Rating: 0 out of 5 stars
0 ratings
Loading
BK![]()
author
Br. Marshall Keeble
MARSHALL KEEBLE (December 7, 1878 - April 20, 1968) was an African American preacher of the Churches of Christ, whose successful career notably bridged a racial divide in an important American reli...view moreMARSHALL KEEBLE (December 7, 1878 - April 20, 1968) was an African American preacher of the Churches of Christ, whose successful career notably bridged a racial divide in an important American religious movement prior to the Civil Rights Movement.
Born in Murfreesboro, TN to Robert and Mittie Keeble, both of whom had been slaves, his family moved to Nashville, TN around 1883. He began preaching in 1897 with the support and encouragement of his father-in-law S.W. Womack, and other preachers. In 1942, he helped found and became the first president of Nashville Christian Institute.
At age 83, Keeble became a world traveler, touring Palestine and Nigeria, where he preached to large audiences and was made an honorary chief of one tribe. During his second trip he trained preachers and preparing for the construction of the Nigerian Christian Secondary School in Ukpom. The main administrative building at NCSS is named Keeble Hall in his honor. He was also instrumental in founding the Nigerian Christian Hospital in 1965. The same year he was presented with an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Harding University. He was also appointed a Colonel Aide-de-Camp by Tennessee Governor Frank G. Clement, making Keeble the first African-American so honored in Tennessee history.
He died in Nashville in 1968 and is buried in the Greenwood Cemetery.view less