, W. H. Lemmon and R. C. Horn came — no others. Brother Lemmon, a noble Christian business man, died soon after ; Brother Gano met with us the next year for the last time ; Brother Horn is with the work, and has stood by it loyally through the thirty-one years which have elapsed. Our State conventions have met as follows since that time : Austin, 1886 j Dallas, 1887 ; Waco. 1888; Fort Worth. 1889; Taylor, 1890; Dallas, 1891 ; Dallas, 1892 ; Terrell, 1893 ; Hills- 46 ORGANIZING THE WORK boro, 1894; Gainesville, 1895; Austin, 1896 (this in celebration of the first decade) ; Waco, 1897; McKinney, 1898; Fort Worth, 1899; Paris, 1900 ; Waco, 1901 ; Dallas, 1902 ; Mineral Wells, 1903; Greenville, 1904; Waco, 1905; Waxahachie, 1906; Fort Worth, 1907; Thorp Spring, 1908; Corsicana, 1909; Dallas, 1910; Fort Worth, 1911 ; Houston, 1912 ; San Angelo, 1913; Gainesville, 1914; Dallas, 1915; Waco, 1916; Austin, 1917; Sherman, 1918; Paris, 1919. The announcement is that the conven- tion will go to Galveston this year — 1920. Neither A. J. Bush nor Chalmers McPherson has been absent from either of the thirty-four consecutive conventions, and both are planning, by the grace of God, to attend the one to be held at Galveston in May, 1920. The following brethren have served as Cor- responding Secretary — now known as "Super- intendent of Missions"— in Texas: A. J. Bush was the first of the list. For several years he had dreamed and spoken and written and hoped for something which might mean a forward advance in the work of primi- tive Christianity in his adopted State. He was at the first gathering where this work was inaugurated, and was active in its accomplish- ment. When the committee began to look for the proper man to inaugurate the work, all eyes turned to him, and no other person was, 47 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS perhaps, suggested. For nine years he labored most faithfully, and organized work multiplied its friends rapidly. Some time after his resig- nation, a work which had been inaugurated, but little more than this having been done, the caring for orphans, was appealing more and more to the brethren. A farm had been secured and held for this purpose, near Thorp Spring, for a few years previously, but this was not considered the best place for perma- nency. Again Brother Bush was called upon to lead in a great enterprise, and for a number of years he did so with marked success. The result is that which we now have in the Homes for the children and for the aged in Dallas. This splendid advancement in the time required for its accomplishment was made possible by the legacy of Mrs. Juliette Fowler, of Dallas, who left lands and money for this purpose. The Homes bear her name as a monument to her gift and memory. Sister Fowler died a number of years ago. Brother Bush is still with us, and at work for the Master. He has attained, perhaps, the age of seventy-three. B. B. Sanders led the work for a con- siderable while. Before accepting the leader- ship of Texas Missions, he served, under the auspices of the State Board, as an evangelist. Churches were established, and many persons obeyed their Lord. When he assumed the 48 ORGANIZING THE WORK leadership, he brought ripe experience and de- votion to his task. Perhaps no man among us in the State ever had a larger number of ex- ceedingly close friends than he. He was one of the strong preachers of the brotherhood. I remember hearing one of his sermons; the subject was "Embodiment." He was my guest, and we spoke to each other with perfect freedom. In the home circle, I said in jest: "Sanders, confess. Where did you steal that sermon ? ' ' He laughed most heartily, and said : "I'll tell the truth. Brother [I have forgotten the name] and I were sitting on a log in Florida, and he gave me the thought." At once I proceeded to follow his example, and many times I preached the same thing; perhaps with less power than did Sanders. Brother Sanders has gone to his reward, the only one of the leaders in this work who is not still with us. J. W. Holsapple — I may not give the list in order — began the work following the great convention which was held in Gainesville, where he was, at the time, pastor. Holsapple had had experience, if I mistake not, in the missionary work of Kentucky prior to his com- ing to the State. He rendered excellent service during the years of his administration, and has, ever since, been a loyal supporter. I have not the reports of the different years at com- 4 49 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS rrtand, and can not give such reports as I should be glad to present, but all these men did faithful work. G. S. Kimberly was an employee of the Board for one year. A suitable man was being sought, and no one in Texas who was con- sidered as the right man was available. It was tendered to several who were at the time in the State, but these declined the offers. The committee wrote to Bro. F. M. Rains, and asked advice. He recommended Brother Kim- berly, who was an entire stranger to the brotherhood. He was called, and accepted. After trying the work for a brief time, he resigned. His home is now, I think, in the southern portion of the State. J. C. Mason has been called "The War- horse of Texas Disciples." This must not be taken as meaning that he is pugilistic in his ways, as he is not. He is forceful, brainy, persevering, gentle, Christian. I was thrown in very close relationship with him during his years of service, being a member of the State Board during the time. Frequently we dif- fered as to policies; we never differed in brotherly relations. I was always glad to have him in my home, and was a frequent guest in his. When his dear wife was called to her final home, I was called from Fort Worth to lead the funeral services. I have a letter be- 50 ORGANIZING THE WORK fore nie of very recent date from which I take the liberty to quote: "Very often I think of the patient, faithful work which you have given to our common cause. I knew that you were unselfish in your desire to see the cause of Christ in Texas succeed. Even when we differed, as we often did, I felt sure that you, were honest, and I was right. I think that we can say, without egotism, we have laid the foundation and others build thereon." In the same letter he spoke of his work as Superin- tendent of Missions, and said: "In 1912 our men raised $67,000 for Texas Missions. We passed the $50,000 mark each year from 1909 to 1914. A few well-meaning brethren talked of 'padded reports,' but these reports were made on the basis laid down by the A. C. M. S., on blanks furnished by the Home Board, and were all on the square." Speaking per- sonally, he said: "January 10 next [the letter was dated December 29, 1919] will bring me to my seventy-fifth anniversary. I am em- ployed regularly as pastor by the Bald Knob and Forrest City Churches, Arkansas." Mason will live till he dies, and work while he lives. A. D. Rogers succeeded Brother Mason in the work, and served for several years. I have known this faithful servant of the Lord for years. When he served as District Evangelist for years, I was a member of the Board, ami 51 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS knew his work from the inside. I counted him as one of the men who accomplished things. During the days of his service under the State Board, some thought that he was perhaps mis- understood, and, hence, did not receive the credit which was due his labors. Certainly he did not have the co-operation which he needed from some of the churches of the State, and no man can do his best without this. If I were to offer a criticism on my brethren concerning their relation to the various efforts at co-operation in Texas, it would be that far too many of us have held hands off when the men at the helm were not working along the lines which we thought to be the ideals. Cer- tainly there is to be no compromise as to the message or the work, but, in the presenting of the one and the furthering of the other, there is large room for both charity and com- promise. Perhaps the plans of the "other fellow" may not be nearly so wise as are our own, but even a poorer plan can be made, with hearty and cheerful co-operation, more efficient than a better one without it. But I did not intend to moralize here; it just "said itself," and what is written is written. J. B. Holmes succeeded Brother Rogers. We are now in modern history, and I shall not devote space to this more than to say that we have, in Holmes, one who is firm in his faith 52 ORGANIZING THE WORK in the verities of the gospel; wise in his in- sight into the needs of the field and how to meet them; persistent when difficulties present themselves, even when they appear for a time to be insurmountable; courteous in his dealings with all, whether they be of or against his way of thinking; Christian in his thought and life. He is making a splendid success, if I have the right sort of a measuring-rod. May he stick to the job for many years to come. Before this bit of history closes, one must be mentioned who, though never one of the superintendents of missions, was in reality our first of all leaders in directing our organized work in the field — James H. Rosecrans. As stated elsewhere, our first organized work in the State was that of Bible schools, and Rose- crans was the first man employed. He served in this capacity for four years. The work is mentioned in another place, but a few words here concerning the man will not be deemed amiss. Everywhere he went he came to be known as "Rosey. " Every one who learned to know him, loved him more and more as acquaintance grew. All the children flocked about him and were never rebuffed. His songs have been sung in thousands of services, and imbedded in hearts innumerable His last work in Texas was with Carlton College, where he taught the Bible for several years — and he 53 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS taught the Bible. He was and is a strong preacher, always speaking the truth, and doing so in love. The home always brightened still more when "Rosey" was within. He is now on his farm near Breakabeen, Schoharie Coun- ty, New York. The only really serious offciu- of which I ever knew Rosecrans to be guilty was in his having such a post-office address as that. Whenever I write it, I either guess at it or look it up in the geography, and then generally miss the spelling. The articles by Brethren Holmes and Hut- ton give the more modern history of Texas Missions. 54 ORGANIZING THE WORK TEXAS MISSIONS ENLARGING J. B. HOLMES, Superintendent of Missions THE writer is very poorly prepared to give, as requested, a sketch of Texas Missions even under the administration of his two pred- ecessors in office. The records on file are very meager and incomplete, and, aside from this fact, I simply can not find the time for proper research. The suggestion of Brother McPherson that I write in "general terms" is, therefore, very welcome. On June 10, 1903, Bro. J. C. Mason began his service as Superintendent of Missions. He continued in office for eleven years. The financial records for this period are fairly com- plete, but it would take weeks of time for one to discover just what part of the money was for "service rendered." and what part was given by churches and individuals directly for State Missions. During the years 1905, 1906 and 1907, Brother Mason published Texas Mis- sions, a splendid little monthly, in which may be found detailed information for that period, but for the most part we are forced to depend upon our personal knowledge of the work done. 55 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Evangelism was especially stressed. Summer campaigns, meetings conducted by pastors who volunteered for the work, and campaigns con- ducted by evangelists, were the order of the day. Probably more meetings were held, more people were baptized, and more congregations were organized then, than in any period of our history. The genial smile and hopeful spirit of J. C. Mason won friends everywhere, and in every nook and corner of this great state there are disciples who never tire of singing the praise of this good man who gave the best years of his life to this work. The administration of Brother Rogers covers a rather unsettled, restless period. He began June 6, 1914, and served three years and one month. The Auditor's report shows that he collected a total of but $15,757.50 strictly for missions, and that the total amount handled was a little less than $30,000, in- cluding all other receipts. There seems to have been several hundred dollars of debt when he began, but the record is very indefinite. No man could succeed with such meager financial support. Brother Rogers continued to stress evangelism, and especially emphasized the "doing of the work by districts"; he sought to have a District Superintendent over each of the ten districts. Seventy-five per cent, of the money raised was to be expended in the district 56 ORGANIZING THE WORK from which it came. This system, coupled with the meager financial support given, seemed to force the men employed as District Superintendents and Evangelists, to become practically "financial agents," and left the impression with many that their first and foremost duty was the collection of enough to pay their own salaries. And yet, in spite of these and other handicaps, much good work was done. I note that in 1915-17 nineteen churches were organized, and more than sixteen hundred were added to our membership. Brother Rogers raised much of his salary by holding meetings himself. He turned over to me $676.64 in cash, and debts amounting to about $3,000 — some of which was covered by pledges due our society. Nearly half the amount of the debt was collected from pledges received from Brother Rogers, but it cost us fully fifty cents on each dollar to make the collections. For some reason, Brother Rogers did not secure the full co-operation of the Texas brotherhood, and no man could succeed without it. I marvel that he did as well as he did. More or less of uncertainty comes with each change in leadership. The church desires to know something of the methods of work as well as the objects to be attained, before giving very generous support; at any rate, I found it 57 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS so. On account of the debts, a number of thos'> employed under the administration of Brother Rogers resigned, either just before or soon after he closed his work. Our constituency ■was discouraged, and money came in very slowly for several months. We only raised, in actual missionary money, $9,330.19 by the close of our first convention year. Only a few of the former employees remained with us. Among these were A. K. Scott, who has served our Board for fourteen years, and G. N. Weaver, who also has a long period of credit- able work back of him. Brother Scott has assisted in erecting some church houses during this time. During the last year of Brother Rogers' administration, the writer was asked to serve as superintendent of the Galveston District, while at the same time serving as the missionary pastor of the Galveston Church. After making a careful survey of that field, the situation was placed before that splendid Christian business man and creditable "lay preacher," Bro. A. D. Milroy, of Brenham, Texas. He readily agreed to put $100 per month back of a pastor evangelist for this dis- trict, and in October of 1916 Bro. Albert T. Fitts was employed. This arrangement is still in operation, and as a result the district, as a whole, is probably in the best condition of any in Texas. The method of work is no 58 ORGANIZING THE WORK longer an experiment, but has proven the best way to meet the present need, and is our chief method of working to-day. Of course the pecu- liar conditions of each field must be met, but as we have developed the plan it may be out- lined in general terms as follows : The pastor evangelist must himself be a man of consecra- tion, in whom the usual abilities of both pastor and evangelist blend. As a rule, he will be sent to some pastorless field. Beginning with a survey of the field, he is expected to build up the attendance of the church and its aux- iliaries ; to organize, or reorganize, same as may be needed, and, after due preparation, to con- duct evangelistic services. He is then to put on the Every-member Canvass for both current local expenses and world-wide missions, intro- ducing the Duplex envelope and budget system. He is still to remain on the field until a pastor is called and placed in charge. This method has been made all the more necessary by the intense evangelism of the past, which left us with nearly three hundred struggling, pastor- less congregations. These congregations con- stitute at least one-third of our strength in the State. They are capable of supporting at least one hundred more pastors, and of in- creasing our missionary offerings for all causes at least 25 per cent. It will take fifty pastor evangelists five years to meet this need, that 59 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the needy churches already started may become permanent evangelizing agencies in their local communities, and may form the proper base of supplies for the evangelization of the world. Most of the men now employed are of the pastor-evangelist type, and yet we do not mean to neglect the old-time evangelism from which came most of our growth. Bro. J. W. Holsapple is now employed to give all his time to evangelism, and he is doing this work with marked success, while there is a conspicuous absence of anything of the sen- sational type. We began the present missionary year April 5, 1919, with all debts paid, and a balance in war-savings stamps, bonds, and cash on hand amounting to $5,641.73. The largest individual church offering, not including in- dividual gifts, in 1917-18 was $347, paid by the First Christian Church of Fort Worth. In 1918-19 the largest regular offering was again made by this congregation, the amount being $450. It should be said, however, that Central Church. Dallas, gave $603.56, and East Dallas, $780, when their offerings to City Mis- sions are included; and that Central Church, Austin, is credited with $950 from the offer- ings of the Reed brothers; and, further, that, including the offerings of A. D. Milroy, in support of Brother Fitts. the Brenham Church 60 ORGANIZING THE WORK is credited with $1,250. No one yet knows what this year's record will be, but up to date there are more than twenty churches that have subscribed $1,000 or more each, if they are to be credited with what they have given through the co-operative campaign in which Texas Mis- sions is interested. We are also beginning the work of evan- gelizing our cities. Dallas has made a good start in the employment of E. T. McFarland as city evangelist. Houston and San Antonio are already organized for the task, and our Board expects to join them in employing men. No doubt Fort Worth and other cities will soon fall in line. We have long neglected the rural problems. We can probably meet this need best by the employment of county evangelists in counties where we have a number of country churches, most of which are pastorless. There are probably fifty counties that would raise half the support necessary for the employment of such a man, but in one way or another, by direct designation or suggestion as to the use of the offerings made, for the most part our funds come to us already committed to certain uses, and we have not been able to enter this needy field. It seems our only hope of meeting this need will be in the raising of an endow- ment fund. 61 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS To meet this need of rural evangelism, and to meet the overhead expenses of our organized work so that every dollar contributed may be spent in actual missionary work, we are hoping soon to enter a campaign to raise not less than a half-million dollars for endowment. Such a fund would give us an independent income of from $25,000 to *30,000, and could be used so as to produce double the amount in the field. The last State Convention appointed a com- mittee for the revision of the Constitution, and also named a committee of two to incorporate the State Convention, that permanent funds may be handled to better advantage. We are now in the thirty-fifth year of our history as an organized missionary agency. Our people seem only now to be awakening to the necessity of caring adequately for the base of supplies. The future success of our world-wide enterprises depends on how effi- ciently our State organizations function. We must evangelize and develop Texas, not for Texas alone, but for the sake of the world. The future looks bright. There is no strife or dissension among us. In the judgment of all who have spoken to me, the work is well organized. We are employing the best men we can secure for their given tasks. It now looks as if, for the first time in the history of Texas Missions, we are going to have suffi- 62 ORGANIZING THE WORK cient money to meet the normal needs, and if our endowment campaign succeeds, we are cer- tain of that much-desired condition. We hail this good day with delight, and desire to ex- press our profound gratitude to all who have joined in making this situation possible. We are entering a new era ; may it indeed be a period of worthy victory in the name of our Lord, to whom be all the praise. 63 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS TEXAS BIBLE-SCHOOL WORK 1 work dates back to the superintendency of J. H. Rosecrans. About 1893-4 the work was under the leadership of Bob Banton. Further than these two statements the writer does not have at hand any definite information concerning the work until the State Convention in 1910, when Edward Owers, then pastor at Graham, was chosen to give full time. In this position he served faithfully and efficiently until August, 1912. He began the work with- out records or even a list of schools, but left the work with a reasonably accurate record of the schools and their leadership. To these he had imparted higher ideals in religious education. Following the services of Brother Owers, the work was without leadership until January, 1913, when W. A. Boggess, then general evan- gelist under the State Board, was called to take up the work. He had only been in the work about five weeks when his health failed, and he was never able to take up the field S. W. HUTTON Texas Bible-school 04 ORGANIZING THE WORK work again. He served as far as strength would permit until the State Convention in May, when his resignation was accepted. He departed this life July 9, 1913, just a few days after the present superintendent began active direction of the Bible-school work. Briefly stated, the purpose of this form of service is to increase the efficiency and broaden the vision of our Bible-school leadership, as well as the whole church constituency, along the line of elementary religious education. To accomplish the desired end, we have been en- deavoring to serve through rallies, promotion of teacher-training and missionary instruction, upholding the Standard of Efficiency, prepar- ing exhibits for the State Convention, urging the adoption of Graded Lessons, stressing evan- gelism, and seeking, through distribution of leaflets, books and other means, to stimulate the schools to go forward in their task. Since July, 1913, this work has been sup- ported through the Bible School Department of the American Christian Missionary Society, through offerings received from Bible schools, and has been under the direction of a com- mittee of five, the majority of whom are mem- bers of the Texas State Missionary Board. L. D. Anderson, Fort Worth, has been chairman of this committee for several years, and with him at the present time E. C. Boynton, Colby 5 65 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS D. Hall, J. W. Kerns and H. R. Ford are associated. It is a pleasure to serve with these men, and with Robt. M. Hopkins, General Bible-school Secretary, Cincinnati. In 1914 the Southwestern District was created, which includes Arkansas and Louisiana in addition to Texas, giving a territory twelve hundred miles across two ways. Since the above date the writer has endeavored to serve as superintendent of this enlarged territory, with a Bible-school enrollment of sixty-five thousand. The policy of the Bible School Department of the American Christian Missionary Society provides for a specialist within reach of every school in the brotherhood. This is now an achievement so far as the United States is concerned, and for the first time every State in the Union is provided for through a corps, thirty-one men and women giving full-time service. Canada and Alaska are now prac- tically neglected territories. Additional work- ers are sorely needed. Volunteer district and county superintend- ents have rendered valuable service in the Texas work since 1915, among whom the names of Edward Owers, John C. Welch, 0. Alvin Smith, and others, should be mentioned with an expression of gratitude for their valued services. 66 ORGANIZING THE WORK Three divisional superintendents have served faithfully and well, when time would permit, since the 1917 State Convention. This group of three are Mrs. D. C. Mangum, Ele- mentary ; J. C. Welch, Secondary, and P. F. Herndon, Adult. An outstanding service rendered during the past five years has been the holding of twenty-five schools of methods, enrolling 1,404 students, representing 317 Bible schools, and graduating 535 leaders. Of these 1,404 stu- dents, 153 were ministers, 73 superintendents, 87 departmental superintendents, 95 other officers, 539 teachers and 457 pupils. For several years prior to the 1918 State Convention in Sherman, the conviction had been growing among Bible-school leaders in Texas that a Chair of Religious Education should be established and maintained in Texas Christian University. While our ministerial students, and other students, were making good, it seemed imperative that they be trained in practical Bible-school service. After a meeting of the State Bible-school committee together with Robt. M. Hopkins, plans were consummated, and in the Sherman Convention tentative pledges were secured from schools amounting to nearly $15,000 on the basis of five annual payments, and in view of the creation of a $30,000 Endowment Fund. 67 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS A large share of the Southwestern Bible-school Superintendent's time during the following year was given to personal visitation of Bible schools in securing definite pledges toward the end mentioned. With the closing of the Paris Convention (1919), pledges totaled nearly $27,000. Other pledges have been secured since that time, until at the present writing 140 schools and nineteen individuals have registered fellowship in this enterprise through cash and pledges amounting to about $27,500. With the completion of the $350,000 co-operative cam- paign, and the securing of a few other pledges from schools, the total pledge of $30,000 is practically assured. When this work is es- tablished, all students entering Texas Christian University will have access to a practical and profitable training that will fit them for re- ligious educational work in the local church. Nearly $6,000 has been collected on the pledges to date. During these nearly seven years national workers and volunteer State workers have been associated with the writer in recording the progress mentioned above. For two years the contract included the services of Mrs. S. W. Hutton. The past two years we have had efficient stenographic help for a few hours each month in the persons of S. J. Shettles- worth and Miss Lelia Jolle, students in Texas 68 ORGANIZING THE WORK Christian University. An imperative need just now is that of one or more additional work- ers. We hope soon to announce the employ- ment of an Elementary specialist, who will render both field and office service. Our plans for the future include the employment of a Secondary Division • specialist and full-time office help, in order that we may adequately meet the heavy demands for efficient Bible- school service. Offerings from Texas schools, the field and individuals have increased during seven years from $546 to approximately $3,000 annually. The Texas aim for the present year is $5,000. The national goal is $100,000. The last annual report of the Southwestern Superintendent reveals the following facts : Schools visited, 281 ; addresses given, 213 ; con- ferences held, 215 ; conventions attended, 26 ; schools represented, 455 ; training diplomas issued, 13 ; letters writen, 5,725 ; leaflets dis- tributed, 15,411; miles traveled, 20,754; field and office expense, $995.20 ; expense offerings, $781.12; school offerings (Texas), $2,053.21. The State Program of Work for 1919-20 is exhibited here to give readers of this article a general survey of our present ideals for this work : I. Organization : 1. State Bible-school Com- mittee of five. 2. Three divisional superin- 69 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS tendents. 3. District and county superintend- ents. II. Extension: 1. Fifty new schools. 2. Visit new schools. 3. Revive dead schools. III. Evangelism : 1. Five thousand souls for Christ. 2. Easter decision service. 3. An- nual revival. IV. Education: 1. Teacher-training class in every school. 2. Missionary instruction in every school. 3. Ten schools of methods (one in each district). 4. Graded lessons used in every school. 5. Exhibit at State Convention. 6. Subscriptions for Christian Courier. V. Standards: 1. Fifty schools reaching Standard of Efficiency. 2. Two hundred schools contributing to American Missions. Foreign Missions and Benevolence, and making annual report. 3. Every district reaching Banner District Program. VI. Divisional Aims: 1. Seventy-five per cent, of schools with Cradle Roll. 2. Fifty per cent, of schools with organized Secondary Division class. 3. Fifty per cent, of schools with organized Adult class. 4. Fifty Home Departments. VII. Finance: 1. $3,750 from schools for American Missions. 2. $500 from one hundred individuals. 