Disciples of Christ Historical Society will be playing a part in the Brentwood (TN) Library Foundation’s expansion of its facility. Thanks to a generous donor, the Historical Society will be naming a room at the Library. The Society has chosen to honor the memory of Philip Slater Fall (1798-1890).

"When we thought of connecting the mission of the Historical Society to the unique history of Nashville, we naturally thought of Philip Slater Fall,” says Glenn Thomas Carson, Historical Society President. “Not only did he lead one of our historic congregations throughout the trial of the Civil War, but he fought continuously for the right of every citizen to an excellent education. We hope that when the people of Nashville area enjoy the beautiful conference space provided by The Brentwood Library, they will be reminded that the care and sharing of books has always been at the heart of who we are in Middle Tennessee."

“I'm so pleased that the Disciples have chosen the Brentwood Library as the place to honor Philip Slater Fall's work as a pastor and educator,” says Chuck Sherrill, Director at The Brentwood Library. “The Conference Room to be named for him will be a fitting tribute, a place where history and learning, sharing and literature all come together.”

As a champion of public education in Nashville, Philip Slater Fall is a fitting choice for the Brentwood Library Conference Room’s naming. Mr. Fall was a pioneer in women’s education in Nashville in the late 1820s becoming a popular teacher. He also founded a girl’s school and stressed the women’s education should be more than ornamental, focusing on language, science, geography, and various academic subjects. In addition, he was a champion of public education for all people, serving on the Nashville Board of Education in the mid 1800s. During his career he opened doors of learning to many Tennesseans.

Philip Slater Fall was also minister at Vine Street Christian Church, serving at the original location in downtown Nashville. Mr. Fall remained neutral during the Civil War and was the only pastor not jailed during the war. His dedication to the welfare of others was highlighted, when, after the war, he helped care for destitute individuals.

An early member of the Nashville Horticultural Society, Philip Slater Fall was an avid gardener and had a wide breadth of knowledge of many plants native to Tennessee and Kentucky.  He was fluent in several languages and his correspondence includes writing in Latin.

 

June 11, 2009