Henry Ward Beecher

Date of Birth: June 24, 1813

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: March 8, 1887

Biography

Henry Ward Beecher was a prominent American clergyman, social reformer, and speaker, born into a distinguished family known for their contributions to religion and social causes. He was born on June 24, 1813, in Litchfield, Connecticut. Beecher was the son of Lyman Beecher, a well-known Presbyterian minister, and Roxana Foote Beecher. He was also the brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Beecher graduated from Amherst College in 1834 and later attended Lane Theological Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio, where his father was president. In 1837, he became a minister in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, and subsequently served in Indianapolis, Indiana. However, his most significant tenure was at Plymouth Church in Brooklyn, New York, where he served from 1847 until his death in 1887. Beecher was a charismatic preacher known for his eloquent sermons that addressed contemporary issues such as abolition, temperance, and women’s suffrage. Beecher’s progressive views and dynamic oratory made him a national figure. He was an outspoken abolitionist and used his pulpit to speak against slavery, which garnered him considerable attention and influence. His efforts extended to supporting the Union during the Civil War, raising funds to purchase rifles for anti-slavery settlers in Kansas, famously known as “Beecher’s Bibles.” In the later years of his life, Beecher was involved in a highly publicized scandal when he was accused of adultery by Theodore Tilton, a former friend, and journalist. Although the trial ended in a hung jury, the scandal did not significantly tarnish his reputation, and he continued to be a respected and influential figure until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Ward Beecher

1. Henry Ward Beecher was one of the most influential American preachers of the 19th century, known for his support of social causes like abolition and women’s suffrage.

2. He was the brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the famous author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

3. Beecher’s sermons attracted a large following, and he was known for his progressive views on religion and society.

4. He was involved in a famous scandal in 1875, accused of adultery by Theodore Tilton, which resulted in a sensational trial.

5. Beecher was an early advocate for the temperance movement, promoting the reduction or prohibition of alcohol consumption.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Ward Beecher

1. “The church is not a gallery for the exhibition of eminent Christians, but a school for the education of imperfect ones.”

2. “Compassion will cure more sins than condemnation.”

3. “Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anybody else expects of you. Never excuse yourself.”

4. “A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It’s jolted by every pebble on the road.”

5. “Greatness lies not in being strong, but in the right use of strength.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Ward Beecher did not accumulate a significant net worth in modern terms; his wealth was primarily in his influence and contributions to social reforms. However, at the height of his career, he was one of the most well-paid clergymen of his time, with an annual salary that was considered substantial.

Children

Henry Ward Beecher had ten children with his wife, Eunice White Bullard Beecher, of whom six survived to adulthood. Their names were: 1. Henry Barton Beecher 2. Harriet Beecher Scoville 3. William Constantine Beecher 4. Mary Beecher Perkins 5. Herbert Foote Beecher 6. Arthur Howard Beecher