3. $750 in field receipts. VIII. Completion of Bible-school Chair En- dowment Fund. 70 ORGANIZING THE WORK THE C. W. B. M. IN TEXAS MRS. G. D. SMITH, State President THIRTY-FIVE years ago— in March, 1885 — in a small frame church building on Commerce Street, Dallas, a missionary society was organized with a membership not exceeding ten or twelve women. Miss Kate Hanson, a godly, consecrated woman from Missouri, came into our midst. After much persuasion upon her part, we finally promised to unite with her in the work. Thus was formed the first society of the Christian Woman's Board of Missions organized in Texas. Five of the charter mem- bers are still active workers in the Central Church of Dallas. In the autumn of the same year (1885), the second society was formed in Sherman by Bro. W. C. Dimmitt. After four or five years we numbered about twenty societies, and felt as if we were growing rapidly. But we knew so little about the work, and what we ought to do; our gifts were small, and we were not able to do a large work. I remember when my own society in the Central Church of Dallas observed Easter week of prayer with 71 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS but six or seven women to take part, and with an offering of a few dollars. Now we have an attendance of one hundred or more women in an all-day meeting, with an offering of several hundred dollars. It was for lack of knowledge that we accomplished so little for so many years. Not only do people themselves perish for lack of knowledge, but they suffer others also to perish. Opposition to missions comes, usually, from the uninformed or the misinformed. One of the chief purposes of the missionary society is to educate the people along missionary lines, to encourage them in sj'stematic giving, and to cultivate a missionary spirit throughout the whole church. The Christian Woman's Board of Missions has several important works in Texas. The Mexican Christian Institute in San Antonio is much needed, and is being successfully car- ried on by our missionaries. Brother and Sister Chiles, who have been leaders there for quite awhile, have done a splendid work. Our Bible Chair at Austin, under the direction of Brother and Sister Jewett, is doing a most ex- cellent work. Words can not express the good which these consecrated workers are doing for the young men and young women who come under their influence. Several years ago, Brother and Sister Jarvis, of Fort Worth, gave about 140 acres of land at Hawkins, Texas, 72 ORGANIZING THE WORK upon which to establish an industrial school for negroes. This school has been in operation for several years, and much is being done to educate the negroes along useful lines of work. Thus we have grown, until now, at the end of thirty-four years, we number, in the State, 150 societies, in addition to Triangle clubs, Little Light-bearers and Junior societies, all of which work under the direction of the C. W. B. M. "We have almost four thousand members in Texas. At the close of the missionary year, Sep- tember 30, 1919, the good news came to us that our societies of the State had gone far beyond "Our Aim" in gifts, which was to raise $22,000; the total was $31,817.19. This brings rejoicing. Five thousand dollars of this is our "Love Gift," in memory of one of our most faithful workers in years gone by. It is to be used for a scholarship in the College of Missions, to educate some of our own Texas boys and girls who are willing and anxious to go as missionaries to the foreign field. Let us be encouraged, and, with faith in God and faith in each other, go forward with joy and gladness and enthusiasm in the spirit of unity and of prayer. "Not it, but Christ, be honored, loved, exalted; Not it, but Christ, be known, be heard ; Not it, but Christ, in every thought and action ; Not it, but Christ, in every deed and word." 73 Educational 1. Texas Christian University 2. Brite College of the Bible 3. Carlton College 4. Midland College 5. Carr-Burdette College 6. The Texas Bible Chair 7. Jarvis Christian Institute 8. Tithing Among Texas Disciples 9. Texas Christian Lectureship 75 EDUCATIONAL TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVER- SITY EDWARD McSHANE WAITS, President A GREAT master of phrase once described a university as a place "which attracts the affections of the young by its fame, wins the judgment of the middle-aged by its beauty, and rivets the memory of the old by its asso- ciations." It is our desire to accomplish for Texas Christian University this threefold pur- pose. Our hope and ambition is to make the Texas Christian University a university in fact as well as in name ; to make it serve in an increasing way the educational, social and religious interests of our city and State, and to include in its program the development of an institution second to none in our great Southwest. As the architect of some noble cathedral, whose eyes are closed ere his work has scarce begun, lives on in the growing piles unfolding, so the noble work of Christian edu- cation is to find its completion. Others have labored, and we have entered into their labors. There is a mystical verse in Holy Writ that 77 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS finds fit expression at this hour ; after the author of the Book of Hebrews, like "Old Mortality," had cut deeper the fading in- scriptions on monuments that had endured through four thousand years of history, he said: "Apart from us their lives should not be made perfect." So it is ours to complete the tasks of the fathers. We are to add stone to stone in the building, note to note in the music, glory to glory in the achievement, until the very heavens rain their gold and their fire. Such men as Addison and Randolph Clark, "Uncle" Charlie Carlton, Maj. J. J. Jarvis, T. E. Shirley, C. W. Gibson, T. E. Tomlinson, and others too numerous to catalog, have laid well the foundations, and have left the institution many noble traditions. These were men large of heart and of soul ; men of vision and of power; true knights-errant who went out to fight the battles of Christian edu- cation in behalf of the young men and women of the Southwest, and whose memories will be linked with the institution and embalmed in the hearts of all true lovers of God and hu- manity as long as time lasts. They were men who were willing to "rise on stepping-stones of their dead selves to higher things." Truly they have left us a mighty heritage, and we pray God daily that He may grant to us, their successors, a double portion of their spirit, and 78 EDUCATIONAL that we may be worthy to wear the mantle of their stainless and unselfish lives. Texas Christian University has had a his- toric and a noble past. It is at present enjoy- ing an unprecedented era of prosperity, and its future is radiant with hope and promise. It has equipment valued at over half a million dollars, an enrollment during the current year of eight hundred students, a Faculty of fifty members of recognized training and efficiency, and a campus of fifty acres adorned by five magnificent buildings of brick and concrete. Its libraries are well equipped, its laboratories well ordered, and its residential halls most comfortable. It is recognized as a standard A plus university. With the College of Arts and Sciences are combined the special Colleges of Law and of the Bible; there are also depart- ments of education, domestic science, music, painting, oratory, business and the commercial branches. Texas Christian University has as its aim Christian character, Christian scholarship and Christian culture. In common with other church schools, it places Christianity as its corner-stone, and is endeavoring to surround the students with every possible influence that will lead to development of the spiritual as well as the intellectual and physical. Texas Christian University stands for Christian 79 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS faith. Christian character and Christian service. It is reaching toward the highest educational ideals, and the broadest and most thorough intellectual culture. Its supreme task is to furnish Christian leadership, and to inculcate Christian idealism based upon the fundamental morality and spirituality of the Bible, and the kingship and lordship of Jesus Christ. The world was never so fully convinced as it is to-day that scholarship must be linked with the highest moral and spiritual aims if the world is not to be plunged into another avatar of blood. The conflict out of which the world is emerging was not simply a clash of arms, but a clash of ideas and convictions. In its last analysis it was a battle royal between two types of education. The old education was based on reason, evolution and individualism ; the new educa- tion, with Christianity at its heart, is based on faith, hope, unselfishness and service for others. True education is constructive indi- viduality; it is self-realization. The great Teacher has said, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free," and there is no freedom worth while that does not liberate every power of the soul. The call of this new day is for an education that will develop leaders of life who are constructive, who can find a great moral equivalent for war. The demand is 80 EDUCATIONAL for men and women who are possessed with the spirit of a new unselfishness that will enable them to thrust their lives out into the trenches of our modern warfare ; who, in answer to the call of the new spiritual patriotism, will wage war against social injustice, industrial unrest, commercial greed, political corruption, personal impurity and religious indifference — enemies more atrocious than the hideous Huns who went forth from German universities destroy- ing churches and libraries that were the heri- tage of a thousand years of civilization, making cities desolate, destroying commerce and rob- bing civilization of eight million men who went down in the red burial of battle as a tribute to a false culture, and miseducation of a mighty nation of people. It is the glory of the church college that it became the pioneer in higher education ; that it has furnished seventy-five per cent, of all the college students of America; that it has maintained three out of four of all our standard American colleges, and is educating more than one-half of the 361,270 students; that it has furnished fully seventy per cent, of the leaders in every department of human life. Texas Christian University realizes that the leaderless church is a lost church. It would be a sad thing for the church to fail in membership, but it would be a greater e 81 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS tragedy for the church to fail in leadership. It has been the church college that has inspired men to service and noble living, and brought them to follow the Lord of all through many days of fear and superstition ; that has sus- tained them in the face of discouragement, and nourished them in all true manliness. Out of the halls of the church college come the minis- ters, the missionaries, the secretaries and the great leaders in every department of human endeavor. Xot all education is Christian. Here is a State University president who declares that "it is possible for a man to become a Bachelor or a Master in any one of our best State insti- tutions of higher learning with no more knowl- edge of the true God than if he had been educated in a pagan land." Here is the president of Brown University, the venerable and illustrious Dr. W. H. P. Faunce, who declares that "fully fifty per cent, of the students of his institution are acquiring habits of life during their undergraduate days that will disqualify them for any real service.'' If the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wis- dom, many of our American educational in- stitutions are still sitting in Egyptian dark- ness. The rightly trained college man is ever a force to be reckoned with, and never before has so large a percentage of our nation's young 82 EDUCATIONAL people been found seeking equipment for life through educational institutions in our several States. Between the ages of fifteen and twenty- four there are about twenty million persons, and 360,000 are actually in college. This is one in sixty. If only one in ten graduates, the next generation will find every 600th man a full graduate, and every sixtieth with some acquaintance of college life and ideals. The church that fails to reach its young people through its colleges, and thus create a proper leadership, will inevitably become a disappearing brotherhood. The church's rela- tion to its young people should be threefold ; it should express itself in discovering, con- serving and utilizing this splendid young life. There are many young people in every congre- gation who would give earnest and splendid service to their day and generation if only they could get the vision of life which it is the privilege of the college to quicken. Many of them are unaware of the methods by which a college education may be had; many do not know the value of such education, and very few are able to detect their own talents. It is the duty of the church to discover their talents, discover them to themselves. It is furthermore the duty of the church not only to discover, but to conserve and utilize ; to see to it that the college keeps the faith; to see 83 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS to it that the college does make idealists and altruists of the young people committed to it, and cause them to feel that they have enjoyed priceless opportunities, and in turn should be willing, in the spirit of altruism, to serve the higher interests of their fellows and their God. It will also be observed that where the college is strong, the church also is strong, and where the college is weak, the church also is weak. They must stand or fall together. The church will never build up great institutions until its members learn to patronize their own colleges. The Disciples of Christ have twenty- five standard colleges in America. The latest figures at hand show a total enrollment in these institutions of 7,839. We are told that only one in ten of our students attends our own schools. We must, therefore, have 70,555 of our boys and girls in other schools — State schools, schools of other religious bodies and private schools. Not one in a hundred of our children ediicated in other schools ever renders any service to the church. Therefore, we are losing in our churches and our homes the religious influence of 69.846 of our best young men and women. Assuming that a student pays an average of $300 a year, or $1,200 in his college career, to the school he attends, our schools lose in cash from this source alone the sum of $21,165,300 every year, or the 84 EDUCATIONAL staggering amount of $88,661,200 every four years. This sum we not only take away from our own schools, but actually contribute to others. These figures not only answer the question why our colleges are struggling for need of funds, but are answering the further question of why our churches lack preachers, Sunday-school superintendents, teachers and other helpers. Last year we gained 335 churches, and during the same period lost 201 preachers. In other words, we added 536 preacherless churches to the three thousand or more already in that class. We must either gain preachers and workers, or lose churches. The remedy for this state of affairs is simple enough. We must educate our own children in our own schools. We must bring this whole matter to the conscience of the Christian parents of the pew. Our college presidents and our secretaries can not go over the parents to get these boys and girls. The responsibility for this fearful condition is upon the fathers and mothers of the church. It is not in the standards of the colleges of our brotherhood. The schools of our brotherhood maintain the full standards of other schools, and our higher institutions are the equal of any in the country. Texas Christian University has had a noble and historic past. It is not our purpose to pierce the veil of the future, and play the 85 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS role of a prophet. It is necessary, however, in the interest of true progress, to have a program. Texas Christian University should have, by 1923, which will be its semicentennial or great jubilee year, $1,000,000 in property and $1,000,000 in endowment. It is the modest and the possible goal which we have set for ourselves. It is a great dream, but one easily to be accomplished in view of what our re- ligious neighbors are doing at the present hour. Texas Christian University now has a half- million dollars invested, and is planning during this present year to erect a church, a gym- nasium, a library and other structures which will easily aggregate $300,000. The money is almost in sight for this expansion, and we are confident that the brotherhood will respond in an ample way when the need is fully ex- pressed, and the testing-time comes. There is no department of the University that is not overcrowded with students, and there is need for larger equipment in the classrooms as well as larger housing facilities for the students. The time is coming when men are going to become so aroused that they will respond in terms of whole buildings, like a Science Hall, a Fine Arts Building, a hospital, a dormitory, an observatory, or even so humble a gift as a dining-room or power-plant. Moreover, the hour is at hand when the institution must 86 EDUCATIONAL be endowed. Adequate equipment simply means additional professors and added over- head expense, unless some provision is made for endowment. The time will come when crops are bad, panics will threaten, and the church will not respond in gifts sufficient to meet the annual deficit which must continue to abide. Higher education requires that for every dollar that a student lays down in tuition and fees, somebody else must lay down four other dollars to make the privilege of higher education possible. In the State institutions this is secured by appropriation, in many of the large independent colleges it is secured by foundations and endowments, but in our brotherhood colleges it must be secured by gifts from individuals and churches. Endowment or death may have a kind of doleful sound, but it is the ultimatum which is being de- livered by the heartless logic as it exists in the educational world to-day. A million for endowment in the next three years! That sounds reasonably possible in a country where wealth is increasing at a phenomenal rate, where single Disciples have increased their accumulations a hundred-fold within the last twelve months. Another urgent need for endowment is to provide for the greatly increased cost of living. There is already an appalling shortage in the 87 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS supply of teachers, and this is going to become more and more acute unless adequate provi- sions are made for the bare living necessities of our Faculty members. The U. S. Govern- ment declared recently that it requires at least $2,250 to support a man and a small family wth any comforts and efficiency. This is far in excess of the salaries paid to our best pro- fessors, and perhaps one-third more than the average salary paid at the present time. The church needs to be made aware of the debt it owes to the colleges, for all that they have done for the church, for the sacrificial way that they have walked from the begin- ning. It needs to know that out of these colleges have come those who are blazing new pathways of light into the pagan darkness; that out of these colleges have come a vast number of consecrated laymen who are the pillars of their churches. The hour has struck when the church should awaken to these facts, and pour into Texas Christian University the money with which to do its work as it should be done. The way has been long and the struggle hard, but let us trust that the day of victory is at hand. "We men of earth have here the stuff Of Paradise — we have enough! Wp need no other stones to build The stairs into the Unfulfilled— 88 EDUCATIONAL No other ivory for the doors — No other marble for the floors — No other cedar for the beam And dome of man's immortal Dream. Here on the paths of every day — Here on the common human way — Is all the busy gods would take To build a heaven, to mold and make New Edens. Ours the task sublime To build Eternity in Time! " 80 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS BRITE COLLEGE OF THE BIBLE COLBY D. HALL, Dean LTHOUGH the Brite College of the Bible i\. was chartered in 1913, and moved into its Administration Building in 1914, its history really began many years before these dates. For it is the fulfillment of one of the original dreams of the founders of Texas Christian University. To rebuild a shattered Southland was the dream of the Clarks in 1873 when they found- ed Add-Ran College ; and their contribution to this statesman's task was to train men of high character as leaders. Both of these men were preachers, and both believed the gospel to be the fundamental power of God in the world ; so they planned to train teachers as an es- sential part of their great nation-building pur- pose. And they did train them. During the Thorp Spring period of twenty-three years, including the class of 1896, eight preachers were graduated, and nine more of the students, without graduating, became active preachers. 90 EDUCATIONAL These include : Graduates : R. H. Bonham, '83 ; J. B. Sweeney, '85; Geo. L. Bush, '86; W. B. Parks, '87; E. E. Faris, '94; Frank G. Jones, '90; Geo. H. Morrison, '95; D. A. Leak, '95 ; Bertha Mason Fuller, '96. Not graduated : H. M. Bandy, '84- '86; W. H. Bagby, 76-77; G. W. Bonham; C. S. Watson, '91; Claude L. Jones, '93; W. W. Phares, '93- '94; J. A. Chal- lenner, '94; B. J. Forbes, '94- '95; A. W. Jones. During these years practically all of the Bible teaching was done by Addison Clark. Shortly after the move of Add-Ran Uni- versity to Waco, in December, 1895, a forward move was made to afford more adequate train- ing for preachers. Bro. J. B. Sweeney was called to head a special Bible Chair, and to raise $40,000 as an endowment for it. The announcement of this new move brought in a new group of ministerial students, and the energies of this wonderful man were invested for two years in the task. That was in a day when the school was struggling for an exist- ence, and when the churches were accustomed to giving only in small amounts, so the under- taking could not be pushed to success at the time. But during the seven years from 1896 to 1902 — lean years they were, and full of hardships — there were six preachers graduated, and eleven went on to other schools to complete their training, or went to preaching without 91 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS graduation. This group includes : Graduates : J. T. McKissiek, '97 ; R. H. Simmons, '98; E. R. CoekreU, '99; J. N. Wooten, '01; E. J. Bradley, '02; J. C. Mullins, '02. To other schools or to preaching: V. L. Graves, Colby D. Hall, W. S. Knox, C. E. Chambers, E. D. Hamner, S. G. Inman, Macon Howard, J. F. Posey, W. 0. Stevens, Jewell Howard and A. H. Miller. "With the coming of Pres. E. V. Zollars, in 1902, a new impetus was given to the preacher- training work of the school ; for he had not only emphasized this work greatly before the churches, but also taught in this department himself, and secured one other preacher (Prof. Frank H. Marshall) for full time. During his four years there were sent out eighteen gradu- ates and ten non-graduate preachers. The first four graduates of the period were a part of the former group who received most of their training under J. B. Sweeney or A. Clark. These were H. E. Luck, W. F. Reynolds, L. G. Ament and E. S. McKinney. The others were: Graduates: H. R. Ford, '04; C. C. Peck, '04; Polk C. Webb, '04; Frank Beach, '05; Elster M. Haile, '05; Jno. W. Smith, '05; L. D. Anderson, '05; Chas. M. Ashmore, '06; E. C. Boynton, '06; C. P. Craig, '06; A. J. Saunders, '06; J. H. Sheppard, '06; M. G. Smith, '06; Tolbert F. Weaver, '06. Non- 92 EDUCATIONAL graduates: W. M. LeMay, J. N. Darnell, Theo. Edwards, \V. L. E. Shane, Cord Spurgeon, M. B. Yewell, T. H. Mathieson, A. H. Smith, J. A. Arnold and Jas. W. Groom. Under the presidency of Dr. Clinton Lock- hart, beginning in 1906, the importance of preacher-training was still recognized, while the emphasis was put on the matter of a higher grade of scholarship. Advanced courses were added leading to the degree of B.D. Besides the teaching of the president, which was for practically full time, and altogether in the Bible Department, Prof. Walter Stairs gave full time during several years, specializing in Greek. From 1906 to 1912, a period of seven years, there were sent out nine graduates and four non-graduates as preachers. These were: Graduates: R. V. Calloway, '07; Frank C. Buck, '07; J. F. Quisenberry, '07; W. O. Dallas, '07; John C. Welch, '07; Nona Boege- man, '08; O. Alvin Smith, '10; John Pyburn, '10; S. W. Hutton, '11. Non-graduates: Add- Ran Little, A. H. Snider, Pearl Gibbons and A. L. Munyon. During this period, there was added to the Bible teaching corps, during 1910, a quiet, scholarly, energetic soul with determination for larger things. Dr. G. A. Lewellyn, after the school moved to Ft. Worth in 1910, started 93 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS out in the field to secure money for a preacher boys' home. It was a plea that reached the hearts of the brethren — and sisters, for it was a Mrs. Goode, of Bartlett, who gave the $5,000 that assured the success of the campaign. And so Goode Hall was built. It was consecrated in blood, for, soon after the campaign was com- pleted, Dr. Lewellyn succumbed to an illness which was hastened, if not caused, by over- strain in his travels. It was through his influ- ence, also, that the first endowment for Bible teaching was secured, Bro. L. G. Brite giving $25,000 as an Endowment Fund for the teach- ing of the English Bible in Texas Christian University. These steps of growth were gratifying, but yet inadequate. "Wliile preacher-training was the very heart of T. C. U.'s mission, it was represented only by a department, so small as to be overshadowed by the superior numbers in the many other departments. The dream of the leaders was to have not a department merely, but a College, which should rank as a constituent part of the University, and give prominence and power to this work of minis- terial training. It was under the presidency of Dr. F. D. Kershner, and by the faith and gift of Bro. L. C. Brite, that this dream was realized. In 1913, Bro. Brite, having already endowed a 94 EDUCATIONAL chair, paid an additional $34,000 to erect the Administration Building for the Bible College. A separate Board of Trustees was formed, a charter secured, a Faculty provided, and the new institution, an integral part of T. C. U., began to function in the fall of 1914, moving into its new home in 1915. In recognition of the great service of the man who had pioneered in giving, and who set the example for others to follow, the school was named "The Brite College of the Bible." The brethren chosen to act as the first set of trustees are : Dr. Bacon Saunders, President ; L. D. Anderson, Secretary; James Harrison, Treasurer; L. C. Brite, Millard Patterson, Van Zandt Jarvis, C. W. Gibson, Jno. W. Kerns, Eugene Holmes. Dr. F. D. Kershner, as president of T. C. U., was made president of the College. He gave some time to teaching, in spite of his heavy duties as executive. As an executive to handle the business, classification and inside organization of the College, and to promote the attendance, Colby D. Hall was called from the pastoral work to serve as dean. He also teaches English Bible and Social Service classes. Realizing that young preachers need to be grounded thoroughly in the essential principles of the gospel in order to make them effective, 95 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS practical preachers of evangelistic power, the trustees selected another pastor, Chalmers McPherson, as teacher of New Testament Christianity. His long experience in pastoral and evangelistic work enables him to develop the students in those "first principles" that have made the Disciples powerful in evangel- ism. His services have been valuable, too, in securing assistance for the Employment Fund, and other agencies of the school. For the linguistic work of the Faculty, a teacher of national influence and most com- plete training was already at hand in the per- son of Dr. Clinton Lockhart. He was chosen as Professor of Hebrew and Greek. The coming of E. M. Waits as president brought another active pastor, who, although doing no teaching, has led in such a way as to give the fullest development to the Bible College. This Faculty, with varied attainments, has been able to furnish to the students an all- round training, and, by offering some classes in alternate years, has been able to cover the whole ground of standard preparation for the ministry. As the number of students increases, however, it becomes necessary to offer all courses each year, and to provide more range of election so as to permit of specializing. Hence the number of the Faculty must be in- 96 EDUCATIONAL creased. Already provision has been made for the addition of the Bible School Chair. The money for this endowment is being raised by the Bible schools of Texas under the leader- ship of the Southwestern Superintendent, S. W. Hutton. It is thought that this work may begin in September, 1920. Two additional chairs are needed, and will await only the generosity of some consecrated donors. The matter of increasing the number of students preparing for the ministry has been one of great concern. The first line of efforts to accomplish this was to bring the cost within the reach of every worthy student. To this end, the Goode Boarding Hall was developed and firmly established, to furnish board at a minimum rate ; the Employment Fund was started, to guarantee work to any boy who needed it ; some scholarships were secured especially for missionary girls. To this end, also, the McPadin Ministerial Loan Fund was founded. By soliciting others to add to his own gift, Bro. D. G. McFadin, of Austin, brought the fund up to about $10,000. This has proven to be a most helpful feature. Under these conditions, the attendance of ministerial students gradually Increased from the twenty-two in 1913-14, until there were forty-two in 1916-17. Then came the setback by the war. Most of the boys volunteered in 7 97 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS spite of their clerical exemption, and the pros- pective new pupils were subject to the draft, so that the attendance in 1918-19 was made up largely of married students and women. The enrollment was only twenty-five, and that included several who had returned from the army in the spring term. "With the closing of the war, the College took upon itself the duty of arousing the con- science of the churches to the duty of furnish- ing volunteers. New interest was stirred through a campaign with the slogan. "A Com- pany of One Hundred Volunteers in Brite College." The result was an attendance of fifty-eight in 1919-20, the largest in the history of T. C. U. It is worthy of note that, with slight exceptions, the preacher boys who went into the army came back preachers, with faith in preaching intensified. The graduating classes from 1913 to 1919 have furnished the following preachers for A.B., B.D. or English Bible course: Grover W. Stewart, '13; W. C. Ferguson, '13; J. W. Cockrfll, '13; J. E. Evans, '13; N. C. Collins, '13; T. J. Dean, Jr., '13; R. F. Cantrell, '14; Ray Camp, '14; R. A. Highsmith, '14; S. F. Houtchens, '14; Buford Isaacs, '14; M. Molina, '15; J. A. Crain. '16; W. L. Thornton. '16; W. B. Higgins, '17; B. S. Smiser, '18; Miss Ruth Musgraves, '18; John W. Shockley, '18; 98 EDUCATIONAL Ben M. Edwards, '19; Ben Hearn, 19; Miss Carrie Correll, '19. During that time the following non-gradu. ates have gone out : Henry Hagemeier, Leo Johnston, Grady Twyman, J. H. Monk, Logan Martin, Patrick Henry, F. W. Strong, V. R. Hughes and D. McCarroll. Even so condensed a history would be un- excused if it should omit a summary of the summary of the school's contribution to the field of Foreign Missions. This contribution is yet on a small scale, but it contains worthy names, and these are but a promise of the greater future. Several in the list have served for a term of years, and for various reasons, usually health, have returned. Others are still on the field. 1. Ellsworth E. Faris, pioneer at Bolenge, Africa. 2. Bertha Mason Fuller, two terms in Mexico. 3. Frank Beach, a term in Jamaica. 4. Mrs. Frank Beach, also a term in Ja- maica. 5. Frank C. Buck, about ten years, and yet in China. 6. Samuel Guy Inman, Mexico and Latin America. 7. Miss Pearl Gibbons, teacher in Piedras Negras, Mexico. 99 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS 8. Miss Nona Boegeinan, one term in India. 9. Miss Ruth Musgraves, began in Africa in 1919. There are seven in the 1920 graduating class of T. C. U. who will preach, three of them going to foreign field. From the present stndent body will go one or more out of every year's class for the foreign field. Many plans for the enlarged usefulness of Brite College are now in the minds of the leaders, which, under God's blessings, will be soon translated into history. 