Catherine Booth

Date of Birth: January 17, 1829

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: October 4, 1890

Biography

Catherine Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army, was a renowned British religious and social activist. Born Catherine Mumford in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, England, she was deeply influenced by the Methodist faith from an early age. Her passion for social reform and evangelical work led her to marry William Booth, a fellow Methodist preacher, in 1855. Together, they founded The Christian Mission, which later became The Salvation Army in 1878. Catherine was a powerful preacher and advocate for women’s rights within the church, believing strongly in equal opportunities for both genders in ministry. She played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s doctrines and practices, emphasizing the importance of social welfare, temperance, and education. Her writings, such as “Female Ministry: Woman’s Right to Preach the Gospel,” remain influential. Catherine Booth’s dedication to her faith and her tireless efforts in social activism left an indelible mark on the 19th-century religious landscape.

5 Interesting Facts about Catherine Booth

1. Catherine Booth was known as the “Mother of The Salvation Army.”

2. She was a strong advocate for women’s rights and believed in the equal spiritual capacity of women and men.

3. Catherine Booth’s health was fragile throughout her life, yet she remained a prolific speaker and writer.

4. She was instrumental in establishing the first Salvation Army training home for women in 1880.

5. Catherine’s writings and teachings continue to influence The Salvation Army’s approach to social justice and evangelical work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Catherine Booth

1. “If we are to better the future, we must disturb the present.”

2. “There is no improving the future without disturbing the present.”

3. “We are made for larger ends than Earth can encompass. Oh, let us be true to our exalted destiny.”

4. “To better the future, we must disturb the present.”

5. “The greatness of a man’s power is the measure of his surrender.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact financial details are not documented, Catherine Booth did not accumulate personal wealth; her life’s work was dedicated to social and religious causes rather than personal financial gain.

Children

Catherine and William Booth had eight children: 1. Bramwell Booth (1856-1929) – He succeeded his father as the General of The Salvation Army. 2. Ballington Booth (1857-1940) – Co-founder of Volunteers of America. 3. Kate Booth (1858-1955) – Known as “La Maréchale,” she led The Salvation Army’s work in France. 4. Emma Booth-Tucker (1860-1903) – Led The Salvation Army in the United States. 5. Herbert Booth (1862-1926) – An officer in The Salvation Army. 6. Marie Booth (1864-1937) – Worked in the administrative side of The Salvation Army. 7. Evangeline Booth (1865-1950) – First female General of The Salvation Army. 8. Lucy Booth (1868-1953) – Married Colonel Emmanuel Hellberg and worked in The Salvation Army.