National Baptist Congress "A School of Methods for Christian Training." 2015 Theme: Transforming Others by the Spirit of God. Romans 8, 12 Dr. R. H. Boyd.
08/22/2022
Today marks 100 years since the passing of R.H. Boyd’s founder, Dr. Richard Henry Boyd. A century later, his influence remains through the institutions that he created in publishing, banking, and in his various civic engagements.
As founder of the National Baptist Publishing Board (NBPB), now known as R.H. Boyd, Dr. Boyd proved to be an extremely adept leader. He was a godly man with an extraordinary mind for business. Nearly every endeavor that he attempted proved successful.
Dr. LaDonna Boyd stated, “My great-great-grandfather truly left a meaningful legacy that has positively shaped the lives of many generations and communities. We are blessed to keep his vision alive through the work that we do every day.”
Dr. Richard Henry Boyd also founded the National Baptist Church Supply Company and the One-Cent Savings and Trust Company Bank in 1904 (still in operation today as Citizens Savings Bank & Trust). He ventured into newspaper publishing with the National Baptist Union Review (still published and distributed by R.H. Boyd), and the Nashville Globe, a Black newspaper featuring articles on all aspects of Black life in Nashville. Dr. Boyd also designed and marketed a line of Black dolls as an expression of Black pride called the National Negro Doll Company.
In 1906, the National Baptist Sunday School and Baptist Training Union Congress was founded to provide instruction for Christian education utilizing NBPB’s curriculum offerings and church leadership resources. This summer, R.H. Boyd proudly celebrated its 116th annual session as the newly titled Vision Conference.
Dr. Boyd was a pivotal figure in shaping the lives of African Americans at the turn of the 20th century and his influence still has an impact today. We are grateful for Dr. Boyd and his many contributions.
Visit www.unionreview.org to learn more about the accomplishments, impact, and legacy of Dr. Richard Henry Boyd.