100 EDUCATIONAL CARLTON COLLEGE C. T. CARLTON, GRACE CARLTON, SALLIE JOE CARLTON CARLTON COLLEGE was founded by Charles Carlton, September, 1867, in Bonham. It was not his purpose to found a college in Texas; it must have been providen- tial that he was induced to undertake the work. There were in Bonham many pioneer families of education and culture who dedred a good seminary for their daughters, being far removed from schools of the older States. These families had erected a building, engaged teachers, and opened a seminary with one hun- dred girls. The teachers would stay for a few years, and return to the older States. How- ever, Mr. and Mrs. Sias remained for six years, winning the love and esteem of all, and then returned to New York. The number of pupils had decreased because of the Civil War. Colonel Cole, of Dallas, and a Mr. Keeler each taught for one year and left. The citizens of Bonham were at a loss whom to secure. Near Bonham. in the obscure village of Kentuckytown, Charles Carlton was teaching 101 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS a coeducational school, waiting for conditions in southwest Missouri to grow better. In 1861 he had left a good school and home, in an ex- cellent community, and refugeed to Texas. His purpose was to return, resume his teaching and preaching, and make his home permanently in Springfield. The little school in Kentuckytown proved that there were many young men just cut of the army, and many young women who had remained out of school during the war, who were eager to attend school. Among these students was one destined to exert a great in- fluence on the educational life of the State — Addison Clark. He had heard Mr. Carlton preach at the headquarters of Fitzhugh's regi- ment, and later said: "His voice, his looks, his manner, his sermon, all captivated me and fixed the man firmly in my memory and admiration. I remember his theme — 'The Christian AVarfare and Armor.' " Mr. Clark did not see the preacher again until he and his brother, Ran- dolph, entered the school • in Kentuckytown. Every family in town, who could do so, took students into their homes. Three young men slept in one bed in the back room of "Uncle Ben" Earnest's store through one winter. Mr. Addison Clark said: "These young men took their meals at 'Aunt Sallie's' table, such meals as only she could have prepared to suit those hungry boys. We had found the man 102 EDUCATIONAL who was as inexhaustible as our thirst for knowledge was unceasing. The day sessions were from 8 A. m. to 6 p. m., in addition to regular classes after supper and many irregular classes." This glimpse of the teacher, given by a model pupil, helps us to understand why the Bonham people sent a committee to interview him with reference to his coming to Bonham. Mr. Carlton decided a change would be advisable if he could own the property and the dwelling near. All things worked favor- ably ; the contract was made and school opened in September, 1867. It flourished from the first, attracting students from all parts of Texas, and from several other States. Those teachers, students and home-makers lived busy, strenuous lives. In spite of this, the young people found time for social pleasures. On Sunday afternoons the young men would visit the young ladies in the College parlor. Often they would attend the evening services together. Pleasures were simple, but enjoyed. There were nutting expeditions, strawberry gather- ings, picnics, with, occasionally, an orator, an artist or a circus. One of the early romances was that of Addison Clark and "Cousin Sallie" McQuigg, a member of our own house- hold. In due time this ripened into a happy marriage. On the evening of this event, which was in the College auditorium, the groom led 103 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS his bride to a seat, removed his wedding gloves, entered the pulpit and preached his first sermon. Other young men found their life partners in the classroom. Mr. Randolph Clark and Miss Ella Lee began their romance about this time. Many good speakers visited the College, thus giving the students glimpses of the great world of action for which they were preparing. However, no visitors were more beneficial or more appreciated than our great preachers who came and remained for two or more weeks giving great Bible lessons. Preachers, mission- aries, temperance lecturers, musicians, dramatic readers, were frequently entertained in the College that students might feel the personal touch of their culture and consecration. These influences helped to strengthen the principles taught by the teachers. President Carlton organized a Sunday school and preached in the auditorium of the school building, after the first year. On May 31, 1868, the twenty-seven members of the church were organized into a congregation, and regular services were conducted from that time. In July of that year several were added by confession and baptism. This was the humble origin of the large congregation now occupying the magnificent church building on North Main Street, known as the First Christian Church. 104 EDUCATIONAL There were but few high schools at that time, and no public schools in towns the size of Bonham. Later, under the community sys- tem, a free school was introduced into the Col- lege for such part of the school year as the money apportioned justified. At first, citizens were opposed to "free schools," but they soon became popular and added greatly to the pros- perity. This system assisted many to secure a common and high-school education who would, otherwise, have been deprived of it. In 1882 a charter was obtained under the name "Carlton College." Charles Carlton, C. T. Carlton and J. B. Abernathy, and others as these should select, constituted a Board of Trustees. In 1888, Carlton College ceased to be coeducational, and was devoted to the edu- cation of girls and young ladies. At this time the town took charge of the public schools, which necessitated the erection of a new Ad- ministration Building. Additional rooms for girls were included, thus enlarging the board- ing department. Continued prosperity fol- lowed the erection of this building in 1895. On January 8, 1900, Mrs. Charles Carlton passed to her reward. She had been in the home life of the pupils what President Carlton had been to the school and church life of the student body and community. The loss was irreparable, and told greatly on the spirit of 105 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS President Carlton. Yet, he strove mightily to go on as before, and did wonderfully well, in- sisting on keeping up his school duties. In the winter of 1902 he contracted a deep cold and gradually weakened until, on February 13, 1902, he fell asleep. The great burden he had borne fell on the shoulders of his son, C. T. Carlton, who had been vice-president for twenty-seven years. Grace Carlton became vice-president, and Sallie Joe Carlton continued at the head of the Music Department. Mrs. C. T. Carlton took the management of the College home, and, though frail of body, filled the place most effi- ciently. For two years she instructed the class in domestic science. Our father's last request was that we con- tinue the work of the College. This we did to the best of our ability. A few years later, the trustees of Texas Christian University de- cided to take over the property, and make this the first of a number of secondary schools to serve as feeders to the University, the Carltons to remain in charge. Brother Zollars was a man of great vision, and he heartily approved the plan. However, the brotherhood of the State did not catch the vision, and the neces- sary sum needed for the University to keep the contract was not forthcoming, and the school reverted to the Carltons, they assuming 106 EDUCATIONAL the indebtedness. In 1914 the trustees of Carr- Burdette and of Carlton College decided to consolidate the two schools. Just after the contract was made, the World War was de- clared, which greatly hampered the work. The plan proving unsatisfactory, the Carltons re- signed at the close of the 1916 session. It was through the services of C. T. Carlton that, in 1914, the Men and Millions Movement granted $25,000 to Carr-Burdette. The work of Carlton College is finished, but we trust its influence will be felt through time, as those educated on this hallowed spot live up to the ideals implanted by their' earnest Christian teachers. We should love to mention those pupils who have attained positions of honor in the world as teachers, preachers, phy- sicians, lawyers, editors, business leaders, ranch-men, farmers, bankers, home-makers, etc., also the many faithful teachers who labored with us from 1867 to 1916. We feel we must mention J. H. Rosecrans, who re- mained twelve years, doing work with the students and exerting a great uplift in the school and community. He was of inestimable value as a friend and counselor. Carlton College, with its forty-nine years of uninterrupted service, is the contribution of Charles Carlton and family and their colaborers to Christian education in the State of Texas. 107 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS MIDLAND COLLEGE J. T. McKISSICK, President MIDLAND COLLEGE was founded in 1910, largely through the efforts of Frank P. Elkin and A. C. Parker, the latter being minister of the church at that time. They saw a large section of the "Great Staked Plains" country without a college, and the institution was started to give proper educa- tional facilities for a great and growing section of the West. The Board of Trustees met in 1908, and, by special invitation, Chalmers McPherson was present as representative of the Board of Trus- tees of Texas Christian University; he offered many valuable suggestions as to proper plan of procedure. At a subsequent meeting a building-site was selected by a joint committee of both schools, C. W. Gibson, T. E. Tomlin- son and Colby D. Hall representing the latter institution. Midland raised a popular sub- scription of $25,000, four-fifths of which was subscribed by members of the church, and $10,000 was given on the annuity plan by E. F. Elkin, without whose generosity the 108 EDUCATIONAL school would have suffered more than once since its beginning. H. N. Garrett and others donated two hundred acres of land, a part of which was sold in lots in order to secure the $65,000 necessary to erect the Administration Building. Among others who have made sub- stantial gifts to the school are Burl Holloway, S. W. Estes, Dr. W. K. Curtis, Roll Dublin, C. C. Johnson, J. D. Jackson, Millard Patter- son, L. L. Farr, L. C. Brite, H. L. Magee, W. B. Elkin, J. V. Stokes, Mrs. Cora M. Hart- grove, Price Bush, Mrs. Leslie Bush, and others whose names are not known to the writer. Midland is situated on the Texas & Pacific and Midland & Northwestern Railroads, half- way between Fort Worth and El Paso, and in the heart of the great cattle-raising section where the climate allows work and play nearly every day in the year. Not only is the location most healthful, but the moral environment is almost ideal. The people are noted for their large-heartedness and patriotism. The school opened in 1910 with C. W. Reeves as president ; after one year, he was succeeded by H. R. Garrett, who served faith- fully until 1913, when Franklin G. Jones was chosen. He is the son of an honored minister, and was educated at Add-Ran College at the feet of the lamented Addison Clark and his gifted brother Randolph, than whom the State 109 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS has produced no greater educators; later he took his Master's degree at Texas Christian University, and has, this year, received the same honor from Columbia University. During his temporary absence from the school his place is filled by the writer, who has been closely associated with the school for three years. Midland College stands four-square on every moral proposition, and every effort is made to induce the students to form the best habits of life. It aims to give the youth who attend its halls the right idea and ideals of life; to fit them for Christian service ; to adequately equip them for the duties of Christian citizen- ship. If a student forms the habit of honesty, industry, economy, punctuality, thoroughness, politeness and kindness, and if he abstains from habits of wastefulness, gambling, swear- ing, tobacco-using and kindred vices, he is well along the road to success in the world. Unless he has the will power to quit these evil habits, he will hardly succeed in after life. Right- thinking parents share these ideals, and schools and colleges should put forth every effort to weave them into the fabric of character. It is tragic beyond expression for a young person to leave the parental roof, and return with distorted and wrong conceptions as to the real meaning of life. Their education is an ex- 110 EDUCATIONAL pense, and they are in no way fitted to do their bit in the great workaday world into which they are to enter. Midland College is a junior college of "A" rank. The special field of the junior college is the last two years of high school and the first two of college work. Because of the im- maturity and lack of settled character of the average boy and girl of the later "teens," it is fitting that they attend educational institu- tions where they may get not only thorough and standardized courses of study under capa- ble, consecrated and cultured instructors, but where emphasis is laid on moral rectitude, and conditions are most favorable to the same. At this time the mind is perhaps at the zenith of its acquisitive power, and character most receptive to life-directing influence. It is a most perilous time of life. The slant one takes during this time is apt to be permanent. Under the guise and ^prestige of education there often lurk subtle and ruinous influences. There is a type of education, of the alleged scientific variety, that eliminates God from His universe; which creates a false and unbecoming pride which eliminates its possessor from the world in which he must live and labor; one of an easy-going complacency which forever bars successful achievement, and a Bohemian type which regards the priceless boon of human life 111 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS as a period of self-indulgent pleasure. During this period of life the student is apt to decide what vocation he shall follow ; he makes his most lasting friends; he may, and often does, choose his life partner. Emerson says that an institution is but the lengthened shadow of a man. Certain it is that we associate certain ideals with men and schools, and the very mention of their names brings to our minds a general idea of their outstanding features; this general idea is based on what knowledge we may have of them, whether it be complete or fragmentary, and it is usually the latter. That which stood and stands in the minds of those who founded and fostered Midland College is Christian character, which finds expression in worthy service to humanity. To best further this end, the Bible is a daily text-book, excerpts being read from it, and its truths impressed, line upon line and precept upon precept. Since "character is caught as well as taught," much care is exer- cised in the selection of a Faculty, ability, consecration and culture being prime requisites. In fact, the Faculty and the student body and their proper co-ordination constitute the school ; this made Garfield say that Mark Hopkins on one end of a log and a student on the other was a university, but both a "Hopkins" and a "student" are needed. 112 EDUCATIONAL The study of the Bible, by far the best book known to mankind, promotes mightily the development of character by implanting the principles of righteousness, and encourag- ing their practice. Mere knowledge of morality is not enough ; a Christian institution should abound in constraining incentive to practice right-doing. Seneca, the Roman moralist, was preceptor to Nero, the tyrant. That which stands out clearly, not only in the instance cited, but in every experience of the world, is that not only must there be the precept for good, but there must accompany it the impulse for its practice, else it becomes a mere plati- tude void of dynamic and effect, hurtful to its possessor and harmful to the world. The late war, which took such frightful toll of the first- fruits of the world's manhood, was conceived and carried on by those who theoretically knew the ideals of Christ, but practically were wholly at variance with them. The war apol- ogist should remember that its results are ghastly battlefields, shell-torn bodies, sorrowful souls, the orphan's cry and the bleeding, broken hearts of widowhood and motherhood, who, like Rachel of old, weep for their loved ones, and will not be comforted because they are not. This is the immediate result, not to mention the national enmities, bankrupt and tottering governments, burdensome debts, odi- s 113 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS ous indemnities and many other evils, too numerous to mention, but too heavy to bear without groanings which can not be uttered. One evident corollary may be adduced from consideration of the war, and that is as old as the Book, "Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." Any man or institution which neglects God may count on failure in the end. Education, rightly considered, means the harmonious development of the whole man, physically, intellectually, morally, socially. A great Frenchman said: "Better unborn than uneducated." Another said: "Better unedu- cated than unprincipled." Education without righteousness is but quickened knavery. Rightly viewed, it prepares one to perform all the duties of life, public and private, justly, skill- fully, magnanimously. Its design is to give the soul all the beauty and perfection of which it is capable. These things being true, the im- portance of right education can hardly be esti- mated. Addison says: "What sculpture is to the marble, education is to the human soul." Plato says that the difference between the edu- cated and the uneducated is as the difference between the living and the dead. Schools which stand for these principles can hardly be too numerous. They should be lo- cated at strategic points, and manned by com- 114 EDUCATIONAL petent leaders who stand uncompromisingly for these principles. Every student ought to be impressed with the thought that life is a stewardship, proceeding from and returning to God, and not to be lightly regarded, but soberly, discreetly and in the fear of God. The sorrows of the world are brought on by those who do not regard the rights of their fellow-men, who violate the Golden Rule of the relationship of man to man. "Man's in- humanity to man makes countless millions mourn." The cradle, the college, the church, should work together in the molding of the character of the man. [After this manuscript had gone to press, F. G. Jones resigned the presidency to accept a position with a State institution, and J. T. McKissick was elected as his successor. — c. m.] 115 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS CARR-BURDETTE COLLEGE CEPHAS SHELBURNE, President ■> ARR-BURDETTE COLLEGE, in its loca- tion, grounds, buildings, equipment, ideals and purposes, is the realized dream of Mrs. 0. A. Carr, and stands as a monument to her memory. Mrs. Carr was endowed by nature with special gifts, and with the added culture, zeal and experience that fitted her for the work of an educator. She was a woman of refine- ment, intellectual culture, energy and disci- plinary powers that peculiarly fitted her to have charge of girls and to be the head of a female college. Her husband, Dr. 0. A. Carr, was a scholar, an able minister of the gospel and classroom instructor. He and Mrs. Carr spent some years in missionary and educational work in Aus- tralia, and traveled extensively in the Orient — an experience that richly fitted them for the after work that came to them as educators. Returning to America in 1873, Mrs. Carr began to look about her for a suitable location for a school for girls — the ideal and passion of her heart. In 1874. Mrs. Carr was elected to 116 EDUCATIONAL the position of principal in Hocker College (now Hamilton College) in Lexington, Ken- tucky, of which Robert Graham was president. Here she delivered a series of lectures extend- ing through the College year, on the wonders in many lands. Hocker College did not afford the oppor- tunity she sought, and later, in 1876, she es- tablished Floral Hill College for girls in Ful- ton, Missouri. In 1878, Floral Hill was united with Christian College, Columbia, Missouri, a college of longer standing, and handsomely equipped. Mrs. Carr became associate prin- cipal, with George B. Bryant as president. But Mrs. Carr was a born leader, and original, and so definite were her ideas of management and discipline that her position as associate principal could never have been satisfactory in any school ; and, dissatisfied with the restraints upon her, she severed her connection with Christian College. In Septem- ber, 1879, Mrs. Carr became, through the solici- tation of Dr. S. S. Laws, president, Professor of English and dean of the young ladies' de- partment in the University in Missouri. This position Mrs. Carr held, with marked success and ability, for ten years. During this period, besides her work as instructor, she delivered lectures in the University chapel, contributed to the University magazine, and 117 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS was vitally connected with, and consulted in, all the work and perplexing problems of the University management and life. Mrs. Carr's educational work and experience in Melbourne, Australia ; Floral Hill College, Hocker College and Christian College, and her ten years in the University of Missouri, and her travels in the Orient, had eminently fitted her for the work of an educator, and for carrying out the dream of her life — the establishment of a select home school for girls. Pushing this ideal, with a determination to bring her passion to ultimate success — to build a college for girls and leave it as a bequest to the church — Mrs. Carr began to search for a location for such a school. She spent a year in this search, visiting towns and cities in Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky and Texas, and finally came, with her husband, to Sherman, Texas. Learning of Mrs. Carr's de- sire to found a college for girls, some promi- nent citizens expressed a desire to have the school located at Sherman. A proposition was submitted to the Carrs, and soon the affairs relative to the establishment of a school for girls began to crystallize in and about Sher- man, Texas. A site was chosen for the proposed college "on a beautiful elevation in her eastern suburb, overlooking a wide circuit of country as charm- 118 EDUCATIONAL ing as the blue-grass region of Kentucky." A mass-meeting of the citizens of Sherman was called, which Mrs. Carr addressed in the interest of the enterprise. This was in 1891. The story is a long one, for, as is usual in such undertakings, it called for courage, sacri- fice and almost superhuman effort. The success of the enterprise depended upon the sale of lots. Two hundred and fifty lots must be sold at $200 each, and the proceeds from J;hese sales ($50,000) paid for the erection of the "Girls' Home" and the original equipment. In selling these lots, Brother and Sister Carr traveled over five States, and worked two and a half years. It was a great undertaking, a work that demanded enormous courage and indomi- table will power and persistence, but Mrs. Carr was a woman of vast energy, courage and determination, and in her vocabulary there was no such word as "fail." At last the ground was broken for the foundation of the College building, Mrs. Carr herself guiding the plow that made the first furrow. On January 1, 1894, the corner-stone was laid; the 250 lots were all sold, the money all raised. That was the proudest day in Mrs. Carr's life when she faced the expectant multi- tude and told the story of her striving and achievement. "Of all the glad New Years," she exclaimed, "this, to me, is the gladdest; 119 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS but a gladder time is yet to come in the com- pleted College and its opening, when this edu- cational institution and home shall be lighted with the faces of happy girls. Nothing will then be lacking to perfect our joy in the crown- ing work of our lives." The building was finished, and in September of the same year Carr-Burdette College was opened to girls. For fourteen years Mrs. Carr was the lead- ing spirit of the school — she was president, dean, professor and business manager ; firm in her government and rigid in discipline. Mrs. Carr died October 31, 1907, and was buried in "West Hill Cemetery, Sherman. In one of the beautiful parlors of the "College Beautiful," is a marble slab with this inscription : By the Students of 1907-1908 To the Memory of Our Dear Teacher Mrs. 0. A. Carr Taken from Us to Be with Christ October 31, 1907. If You Seek Her Monument, Look Around Tou. Dr. Carr continued the College as its head until the year 1913, when he turned the management over to Prof. J. F. Anderson. Mr. Anderson was building up the school, and, but for his untimely death, would have continued its usefulness. In May. 1914, the Carlton Col- lege of Bonham and Carr-Burdette College 120 EDUCATIONAL were consolidated, and the session of 1914-15 opened as Carr-Carlton College, under the di- rection of the Carltons, with Charles T. Carlton as president and business manager. In the summer of 1915 a new and commodious Admin- istration Building was erected and equipped and paid for by the citizens of Sherman. The College was closed the following session. In September, 1917, the school was again reopened with James A. Crain as president and Robert J. Cantrell as dean and business manager. The College was again closed to students the follow- ing school year. In 1919, Carr-Burdette was incorporated, a new Board of Directors was elected, with Sam. J. McFarland as president, and Cephas Shel- burne was elected president of the College and Mrs. Shelburne dean of the Girls' Home. The session of 1919-20 opened September 17, with a full Faculty, both in the Literary and Fine Arts Departments, and one of the largest enrollments of students in its history. Prac- tically all of the rooms in the "Girls' Home" or Dormitory have been taken, and plans are being considered by the management and Board of Trustees for additional equipment and improvements in the grounds and build- ings, and for increasing the capacity for a large number of girls. The outlook promises a bright future for the College. 121 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Carr-Burdette College is the property of the Christian Churches of the State of Texas, and is under the direct control of the brother- hood. The property is valued at $150,000, and is free from any indebtedness. It is a junior college for girls and young ladies, and offers four years of standard high-school and two years standard college work ; with a Fine Arts Department, giving music, art, oratory, do- mestic science, typewriting, shorthand and book-keeping. Carr-Burdette College is, first of all, a home for girls and young ladies. It was conceived, planned, built and equipped, and deeded to the Christian Churches of Texas, as a college home for the education and culture of young ladies. In its eight acres of College campus, in a quiet resident section of East Sherman, "beau- tiful for situation," and everywhere in the beautiful College Home, there are the sugges- tion and feeling of the "home life." The dean, president, teachers and students all live in the "Girls' Home," and make up our Col- lege family. It is the aim and policy of the president, dean and Faculty, in all their government, discipline and social life, to make Carr-Bur- dette a home for girls — a safe, refined, happy, Christian home. No mother need fear to send her daughter to Carr-Burdette College ; she will 122 EDUCATIONAL be just as safe and cared for here as in her own home. Apart from a thoroughly efficient mental and physical culture, training and edu- cation, Carr-Burdette College proposes to give your daughter the protection, individual care and love of a refined and well-ordered Chris- tian home. The education of your girl is a most serious problem, and causes our mothers no little anxiety. The critical period comes when you feel that you must send your girl away from home to school. Probably the most momentous decision you will ever make for your child is the choice of her school, as her whole future will be directed and influenced by her school life. You want your girl edu- cated to become a scholar and a cultured woman, and return to you a pure, sweet and true woman ; and you say : "If I could only go with her, if I could just know that she will be safe and well taken care of." With a mother it is "safety first"; and this shall be the policy and watchful care of Carr-Burdette College. 