Founding of Andrews University

Introduction

As we approach the end of the year, Andrews University is on the brink of entering 2024, commemorating the 150th anniversary of its establishment. While celebrating its enduring legacy is important, it is equally crucial to reflect on the institution's history. Understanding the past not only allows us to appreciate our longstanding journey but also serves as a guide for the future, helping us refocus on our original goals and navigate the path ahead. In this article, it will look into the history behind the university's founding, tracing its roots from the Millerite movement to the establishment of Battle Creek College in 1874.

Early Influences on Education: 1840s ~ 1850s

During the infant stages of organizational and institutional development of the Seventh-day Adventist church, there was a notable lack of emphasis on education. Many Adventists regarded education as useless, hindering work for the Kingdom of God. This perspective originated from the Millerites, who believed in the imminent Second coming of Christ. After all, what is the need for an education if Christ is coming soon? Consequently, many early Adventists failed to recognize the importance of education (Knight, 75).

In the 1850s, Adventists slowly shifted their perspective on the need for education (Schwarz, 120). This change in attitude was spurred as the church refined its doctrine on the second coming of Christ. While emphasizing the soon return of Christ, the church made a deliberate decision not to fixate on a specific date but rather anticipate His coming in a near, unknown future. On the issue of the second coming, Ellen White wrote, “the fact that Christ is very soon coming is no reason why the mind should not be improved” (RH, Dec. 23, 1862). As a result, Adventists shifted their focus to life on earth, including education, leading to the development of educational institutions.

Early Development of Educational Institution: 1850s ~ 1870s

1) Home Schools – early 1850s

During the initial phase, the educational system within the SDA church primarily centered around home schools, where parents taught fundamental knowledge and practical skills. Many Adventists held negative opinions about public schools due to concerns such as vulgar language and incidents of fighting. Thus, parents felt the responsibility to shield their children from secular influences. However, the limitations of home schooling soon became apparent as many parents lacked the necessary skills and methods to effectively instruct their children (Schwarz 120).

2) Early SDA School – late 1850s

Towards the end of the 1850s, individual Adventists initiated efforts to establish schools for children. In 1858, James White invited John Byington to open a school in Battle Creek for children in areas where homeschooling was not accessible. The tuition was set at $2.25 per student for a 12-week term. Unfortunately, this early effort to provide education for children was eventually abandoned due to insufficient support for the teacher (Schwarz, 121).

3) Bell’s Select School – 1872

In 1867, Goodloe Harper Bell, a public school teacher, initiated lessons in grammar and writing for young men employed at the Review & Herald publishing house. Initially, most of Bell’s classes operated as private lessons, as the Battle Creek church hesitated to sponsor a teacher. However, with the increasing settlement of young Adventists in the Battle Creek area, the denomination began to actively consider establishing a school for the youth (Schwarz, 121-122). 

By May of 1872, the General Conference committee made a decision to take the financial and administrative responsibilities for the school, which started in June of the same year (Schwarz 125). The General Conference stated the purpose of this school was to equip students "with the teachings of the Bible in reference to those great truths which pertain to this time" (RH, May 7, 1872). Thus, the Battle Creek School of 1872, with Bell and the 12 students, became the first school in the Seventh-day Adventist church to receive denominational support (Knight, 77).

4) Battle Creek College - 1874

In 1874, the Seventh-day Adventist Educational Society became a legal organization, becoming the Battle Creek College. Under the leadership of principal Sidney Brownsberger, Battle Creek College emerged as a pivotal institution in Adventist education, setting a standard for other Adventist schools in terms of what the school should accomplish (Schwarz, 127-128). George Knight, SDA church historian, wrote, “Butler and the school committee stressed that the purpose of the school was to teach the Bible… They wanted a school centered on the Word of God” (Knight, 77).

Final Statement

As we reflect on the historical journey of Andrews University, we see a story of transformation and dedication. From the early days of skepticism about education to the establishment of Battle Creek College, it has shown a steadfast commitment to change, improvement, and learning. Today, as we approach the 150th anniversary, let us remember our history and the purpose for which Battle Creek College was founded: to shield young minds from worldly influence and to teach the word of God.

Sources:

• “A Brief History of Seventh-Day Adventists” - 3rd edition, George R. Knight
• “Light Bearers to the Remnant” - R. W. Schwarz

For Extra Reading:

• "As We Set Forth" - Meredith Jones-Gray