author
William E. (William Eldridge) Hatcher
1834–1912
A widely known Virginia Baptist preacher of the late 19th century, he combined a gift for speaking with a deep interest in education and public life. His career stretched from the pulpit to publishing and school-building, leaving a lasting mark on Richmond and on Fork Union Academy.
1 Audiobook
John Jasper: The unmatched Negro philosopher and preacher
by William E. (William Eldridge) Hatcher
About the author
Born in Bedford County, Virginia, in 1834, William Eldridge Hatcher became a Baptist minister and graduated from Richmond College in 1858. After early pastorates in Manchester and Baltimore, he returned to Virginia, where he became especially well known as pastor of Richmond's Grace Street Baptist Church.
Hatcher was more than a church leader. He also served as editor of the Religious Herald, led important Baptist educational work in Virginia, and was president of the board of trustees of Richmond College. In 1898, he founded Fork Union Academy, an institution that would continue to grow after his lifetime.
He was also a prolific author, writing books and lectures on ministry, religion, and prominent figures of his day. Remembered as an influential clergyman, speaker, and educator, he died in 1912 after a long public career centered in Virginia.