123 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS THE TEXAS BIBLE CHAIR FRANK L. JEWETT, Bible Chair Instructor BEGINNINGS of the Bible Chair were made in the years 1903 and 1904. At that time Miss Bertha Mason, now Mrs. J. H. Fuller, was State secretary for the C. W. B. M. She was deeply interested in the Bible Chair proj- ect, and worked diligently for it. Other women deeply interested at the time were Mrs. M. M. Blanks, Mrs. Clara Walden, Mrs. Ida V. Jarvis, Mrs. Annie D. "Wilkinson, and quite a few others. Dr. E. V. Zollars was asked to deliver a series of Bible lectures and spy out the situation. There was no property at that time, so Dr. J. W. Lowber, pastor of the Cen- tral Christian Church, invited him to use his pulpit, and from the beginning encouraged the movement in every possible way. During the winter and spring of 1904. Prof. Wal- lace C. Payne, from the University of Kansas Bible Chair, made two visits to Austin, deliv- ered lectures, and solicited funds in Austin, but best of all secured a $10,000 gift from Mrs. M. M. Blanks, Lockhart. Texas. Property was bought on a most favorable site, and ar- il 24 EDUCATIONAL rangements were made for a permanent work. Mrs. Helen E. Moses went over the whole situa- tion with me, and the work appealed to me, and I accepted the leadership of the work for an indefinite period. I had just finished eight years' work in the University of Kansas, Har- vard, and the University of Chicago, and as a consequence I had great confidence in such work for students. I have had charge of the regular work from the beginning, fourteen years ago. The record of those fourteen years is a most interesting record. The work at first was very modest. There was too much at stake to make blunders. Feelingly, the work was carried along. For about five years the only Bible classes held were classes made up of volunteers. Of these there were a good many, but of rather uncertain regularity and even existence. In every possible way there was co-operation with all religious associations and religious bodies. It was realized that life could not exist unless by the closest sticking to- gether of all religious forces, and with the most perfect harmony. Gradually, a large student Sunday-school class was built up. At first this class met at the Central Christian Church. But the distance of a mile soon made it apparent that the class must meet in the Bible Chair property near the University, so 125 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the change was made and as a consequence the class rose in numbers by leaps and bounds. By the end of five or six years, I think it is fair to say that the work of the Bible Chair commended itself to the University as a useful institution. We were anxious to do a more permanent and more telling work. So along with the Presbyterians and Paulist Fathers the University authorities were asked to recog- nize our work, and to give students carrying Bible courses credit for the same towards their University degrees. The Bible Chairs and the University people went over the matter to- gether very carefully, and as a result of many, and sometimes quite lengthy, conferences, it was agreed under certain conditions to give the recognition desired. After this recognition was granted, the number of students taking Bible courses was exceedingly small. As the years passed by, however, the classes grew until in one year, the year before America entered the World War, there were enrolled in these classes nearly 150 students. It was never contemplated that with this recognition of the University there should be a let-up on the voluntary and personal and Sunday-school work. Rather it was the intention to use the standing in the community given us by the recognition as a strong lever for still more of the popular work. 126 EDUCATIONAL During the last ten years or so the work of the Texas Bible Chair has been along four very distinct lines as follows: Credit work, volunteer work, personal conferences, and an unusual strong Sunday-school work. Along these lines the work has been pushed with vigor. I am inclined to think that the most vital work has been that of the personal con- ferences, for in this way the student has been met face to face with personal problems. In 1908, through the generosity of Mrs. M. M. Blanks, who gave a second gift of $8,000, it was made possible to build the two splendid buildings we now have. At once this made the work spring into greater prominence, but better than prominence was the ability to do a much finer type of work for the students in every way. Provision was also made by the National C. W. B. M. Board for a small endowment of $10,000. The State auxiliaries have always shown a great willingness to do their part in the maintenance of this student work. Indeed, it is a work in which they take a most healthy pride. The good words that hundreds of students have had for the Bible Chair as they have finished their University work and gone out into the school of life have been most effec- tive in keeping up a whole State interest in this worthy work. Friends for it have been made everywhere. It has strengthened our educa- 127 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS tional work throughout all our churches. It has been a rich blessing to every church having only a small part in its promotion. Fourteen years ago the idea of a Bible Chair at the University was very novel. We were pioneers. To-day there are six Bible Chairs established in the following order: Dis- ciples of Christ, Presbyterians, Paulist Fathers, Methodist, Baptist, and Church of Christ. The working together of the leaders of these bodies is a marvel of modern times. Such under- standing and such co-operation will hasten mightily the answer of Jesus' prayer that we all may be one. The reflex influence of this work on the churches will have a most healthy influence. 128 EDUCATIONAL JARVIS CHRISTIAN INSTITUTE J. N. ERVIN, President A HISTORY of this work would be incom- plete unless a word be said of the early workers of the church in Texas. From the beginning, these good people understood that no real progress could be made in the recon- struction of the negro race until schools be established for the education of children after- ward to be the leaders. Fathers and mothers prayed for some one to see as they saw, under- stand the needs as they understood them, and work with them along these lines for God and for humanity. These prayers were answered through the generosity of Major and Mrs. J. J. Jarvis, of Fort Worth. Mother Haley and scores of other devout disciples had prayed for this particular work to be established some- where in Texas. Mother Haley lived in Green- ville, and was a member of the little band of Christians there. She did not pray with empty hands. Her soul overflowing with love, she laid $25 upon the altar, this representing her entire savings for a whole year. Others followed her lead with their gifts. Only a few of those 9 129 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS who so generously gave in those earlier days were permitted to see the work inaugurated. Mother Haley and the others lived, not for self, but for others. With gratitude for the work of those Christian pioneers, we approach the future with a new sense of our respon- sibilities, and" a stronger faith in God, and a more resolute determination to serve in His kingdom. Jarvis Christian Institute, a religious and industrial school, is located in northeast Texas, one mile from Hawkins and five from Big Sandy. It is on the Texas & Pacific Railway. Out of love and respect for Major and Mrs. Jarvis, who gave 456 acres of land, sprang its name. The Christian Woman's Board of Mis- sions took control of the school, and, in 1913, bought 182 acres on the east side of the Jarvis tract, making a total of 638 acres in the school plantation. The writer never had the pleasure of meet- ing Major Jarvis, but has had the advantage of splendid advice and encouragement from Sister Jarvis, who comes frequently to visit and to strengthen our work. Pres. J. B. Lehman, Secretary of Negro Education, visited the site in 1910, and recom- mended the beginning of the school. On De- cember 15, 1912, Prof. T. B. Frost, of Edwards. Mississippi, was sent to begin the work. Much 130 EDUCATIONAL had to be done at once: a home to be arranged for, a barn to be erected, the forest to be cleared, the attention of a strange people to be enlisted, and a school to be opened. Pro- fessor Frost labored in a manly way for the principles characteristic of his life. The family soon followed, and occupied the rude cabin which had been erected. The school was begun, with an enrollment of seven pupils, the Frost family furnishing three of the num- ber. This was on January 13, 1913. In addi- tion to Mr. Frost, Prof. C. A. Berry and Miss Cecilia Hurt, of Virginia, composed the Faculty. On January 1, 1914, the writer made his first visit, remaining two weeks. On August 12, 1914, I returned with my three children to take the leadership so nobly begun by Professor Frost. God, who had taken my dear wife to Himself, strengthened, comforted and sustained. We set ourselves to the solution of the problems. A school building was to be completed, living quarters provided, and school to be opened in September. Another teacher was added — Miss S. I. Ellis in charge of the music. On the opening day thirteen pupils were enrolled, three of whom were my own children. The work prospered with each teacher and student happy in the growth. Then came a disastrous fire, destroying our school building, 131 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS on December 16, 1914. The writer lost all his personal property, including the library, the accumulation of twenty years, barely escaping with his life and his two boys, and of other boys occupying the hall as sleeping quarters. The laundry then consisted of a single room very rudely built. Here we made common bunks for myself and my boys and such boys as we could keep. There we slept at night, and the girls laundried during the day. As early as we were able to obtain clothing for the boys who had lost all, the school was reopened ; the dining-hall and the private rooms of Mrs. Frost, in the Girls' Hall, were used for the work of the school. Those were trying hours, but every teacher kept faith and worked as if nothing had happened. A saw- mill was soon secured. Then came cutting trees, hauling logs, cutting into lumber. A temporary building was erected in a very brief time. Professor Howard, of Southern Chris- tian Institute, came to our teaching force. Commencement Day arrived in the midst of great rejoicing. Buildings have been added as rapidly as the work demanded. We now have ten frame buildings on the campus. The school has taken its place among the sister schools in raising money for educational purposes. The students are taught to give as God has prospered them. 132 EDUCATIONAL Every interest of the church — local, State, national — is responded to by teachers and pupils. During the war the school raised Red Cross money, bought War Savings Stamps, invested in Liberty bonds, and did its share in food-saving. Some of our boys went over the top, and others were ready to go. Our students and teachers have been called to take part in State and national meetings, the Glee Club having been heard on many occasions. Best of all, we are happy to see results which we have so earnestly sought — young men and women offering their lives for Christian service. Few pupils ever remain here for so long a time as one year without having made the good confession. Seven States have been represented in our student body. God has given us friends. The Christian Woman's Board of Missions has stood nobly by the work. Individuals of our own race are helping, some in a small way. Mr. Wiley J. Fuller, of Greenville, has begun the work of a library fund for the school by contributing $100 cash, and placing $500, the interest of which may be thus used. The first emergency campaign for the negro Disciples of the United States was launched at Jarvis Institute, iu May, 1919. Since that time more than $20,000 has been subscribed by the colored brotherhood of Texas, and about $2,000 paid in. Of this 133 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS last sum, about $600 came from the teachers and students of this institution. A recent acquisition is the Dixie Overland Highway, which passes through our campus, bringing large convenience for travel, and as- sisting in beautifying. We rejoice in the fine feeling here between the races, and in the realization of the evident spirit of helpfulness on the part of the white citizens. Many of them are registered daily as our visitors. The present teaching force of the school is as follows: J. N. Ervin, C. W. Smith, T. B. Frost, Z. H. Howard, A. C. Jackson. Mrs. W. Ervin, Mrs. C. W. Smith, Mrs. M. B. Frost, Mrs. C. B. Howard, Mrs. L. G. Smith, Mrs. G. V. Bryant, Mrs. Theodore Ripetoe, Mrs. Lizzie Woodard, Misses L. A. Smith, A. S. Smith, E. S. Fuller, B. A. Blackburn, S. V. Hollingsworth, Floy Johnson and John Finch. The prime purpose of the school is to train young men and young women for true citizen- ship. Realizing that a struggling mass of our race is constantly looking upward for leader- ship, the school faces a keen sense of respon- sibility, and is doing what it can to meet the opportunity. Many students have gone from here to their homes with new ideas of life and service. While some do not complete any pre- scribed course, we feel they can not come in 134 EDUCATIONAL personal contact with that which is here, even for a short while, without learning some of the important lessons for their life's work. We try to teach them to be independent in the matter of bread-winning, and to train them- selves for usefulness in life, by each rendering the best service in his special line. The course of study is so arranged that careful attention is given to physical training and to the general well-being of the student life. We teach the laws of sanitation. We teach that people who are clean, honest, in- dustrious, intelligent and self-sustaining, are assets to the country, and contributors to civili- zation, while those of the opposite class will always be liabilities. One of the fixed policies of the school is to train the students in strict religious ob- servances. They must know there is no true success where Christ is not incorporated in their lives. Our aim is to teach them to ex- emplify the life of Christ in their daily living, so that religion with them becomes a righteous and practical experience, both wholesome and progressive. In connection with the religious life, those who may be leaders should have the advantage of taking special training in strong Bible Courses that they may be fit as ministers, mission- aries, teachers, and general community workers. 135 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Unless our hopes for this special work shall bear fruit, we shall feel that our efforts have been partly in vain. Our race needs leader- ship, not only in other lines, but in the church as well. The school will fall far short of its aim if it fails to produce such leaders — those who shall have a vision of the work to be done, and the moral courage to work with heart, hand and soul to bring things to pass. We encourage home-seeking and home-building, so that we may contribute to the nation and to the world at large something of value in service. The church must give the opportunity for such development. Until it fulfills this solemn obligation through Christian education, we may expect the worst from every section. We have needs which are as yet unsupplied. A Bible College is very much needed, that we may train young men for the Christian min- istry, and young women for real missionary work. Texas alone needs fifty well-trained young men to take the work with as many congregations which are being scattered for lack of leaders. We need well-equipped aca- demic and industrial departments that we may prepare teachers to go into the schools of the South, and train our people to become con- tributors to civilization by purchasing homes, clearing the forests, ditching the land, enrich- ing the soil, erecting better buildings, giving 136 EDUCATIONAL more modern schoolhouses, furnishing better rural churches, and learning and observing the laws of health. Through the school, we need to send out expert farmers, dairymen, swine- breeders, poultry dealers, truck gardeners, brickmasons, carpenters, engineers of various kinds, trained wives, cooks, domestics, dress- makers, laundresses, milliners, trained nurses and missionaries, that they may add not only to the commercial and educational value of the negro, but to the entire South as well. When this is done, the negro will not be a disturber of the peace and happiness of himself and others, but an asset to the entire country. Some progress has been made toward secur- ing funds for the establishment of a hospital for students and the community. It would be very much appreciated if some one, who has the money, would supply this great need. It would mean a perpetual blessing upon the school, and otherwise far-reaching. We need a well-equipped library where students and teachers may resort for reading and research. This is absolutely essential. We need books, saws, axes, squares, song-books, Bibles, hammers, planes, chisels, daily papers, magazines, school journals, wall pictures, sheets, pillow-cases, sewing-machines, hoes, shovels, thimbles, needles, spades, typewriters, scholarships. In the suggestion of our needs 137 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS we do so in hope that those who read may not overlook that which is true, that before we ask of others we first help ourselves to our limit. And we have a great deal of self-reliance. But when this has been used we feel that we have the right to call upon others, not for our- selves, but for those whom we are trying to help. Our Mecedonian cry is, Come over and help us for the good of our people, and for the good of your own race. 138 EDUCATIONAL TITHING AMONG TEXAS DISCIPLES ARTHUR A. EVERTS THE paying of one-tenth of income as acknowledgment of divine ownership of all our possessions, seems, until recent years, to have had little popularity among Texas disciples in general. And this, strange to say, notwithstanding the fact that we are supposed to speak where the Scriptures speak about all things vital to the kingdom's advancement. Due to the fact that money makes the mare go, and the man go too, and where a man's treasure is, there will his heart be also, we have not advanced as far as we might have ad- vanced had not Satan sidetracked us from this divine principle of tithing with its great spiritual and financial force, which makes the Lord Jesus a partner in every single transac- tion. Therefore only one-third or one-fourth of our membership are regular church attend- ants, largely because only one-fortieth of our money reaches the church treasury. While, in years gone by, such men as A. J. Bush and Randolph Clark have been faithful in this 139 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS stewardship, there were many others whom we may never know, who paid the tenth for God, and were thereby a blessing to many a scat- tered band of disciples. Through encourage- ment of the money of these tithers, and their consequent and deepened spirituality, preach- ing was provided in many congregations, the membership was built up, and the little, struggling bands saved. For, left alone, they would have gradually been strangled by the devil's stewardship plans for the undoing of our great plea. Escaping from this noose, however, a few churches were able to shine for God in the far-away places of our great State. About the year 1887, through the influence of the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, many became members of the Tenth Legion, thus starting a revival of stewardship. Due to the influence of tithers, the Central Christian Church of Dallas became a living link in the Foreign Christian Missionary So- ciety, supporting Bessie Homan Faris in Africa. From this same Tenth Legion influ- ence at the Central Christian Church, Elsworth Faris says he taught Bible stewardship of money to our first church on the Congo at Bolenge, so that every Lord's Day morning, as they sang their song, these former canni- bals walked forward and laid their tithe and offering-money of brass-rod money in the 140 EDUCATIONAL basket on the communion table. Thus far this was the only wholly apostolic church among the Disciples of Christ, every ten members sup- porting an evangelist. Every one testified for God publicly at least once each week, so that to-day more than two hundred evangelists are supported by this church. When the panic of 1907 came to America, and our Foreign Society was hampered for funds, on the Congo the work went forward without interruption, because when the Bolenge Church mass-meeting was called one morning, to con- sider the promised forward work and shortage of funds, every one of the more than twenty evangelists stood and said: "Teacher, take one- third of my salary to keep our promises to send the Christ to those away in the great forests." And when that sum was found in- sufficient at the afternoon called meeting, those who had possessions, even to garden tools and cooking-vessels, sold them, and, emulating the first tithing church at Jerusalem, brought the price and laid it down at Mr. Faris' and Dr. Dye's feet. And so the work went on. The missionaries dared not tell these former heathen that the churches of Christ in Texas were giving at that time less than one-fortieth of their income for God, and less than one-half of one copper cent for the unity of God's people, for which Christ so earnestly prayed. 141 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Largely through the influence of the tithing members of the Dallas Central Church, the East Dallas Church was established, and imme- diately became a double living link. Every member of the official board became a tither. The Foreign Society used the picture of the little frame East Dallas building in their stere- optican all over America, to great advantage, as one of the churches which thought of others before themselves. The mission on Thomas Avenue, afterwards the Ross Avenue Church, the Third Avenue Church and the South Dallas Church were also established largely by tithers from Central. Recently, at the dedication of the South Dallas Church, a workingman and his wife, of the original tithers, having saved through the years enough money to buy a rent-house, turned this house and lot over to help pay for the new church building, saying: "We have one house, and can get along without the other." A tither— Mr. Harbour, of Ft. Worth— who went to Oklahoma City in the early days, had a prominent part in building up that great church. A notable forward stewardship movement was made in Texas when the Austin State Con- vention authorized a committee to employ a State stewardship secretary, Claude L. Jones, who was secured for this place, and his first 142 EDUCATIONAL seven months' work resulted in signing more than a thousand tithing stewards. This work made plain to the churches their opportunity and responsibility, and made far easier the suc- cess of the several financial campaigns follow- ing. When Secretary Jones went to France, H. E. Beckler was secured for secretary, and has already done a phenomenal work. In some places 85 per cent, of the audience have signed the stewardship covenant — in loving loyalty to their Lord, and as an acknowledgment of His ownership — to pay the tenth of their income for God, and to administer the remainder of their possessions as faithful and wise stewards. They have also covenanted to be faithful stewards of their personality and their power of prayer. In four months of the secretary's actual work, including the work of the chair- man of the committee, more than sixteen hun- dred have signed covenants. More than one hundred stewardship sermons have been preached by the ministers of our churches in Texas in the past four months of 1919. Twenty thousand pamphlets and folders have been sent out by the workers. These have gone to more than twenty States of the United States. The appointment of a national stewardship secretary was authorized at the Convention meeting in Cincinnati. This fall of 1919, Christian stewardship, through tithing, is being 143 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS taught to the ministerial students in Texas Christian University. Prizes are being offered for best essays and addresses on this subject. These teachers are doing a monumental work for stewardship. Nearly one-half of our preachers in Texas are preaching and talking of this vital work. Few oppose it, and nearly every week finds new names of ministers upon the list of covenant signers. Some churches have multiplied their offerings by three since adopting this plan. Every one who has tried it is happy in the partnership, and the satisfied user of this divine principle is its best adver- tiser. Bible stewardship is the one hope for the early completion of the task of the Dis- ciples of Christ. 144 EDUCATIONAL TEXAS CHRISTIAN LECTURE- SHIP THIS institution was begotten in the I. & G. N. Railway station, in Taylor, Texas, in 1888, and born in the Commerce Street Church building, in Dallas, some two or three months later. A. J. Bush, J. B. Sweeney and the writer chanced to meet in the depot men- tioned, and, in a conversation of an hour or so, developed the plan for the Lectureship. They constituted themselves into a committee on program and arranged one, writing to J. T. Toof, pastor of the Commerce Street Church, requesting the privilege to announce the first session to be held there. This request was readily granted ; the meeting assembled, and the Lectureship was born. It lived through twenty-nine years, and did, as many thought, a most excellent work. The purpose was pri- marily investigation. All kinds of problems were studied — that is, problems related to the religion of the Christ. These questions were at times doctrinal and at others practical. A wide range of study was conducted. Many persons were anxious for the Lectureship who 10 145 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS rarely attended any other of our general gatherings. The attendance fluctuated from year to year. Sometimes only a few would be present, but at other meetings the attendance was large — once reaching as many as three hun- dred. At twenty-two of the twenty-nine sessions, a chief lecturer, as he was known, was em- ployed. With one exception, he came to us from another State. These were always men who were leaders in the line they were asked to discuss. Still, it was true that the largest of all the Lectureships, so far the attendance was concerned, was when we had no chief lecturer. The gatherings were as follows: In 1888, with Commerce Street Church, Dallas; 1889, with the same congregation ; 1890, Pearl and Bryan Street Church, Dallas; 1891, Waco, with B. B. Tyler as lecturer; 1892, Thorp Spring, with J. B. Briney; 1893, Waxahachie, with J. H. Garrison; 1894, Austin, with H. R. Pritch- ard; 1895, Corsicana; 1896, Bonham; 1897, Fort Worth; 1898, Waxahachie, with J. W. McGarvey; 1899, Greenville, with C. L. Loos; 1900, Taylor, with F. D. Power; 1901, Waco, with H. L. Willett; 1902, Weatherford, with Burris Jenkins ; 1903, Cleburne, with J. W. McGarvey; 1904, Temple, with D. R. Dungan; 1905, Denton, with Hiram Van Kirk; 1906, 146 EDUCATIONAL Palestine, with H. L. Calhoun; 1907, Abilene, with Clinton Lockhart; 1908, Waco, with H. L. Calhoun ; 1909, Dallas, with Charles S. Med- bury; 1910, Sherman, with E. L. Powell; 1911, Denton, with B. A. Abbott; 1912, Longview, with R. A. Crossfield; 1913, Fort Worth, with Peter Ainslie; 1914, Waxahachie, with George H. Combs; 1915, Vernon, with A. B. Philputt; 1916, Fort Worth. Where no name as chief lecturer is mentioned, there was none. Prior to the 1916 Lectureship, the question of abandoning these annual gatherings was agi- tated. A motion to this effect was offered during that session. The attendance was small, perhaps not more than thirty being in attend- ance. The vote on the resolution was a tie, and the chairman, Cephas Shelburne, gave the deciding vote which sent the Lectureship into oblivion. Perhaps it had accomplished its task. 147 Benevolences The Juliette Fowler Homes 149 BENEVOLENCES THE JULIETTE FOWLER HOMES M. BOYD KEITH "To us it seemed her life was too soon done ; Ended, indeed, while scarcely yet begun. God, with His clearer vision, saw that she Was ready for a larger ministry. ' ' THUS felt the hosts of friends when Mrs. Juliette Fowler was snatched away by death. When her heart interest for the aged and orphaned was made known, and in the now fully worked-out plans, we are made to feel "God moves in a mysterious way his won- ders to perform." She was a devoted Chris- tian from ten years of age. Her married life was a tragedy, in that she was early deprived of her husband and little ones. She conceived a passionate fondness and tenderness for all motherless and homeless children. As a natural outgrowth from this, she began to plan the founding of a Home. She accumulated property with this purpose in view. Success attended her efforts, and she planned to begin the work in 1889. This was prevented by her death. Her sister and executrix, Mrs. Har- 151 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS wood, with true devotion, gave her time and strength to the trust. In 1903 she handed a deed conveying the property at the east end of Columbia Avenue, Dallas, designated by Mrs. Fowler as the permanent site of the Homes, money and other properties, and a charter from the State of Texas, to the con- vention of Christian Churches assembled at Mineral "Wells. They were asked to provide suitable buildings and sustenance for those who should find homes therein. The convention accepted the charge. Mrs. Harwood was the first president of the Board, continuing to the time of her death. The country was thought, by many, to be the best place for the Homes, and a farm of two hundred acres was bought for the sum of $10,000. No buildings were on this tract, and a small piece adjoining was leased, on which was a two-story frame building. A. J. Bush, with his wife and daughter, and Miss Pace were placed in charge. They at once set them- selves to the task of making a real home for the children. For more than a year this build- ing was used. This was the first effort of the brotherhood to provide for helpless children, in a co-operative way. On July 7, 1904, the Homes were affiliated with the National Benevolent Association of Christian Churches. January 26, 1904, "Faith 152 BENEVOLENCES Cottage," a two-story brick building, erected on the farm, had been dedicated. This pro- vided for seventy children. Difficulties multi- plied readily with the attempt to manage the farm. This was sold and suitable buildings were erected on the fifteen acres donated by Mrs. Fowler for this purpose. The proceeds from the sale of the farm were $30,000. The transfer of the orphans to the new build- ing was in 1915. This Home, with the interior unfinished, cost $45,000. In 1911 the Home for the Aged, known as "Sarah Harwood Hall," had been erected at a cost of $30,000. Fifty aged saints have been ministered to through its efficient service. They spend their declining years in a well-equipped Home, in comfort and ease. Religious services are held in the Home, and those who are able to do so have the opportunity to attend the churches of the city. The brotherhood can have no greater cause for rejoicing than that they have made possible this splendid refuge for those who, otherwise, would be forced to spend their lives in penury and want. More than forty cases of scarlet fever among the children, and six months' quaran- tine for the entire household, stressed the neces- sity for facilities for isolation. Physicians and health officers said our fourth floor, an un- finished attic, could be made into desirable 153 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS hospital rooms. Ten thousand dollars was used in finishing and equipping this department. The best possible medical care has been fur- nished by Dr. Leslie Moore and his splendid staff of twenty of the leading physicians of the city. Hundreds of children have been cared for and nursed through all manner of contagions; yet, in seventeen years, there have been but two fatalities. For years, the baby ward was a dream eagerly looked forward to. When its comple- tion seemed a certainty, and a name plate was to be placed on the door, the Board unan- imously and eagerly insisted that no name was so appropriate as that of our Bro. A. J. Bush. This ward they would dedicate in loving tes- timony of their appreciation of the oldest and most faithful in this service, one who from the very beginning of the work was its heart and soul, and who, in his old age, gave liberally of his limited means that the work might be completed. Nowhere can the same full measure of re- joicing be found as in review of a baby life spent in most immoral surroundings, com- pletely orphaned at an early age, and turned to our Home for guidance and care. There the girl learned all the household arts, led a class of four hundred in physical training by five per cent., and graduated from the high 154 BENEVOLENCES school at the age of seventeen ready for a special course in physical training to fit her for a position in the open field of physical directors. This is one of the really worth- while things over which to rejoice in the life of one of our older girls. This fitting for life and home and citizenship is the return which those who have made it possible are now receiv- ing on their investment. The children have all the advantages of the public schools and churches of the city. They come in touch with other children, and learn a self-reliance and self-assertiveness which they could not secure elsewhere. Our children live a normal life, growing up as brothers and sisters with a splendid loyalty for each other. Our aim is to get as far from the institutional life, and as near to the home life, as possible. During the school term, study hours are observed in the auditorium, or "living-room," as we prefer to call it. Here it is that com- pany is received, games played and music from piano or victrola furnished. They live the lives of American lads and lassies. The noise and romp are all worth while, and will be a sweet memory in later years. No mention of these Homes could be com- plete without reference to Mrs. J. C. Mason, whom to know is to love and to appreciate. 