TICUA Hall of Fame Spotlight: William Henderson Franklin

TICUA Spotlight: 

Maryville College Graduate William Henderson Franklin

1852-1935

The First African American Graduate of Maryville College, Writer, Educator, and Preacher, Founder of Swift Memorial College

Inducting Institution: Maryville College 

For over 200 years, Maryville College has been guided by the motto of its founder, the Rev. Isaac Anderson: “Do good on the largest possible scale.” Few better personify Maryville College’s statement of purpose than William Henderson Franklin. 

Franklin dedicated his life to educating African American children who otherwise had no access to education. Following his graduation from Maryville College in 1880, Franklin established a Presbyterian church and founding school for African American Youth.