Historical Photos
Celebrating 150 Years of Doing The Most good
In 1865, William Booth, an ordained Methodist minister, aided by his wife, Catherine, formed an evangelical group dedicated to preaching among the "unchurched" people living in the midst of appalling poverty in London’s East End. Booth’s ministry recognized the interdependence of material, emotional and spiritual needs. In addition to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, Booth became involved in the feeding and shelter of the hungry and homeless and in rehabilitation of alcoholics.
Booth and his followers, originally known as The Christian Mission, became The Salvation Army in 1878, when that organization evolved on a quasi-military pattern. Booth became "the General" and officers’ ranks were given to his ministers.
The basic social services developed by William Booth have remained an outward visible expression of the Army’s strong religious principles. In addition, new programs that address contemporary needs have been established across the country. Among these are disaster relief services, day care centers, summer camps, holiday assistance, services to the aging, AIDS education and residential services, medical facilities, shelters for battered women and children, family counseling, vocational training, correction services and substance abuse services. Each year, more than 30 million people are aided in some form by the services provided by The Salvation Army.
In San Francisco, The Salvation Army’s work commenced in 1883 and quickly expanded. The Bay Area holds a rich history for The Salvation Army, including the first international Chinese-language ministry (1887), the birthplace of The Red Kettle (1891) and one of the first nationwide Emergency Disaster response efforts for the organization (1906 Earthquake).
Today, the Army offers ministries and services at 16 units across the City. Our programs provide comprehensive services to homeless families, older San Franciscans, teens and adults with substance abuse and mental health issues, abused and neglected children, and those who live on the fringes of society.
We are excited to share The Salvation Army's 150th anniversary with the world! Please visit The Salvation Army's International Headquarter's website to learn more about anniversary activities around the world.