155 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS For eighteen years she has been the chairman of the Admission Committee, and has listened to the heart-breaking stories and the life trage- dies of the poor unfortunates, and often for lack of room she could give no more than comforting words. At no hour of day or night lias she been too busy to come to either of the Homes when called. During one con- tagion, when help was impossible, and when both hospital wards were full to overflowing, she left home and family and came and worked with us faithfully for a week. On every Sun- day for more than a year she has taken two or three home with her for the day, and a wonderful day it always was as she and her family gave themselves to the entertainment of the youngsters. Neither would this brief history be at all complete unless something is said of the appre- ciated matron, Mrs. E. D. Vawter. In this work she has invested her life. The children love her for her own worth, and the Board of Directors take supreme pleasure in acknowledg- ing the great value of all which she has done. Largely has she been the guiding hand of the management of the enterprise since the day of her coming to the Home. She has reproduced herself in the lives of many who have been with her, and many others are being molded into splendid types of men and women because 156 BENEVOLENCES their lives have touched hers. No one could have predicted what would be in the making of ' ' Billy Sunday, ' ' when as a weak and orphaned lad he went timidly to a Home for orphans for rearing. It paid to take this orphan lad into open arms and hearts, and give time and thought and labor and money as investments. And so it is that Mrs. Vawter and all who have had any share in this work are molding lives for humanity and for God. "Who gives himself with his gifts feeds three, Himself, his hungry neighbor and Me." 157 Our Remembered Dead 159 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD OUR REMEMBERED DEAD I WRITE not of those whom we have "loved and lost," but of those who said, "I am ready as much as in me is," and who are still present "in the spirit." They need no monu- ments of stone that their memories may live with those who knew them during their labors here. We were inspired by their faith, and their heroism pointed us to larger and higher service. Those whose names appear in this list by no means complete the company "of whom the world was not worthy." I have separated them into four groups. I. Preachers who were of the older class in 1879, my first year in Texas. The names of some of these will not be familiar to some who read these pages. I knew them personally, and was glad to count them among my friends. They lived and labored when their number was few, but helped nobly to prepare the fields for the laborers of to-day. Well may we ask ourselves the question whether or not we appre- ciate the faith and toil and sacrifice of these men as their lives deserve. They made our task possible for us; they blazed the way and 11 ifil DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS opened the path; we have "entered into their labors, and their works do follow them." Their names may not have a familiar ring, but you, my brother, owe to them a debt which you can repay only by faithful loyalty to the mission for which they lived and toiled until God took them hence. H. D. Bantau labored in Parker and adja- cent counties. He was a man of culture. True to his convictions, he gave his life to their service. His age, at the time of his death, must have approached seventy-five or perhaps more. J. M. Beard was one of the great pioneers among our people in Texas. He toiled in various portions of the State, but the churches of Lamar and adjoining^ counties are, in a large measure, monuments to his consecrated service. His children and grandchildren are, to-day, faithful disciples of their Lord. Alfred Padon labored in eastern Texas, with his home in Shelby County. This was the first county in the State to banish the saloon from its borders, and he was one of the factors in that pioneer achievement. East Texas heard his voice for many years as he proclaimed the message of the gospel. Many of the congregations of that section were helped to their degree of usefulness by him. 162 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD Henry Pangburn came to Texas from Ken- tucky, settling on a farm in Dallas County, near Hutchins, in the 70 's of the last century. He was one of the most Christly men whom I ever knew, and I had every opportunity to know him well. The ring of every sermon was : "I believe, and therefore I speak." During the first four months of the history of the church at Waxahachie — September to Decem- ber, 1878 — he supplied the pulpit, going there from his farm. Following his work there, mine began. T. M. Sweeney lived in Houston County, and his labors as a preacher were chiefly in that portion of the State. He was the father of J. B. Sweeney, who will be mentioned later in these memoirs, a worthy father of a worthy son. Always modest in his manner, he never imposed himself upon others, but was ever true to that which he believed to be the messages of his Master, whether they were calls for teaching or for service. Gen. R. M. Gano was born and reared in Kentucky, son of John Allen Gano, one of the pioneers and strong preachers of the early days of the Restoration movement. He served four years with the armies of the Southern Con- federacy. Many times have I heard old soldiers who had served under him speak of him in 163 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS terms of tenderest affection. He came to Texas a few years after the close of that war. An incident illustrating his emotional power in evangelism is related in the sketch of T. W. Caskey. Many responded to the gospel invi- tation from his lips. There is a statement which seems to be well established that Gen. George Washington Was baptized by his father. He lived at Dallas to his death. J. A. Clark, father of Addison and Ran- dolph, was, in his early life, a successful law- yer. He relinquished his profession for the work of the gospel ministry. The story of sacrifices made by him and others in pioneer days is a thrilling one, but can not be related here as it is a history within itself. With Addison and Randolph, he planted in Fort Worth what was, later, Add-Ran College in Thorp Spring, afterward Texas Christian Uni- versity in Waco, and still later returning to the place of its birth. For a time he edited and published, in Thorp Spring, the Texas Christian, the immediate forerunner of the Christian Courier. He died at his home in Thorp Spring, at an advanced age. S. R. Ezzell traveled and preached in Texas for many years. Perhaps no man among us ever preached "first principles" with greater clearness or with larger results than 164 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD did he. "The Great Legacy," a book written by him, was widely circulated and read by thousands. This led a large number of persons to correct views concerning things funda- mental. I have known, personally, several active and successful preachers of the Word who were inspired for their life-work through the study of this book. As a young preacher, I was greatly helped by a study of that, and of his chart. He was many years my senior, and yet we were close friends, and I officiated at his second marriage — to Mrs. Quincy A. Sweatt. He was about eighty years of age at the time of his death. T. W. Casket came from Mississippi to Texas. In many ways he was one of the most remarkable men who have preached the gospel in the State. With but small opportunities during the days of his youth, he was highly educated — his education came not from com- mon schools or from colleges. His sermons were logical, rhetorical, poetic, Scriptural. His powers of description were marvelous, and audiences were swayed from smiles to tears and from tears to smiles. When Caskey had completed his argument, reason stood con^ vinced. He was chaplain in the Confederate service, and was known as "the fighting par- son." Tn 1866. soon after the close of that 165 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS war, he attended a convention of Disciples of Christ held in a Northern city. The war spirit had not yet ceased. Caskey was the only Southern preacher present, and perhaps the only person from that side of "Mason and Dixon's Line." One of the finest orators of the churches of the North turned his guns against the late Confederacy. The Southern preacher's blood boiled furiously. At the close of the address he arose and delivered what has been characterized as the greatest speech of his life. I once asked him to reproduce it for publication, and his reply was: "I would cheerfully give all that I possess to be able to do so. That speech was begotten and born of the hour and the occasion. It departed after its delivery just as it came — suddenly. From that moment to this day [twenty years later] I have never been able to recall a single sen- tence." The reader will pardon the relation of some incidents which show some of the many sides of this wonderful man. He was never a re- cruiter as a preacher. At the close of one of his colossal sermons, the gospel invitation met with no response. Bro. R. M. Gano was present, and followed with an earnest exhor- tation mingled with tears which streamed down his cheeks. A number of men and women pressed eagerly forward, and gave 166 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD their hands to the preacher. Brother Caskey looked on with amazement, and, after the con- fessions had been taken, he said aloud : "Brother Gano, cry some more." During a session when the Texas Christian Missionary Convention was in the throes of birth, in Austin, 1886, when discussion was at high tide, Brother Caskey arose to his height of six feet three inches, and, addressing the body, said: "Mr. Chairman, I arise to express my supreme contempt for this whole concern. I have a contempt for Brother Homan [the convention chairman] and for those who are with him, because they can not see that they can do missionary work just as effectively on another plan as on this for which they are contending. And I have a supreme contempt for Brother Wilmeth [the leader of the oppo- sition] and his followers, because they can not see that there is no more differencce between these resolutions and the plan which they ad- vocate than there is between tWeedledee and tweedledum." A reporter who was listening to Mr. Caskey for the first time made great "copy" from the speech, and a half-dozen morning papers of as many towns published "stories" of the "split" and of "the withering rebuke administered by the venerable Dr. Caskey." Some of us who were among the younger men suggested to Bro. Charles Carlton 167 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS that he, being near Brother Caskey's age, and a very close friend, could induce him to make some statement before the convention which the papers would give to the public, and pre- sent the situation in a more favorable and, as we thought, a juster light. On the following morning we were delighted to see Brother Caskey arise, and listened eagerly for the ex- pected speech which never came. He said : "Mr. Chairman, I arise to a question of per- sonal privilege. I wish to make an apology. Yesterday I said I had a supreme contempt for this whole concern, and for this I apologize, because I did wrong in saying it. I do not mean, sir, that I apologize for feeling the contempt. That I could not avoid. I had it, and it has been increased tenfold. I should not have mentioned it." "Uncle Charlie," as so many familiarly called Bro. Charles Carlton, emigrated from England to the United States while he was still a lad, "working his passage." He was a member of the Baptist Church, and hoped to become a minister in that brotherhood. Dis- covering his great desire for an education, and seeing in the boy possibilities worthy of culti- vation, a gentleman, whose name I have never learned, proposed to see that a way would be provided for him to complete his college educa- 168 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD tion if he would go to Bethany College. This was during the days of Mr. Alexander Camp- bell's prime. Gladly the boy accepted and, for several years, sat at the feet of that won- derful man, and those who were associated with him. The beauty, simplicity, consistency and Scripturalness of the religious teaching captivated him, and he became a devoted ad- vocate of the principles of the Restoration movement. From these he never, for a mo- ment, swerved. Coming to Texas, he settled in Dallas, where he taught for a time. From there he went to Kentuckytown with his school and then to Bonham, where "Carlton College," a co-educational school, began its course of large usefulness. The school later became "a school for girls." Of this he was the president until his death. Hundreds of young men and women received that from him and his wife and children which made them strong Christian leaders. Addison and Randolph Clark were among this number. "Aunt Sallie," as Mrs. Carlton was lovingly called, was a worthy helper to this useful, godly man. They were the beginning of the great Bonham Church, where F. "W. O'Malley now so successfully ministers, as well as of numerous other con- gregations. It was my privilege to conduct the services at the funerals of both these beloved disciples 169 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS of our Lord, in one of which Bro. Addison Clark was with me. Sister Carlton preceded her husband into the "Great Beyond," but for only a few years. Pardon the recital of an incident which is a precious one in my memory. A message came from his daughter, Miss Grace, "Father can not live for many days." I took the first train to Bonham, and when I entered the chamber — so soon to be one of death — his daughter said: "Father, Brother Mc. is here." His vision was almost gone, and he asked, "Which Brother Me.?" He opened his arms and called me to him. I bent over the form of one whom I loved as a father. His arms encircled me as he drew me to him and kissed my cheek. On the next morning I said to him: "Brother Carlton, the physician tells me that you are stronger. I shall return again soon and see you." He replied: "Yes, we'll meet again. We'll meet again." To this day I carry with me the precious words, and, after the years of separation, I am looking up and whispering: "We'll meet again." II. Younger men who were here in 1879, and have entered into rest. William E. Hall was the popular pastor of the congregation in the capital city of Aus- tin when I arrived in Texas. He was perhaps the most magnetic public speaker in Texas at 170 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD that time. Large crowds flocked to hear him wherever he spake. I once heard him say that his ambition was to be a greater preacher than any man living at that time in the State, and he wished that all his preaching brethren might outstrip him in the upward climb. I had not heard of his death until so informed by Bro. A. J. Bush. He left Texas a number of years ago, going to one of the churches of St. Louis, where he was, for a time, a brilliant star. He was not a practical man ; rather, he was a dreamer. He dreamed of standing at the top of three peaks — preaching, lecturing, editing. Before coming to Texas, he had established a paper — in New Orleans, I think — known as The Iron Preacher. Upon his coming here, this was consolidated with a small paper being published by C. M. Wilmeth, known as The Christian, and the combined paper was designated The Christian Preacher. In later years, he published, from New York, a paper known as The International, and dated "New York and London," though no copy of it, perhaps, ever crossed to the other side of the Atlantic. While attempting its pub- lication, he traveled and lectured. T remember hearing from him, in our church in Waxa- hachie, four remarkable addresses. One of these was "The Resurrection," and another, "How to Get Married and Stay So." After- 171 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS wards he had domestic trouble, his wife sepa- rating from him. Both of them married again, and he continued giving his lecture on ' How to Get Married," etc. As mentioned on another page, he presented the first resolution after my arrival in Texas, before the old-time "State meeting." in the interest of an organ- ized effort for missionary purposes. This was in my home town — vVaxahachie. The resolu- tion "got nowhere," as not over a half-dozen persons voted for it. I am not informed either as to the place or the time of his death. R. 0. Charles was the first preacher whom I met in Texas. His home was at Ennis. He was a younger man than L Having weak lungs, he felt that he would not be able to give many years of service to his Lord, but he gave those years with splendid devotion, until his Master called him to "come up higher." I believe that if his life could have been spared, he would have become one of our greatest and most useful preachers. He loved the truth, and was ready for either life or death. T. R Burnett was a newspaper man of Bonham. and a Methodist. After hearing a number of Brother Carlton's sermons, he ac- cepted the plea to which he had been giving careful attention, and soon after changed his 172 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD secular paper into an advocate for primitive Christianity. He was a racy, spicy writer, and always interesting. His paper was known as the Christian Messenger. After several years he moved the publication from Bonham to Dallas. Later he discontinued the periodical and became a member of the staff of the Gospel Advocate, of Nashville, Tennessee, his residence remaining in Dallas. Later he severed his con- nection with the Advocate, and launched a monthly known as Burnett's Budget. He was fond of debates, whether oral or written. It behooved one who met him to study his ques- tion with great care. C. M. "Wilmeth was also an editor. His paper was The Christian Preacher. For several years, this and the Christian Messenger were cotemporary. At that time the field could not give adequate support to one paper, and The Christian Pre'a'cher had a checkered career. The editor was a ready writer, and wielded a facile pen. He was an excellent public speaker, and passionately fond of discussion. His greatest obstacle to success in any line was that he was visionary beyond all due grounds. Great things which proved to be mirages were always just ahead. Nazareth University he launched in an exceedingly small room in "West Dallas, and then moved to some point in Arkansas, where 173 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS it died a peacefxd death. His scheme for Christian colonization in Mexico, and other projects, were among the attempts which at- tested the lack of practical thought. As a preacher he was a man of great value. His sermons were fruitful of vast good. For a number of years his influence as a preacher was extensive. He died penniless in Mexico. Friends brought his body to his old home, where it lies awaiting the morning of the resur- rection. W. Y. Taylor taught school and preached in "Weatherford and other places. He was a man of great strength of character, of clear thought, and of large faith in the things of God. His life was pre-eminently useful, al- though he did not attain a degree of eminence as a public speaker. His thought and prepara- tion were always good, but his address was rather too deliberate for the greatest efficacy. He was teaching and preaching at Beeville at the time of his death. W. C. Dimmitt was, for a number of years, minister for the church in Sherman, where he was universally beloved, and his memory is revered to this day. His picture is on a me- morial window of the present church building. He was conservative in the sense that he was never "foolhardy" in his attempts in the direc- 174 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD tion which he thought he should move. He had ideals and aims, but bided his opportunity. As a preacher, he stirred the intellect, the heart and the life, while his own life was ever an eloquent sermon for righteousness. The growth and usefulness of the Sherman congregation were, and are, a monument to his faith and service. The latter years of his life were spent in what is known as "The Panhandle" section of the State. The name of John A. Lincoln will never fade from my memory. While I was still in Kentucky, with my eyes and hopes turned toward Texas, a letter came to me from one whom I had never seen — a letter filled with information which I needed, and with invita- tion which allured me. That letter was one of a link of things which brought me to Texas. From the moment I read those pages, I counted the writer — John A. Lincoln — as my friend, and that friendship grew without the semblance of "the sere and yellow leaf." Brother Lin- coln was an apostle for primitive Christianity throughout Texas for many years. The multi- tudes baptized by him, and the congregations planted through his labors, bear witness to his energy and devotion and faith and loyalty. Pages might be filled with the story of the life of this man of righteousness — this son of God. 175 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS J. B. Faulkner lived and preached foi years in Collin County. He and R. C. Horn (who still labors there) and A. M. Douglass were intimately associated in the work in that section of the State. He was a devout lover of the gospel, and preached its message with power. His memory will long linger affec- tionately in the hearts of many. "W. J. Jones, father of F. G. Jones, of Denton, Tex., labored in the middle-south- ern portion of the State. During the active years of his ministry, I met him only a few times, as our fields were far apart. Those who knew him well spoke in the highest terms of both his personality and his work. "William Alexander preached in the Lam- pasas and San Saba sections of Texas. He was a typical Westerner, and was known far and wide as "Bill Alex." His heart was as big as the great West where he lived ; I never knew a more genial or more cordial man than he. "When his preaching brethren visited his field of labor, his great delight was to enter- tain them in his hospitable home and in his cordial manner. He preached the truth, but always in love. He had no use for the shil- lalah, but he found no place for a compromise with anything which he believed to contravene the teachings of the Word of the Lord. He 176 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD was sorely missed when death came to call him away. A. M. Douglass lived at Melissa for many years. When I came to the State he was one of the best known evangelists here, and his services were called for from many sections. And there was a reason for these calls — he did faithful and fruitful work. It was a joy to be called to labor with him, and to share the hospitality of his home. Not a night could be spent there without the conversation trend- ing toward the movements of the kingdom of the Lord. The closing years of his life were spent in comparative obscurity by reason of the feeble condition of his body. He loved the cause and the brethren to the last. J. R. Darnall lived and labored and died in Collin County. He was a graduate from Bethany College. After coming to Texas, he settled on a farm which he had bought, and for the remainder of his life successfully con- ducted its business. He was one of the really strong preachers of Texas, but was severely handicapped by the growing deafness which became almost complete. His son is now a representative of Phillips University, of Okla- homa, and a diligent and useful gospel preacher. 12 177 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Dr. W. L. Harrison was a successful prac- titioner of medicine, but he surrendered this for service as a minister of the Word. His home was in Bell County, and his labors were largely in that section of the State. His pulpit efforts were fruitful, and he was a ready writer. For years he was a familiar figure at the State conventions. He died at his residence in Troy. A. J. Bush. After the manuscript for these pages had been forwarded to the publishers. Brother Bush joined the ranks of ct Our Re- membered Dead." How worthily he adorns the place. Truly, one of the choicest spirits among our Lord's disciples has passed from his earth's labor to reward. Like the great apostle, he fought the good fight, finished the course and kept the faith. Many years ago a preacher reached a small town in Missouri to bear the message for which he was giving his life. A miller from a near- by community happened to be in the village, and was told. "A man from Virginia will preach here to-day." The miller heard the sermon, and. after reaching his home, said to his wife: "There is a man in town preaching, and he tells it just like it reads in the Book ; we must hear him." They heard him, and, at the close of the first sermon, accepted the 178 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD invitation. The preacher was Alexander Camp- bell, and the man and woman were the grand- parents of A. J. Bush. These two became faithful disciples of the Lord, and lived to see their own son preach the same message "just like it read in the Book." Later, the son of this man — A. J. Bush — became a devoted, faithful, successful preacher of the same gospel, and, still later, his son, George L. Bush, of Missouri, dedicated his life to the proclamation of the very same glorious message. What a wonderful line of work Mr. Campbell inaugu- rated on that day in the little Missouri town when he preached that sermon "as the Book told it." Bro. A. J. Bush began his work in Texas in the very sparsely settled regions of the State, in the year 1876. He traveled over vast scopes of country, on horseback, in a buggy, on foot, and slept wherever he could find a place to lay his head, which at times was by the roadside far from the habitation of man. My introduction to this man came from read- ing a brief article from him, in the little paper known as The Christian Preacher, in which he pleaded for co-operative effort in giving the gospel to the needy portions of Texas. Some of us thought he was setting his traps to lead the church of Jesus Christ into the snares of Babylon. He persisted ; others began to open 179 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS tlieir eyes, just a little bit at a time, until that for which he pleaded and prayed and worked was inaugurated. The story of the organiza- tion is related in another place. Brother Bush was selected as the logical first apostle for tins work. For nine years he led us, and the cause rapidly advanced. He was wise, gentle, patient, peristent, godly. After the nine years he believed the task should be given into other hands, and he entered another field of service, but was soon called to that of establish- ing a home for the orphan, and, later, another for the aged. The part which two noble sis- ters had in this is told elsewhere. The insti- tutions stand as monuments to the memory of the three. Without the two sisters, he could not have done his work ; their hopes, without his labors, would have been fruitless. Brother Bush was near the close of the seventy-fourth year of his life when he left us, after having kept his bed for two days. "With his family about him, he said: "Would not it be glorious if God should take me now?" In a little while he peacefully fell asleep. His burial was on the forty-fourth anniversary of his marriage to her who shared with him the toils and the glories of service. The funeral was held in the Oak Cliff Church, where he had his membership. During the service the utmost quiet and reverence prevailed, so well 180 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD did the people love him. There were no un- controlled expressions of grief from his family. They knew in whom the husband and father and friend had believed, and rejoiced, in the midst of their quiet tears, that he was with his Saviour and at rest. Addison Clark was a native of Texas. His education came from the early schools of the State, from his father, from Carlton College, and from his own later research. He was a scholar in the true sense of that word. He confessed his faith — so I have heard the story — in Palestine, Texas, under the preaching of Dr. Carroll Kendrick, when he was a bare- footed boy of ten years of age. Such a story, standing alone, would mean but little to the most of men, but wrapped in that "barefooted boy of ten years" were — what? What an un- folding of possibilities and of realizations there was through the years which followed. There stood the student, the writer, the preach- er, the president, the force in hundreds of lives, the man. As stated in another place, he and his brother Randolph and their father began at Fort Worth that which is now Texas Chris- tian University. As Add-Ran College, it served the world for years at Thorp Spring, and dur- ing that time Addison Clark was the president. He was noted for a strict discipline which was 181 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS well mingled with sympathy and gentleness, always kind and always firm. Some interest- ing stories have been related. I ask that we pause for the relation of two ; of the first I am personally cognizant. At a chapel service, he spoke something like this: "There have been a nnmber of notes passed between young men and young ladies of this student body. This is a violation of our rules. I desire to see in my classroom all who have either received or sent such notes, as well as those who have been the bearers. No guilty person will remain away." The young people were in a dilemma. If those of whom the president had no information should report, their guilt would become known ; if those of whom he had knowledge should fail to report, they would be subject to severe punishment. On the whole, the safer course was to report. By Brother Clark's invitation, I was present and saw the room crowded with students. After a most appropriate talk closing with admoni- tions and announcements, the president said: "And now. young gentlemen, if you have not sufficiently unbosomed yourselves, you have that opportunity. Proceed to speak, to whom- soever you please, the things which struggle for utterance." A few painful, embarrassing moments followed, when a young man broke the stillness by asking: "Mr. Addison, do you 182 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD mean that we retire and speak those words in private ? ' ' Some of the students planned for a mid- night chicken dinner. Two were delegated to furnish the fowls, which were to be taken from a near-by roost. One was to deliver the chick- ens from the limb as the other held the birds. "Mr. Addison," who had heard of the plan, crept through the darkness to the tree. The lad on the ground fled at the near approach of the president, but had no opportunity to give warning to his chum. The president took his place at the base of the tree, and received the chickens from the unsuspecting boy above, who was somewhat embarrassed when he de- scended and discovered the change of partners. A sermon from Brother Clark, heard by me, has remained with me through the years. This was in Waxahachie, during the first year of my ministry in Texas. The subject was "The Gospel Message," and near its close the preach- er said something like this : ' ' And some would tell us this gospel is but a delusion. If so, what a precious delusion — one which goes with redemptive power to men and women in the depths of sin, and wonderfully saves; which carries to hardened souls the cheer of light and hope ; brings inspiration to the discouraged, dispels the gloom of the tomb, envelops the grave in glory, and forms a rainbow from the 183 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS tears of those who mourn beside their dead. A delusion — let me press it to my soul till death shall call me hence." As these words were being spoken, Mr. John C. Gibson could not wait for the song of invitation. Climbing over the knees of those between him and the aisle, and scrambling over Anson Rainey — now Chief Justice of the Civil Court of Appeals — who sat in a chair in the aisle, he rushed to the front. Dr. R. P. Sweatt, an old friend, ran to meet him, and the two held each other in a glad embrace. It seemed, that evening, as if heaven and earth had kissed each other. Brother Gibson continued as a power in the church until his death. He was the first of his family to identify himself with the Disci- ples. Later many of his family were baptized by me there. C. W. Gibson, of the Board of Trustees of Texas Christian University, and whom the Texas brethren know and love for his work's sake, is a son of the convert of that evening. There remains at least one other in this class who is to be mentioned — W. K. Homan. Though small in physical stature, he was a giant in intellect and in soul. He was among the ablest of Texas lawyers, and a preacher of ability. For years he was editor of the Chris- tian Courier, being the first of the list — and 184 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD may I not say "the best"? If I were not in the list of editors myself, I should hesitate to speak so candidly. Others have been great, but Homan was great. Speaking of his stature, calls to mind a story which he was fond of relating. Two men were charged with incen- diarism, and Homan was attorney for the de- fense. The prosecuting attorney was long and lank. A man who knew neither the prisoners nor the attorneys came to hear the trial, en- tering the room when there was a pause in the proceedings. In his attempt to study the situa- tion he made the mistake of supposing that the well-groomed prisoners were the attorneys, and Homan and the other attorney the prison- ers. One of the lawyers, discovering the man's mistake, whispered to him : ' 1 Friend, what do you think of the pair?" Shifting his quid to the other side of his mouth, and squirting the saliva in several directions, he thus de- livered himself: "I been a-studyin' them thar fellers, and I'll tell you just how it is. That thar long, ganglin' feller — he ain't pretty, but he's smart. He planned that whole business, and that little, dried-up chap he sot the match. ' ' Homan was a lifelong, sworn enemy to the saloon and to the liquor traffic. For years he closed every article with the words "the saloon is doomed." This was the close, regardless of 185 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the nature of the article. This began when men were counted as "fanatics" and "cranks" if they dared to speak a word against that entrenched power of iniquity. The prophecy seemed to the many to be foolish words. The saloon doomed — preposterous ! But Homan was a torch-bearer in the darkness of the night. I can imagine the delight which mingles with the otherwise heavenly glory of his face as he, to-day, looks upon the spot where he fought battles for the generations to come, and sees his prophecy fulfilled. This was the begin- ning of his warfare — a beloved brother had fallen a victim, and Homan swore that his sword should never be sheathed until the saloon should be no more. Before the day of victory came, the sword fell from his weakening grasp, weakened not by loss of courage or of resolve or of faith or of hope, but by death. Before the weapon touched the earth, it was grasped again, and the battle waged to victory. I sat beside a lawyer on a railway train, and heard this story from him: "During a State prohibition campaign, my father was one of the champion orators for the antis. He was billed to speak in Fort "Worth. You know him to be a popular and influential speaker. The prohibitionists asked for a division of time, which was granted. Mr. Homan, whom my father had never met, was the chosen opponent. 