Woodrow W. Wasson (1919–2004)

This book is written by a member of the Disciples of Christ, who is familiar with the distinctivenesses of that particular faith group.

I found the book to be very helpful, as my interest is in the history of the Stone-Campbell religious heritage, from which the Disciples of Christ emerged.

Chapters are:
1. Early Religious Life - This covers the background of his parents up through his conversion to the Disciples of Christ.
2. A Formative Period in religion and Education - This includes his years as student at the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute, his decision to not enroll in Bethany College, and his years at Williams College.

3. Emerges a Leader Among Western Reserve Disciples of Christ - This covers the years Garfield served as a preacher, debater, teacher and principle.

4. A Transition Period - Religion or Politics? - This covers the period when Garfield went into the Ohio State Senate, Civil War, and his election to the US Congress from the 19th Ohio District.

5. Denominational Interests and Activity of Congressman Garfield - This covers the period when the Disciples developed diverse views, his support of "Disciple Progressivism," relationship to Hiram College, the Hiram church of the Disciples of Christ, and the Disciples church in Washington, DC.

6. Wider Spheres of Religious Thought and Activity of Congressman Garfield - This covers the widening religious thinking of Garfield; religion and the democratic ideal; Garfield as a spokesman for religious freedom.

The book includes a bibliography and a nice index.

Although this is a little book, I have not found as much information on Garfield's religious background in any other book -- so far.… (mere)