Christian Endeavor San Francisco 1897
San Francisco: International Society of Christian Endeavor, 1897. First Edition. 12mo; 31pp; illustrations. Cover illustration by William H. Bull; numeous photo-illustrations of iconic scenes throughout California with text promoting the state and the 16th International Endeavor Convention in San Francisco, July 7-12, 1897. Printed H.S. Crocker Co. Laid in is a 3 1/2" x 5 3/4" slip promoting the Convention and ''the lowest railway rate ever employed by the Traffic Association for a trans-continental trip' overland for 'Eastern Christian Endeavorers. Slight edgewear and agetoning, else a near fine copy in stapled wrappers. Quite scarce. Item #22654
The International Endeavor Convention was organized by the Christian Endeavor Society, a pioneering youth movement founded by Rev. Francis E. Clark in 1881, often credited as the forerunner of modern youth ministry. The event was attended by between thirty and fifty thousand registered delegates and local attendees from across the United States and beyond (including parts of the British Empire, including Canada and Australia, as well as missionary outposts in Asia and Europe) to promote Christian fellowship, service, and moral development.
The convention took place during a vibrant period in San Francisco’s history, just before the turn of the century, and featured parades, speeches, and meetings in decorated venues like Market Street and various churches. Notably, William Jennings Bryan, a prominent political figure and orator, addressed the crowds, adding to the event’s prominence. Stereographic photographs from the time, published by the Keystone View Company, capture the scale of the gathering, showing bustling streets and enthusiastic attendees.
Price: $150.00