186 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD When they were introduced, father took what he supposed to be the measure of 'his man,' but made the serious mistake of estimating only that which was in sight. He felt perfectly safe. As he spoke, Mr. Homan listened, but made no notes, and father's confidence grew by bounds. He changed his mind later. I tell you, sir, that he did not leave so much as a grease-spot of what there had been of pa." Such was Homan 's record whenever he en- gaged in debate with a defender of the saloon. He who met him, and at the same time at- tempted to endorse the iniquitous institution, was playing with death. During his life, the occasion was rare when Brother Homan and I disagreed upon any proposition. However, this did occasionally occur, and once or twice we differed widely. He always defended valiantly that which he believed ; Homan was ever a Christian gentle- man, and altogether too big for contemptible flings. When I stood, for the first time, beside his grave I bared my head and felt that a royal soul stood near. Death came to him in Colorado, Texas. III. In the third list are the names of many preachers who have passed from the company of Texas workers. I wish I had the space for such tributes as these men deserve. I knew 187 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS them all personally. They moved bravely in the ranks of service, and left for their heavenly home at the close of the day. These I shall mention in alphabetical order: J. A. Abney lived in Lampasas for years, but preached at various places. One of the last points of his service was Italy, Texas. He was a man of large physique and of strong mind. His work was confined, principally, to small towns and rural sections, combining business affairs with his ministerial labors. This part of his work perhaps prevented his having as large a part as he would otherwise have had in the actual planning and perfecting of the program for the larger work in the State. D. D. Boyle was a Texas product, having been reared near Denison. He began his min- istry in this State, and then left us for a number of years, later returning. He devel- oped into an evangelist of considerable influ- ence, and achieved much success in that work. He died in the southern part of Texas, where he was making his home, only a short while ago. R. W. Boggess was one of the most untiring workers whom I have ever known. He was. for several years, in the employ of the Texas 188 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD Christian Missionary Board, during the period when J. C. Mason was the superintendent. I was a member of the Board at the time, and knew much as to the merit of his work. There was not one of the employees whom Mason held in higher regard for his work's sake. He never saw a proposition so fraught with diffi- culties which he dreaded to undertake if it was offered to him and should be done. In passing some pleasantries, I once said to him: "Bog- gess, if you were to meet a stone wall in your path, I think you would have no more judg- ment than to go straight through it head fore- most." His widow, daughter of A. J. Bush, is now matron for girls in Trinity University, Waxahachie. This is no intimation that she is a Presbyterian — only that when this excellent institution needed a first-class matron, the managers had the good sense to look for, until they found, what J. C. Mason calls "a plain Christian." C. L. Cole. No man in Texas was ever more beloved by those among whom he labored than was he. His home, during the closing years of his life, was at Garland, where he preached for years, and laid the foundation for the excellent work now being done by that congregation, led by "one of my boys," Logan Martin. His sermons were true to the gospel 189 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS message, because he was true to the Christ. This he preached with great heart power. His physical frame was weak, but his brain and soul were strong. A large concourse gathered for the funeral service, many traveling for long distances to bear testimony of their love and their sense of his worth. He held many protracted meetings which resulted in leading many souls to the Christ, many of these being to-day active workers in the kingdom. George Clark. Only those who were here years ago will remember this brother. His labors were in Kaufman and Ellis Counties, chiefly. I knew him well, and we were thrown together frequently in our work. He preached once a month for a certain church which is now dead — not the fruit of his preaching — but made, during that year, no effort whatever to induce persons to attach themselves to the congregation. Some of the brethren approached him, inquiring as to the reason for this unusual course. He sent them away fully informed with his thought. Whether or not it satisfied them may be considered doubtful. His reply was : "I do not ask men and women to become members of this congregation, for the reason that if I should induce them to do so they Would be in danger of becoming tenfold more the children of the devil than they are as it 190 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD is." Clark loved the church and the Christ. He may not have always been as politic as conditions would have justified. But he was as honest as the day was long. Stephen Collier was one of the saintly men among us. When I was a very young man, in the mountain town of Mount Vernon, Kentucky, he came occasionally and preached. I heard him then, and always respected and loved him. Many years later he came to Texas and settled, I think, in Bell County. His health was poor, and this hindered his activity as he longed it to be. During his stay in the State, I saw him only one or two times. He died quite a number of years ago. R. F. Carter's Texas work was largely in Ellis County, though I think he preached for the church in Marshall. In Ellis County he ministered to the congregations in Italy, Mil- ford and Midlothian. His death occurred at the last-named place. He was always a most faithful servant of Jesus Christ. His weakened body could not keep pace with the desires of his spirit. Those who knew him the best loved him the most. In places where he 'labored, his name is frequently mentioned, and always in love. Wiley B. Carnes and I preached our first sermons in the same house, though his was a 191 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS number of years later than was mine. This was in Burkesville, Kentucky, in the same building where I was also ordained and mar- ried. This is a first-class, small village nestled in the foot-hills of the mountains of southern Kentucky and northern Tennessee. I did not meet Brother Carnes for several years after he began to preach, and this was in Texas. At the time he began his ministry, he was editing and publishing the village paper in Burkesville. His labors here were chiefly in central-north Texas. He died at McKinney, one of the most useful citizens of the town, serving as secretary to the Chamber of Com- merce, and preaching at points near by. J. J. Cramer was a saintly man — not that he was long-faced, not that he bore the appear- ance of the would-be-counted-overrighteous, but that he was saintly in the New Testament sense of that word. Every fiber of his being was consecrated to the service of his Lord, and of the children of the God of heaven. His Texas field of labor was at Lockhart, and there he did a monumental work, leaving it only when rest was the only known possibility for a little longer continuance of life. He did not live long after leaving Lockhart and the State. He sought diligently for strength that he might give it to humanity and to humanity's 192 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD God, but this was not to be granted to him. A large portion of his library was, after his death, donated by his wife to the Brite College of the Bible, where it does such service as he would have wished for it to do. The church of Lockhart remembers him in tenderest affec- tion. William Bayard Craig was with us but for a very few years — perhaps not longer than for two or three at most. He was a rare spirit and an excellent preacher. Men spoke of him as "a live wire," and that he was. The city of San Antonio felt the power of his life and of his pulpit teachings. He went from Texas to Colorado — to Denver. W. H. D. Carrington was a lawyer preach- er. He was one of the strong men of the brotherhood, though his preaching was confined to his own immediate vicinity. His home was in Austin. His part in. the attempted forma- tion of a missionary work which was to be according to certain policies which he thought of as "the Lord's plan," is mentioned else- where. J. L. Crane preached for the churches at Bryan, Lancaster, and, possibly, other points. He died in Fort Worth, after being with us for several years. We did not live in Fort Worth at the same time, and my acquaintance 13 193 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS with him was only casual. It was never my opportunity to study his work at close range, and I can not, therefore, speak with accuracy. However, I have frequently heard him spoken of as being a most acceptable preacher of the Word. 0. A. Carr was president of Carr-Burdette College at Sherman. This institution was founded by him and his wife. He was a clear thinker and writer. His writings were more popular than were his spoken addresses. The last sentence should not be understood as mean- ing that he was dull or prosy in the composi- tion of his speeches. This was far from being true, but he was not popular in the style of his delivery. The thought of all which he pro- duced, spoken or written, was excellent. The school which bears the original name is at present presided over by Brother and Sister Cephas Shelburne. S. W. Crutcher spent but a few years in Texas, and died in Missouri. He was a genial character, and his companionship was always enjoyable. He did not consider a good laugh as being contrary either to nature or to the principles of Christianity. My impression is that his last work in this State was with the church of Van Alstyne. His sermons were thoughtful, well prepared and well received. 194 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD Ciiallenner was a graduate of Bethany College of Virginia. He lived and died at Taylor, Texas. He was one of the best thinkers with whom I ever conversed, and his favorite themes were those associated with the kingdom of God among men. A weakened body prevented his doing, during his sojourn in this State, the work for which his soul yearned. Often has he sat in the audience where I was speaking, and always an inspira- tional auditor. J. T. Eanes came to Texas from Tennes- see, and settled in Italy, where he and R. L. Barham and a Brother Sites took charge of a school which had been planted and fostered by Alexander Holt. The school thrived for years before the firm dissolved. Barham is, I understand, with Johnson Bible College of Ten- nessee, and Brother Sites died years ago. Brother Eanes did much evangelistic work, and always with success. He was one of the most acceptable preachers among the younger class of the State. When he died, Texas and the South lost one who would have counted for large things in the church of the Redeemer. John Ferguson was one of several preach- ers who went out from the Rock Church, not far from Manor and Austin. When I knew him first he was pastor of the congregation at 195 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Taylor. There was no intention, of being cler- ical in his bearing, and yet he had such an air. His tone of voice and motion and gesture were of that type, but he was sociable and genial and comfortable in any company. He was one of the true servants of the Christ, and to labor with him was indeed a joy. George A. Faris came from Tennessee to Texas in the year 1882, and settled and prac- ticed his profession in Cleburne. He was a dentist. In the spring of 1883 he accepted the pastorate of the church of Waxahachie, where he preached for about two years. Later he was county evangelist of Navarro County, and then preached for the church at Italy, together with other points. As I now remember, he was pastor at Abilene, Weatherford, Corsicana, Paris, McKinney and Gainesville. For nine years he published and edited the Christian Courier. Following this work, still residing at Dallas, he preached for near-by congrega- tions for a time, and then went to Hereford for pastoral work. After closing work there, he preached at Plainview. Resigning that work because of ill health, he went to the southern portion of the State, and then to the residence of his son in Ennis, where he died. Brother Faris possessed an exceptionally strong mind, and was an extensive and careful 196 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD reader. His sermons were of a high order. He grew in strength through the years. As a writer, he always commanded interested at- tention. He served on various Boards con- nected with the work of the Disciples in the State, being himself a part of the work here for thirty years. J. N. Gibson may have been a preacher in Texas when I came. Not being sure as to this, I place him in this list. He labored chiefly in the middle and southwestern portions of the State. His work was principally in the rural districts, and in the smaller towns. He was ever known as a diligent and consecrated and unselfish worker for the cause which he perhaps loved above all others. While his fame may not have reached so far as that of some others, he was certainly known and honored by the King. Baxter Golightly perhaps preached at a larger number of places in the State, as regular preacher, than any other man among us. This was not because the people tired either of him or of his work, but because he felt that his life could be made of larger service by such a pro- gram. His labors ranged from the central portion of north Texas to the far west, and from the north to the south. He was exceed- ingly genial, and counted as a prince among 197 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS men. The men of the ranches of western Texas always counted him among their best friends. He loved humanity, his work and his Lord. He died but a brief while ago, honored by all who knew him. J. P. and E. B. Holmes were, I think, brothers. Their labors were chiefly in the west- ern portion of the State. Although I knew both, I never was with them intimately in their work, and my knowledge is, therefore, limited. In a general way, I know them both to have been diligent workers for primitive Christianity. Dr. William Hale began his work as a preacher when he was nearing middle life, and later still began the practice of medicine. During his work as a preacher I was editor and manager of the Christian Courier. No other person sent such long lists of subscribers to the paper as did he, and always accom- panied by the money. As I now remember it, he never received a cent for his commission. It seemed to me as if practically every family represented in the lists of new recruits also became members of the Courier family. He was a remarkable evangelist in the rural sec- tions and smaller towns, large numbers of per- sons obeying the gospel under his ministra- tions. His purpose was always the greatest 198 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD possible accomplishment for the kingdom. He died in Oak Cliff. Of his death I had not been informed until it was told me by Bro. G. D. Smith. I hold his memory as precious. Jesse B. Haston lived in the State for quite a number of years, and died in Califor- nia. He preached at Huntsville, and other places which do not now occur to me. He was one of the close students of the Texas brotherhood — a student of books. His sermons were always carefully prepared. It was never my opportunity to hear him preach. Although he was ever a friend to all advance movements of the brotherhood, he was not closely iden- tified with any of these, more than, as many are, through co-operation in contributions, etc. J. W. Higbee preached for the church in "Waco, but was in the State for only a brief time. He was frail in body, but strong in mind, in heart, in interest in things good for humanity and in faith. His short time here, and the condition of his health, prevented his being actively enlisted in the work of a general character. Always was his interest in those things made manifest to the limit of his strength. Harry Hamilton was an Englishman — born and reared there. His first Texas home 199 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS was in the vicinity of Lovelady, where he lived and died. He was a licensed Methodist preach- er, but gladly accepted the plea of the Restora- tion movement when he understood it. He was one of the most versatile of men — could sing or make shoes, build a house or make pictures, make a set of harness for his horse or a dress for his wife, work with delicate fabrics or shoe a horse, doing all with a near approach to perfection. As a preacher, he was a giant, whether he moved in logic or in poetry or in word painting. He was exceedingly social with those of his inner circle, but cared not for its widening — if you got on the inside, you either climbed the fence or forced the gate ; he did not throw open the entrance and invite you. He preached about two years for the Waxahachie Church, and about the same length of time in Sherman. He was ever beloved by those who really knew him, and none were his enemies, so far as I knew. William Holloway, familiarly known as "Billy," was one of the genuinely consecrated preachers of the gospel of eastern Texas. None knew him but to admire and trust and love him. He was a soulful man, with his being aflame with devotion to truth. His home was at Longview, and his field of labor in that section of the State. Members of his family 200 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD are now pillars of strength for the cause of primitive Christianity in the same vicinity where he lived and labored and died. Al- though he has been gone from the earth for many years, men and women speak frequently of "Billy Holloway, " and repeat words which he spoke, and refer to deeds which he did. His memory is a hallowed one. : Haines was in the State but a brief time. It was never my privilege to be intimately associated with him. Frequently have I heard most favorable mention of his sermons and of his work and of his life. I regret that I had not known him better. He was pastor of the church at Mineral Wells, and died in Fort Worth in a hospital after a pain- ful illness. R. R. Hamlin — there was a prince in Israel. He preached for the churches of Piano, Pales- tine, McKinney, Fort Worth (First) and Wichita Falls. At the time of his death he was minister to the congregation of Johnson City, Tennessee. He did much work of an evangelistic character, and always successfully. If he ever experienced a lazy hour, no one seems to have discovered it. He constantly planned and worked to some new achievement. His people counted him as true to both them and to his Lord. An example of this devotion 201 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS was given impressively when the news reached Wichita Falls that he had died at a sanitarium in Michigan. Sister Hamlin was on her sad journey with the body to Johnson City for burial, when she was intercepted by a telegram requesting that she divert her course and bring the body to "Wichita Falls for burial, tenderly and lovingly requesting the privilege of being permitted to bear all the expense of travel and burial. This appeal of love could not be resisted, and his body lies in the cemetery of that city. G. W. Hollingsworth lived and died in the part of the State in the vicinity of Pales- tine. His home was at Grapeland, and there his widow and daughters live at present. He was a devoted and worthy disciple of our Lord. His life was a message as well as the sermons which he spoke from the pulpit. His memory is sacred to-day where he was known and where he labored, though many years have passed since he was taken away. I knew him personally, and loved him for his many lovable traits of character, as well as for his devotion to the common cause for which he stood. A. L. Johnson lived and died in Fort Worth, having come to Texas from Kentucky, where he had taught and preached for years. It is a pleasure to be able to pay a just tribute 202 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD here to this worthy man. We have heard it said that sometimes a former preacher makes trouble — of course, unintentionally — for a preacher who comes later. Brother Johnson had been a minister to the First Church of Fort Worth, and was, during my more than five years there as pastor, an elder of the con- gregation. I was thrown in contact with him frequently and intimately. During that time the congregation passed through some of its history which has had much to do with its later advancement and usefulness. More than one noted forward step was taken by the congre- gation. Never did a pastor have a more loyal support from a brother minister than I had from him through those years. There was not the slightest suggestion of opposition. I do not mean that he tamely submitted to dicta- tion ; far from this was his nature. The record of the period was that every proposed move- ment was thoroughly discussed in the joint meetings of elders and deacons, at the ma- jority, if not all, of which he was present and participating; and during those years, when a final vote was taken on any proposition, never was a negative vote cast by any member of the Board. For harmony, those years could not be surpassed. And for this harmony Brother Johnson was largely responsible. When the time came for me to stand over his dead body 203 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS and speak words of tribute, I felt not the least twinge of conscience for speaking as I did. His life was one of blessed memory. J. S. Kendrick sojourned, for a few years, among Texans, preaching for the Commerce Street Church of Dallas. That was his only field of labor in the State. He came to us from Kentucky, and returned to his native soil, preaching for the church of Danville, where he died. He was in Texas at the time of the organization of the Texas Christian Missionary Convention, which achievement was accomplished in Austin, in 1886. An account of that is recorded elsewhere in this volume. Kendrick was a member of the "Committee on Resolutions," which departed from all prec- edents of its predecessors, bringing in a re- port very much out of the line of reports which we had been accustomed to hear, result- ing in the organized work which has followed in the State. He was a most genial companion, an earnest preacher, a diligent worker, and, at all times, a faithful man of God. Texas re- gretted being forced to surrender him, but the lure was beyond his power to resist. He carried back to his old home the love and respect of his brethren here. G. W. Lewellyn was a teacher in one of the schools of Kentucky when he accepted a 204 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD call from Texas Christian University. From the first day of his arrival his popularity began and grew with students and teachers as well as with those "on the outside." It was upon his shoulders that the mantle of J. B. Sweeney seemed to fall, although those brethren never knew each other face to face. Their souls were stirred by the same great impulse- — op- portunity of advancement for the preacher boy. Brother Lewellyn made a canvass of the State for the purpose of erecting a building in which ministerial students might lodge and board at much cheaper rates than could other- wise be provided. He secured from Mrs. Goode, of Bartlett, the sum of $10,000 for this pur- pose, this being supplemented by others, and "Goode Hall" stands as a monument to Brother Lewellyn and Sister Goode. He was named as dean of the College of the Bible. His students loved him devotedly, and honored his sincere devotion to the truth as it is to be found in the New Testament Scriptures. At a time when it seemed as if his great work had only begun, he was called to his reward above. J. J. Lockhart was one of the most indi- vidualistic men I have known. He told me that when he was a young man, beginning his efforts as a preacher, a well-meaning brother came to him with the advice: "Brother 205 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Lockhart, I advise you to give up all hope of ever becoming a preacher, and attempt some- thing else. You can never succeed at this." He listened, but was not convinced, and said to his own soul: "I will show him some day that I have made a preacher." And he did. His sermons were strong, clear, forceful, per- suasive, Scriptural, fruitful. His last pastorate was at Marshall, Texas. Other points in the State where he toiled were Ennis, Palestine and Greenville. He was married three times. I had known his second wife, but had not seen the third until he came to Waxahachie for the State Convention. When he introduced me I said : ' ' Lockhart, how did you manage to find such a splendid woman for a wife?" Instantly he sprang to his feet, and, in the presence of his wife and a number of others, said: "McPherson, as a marryist, I am a success." I have been with him in the hours of his Gethsemanes and in the days of his Hermons, and always found him to be the same. I loved him as a brother. E. F. Major I never saw, but have been so closely associated with his family that it seems to me that I knew him well. His home was in Rusk County, where he farmed and preached and died. He was the father of the Peatown Church, preaching there for thirteen 206 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD years, closing this with his death. Although he has been dead for almost forty years, he has not been forgotten. Those who knew him treasure his memory. The church which he planted, and for which he labored through those thirteen years, still lives and serves. A most notable circumstance is that Bro. J. A. Livsey, who married his daughter, is to-day the preacher for that same church, and has been thus engaged for twenty-five or thirty years. He has taught and preached in the community during the time. Recently he at- tempted to close his work as teacher, after twenty-five years of continuous service, but a petition signed by every patron of the school throughout the entire district urging him to continue forced his acceptance. R. E. McKnight left Texas many years ago, and died in California. He served the First Church of Fort Worth. He was frail in body, but diligent in service. The chief hindrance to his greatest success was a disposi- tion to look for other fields where a more roseate hue seemed to be on the things which were distant. D. R. Pickens' home was, during the larger part of his stay here, in Tyler. It was there that he died. Serving for small salaries, he, by careful management, saved $20,000, which he 207 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS invested in