When Frances Hamilton, executive director of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission (ABHC), stood to give her report before the Alabama Baptist State Convention, she chose not to spend her time at the podium reiterating her written report. She encouraged messengers to read it for themselves. Hamilton wanted to use her time for a very important announcement- the winner of the first annual Hosea Holcombe Historical Essay Award.
Sponsored by the ABHC, the first Holcombe essay contest was open to Alabama Baptist high school students in grades 10-12.
This year’s winner, Jennifer Hamby, chose as her topic Arthur Walker Jr. A leading Alabama Baptist researcher, writer and educator, Walker also served as the first elected chairman of the ABHC.
“More than anyone else,” said Hamilton of Walker, “he is responsible for the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission.”
Hamby, however, had another reason for her essay subject. Walker is her grandfather.
For her outstanding essay, Hamby received a certificate honoring her as the first winner of the Holcombe essay contest and a check for $300. She and her grandfather appeared together at the convention.
In her written report to the convention, Hamilton urged Alabama Baptists to become involved in ABHC ministries by having church records microfilmed. This is offered free of charge to Alabama Baptist churches. The ABHC also interviews individuals, publishes church histories and seeks photos of churches. Celebrating Alabama Baptist heritage is another action promoted by the ABHC.
(TAB)
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