History
The idea for the school was first introduced in a sermon by Ashley S. Johnson at the Bearden Christian Church in 1892 when Johnson proposed the idea of a college level school for the gospels. In May 1893, guest boarded a steamboat in Knoxville to go up to the college for the laying of the cornerstone of the Main Building. Recently the Knoxville Metro Pulse featured and article. It stated that "The grand Main Building, with its five-story square tower that offered a sweeping view of the French Broad, was completed in 1895."
The original Main Building served the school until Dec 1, 1904. A fire broke out from a chimney and completely destroyed the building. Following the fire a new building was constructed of brick and the dedication was held 1905.
Dr. Johnson served the school until his death in 1925. Upon his death, his wife Emma Johnson served as the college president until her death in 1927. Alva Ross Brown was chosen as the third president. He had not turned 22 years old at this point. He served the college and his determined leadership helped survive the great depression. He died in 1941 at the age of 35. His successor was Dr. Robert M. Bell. The college facilities were expanded slightly during his tenure. He served the college for 27 years and died in 1968. Dr. David L Eubanks became president in 1969 and served for 38 years. During this time, the college expanded and moved down the hill with new dorms, new classrooms, and new offerings. The college grew in number as well. Dr. Eubanks retired in 2007 and the current president Gary E. Weedman has continued to expand and improve the institution.
Johnson University has the distinction of being the second oldest continuing Bible college in the United States and the oldest Bible college affiliated with the Christian churches and churches of Christ.
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