Church Extension. His sermons were well prepared, and his life was clean, and his influence right. D. W. Pritchett was one of our strong preachers, and a singer of wide reputation. His services in song were in frequent demand, and it was difficult for him to tear away from such calls to do the work which lay nearest his heart. He served in many evangelistic campaigns before he succeeded in saying "No" to these calls. He and B. B. Sanders were coworkers in many campaigns, and always with large success. As a preacher, he labored in Van Alstyne, McKinney, Greenville and other points. The splendid building at Greenville was constructed during his pastorate. His closing days were marked by ill health. The loss of physical strength, which compelled him to relinquish the work he loved so dearly, brought gloom to his soul. His body lies in the Van Alstyne Cemetery. A. 0. RiALL was of a family known well by me in Kentucky, though my first association to any large extent with him was in Texas. He was both a teacher and a preacher, and he always expressed to me the opinion that the field for his greatest usefulness was in the schoolroom. However, he was a strong preach- er, and was most acceptable as such to his 208 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD brethren. He served a number of good church- es as pastor, the last of these in Texas being that of Tyler. He was president of the Cam- den Point (Mo.) School for Girls for several years, and, for a time, held a chair in Texas Christian University. He was a man of ster- ling worth, and was appreciated by those who knew him. This was made manifest at the time of his funeral, when a large number of persons of different religious organizations from a town thirty miles distant came to pay their tribute, and appointed one of their number to express their own appreciation of his true worth as they saw it. He closed his earth life at Grape- land, where he was buried. J. Rodecker was not known by face to a large number of his Texas brethren, because he persisted in remaining within the lines of his own field of service. His brethren would present him with purses containing sufficient means for him to pay all expenses in attend- ance at conventions, but these were always declined. And yet he was in hearty accord with all our organized work. His friends made repeated efforts to induce him to change this life policy, but to no avail. At the time of his death, he was preaching for the churches of Lindale, Mineola and Big Sandy. Neither of these congregations for a moment harbored 14 209 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the thought of exchanging him for any other preacher. And so he remained and preached with fervor and with power, and built up the waste places in his own vicinity, and served his Lord in the smaller field, because he would not go to the larger. He died at Lindale, where loving hands and hearts paid tributes to his memory. F. D. Srygley came to Texas from Ala- bama. He was one of "The Larrimore Boys." He was a speaker and writer of force and power. He edited and published T. W. Cas- key's "Seventy Years in Dixie." In Texas he was minister to the church of Paris. He was a genial gentleman, and I was glad to hold such close relationship with him as ex- isted between us. From here he went to Louisville, Kentucky, as a member of the staff of the Old Path Guide, a periodical founded by Frank G. Allen. While in Texas he was an ardent advocate for the organization of a State missionary society. Later, he became one of the editors of the Gospel Advocate, and op- posed with zeal all organizations for missionary or other church purposes more than the local church organization. He died during his term of service on the Advocate. R. T. Skiles was a Texas product, and a young man of large promise. He died in early 210 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD life. He was minister to the church in McKinney and the Commerce Street Church of Dallas, and died in that city. Brother Skiles was one of the few who took part in the or- ganization of the Texas Christian Sunday School Convention, which preceded the Texas Christian Missionary Convention one year. Lawrence W. Scott was counted as "pe- culiar." He lived and died a bachelor. Upon one occasion he announced, in Corsicana, that he would preach a sermon in which he would give his objections to the various churches of the town. He did so, including the Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Episcopalian. As he introduced each, he an- nounced his objection as being: "They place too much stress on baptism." The Catholics made it a saving ordinance, the Methodists and Presbyterians and Episcopalians forced it on the babies, as if a few drops of water could be of any help to them, and the Baptists named their church after the ordinance. He then proceeded to present the Bible teachings con- cerning the ordinance, as he understood it. During a portion of his ministry he opposed having either song or Scripture reading or prayer at the opening of the services. His position was that "Peter arose and said, 'Men and brethren,' and proceeded to preach." 211 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Scott followed that order, but, after a time, surrendered that " peculiarity . " His sermons were always instructive. He was author of several books — one, "The Texas Pulpit," con- taining sermons from about thirty preachers who were here at that time ; another, ' ' Chris- tian Evidences," a most excellent production, and a third, "The Mooted Question," for which I never cared. J. 0. Shelburne preached for the Central Church of Dallas, and later at Lancaster. He was an evangelist of considerable power. For a brief time he was associated with his cousin, Cephas Shelburne, and with J. C. Mason as proprietors and editors of the Christian Cou- rier. Many of his sermons and other addresses were of very high order. His service in the State was brief, but most acceptable. He died at Lancaster. V. R. Stapp was a long-time resident of Texas. He had learned the trade of carpenter, and occasionally served in that capacity. His sermons were thoughtful and well prepared and Scriptural. It is perhaps true that his greatest and most successful service was in the schoolroom. He was reputed to be a teacher of marked success. He was well educated, keen in thought, clear in expression, apt in instruction. The testimony of neighbors, 212 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD wherever he lived, was that his life was a per- petual sermon for godliness. He died in Gran- bury, at the age of sixty-eight. B. B. Sanders was a successful business man who surrendered excellent financial oppor- tunities for the sake of preaching the gospel of the Son of God. He served for a time as pastor of the church at Bastrop, but his place was in the field of evangelism. There he was a mighty force for God and for humanity. He was strong in winning men for the Lord. There are, to-day, numerous churches and multitudes of men and women who count Sanders as a large factor in their lives. For a number of years he was superintendent of the work of State Missions. He never saw a place for any sort of compromise where his Lord had spoken. Texas will long remember him, and pay tribute to his memory. Ed Stirman was a preacher in Texas when I came to the State. He was not what the world calls "a practical man," but he was a preacher of great ability. He had but one message for the people — the word of God. A phrenologist, while examining his head, he be- ing blindfolded at the time, turned to a gentle- man and said: "Do you know this man?" When informed that he did, and without re- ceiving information as to his identity, the 213 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS phrenologist said: "I would give this man more to talk for me than any other man whose head I have ever examined." Brother Stirman was a giant in debate. It was my privilege once to hear him in debate with a Mr. Kil- gore, who was, at that time, the champion of the Seventh-day Adventists in the State. I was a young man at the time, and the occa- sion was a schooling for me which has been with me through the years. G. L. Surber preached for one of the churches of Dallas, and evangelized extensively in the State. He was one of our strongest and most polished preachers. I remember a story he told of an experience he had with one of the Kentucky preachers (now deceased), who was a speaker of wide reputation — I shall call him Brother "Walker, because that was not his name. He bore himself with great dignity and pomp. Sui'ber was. on one occasion, to occupy his pulpit, and Brother "Walker was anxious that said pulpit should lose none of its usual importance. Before they left the pastor's home. Surber received minute instruction as to the manner of walking from the study, along the aisle to the pulpit, the dignified way to enter the same, how the pastor would step aside and offer the seat of honor to the visitor, how each should bow to the other, etc. And 214 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD Surber seemed to have followed orders to per- fection. At any rate, after they were again in private, the pastor grasped his hand with great fervor and said : ' ' Excellently performed —excellently done — you acted with exquisite dignity — Dr. Walker could not have done it better himself." Brother Surber was with us at Waxahachie, in one of our meetings, and did work which time can neither measure nor erase. Very much of the later history of the church was fruitage from that meeting, and from the in- fluence of the godly evangelist. J. B. Sweeney. No one of the men of my acquaintance who have preached the primitive gospel in Texas was more consecrated than was this man; no one has been a more genuine friend to the young man or woman who wished to dedicate the life to definite Christian ser- vice. As a pastor, he was loving, wise and tactful. He served the churches at Taylor and Gainesville. Both of these congregations are to-day living monuments to his life. This does not mean that no other men have been factors ; they have. In my judgment, Brother Sweeney's monumental work was during his connection with Texas Christian University. This was during the darkest days of the institution, and while its location was in Waco. At that time 215 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the Faculty accepted the receipts of the school, after expenses were deducted, as their com- pensation. And what a compensation it was! I was in a position to know the inside of the story. If those men received as much as an average of $30 per month, they began to feel themselves in affluent circumstances. It was then that heroism saved the day for the school, and "Jim" Sweeney was one of the heroes. That was prior to the organization of Brite College of the Bible, but foundation work for it was being performed. He was the leading spirit in this. How his heart rejoices, if he can see what is here to-day— and I think he can — when he sees the opportunities for the work to which he gave so much of his life. He died during his pastorate at Gainesville, and there lies his body. Sister Sweeney is now connected with Texas Christian University. T. D. Secrest was one of the best informed men along many lines with whom it was ever my privilege to converse. It was a pleasure to feel that he was one's close and intimate friend. I have felt tempted to copy some extracts from personal letters received from him, but that would, perhaps, do injustice to others from whom I have letters filed — letters which will always be a source of strength and joy. Those letters from Secrest were so full of joy 216 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD and hope and cheer and faith and love. And yet he was one of the most intense sufferers whom I have ever known. Never did I hear a moan escape his lips, nor a hint of complain- ing. He died at Marfa, where he had labored, and where his memory is, to-day, a benediction. V. I. Stirman. I did not know of his death until Bro. R. C. Horn sent his name in a list of departed ones. I knew him most intimately. In past years we were colaborers in the Mas- ter's vineyard. During the later periods our paths divided — not because of personal differ- ences, but my work lay along a different line from his, and I was always closely identified with all our great organized efforts, while his views were different. I always esteemed him highly for his work's sake, as well as for his own. He lived to an advanced age, and, I doubt not in the least, has been welcomed by the Saviour in the home above. J. T. Toof's work was with the Commerce Street Church of Dallas. He and his wife were most estimable people, were diligent labor- ers for the kingdom of the Lord, and much beloved by disciples of Christ, and by those of the world wherever they were known. Dur- ing the term of his service in Dallas the plans were made for the erection of the building in which the Central Church now meets. This 217 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS church was the successor of the Commerce Street Church. After the laying of the foun- dation for the new building, the pastor yielded to the persuasion of his uncle in Connecticut, who had long been a father to him, to take a place in his large business enterprise. Not long afterward he met his tragic death in an explosion wrecking the building in which the office was located. Dr. A. P. Terrell was an osteopathic phy- sician, and a minister of the gospel. He served the church at McKinney as well as churches at other places. He loved the truth, and was eager to contend for that which he believed to be the revelation of Jesus Christ. Perhaps some thought he was overanxious for discus- sion for the sake of discussion, but those who knew him better than did others, never thought this of him. He was a master in debate. As an evangelist he did considerable service suc- cessfully. He died in Fort Worth. His widow was his partner in his professional work, and has continued the practice since his death. B. F. and Homer T. Wilson were brothers. They were Kentuckians, coming from that State to Texas. The former preached at Bryan, Arlington, Sherman and other points; the latter at Dallas, Fort Worth and San Antonio. Both were close students, but along 218 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD different lines. The predominating study of the one was books; that of the other, the daily papers and men. One was logical and careful in arrangement of his material ; the other was poetical and eloquent and magnetic. One was reserved ; the other, progressive. B. F. was considered by the careful thinker as the stronger preacher ; while Homer was an ideal, not to say idol, of the masses. Homer was a popular lecturer, and was, for years, the chaplain of the traveling-men of the State in their organization — T. P. A. He organized that which is now the Magnolia Avenue Chris- tian Church of Fort Worth. Each of the brothers performed the task which he assigned to himself, and each in his own individual way. David Walk was one of the great preachers of the brotherhood. A portion of his last years upon earth was spent in Texas. At one time he had been in comfortable financial con- dition, but reverses changed this, and at the time of his death, while not in penury, he was a poor man. He belonged to the day of McGarvey, Graham, Loos and Errett, and ranked among the leaders of the Restoration movement. Among his many charms as a preacher were clear enunciation, simple style in communication of thought, systematic ar- 219 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS rangement great thoughts and loyalty to the teaching of the New Testament as the revela- tion of Jesus Christ. J. J. Williamson's name will not be fa- miliar to those of to-day save among those who were here as long as thirty years ago. This does not mean that he was not able or useful or pleasing or true, because he was all of these. He was not an assuming person, and did not push himself to the front. His ser- vices were always in demand, but this was within a limited range, because of the reserve of his nature. He was among the most jovial of men. He never shirked responsibility be- cause the duties demanded hard work. He was arduous in service and unselfish in de- mands. Williamson related to me, on one occasion, how it happened that he made an enemy of a woman for life. He was con- ducting a protracted meeting at a certain place, and at the close of an evening service one of the sisters invited him to dine with her the next day, adding that she would have "turkey." Williamson accepted the invitation most graciously, but he did not know who she was, intending to ask some one as soon as she turned away. But fates sometimes work against preachers as well as other folks Some one else engaged him in conversation, 220 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD and when he asked for information the lady had disappeared. He was not an adept in describing the clothes or appearance of women, and could not make any one understand suffi- ciently to help him from his dilemma. Finally some one said, "That was Sister Jones" — fictitious name, of course. On the next day he reported at the home of Sister Jones, only to find no one there except the man of the house, who declared there was no turkey on his lunch table, but told him she must have been Sister Brown. To Sister Brown's he hied himself, and found the lady engaged in her week's washing, and not at all expecting company. However, she hospitably invited him to share her "wash-day dinner," which he declined, and went to Sister Smith's as now directed. And so it went for an hour, and the place where the turkey and an irate lady were await- ing him was never found. That evening at the services she approached and notified him that never again would she invite him to sit at her table, because — etc., etc., etc. And she meant every word which she spoke. No explanations were acceptable, because not to know her was an unpardonable sin. F. S. Young has been mentioned under "The Texas Christian Missionary Convention." His labors were limited because of his early 221 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS death. He was an acceptable and useful min- ister of Jesus Christ. E. V. Zollars was lovingly known among his students as "Pa Z." No school president, perhaps, ever came nearer to a universal ardent student love than did he wherever he labored, and his work was wide in scope. He was presi- dent of Hiram College, Texas Christian Uni- versity and Phillips University, the latter be- ing founded by him. He was a fluent, attrac- tive, instructive writer and speaker. None ever seemed to tire of listening to him when he spoke. He was the author of a number of books which at once took a leading place, especially among our own people. His work in Texas covered only a few years. He died while president of Phillips University, at Enid, Oklahoma. IV. The fourth list embraces the names of more than a half-hundred preachers. Some of these I never met; others I knew only slightly. My limited knowledge forbids an attempt to write concerning them as their memory to others doubtless deserves. Caleb Burns, Wade Barrett, Walter Dabney, John King, J. S. Muse and J. B. Wilmott— these I never knew. I knew Thomas Barrett as an aged man, but not during the days of his service. He was one of the notables in the 222 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD locality where he lived. Dr. A. Cartwright I saw once or twice, and was much impressed with his strength of mind and heart. He died many years ago. Ed Dabney lived near Bren- ham, and preached in that section for years, and his memory lives there to this day. Brother Elgin was a successful evangelist who died just prior to my arrival in the State. His name was on many tongues, and always to his praise. B. F. Hall's body lies in the Van Alstyne Cemetery. He was a remarkable preacher. I never knew him, as he died just prior to my coming to the State. Many times have I heard those who had heard him, speak of his sermons and of incidents connected with his life. Some seemed to think that, during his closing days, he was the object for bitter and unnecessary opposition and persecution. Of this I can not speak, as my information is only "hearsay." At any rate, he was a mas- terful preacher, and a man of wonderful power. Dr. Carroll Kendrick was a physician and a preacher. His home was at Palestine, and he was one of the pioneers of the work in that section. In his early days, he favored a more systematic co-operative work, but when this was being inaugurated he opposed it. Al- though he was not a citizen of Texas at the time (1886), he was present when the organi- zation was accomplished, and united with Bro. 223 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS C. M. Wilnieth in leading the opposition. To him is due large credit for advances made by the churches in an early day in the State. I never met him except at the Austin meeting, to which I have just referred. His closing days were spent in California. Washington Lyles, Marquis, Mansell Matthews, Dr. J. H. 0. Polly — these I never knew, but have heard much of their work and faithfulness. John Rawlins and Willian Stewart I have met only a few times. They worked more in their own localities than in a larger way, and those who knew them well appreciated their loyal services. N. Van Horn was not one of the very early workers here. He came later and lived for a few years, making his home, for the greater part of the time, in Fort Worth, although he never ministered to one of the churches there. He preached to the church in Decatur, and did a most excellent work in assisting in the exposition of one who came to Texas wearing the garments of a saint of light, but bearing a record of infamy and shame. Let the name of this man remain where it now is — in oblivion. James L. Thornberry was in Texas when I came. He was "a charac- ter, ' ' and one of his peculiarities was his appre- ciation of — well, let me relate a story. Once he was a visitor in my home. He and I were engaged in conversation. My mother (a Bap- 224 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD tist) was in the room reading — that is, sup- posedly reading. Brother Thornberry did not know of her church relationship, and, in com- menting on some of our preachers who did not suit his ideas, said: "Brother McPherson, they haven't any more sense than the fool Baptists." In the same conversation he was speaking of President Garfield, who had recently been elected, and said: "Yes, that was a great achievement. Last year I made quite a number of addresses on the necessity of placing moral men in office, but did not dream, at the time, that they would bear fruit so early." He had been having some trouble with editors of papers because they failed to publish some of the mat- ter he sent in — he was an abundant writer. His remark was: "They pigeonhole my articles, and after a year or two bring them out as editorials." Perhaps the saying which im- pressed me more than any other I ever heard from him was in the following incident. I had just arrived in Texas, but had heard of Brother Thornberry, and of his scorn for the young preacher — and I was a young preacher. I had, prior to leaving Kentucky, read a little discussion between Brother Thornberry and Isaac Errett in the Christian Standard, and thought to use this as a means of making him like at least one young preacher. I introduced myself thus: "Brother Thornberry, I read with 15 225 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS much interest your discussion recently in the Standard." At once his face brightened, and I found hope begin to form that I had won my way to his heart. He said, with a smile : ' ' Yes, yes. I tell you, Brother MePherson, Isaac Errett is a wonderful man." To this I agreed. "He is head and shoulders above any other of our editors. ' ' And I assented. Then : ' 1 But didn't I everlastingly thrash him in that dis- cussion?" Just what I replied has faded from my memory. Also, there were L. S. Ridgeway, J. t B. Wilmeth, Frank Wilmeth, J. R. Wilmeth, Knox P. Taylor, Philip Miner, John M. McKinney, W. C. McKinney, W. H. Scott, T. J. Austin, Bryce Austin, William Barnett, G. F. O'Con- nell, W. Reynolds, W. H. Duke, C. W. Sewell, Robert Henderson, R. A. O'Brien, T. J. Hun- saker, Hugh Gerhart, Benton Sweeney, Bass Sweeney, Dr. Adkins, A. J. Toole, S. W. Ken- nedy, William Thompson, John T. Holloway, Harbison, W. P. Richardson, W. D. Darnall, Frank Rawlins, Addison King, and Carnes, Sr. Some of these it was never my privilege to meet face to face, and they were known, if at all, only at a distance, as it were. Some I knew better, though slightly. They are all spoken of as men true and tried. This list of 125 of "Our Remembered Dead" has been prepared with great care, 226 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD aided by A. J. Bush, R. C. Horn, Randolph Clark, G. D. Smith, J. C. Mason and J. W. Holsapple. If there have been any omissions, they were certainly not intentional. Still, there may have been such. Memory sometimes plays us tricks which we can not understand. The first list, which I prepared without help, I later discovered did not include the names of several of my most intimate friends — men whom I loved as brothers indeed. If any one has been overlooked, his friends will be chari- table, because they will understand. There were others — some of these I knew well — who labored only incidentally as minis- ters of the Word, but who were faithful servants of the Master, each in his own con- gregation. Their works still follow them. I have called the names of men who have preached the everlasting gospel of the Son of God within the borders of Texas, and who have gone home to glory. Many of these were my intimate friends. One by one I have seen them pass from view into the seeming mists, and yet I knew they were not in the mists. It only appeared so to us as we looked from where we stood. As I think of them, one by one, I realize "there were giants in those days." But I am not in the least depreciating the men of to-day. And still it is true that we who are now in the service could "not be 227 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS made perfect" without those of yesterday. And may we remember that if we should prove to be unfaithful to the opportunities which those men left as our legacy, the largest possi- bilities of their work will fail of realization. With the lives of those men my own life has been intertwined to a greater or less de- gree. It was my lot to speak over the dead bodies of Brothers Cole, Carter, Riall, J. B. Sweeney, Stapp, Lockhart, Johnson, Pritchett, Bush and Carlton; I missed this privilege with several of the others because I was beyond reach at the time. More than fifty of these men have contributed something which I count as precious to my own life, and I owe to them debts of gratitude which I can repay only through an increasing service to the cause for which they lived and died. Have I felt a sense of loneliness growing as these have passed away? Yes and no — yes, when I think only of the past; no, as I look to the present and the future. "We may pause to think of that which they have been and done, and then breathe a prayer of thanksgiving and of peti- tion, and look to the field and to the future. To this list of men of the pulpit might be added the names of many who were indeed preachers, noble and true, who would never have thus designated themselves — a host of gracious, godly heroes and heroines. These 228 OUR REMEMBERED DEAD will never be forgotten ; their names live in memory; their deeds live in multitudes of lives ; without them, the achievements of those whose names are above enrolled would have been impossible. For them we mourn, but not as do others who have no hope ; assured as we are that our Lord died and rose again, we rejoice in the confidence that these who have fallen asleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. Of those who were pulpit advocates for prim- itive Christianity in Texas when I came to the State, January 3, 1879, four remain who have, through the more than four decades, con- stantly labored for the cause which they love. These are RANDOLPH CLARK, STEPHENVILLE. A. C. ATEN, ROUND ROCK. R. C. HORN, "VTNELAND. DAVID PENNINGTON, TAYLOR. I rejoice in the confidence that each of these is my close, personal friend, as well as my brother in the Lord, and to each would I say: 'Tis true, my friend, that every cloud Has a lining which is bright; And just as true that every day Is followed by its night. And, oh, what joy and gladness In this for me and you, This mingling of the somber With God's ethereal blue. 229 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS For many years have you and I Been friends and workers too ; We've felt the darkness of the cloud And the brightness of the blue. We've seen the hand that leadeth us, We've felt His heart beat true; We know the gladsome blessedness He's granted me and you. 230 A Few Women 1. Mrs. A. A. Johnston 2. Mrs. Clara Walden 3. Mrs. Annie Wilkinson 4. Mrs. Juliette Fowler 5. Mrs. Sarah Harwood 6. Mrs. Charles Carlton 7. Mrs. Taliaferro 8. Mrs. O. A. Carr 9. Miss Kate Hanson 10. Mrs. M. M. Blanks 11. Mrs. E. E. Chevalier 12. Mrs. J. Z. Miller 13. Mrs. Frances Cooke Van Zandt 14. Mrs. Ida V. Jarvis 15. Mrs. G. D. Smith 16. Miss Grace Carlton 17. Miss Sallie Joe Carlton 18. Mrs. Terry King 19. Miss Tyler Wilkerson 20. Mrs. Anna D. Bradley 231 A FEW WOMEN A FEW WOMEN O write even a fragment of the history 1 of Disciples in Texas, or elsewhere, with- out a tribute to woman would be like the much- referred-to play of "Hamlet," with Hamlet left out. What our work would have been to-day if woman had not laid "her hands to the spindle" no one can say.' And yet every man can say that it would have been far short of what it is. What she has done can not be tabulated in statistics, nor written up in well- worded articles. Her influence has done the largest part of its work when she has silently striven through the lives of others. The mothers, the wives, the sisters, the daughters, the women in the Bible school and in the pew, and wherever they have been — who can com- pute the influence they have exerted? To attempt to make a list of those who have helped in such worthy ways to lead us to where we are would be unjust because it would of neces- sity omit many of the choicest of all. And yet woman must be mentioned ; and now I am wondering where to begin, where to close, what to say, how to say it, who should be included 233 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS not to make the list overlong — these and many other things are struggling in my mind. I shall draw my bow and shoot at a venture. There are women who have been prominent factors, and who have been recognized as lead- ers in many lines of service. I shall attempt to mention only a few. Mrs. A. A. Johnston was a woman of most precious memory. Her home was in Dallas, where her influence still lingers in the hearts of hundreds, and where a society of young women bears her name. To the preacher she was always a friend, and to the young preacher she was a perpetual encouragement and bene- diction. Here I speak from delightful ex- perience. Mrs. Clara Walden lived and died in Fort Worth. For years she was a teacher there, and always one of the leaders of women in missionary service. I remember one of the mottoes which she had hung in one of the rooms of the First Church, where she held her membership before going with the Tabernacle Church — now Magnolia Avenue: "I am always glad when the Father gives me something hard to do." She led at least one young man to dedicate