1897-1899

Dr. James Cary Solomon was born January 28, 1861 in Twiggs County, Georgia and died June 24, 1945. He was the son of W. L. Solomon and Avarilla E. Fitzpatrick Solomon.

His primary education was obtained principally at Marion Academy (Twiggs County). While quite young he graduated from Mercer University with the A.B. Degree and later received the A.M. Degree from the same institution. Dr. Solomon then studied at the Atlanta Medical College, Atlanta, Georgia, where he graduated with honors, being the valedictorian of his class. He practiced medicine only a short time, for he sought other fields of endeavor more suited to his taste and talents.

At fourteen he gave his heart to God and united with Stone Creek Baptist Church, Twiggs County, under the pastorate of Rev. Peter W. Edge. He felt the call to preach in the mid-1800’s and was ordained at Richland Baptist Church, Twiggs County, November, 1887, with Rev. E. J. Coates and S.C. Hood forming the presbytery. He devoted his life to his denomination and other kindred work.

He served at one time as Dean of Cox College, vice-president of the Georgia Baptist Convention, Superintendent of the Georgia Anti-Saloon League, the Board of Trustees of Mercer University and of Bessie Tift College.

During his ministerial career, he was pastor of several of the leading churches in South Carolina and Georgia, having held pastorates in Dublin, Macon, and Atlanta. He served as both moderator and clerk in his Association, the Ebenezer, and pastured several local churches, which included, Allentown, Big Sandy, Danville, Jeffersonville, McIntyre, Mt. Zion, New Providence, Richland, Stone Creek, Toomsboro and several other middle Georgia churches.

The Reverend Sr. Solomon traveled extensively in Cuba, Canada, and Europe, and was the author of several books, including many interesting accounts of his travel experiences.

He was married to Miss Maggie Tharpe, and to this union were born five daughters, Maggie, Janie, Esther, Mary, and Ruth.

On Saturday September 4, 1895, the church went into the call of a pastor and settled on Dr. J.C. Solomon of Macon, Georgia. His salary was to be $800.00 annually which eventually rose to $1,000.00.

During the pastorate of Dr. Solomon two dressing rooms, a baptistery, and a pastor’s study were added to the church.

A Baptist Young People’s Union was also organized. Action was also begun on plans for a pastorium, which did not materialize.

Dr. Solomon resigned on September 13, 1896.