ABSTRACT
Disciples of Christ came into being at a time of transition in many public arenas. Colonialism was giving way to Jacksonian democracy. Sectarianism was settling in as denominations sought to stake their claims on industrializing urban centers and developing rural communities. Growing interests in scientific knowledge were replacing academic studies in the classics. From the ranks of the schools’ graduates, towns enjoyed a supply of able merchants, bankers, teachers, and lawyers even though the principal purpose of many Disciples institutions was to train ministers. The school benefitted from community allegiance, not the least of which was financial support. As impressive as the numbers may seem in denominational annals, more significant is the educational philosophy that brought them into existence. In addition to being one of the founders of the Disciples of Christ, Alexander Campbell was its chief educational architect. He believed that knowledge is power and that educated citizens promote a responsible society.