his life to the Christian ministry — George W. Morrison, of Mineral Wells. Her 234 A FEW WOMEN death was tragic — killed by an automobile, in Fort Worth. Mrs. Annie Wilkinson was State president of the Christian Woman's Board of Missions. I knew her personally for years, and was fre- quently a guest in her home. She was one of the most charming women of my acquaintance — cultured and kind and consecrated. Former- ly her home was in Denison, and later in Austin, where her husband, Judge A. E. Wil- kinson, is reporter for the Supreme Court of Texas. It was in Austin that she passed from us. Mrs. Juliette Fowler was the principal mover in what are now our Orphans' and Old People's Homes in Dallas. Her benefactions made these works possible, and hundreds of children and older people have already learned to call her name "blessed." She was retiring in her life, but her thoughts were always for the help of the suffering. Not for many years will the time come when Texas Disciples shall ask : " Who was Mrs. Fowler ? ' ' Mrs. Sarah Harwood was a sister of Mrs. Fowler, and took up the work which her sister had planned, and gave her energies and life until the day of her death. Those who knew her personally remember her as kind, loving, gentle and Christian in every way. I recall 235 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS that she said to me once that which I have ever treasured, and which has helped me in moments of severe struggle: "Brother McPherson, you are growing more gentle as the years come to you." That little sentence has helped me to gain victories over self when the struggle was hard. How much thousands of lives have been aided by just such words as these ! Why not speak them more frequently than we do? "Aunt Sallie" — that was what hundreds of her acquaintances called her, and all because they loved her. ' ' Aunt Sallie ' ' was, in the home of Carlton College, and in the hearts of all who ever visited there, and of many, many others, the delightful inspiration and help to life. This I knew both from my own experience and from the words many times told by my own dear daughter, who was in Carlton College as student and as teacher for several years, and who is now with "Aunt Sallie" in the land of light and of glory. It is not necessary to say to any one who lived in Texas, and was identi- fied with our own work so long as fifteen years ago. that she was the wife of Bro. Charles Carlton, president of Carlton College, in Bon- ham. She lives to-day in the loving memory of many hundreds of students and friends. Mrs. Taliaferro, whose initials I do not now recall, was the mother of the wife of 236 A FEW WOMEN Philip S. King, pastor of the church at Marfa. She was the wife of Dr. Taliaferro, who died many years ago. She was one of the giants intellectually, among the women of Texas. For a number of years she taught in Hillsboro and in other places, and was matron of girls in Texas Christian University. Not only was she a giant in mind, but in heart and soul as well. Mrs. 0. A. Carr was one of the women who could not be conquered by difficulties, and who was never satisfied with the achieve- ment of small things. She was the wife of 0. A. Carr, one of the strong writers and preachers of his day. She achieved what was perhaps the fondest dream of her life in what is now Carr-Burdette College, a school for girls, presided over by Mr. and Mrs. Cephas Shelburne, in Sherman. When she began her plans but few thought they could ever be accomplished ; that is, among those who did not know her well. She began with almost nothing, but the work was done, and chiefly by her own personal efforts. She and her husband were the heads of the institution until her death, and he continued until his own life closed. Miss Kate Hanson was the mother of the Texas Christian Woman's Board of Missions, and was mentioned in the article on that or- ganization by the present State president. She 237 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS lived in Dallas, and, in a most quiet and unas- suming way, inaugurated a work which has broadened and deepened since that day, and which is still growing in usefulness and power. She died in Dallas a number of years ago. Mrs. M. M. Blanks' home was in Lockhart, where she and her most excellent husband — Dr. J. G. Blanks — were among the strongest leaders of the forces for both primitive Chris- tianity and righteousness in the largest sense of the word. Both were exceedingly liberal, and were always ready to help good works in every possible manner. Sister Blanks gave her influence largely to the advancement of the work of the C. W. B. M. Her deeds of benevolence through this channel are men- tioned in articles written by others in another part of this volume. She died in Austin, where her home was during the last several years of her life. Mrs. E. E. Chevalier was another of the stalwart, though not masculine, women of the State. She was feminine in every true sense of the word, and was an inspiration to higher things in the lives of those who were thrown into personal touch with her. She was a prom- inent figure in the missionary conventions of the State, and always honored. She died, I think, at her home in Belton. 238 A FEW WOMEN Mrs. J. Z. Miller was another Belton woman who was always, though in a quiet way, a leader among the forces for righteousness in the larger works of the brotherhood. She was the wife of Col. J. Z. Miller, whom we all know, and was ever a partner with him in many departments of work for the advance- ment of the kingdom of Christ in Texas and elsewhere. She died while still comparatively young in years, and her leaving was felt by all who had been in co-operation with her in the work for humanity and for Christ. Mrs. Frances Cooke Van Zandt was never a public worker in one of our State organiza- tions, and yet her name deserves especial men- tion because of what she did in influencing many works in many ways. She was one of the most extraordinary women whom I ever knew. When we stood at her bier, after she had died at the age of ninety-four, we were impressed with the thought that indeed a mother in Israel had fallen asleep. In her early life, she was a member of the Baptist Church. That was a time when many of the church organizations thought they were called and sent to kill each other, and most of them attempted to faithfully live up to their con- victions. Mrs. Van Zandt early saw the evils of denominationalism, and heard with delight 239 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the plea made by the early Restorationists, which she gladly accepted. In her explanation of her course she used to say that she was pre- sented with the alternative "of getting out of denominationalism or of being kicked out," and she preferred the former mode of pro- cedure. She was the mother of Maj. K. M. Van Zandt, Mrs. L. V. Clough, Dr. I. L. Van Zandt, Mrs. Fannie Beall and Mrs. Ida V. Jarvis, all of Fort Worth and all still alive. These were present at her funeral service — the eldest, Mrs. Clough, being at that time seventy- six years of age. Those whose names have been mentioned have passed from our ranks. There are many who still live among us whose names should be mentioned, but the list must necessarily be abbreviated for want of space. Mrs. Ida V. Jarvis. If Texas Disciples were asked to make lists of the women among us in the State, still living, who have been and are active and prominent for the large works of the brotherhood, the name of Mrs. Jarvis would perhaps head the lists of a large majority. Her husband, Maj. J. J. Jarvis, who was one of the most useful men we ever had among us, was accustomed to say to us that at conventions he was known "as the husband of Mrs. Jarvis." She seems to have 240 A FEW WOMEN had a hand in an important way in almost all of the movements which have ever been in- augurated among us for the uplift of human- ity. She has served as State president of the C. W. B. M., as a member of the Advisory Board for T. C. U., and as a leader in almost all the organizations of women in Fort Worth which labor for the uplift of humanity. She has been, for years, an active worker in the W. C. T. U., and is to-day actively engaged in several important works in Fort Worth and elsewhere. Her work for the industrial school for the colored people has been mentioned in other places of this work. Mrs. G. D. Smith, State president of the C. W. B. M., is and has been one of the wise and faithful and diligent and unselfish workers for the cause of Christ in Texas. Her home is in Dallas, where she is a member of the Central Church. Her husband served for many years as the secretary of the Board for the Texas Christian Missionary Convention, and was ever at his post in the faithful discharge of his duties — always without a cent of re- muneration. I have known Sister Smith per- sonally for many years, and have never once heard of her being absent from a meeting of the Disciples where she was one of the factors, either locally or in a general way, unless there ie 241 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS was some exceptionally well-recognized reason for this. Not only has she been present, but her presence has always counted for something worth while. She and Brother Smith have been pillars in both local and general work. Misses Grace and Sallie Joe Carlton. No two sisters in the State have done more for the cause of Jesus Christ than have these two. No one woman has, perhaps, done more real constructive work for the Master than has been done by either of these. For many years, they were the coworkers with their father and brother through Carlton College. Many hun- dreds of men and women, living and dead, have given lives to bless humanity — men and women who were largely influenced by these and their fellow -workers. Miss Grace served for several years as president of the Texas C. *W. B. M., and her final resignation was received with great regret. After the death of Brother Carlton, they, with their brother, conducted the school which he had established and conducted for so many years. Their work, as seen in the history of to-day, is a noble monument to their lives. They are still with us, and, though not conducting the college, each is working hard, for others more than self. Many interesting incidents could be related in illustration of the splendid character of their 242 A FEW WOMEN work. Texas is far better because of their lives. Mrs. Terry King was, for a number of years, the State secretary for the C. W. B. M., and she was constantly diligent and faithful in her service to that organization of women. Recently she has been made regional secretary, with her headquarters in Ft. Worth, being suc- ceeded by Mrs. McMasters in the Texas work. The women of the societies speak in high praise of her work in the State, and their best wishes go with her to her larger field. Miss Tyler Wilkinson would be shocked if she were to be told that her name is to appear on the pages of this work. If she were asked what she had done, worthy of special mention, for the general work of Texas Disciples, she would be surprised at the ques- tion, and say "Nothing." But that is where all who have known of her work would beg leave to differ from her. As State secretary for the Christian Endeavor, as matron for girls in Texas Christian University, and as helper in the State work of the C. W. B. M., she has over been an invaluable worker. Perhaps no one has ever been more generally favorably received in these works than has she. Those who really know her love her for her own sake as well as for her works' sake. 243 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS Mrs. Anna D. Bradley has not lived in Texas during the past twenty years. Her home is now in Chicago. During her stay among us in the State her influence for all which was for our good grew by bounds. She was a frequent speaker in our conventions, and was always heard with delight. But her great- est field for the exercise of her powers was by means of articles contributed through the press. She had a most happy faculty of taking the little, every-day things of life, and causing them to shine with lessons which were read with eagerness by thousands. She wrote for the home department of the Christian Standard as well as for the Christian Courier. To this day many ask, "Why does not Mrs. Bradley write for our papers?" Sure enough — why? 244 Our Contributors 1. L. D. Anderson 2. J. B. Holmes 3. S. W. Hutton 4. Edward McShane Waits 5. Frank L. Jewett 6. Colby D. Hall 7. J. T. McKissick 8. Cephas Shelburne 9. Misses Grace and Sallie Joe Carlton 10. J. N. Ervin 11. M. Boyd Keith 12. Arthur A. Everts 13. Mrs. G. D. Smith 245 OUR CONTRIBUTORS OUR CONTRIBUTORS I WISH to express my appreciation of the 1 assistance which those named in the list below have given in the preparation of this volume. They have most cheerfully accepted the task asked of them, notwithstanding they are busy people. They laid aside their other work for a time, and gave us that which the readers will receive with pleasure. L. D. Anderson is known in and out of Texas for his work's sake. His first preaching in Texas was at Athens, then at Ennis, at Palestine, and with the First Church of Fort Worth. At the two last-named places, es- pecially, he did monumental works. In Fort Worth I have been closely associated with him, and know of the difficulties which never dis- couraged him ; of the aims which he has always had for large things for humanity, and which have been, and are, being worked out to suc- cess; of the bigness of the faith of the man, and of his splendid loyalty to all which his Lord either said or did. In the "Introduc- tion," he has, probably, somewhat stretched his utterances, moved by long friendship; they 247 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS should be taken with a degree of allowance. He could not write otherwise of any one than in great kindness. J. B. Holmes has been the Superintendent of Missions in Texas for about two years, and the work has been made to move in that time, and that in the right direction. His thought is threefold — efficiency, permanency, loyalty. He is cultivating the co-operation of the churches in a remarkable way. Of course the zenith has not been reached, but his work is headed in that direction. The churches of the State have confidence in the man and in his work. That which he has contributed to this volume in regard to the missionary work in the State, will prove to be exceedingly inter- esting reading for all who turn these pages. S. W. Hutton came to Texas as an assistant pastor to J. E. Dinger for the First Church of Fort "Worth, and there his splendid worth was discovered by Texans. His work, his life, and all that he gave, were found to be worth having. He accepted the pastorate of the Riverside Church in the same city, and, during the time, pursued his studies with Texas Chris- tian University, taking his A.B. degree. From that he entered the State Bible-school work, and then the same for the Soii.thwest, which he is now conducting. His article concerns 248 OUR CONTRIBUTORS the history of the important work with which he is connected, and which he so dearly loves. During the past year or so he has led the movement for the endowment, by the Bible schools, of a chair for Bible-school instruction in Brite College of the Bible. This last is now completed. Edward McShane Waits is the worthy president of Texas Christian University. His first work in the State was as pastor of the church at Ladonia. From there he went to El Paso in response to a call from the Central Church, and from there went to Fort Worth as pastor of what was known as "The Taber- nacle Church." As that and the First Chris- tian Church were thought to be too near to each other's territory, under his leadership the Tabernacle congregation sold its property, and built on its present site. He remained with this church — the Magnolia Avenue Church — for several years, and then accepted a call from a congregation in California. Before leaving, he yielded to the entreaties of the trustees of the University to allow them to ask for a release from the California church that he might accept the presidency of the institu- tion. He has occupied this position for the past two or three years, and has been growing during the time in all that goes to make a 249 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS college president. Texas loves him for his own sake as well as for that of his service. Frank L. Jewett writes most interestingly of the Bible Chair work in connection with the State University, under the auspices of the Christian Woman's Board of Missions. The growth of the work has been quite satisfactory to the promoters, and to those who are closely connected with it. The Bible Chair seems to have made a gratifying appeal to the manage- ment of the University, judging from all the reports which have reached the outside world. Brother Jewett has been with the work for a number of years, and the indications are that he will continue for years to come. Colby D. Hall is dean of Brite College of the Bible, Texas Christian University. I have been closely associated with him in the Bible College work for the past six years, and in other capacities for a number of years pre- viously. All who know "Colby D.," as he is frequently familiarly called, love him because he is lovable. His interest in the young men and women who are preparing themselves for definite work in the kingdom of Jesus Christ never flags. He is always on the alert for anything which will conduce to their welfare or for their usefulness. He is tactful, kind, efficient, Christian. Read that which he has to 250 OUR CONTRIBUTORS say concerning the work which lies so near to his heart. J. T. McKissick is one of the really big men of the State. He is modest and unassum- ing, and herein lies one of the elements of his real bigness. His first work as a preacher was in Texas, though he came from Tennessee. He was educated, partly, at Italy, under Alex- ander Holt, who conducted a school there. From there he went to what is now Texas Christian University. He labored most effi- ciently as pastor of the church at Weatherford. He returned to his native State, and became Superintendent of Missions there. But, even- tually, the lure of Texas drew him here again, and he is serving as pastor of the church at Midland and as president of Midland Col- lege. He has given us a most excellent article, which should be carefully read by all. Therein are revealed some of the true ideals of a Chris- tian college, and of the education which should come from such institutions. Cephas Shelburne first labored, in the State, as pastor of the East Dallas Church. Then he became editor and publisher of the Christian Courier; then pastor of the church at Lancaster, from which work he was called to the presidency of Carr-Burdette College of Sherman, where he is now doing most excellent 251 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS work. Brother Slielburne is one of the most attractive writers among us, and all which he says carries the ring of loyalty to all which is true. There is never any mistaking as to the meaning of his words. No one needs to ask, "Where does Cephas Slielburne stand?" on any question which touches the moral or the Biblical from any standpoint. This is his first year as president of the college, but he and his splendid wife are making things move. Misses Grace and Sallie Joe Carlton and their brother, Charles T. Carlton — these three have been among the genuinely true and diligent workers for Christian education and for true Christian principles In Texas for years. Succeeding their lamented and noble father with Carlton College, they struggled for years against tremendous odds. At present, the sisters are still in Bonham. doing faithful service. They are among our highest types of women. Their article will be read by every one who takes this volume in hand, and the reading will be marvelously repaid. They relate many incidents of which I had no knowledge until it was read from their manu- script. J. N. Ervin is the diligent and accomplished president of the school known as Jarvis In- stitute, at Hawkins. This is for the education 252 OUR CONTRIBUTORS of hand and mind and heart of the colored youths of the State and elsewhere. All who have visited the institution speak of it, and of the work and of the Faculty, in inspirational terms. "When the representatives from the school visit our State conventions, they thrill us with their songs, talks and other messages. The people of the vicinity of Hawkins testify to the splendid worth of the president, and of those who are associated with him, both as helpers and as students. Read what Brother Ervin has to say, and you will understand why his work is deemed so meritorious. M. Boyd Keith insists that he is not a writer. And yet he writes to the delight of those who read. He vows that he is not a speaker, but we sit in the deepest interest when he speaks. He is one of the ever-jovial-and- always-sunshiny sort. He has a heart which is far bigger than is his body, and he is no dwarf physically. He is the man-of-all-work for our benevolent institutions — the Juliette Fowler Homes for orphans and aged people. This is his business, and he sells autos as a side line by which he can earn something upon which he and his family can live. That which he says will repay your reading. Try it. Arthur A. Everts. Well, we all know "Brother Everts." His first public message to 253 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS the people was, "Pay your tithe to the Lord." He has never changed his text nor his sermon. Always and forever he says, 'Pay your tithe to the Lord." And we have begun to hearken to the message, and to pay our tithes. He induced others to tithe by first tithing himself; then by giving his word to us at conventions; then by writing to us; then by scattering literature ; then by engaging men to go to the churches and to preach the gospel of the tithe. Everts can think of more ways to reach the hearts of the people without changing either text or sermon than can many living men with multitudes of texts and sermons. Read what Everts says — tithe. Mrs. G. D. Smith, of Dallas, ladies and gentlemen. All Texas knows her, and we all love her, and her husband as well. Those two Christians always attend conventions, both State and general. Always are they at the services of the local congregation. Always are they taking a hand in every sort of good work; always are they busy for humanity and for humanity's God. Sister Smith is the excellent president of the Texas C. W. B. M. Unless she fails in physical strength, she will, doubt- less, occupy this important position for — well, forever. In this volume she tells an interesting story of the beginning and growth of the or- 254 OUR CONTRIBUTORS ganization over which she presides, and of its work. Read it and you will be anxious to learn still more. THE COMPANY UNNAMED Forgotten? Assuredly not. Their name is legion, and their deeds are worthy. Without them, the work of the kingdom in Texas would not have yet reached the proportions which have been attained. These men and women have been hands and feet and tongue and brain and purse and heart. They have planned and prayed and toiled, and the fruit has been largely theirs. Among these are some known as "preachers," and others who would shrink from being so classed; yet preachers they are in deed and in truth. Some are still among us, while the bodies of others lie beneath the sod. Let us not say "ministers and laymen." Too noble have been their lives, and too far- reaching their influence, to mar it with so ignoble a word as "laymen." I am tempted to write a list of these heroes and heroines; but it must not be. To attempt a record of their names and deeds — I am persuaded that even Texas itself might not be able to contain the books which could be written. "Hyper- bole?" Read John 21:25. 255 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS The Unnamed — Great is this company both in numbers and in deeds. We remember with gratitude their eloquence, their diligence, their wisdom, their faith, their hope, their loyalty, their heart power, their charity, their sacrifice. These disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ — the unnamed company — we salute in the name of the Texas brotherhood. 256 Studies 1. Buried with Christ — A Study 2. A Search for "Our Plea" 17 257 STUDIES BURIED WITH CHRIST— A STUDY ' ' We were buried, therefore, with him, through bap- tism into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we, also, might walk in newness of life. ' ' — Eom. 6 : 4. IS the apostle simply saying that, in Christian baptism, the bodies of penitent believers are buried beneath the water? What is buried in baptism with the Lord? The physical body? Is there truth in the statement that a physical action can not attain to the significance of being "buried with Christ" if there is nothing more to the burial than an external act, al- though the person thus buried may be a peni- tent believer in the Lord Jesus Christ? Is, or is not, the burial with Christ a spiritual one? I shall assume that it is not necessary to offer proof to my readers that a burial with the Christ includes a submergence of the entire person in Him. Then, what constitutes "the entire person ' ' ? Observe these three teachings of the pas- sage: (1) Baptism is into death; (2) the bap- tized are raised from the dead; (3) the resur- 259 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS rected one walks in newness of life. These things could not be spoken of the burial of a material body. The death and burial and resurrection must be of the spirit of man. What is the "newness of life"? Can it be attained unless there be first a newness of pur- pose and of affection and of thought ? ' ' Burial with Christ" involves the burial of our thought in His thought, of our affection in that which He loves, and of our will in His will. These are included in "the entire man." The sub- mergence of our thought and affection and purpose must be more than a doctrine — it must be a reality, if we are to walk, as He walks, in newness of life. Is not this the meaning of "faith in Jesus Christ"? Have we attained to even a fair degree of faith in Him when we have intel- lectually admitted the truth of the facts of His pure life, His marvelous wisdom, His supreme love, His miraculous power, His resurrection from the grave, His glorification and His divin- ity? All this "the demons believe" while they "shudder." Faith in the Christ must not ex- clude this, but must include this and more. It means the molding of ourselves — our thoughts and ideals and visions and hopes and fears and purposes and prayers — in His ideals, in His will. Nothing less than this can ever be a complete burial with Christ. 260 STUDIES But why this burial with Him? Why should man, an intellectual being, bring his thought into subservience to that of another? Why should he sit at the feet of any man? Can not he probe into and discover all that lies within the great realm of thought, and that without help or direction from without himself? Can not man, by searching, find out even God, with all that God can mean? Does he not form his own God from his own ideals, and does not his God grow as his con- ception grows? Was not Colonel Ingersoll right when he said : ' ' An honest God is the noblest work of man ' ' ? The reply to these questions depends upon that given to others. "What think you of Jesus of Nazareth? Whose Son is he?" If Jesus of Nazareth was Jesus of Nazareth alone, then man should never sit at His feet more than at the feet of Socrates, or of Shakespeare, or of Woodrow Wilson, or of Darwin. If He is only Jesus of Nazareth, no one of us should ever say to Him: "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" If He is Jesus of Nazareth alone, He has no more power to lead us to the highest realms of the soul than have other men, and there is in Him no power to redeem. A group of men were approaching Cassarea Philippi, when one asked an unusual question : "Who do men say that I am?" And men have 261 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS been trying to solve that very question. "Who is he?" they asked one of another. And some said, "He is John the Baptist" — John who emptied the cities as men flocked to the wilder- ness, drawn by his burning messages; John, a blazing star, leading the way to repentance and promising remission of sins ; John, whose bold loyalty to truth caused sinful men and women, whether of high or low degree, to tremble with fear; John, who gave his life because of his adherence to the right, and went from the executioner's block to glory. This Galilean is John, whom God chose from among His glorified ones because none on earth was equal to the task, for a new and large work needed to be done among men. Others said "Elijah," or "Jeremiah," or "one of the prophets; we can not determine which." On one thing all agreed — "He is a messenger from above; one who formerly lived on earth and so faithfully discharged his duties here that the God of heaven chose him for a second and a larger mission." Viewed from their standpoint of oppor- tunity, these men paid to this Galilean the highest tribute possible from them, but He of whom they spake offered not one word of comment. Perhaps they had failed to reach the true answer to the question. Speaking more personally, He said : ' ' Who do you say 262 STUDIES that I am ? ' ' And one of the company replied : "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." No longer were the lips of the Galilean sealed. If His questions were unusual, what shall we say of His commentary on the reply of His friend? Hear it: "Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah, for flesh and blood hath not revealed this unto thee, but my Father who is in heaven ; and I also say unto thee that thou art Petros, and upon this Petra I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it; and I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." And the historian added: "Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was the Christ." May I digress? To-day there are polished gentlemen, scholars, men of wisdom, who are quick to reply to the question of the Man of Galilee, and their words run something like this: "Jesus of Nazareth, you are a man worthy of honor, a teacher of keen insight, a leader of thought who lived in advance of your day. Notwithstanding your early death, you surpassed many of your elders, and some even of greater opportunities. Your ideas were noble. You drew inspiration to a remarkable 263 DISCIPLES OF CHRIST IN TEXAS degree, and that from the infinite. You had your frailties; mistakes were scattered through your life ; we censure you not, because you were, in this, as our brothers — all men err. "We greet you in our circle as one of the favored sons of God; we honor your memory." These men fall far short, in their tribute, of that of the men of nineteen centuries ago, who pronounced Him as one of the old proph- ets returned to earth. If the Master had no word of comment for those of the long ago, what shall He say of these? Their judgment was one of human wisdom — does this rise above that standard, or does it fall below their measurement ? Theirs was false — is this true ? The announcement made by Peter was from the Father in heaven — unless either Jesus or Matthew, or both, have attempted to deceive — and upon the truth there uttered rests the church of God, and all which it means to men. And it is for this very reason — because Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God ; because it is on this Rock that His church is to stand; because that which is loosed or boun