This biography by Miss Woodson is the only full-length
treatment on William B. Johnson, being first published in 1950. A
spiritual heir of the early Particular Baptists in South Carolina,
William B. Johnson’s contribution to American Baptist life was not as a
theologian, but rather as a man remarkably gifted in
organizational and administrative
skills—traits that would lead him into prominent leadership positions of
great influence. After serving as president of the General Missionary
(or Triennial) Baptist Convention from
1841-1844, Johnson went on to become the first president of the
newly-formed Southern Baptist Convention, serving in this capacity from
1845-1851. Described as "the major architect of the Southern Baptist
Convention, " Johnson’s role in the formation
of, what has become, the largest Protestant body in the United States is thus of
great significance. But like so many "giants" of the past, today W. B.
Johnson is largely unknown—even among his own constituency.
Drawing mainly from the "Reminiscences" written by
Johnson before he died, this book provides us with insight not only into
the life of this important figure, but also into the issues which
brought the Southern Baptist Convention into being. There is also a
stirring chapter written on the Revival of 1831 in
Edgefield ,
South Carolina , in which Johnson was a participant.
This new reprinting of Miss Woodson’s life of William B.
Johnson has been greatly enhanced by additional illustrations, a new
comprehensive index, and valuable appendices, including a facsimile
reproduction of the minutes of the first Southern Baptist Convention of
May, 1845. This book is the second volume to be released in our
"Charleston Association Series."
Navy cloth vellum.
$24 plus shipping
