Explore some incredible and lesser-known stories about The Salvation Army! Here are some interesting glimpses into The Salvation Army’s history, revealing the reach, depth and diversity of its impact.
Did you know that The Salvation Army’s flag has been flown on the moon?
During the Apollo Mission to the moon in 1972, NASA astronaut John Young carried our distinctive flag, making it the only non-national flag to ever grace the lunar surface!
Did you know that, after the Anglo-Boer War, The Salvation Army faced an unexpected challenge?
Authorities in Cape Town were alarmed when presented with an invoice for 20,000 cartridges. However, these “cartridges” were not ammunition but envelopes used for tithes. The Salvation Army had to explain that cartridges referred to the envelopes that were used tithes and not actual ammunition!
Did you know that The Salvation Army has been the Top 50 charts?
The Joystrings, a contemporary music group born out of the International Training College, blended traditional gospel songs with rock sounds. In 1964, they shared the UK Top 50 chart with none other than the Beatles!
Did you know that The Salvation Army has been a pioneer in various fields, including filmmaking?
In Melbourne, Australia, a special unit called the Biorama wrote, produced and filmed the first full-length feature. This exciting project reflects The Salvation Army’s dedication to telling stories in new and innovative ways and using various platforms for mission!
Did you know that the first Salvation Army band was formed in 1882 quite by accident?
Charles Fry and his sons, originally bodyguards for street preachers who were attacked by crowds at times, began playing music on their brass instruments for fun. They soon quit their family business to lead The Salvation Army’s music department.
Did you know that John Lennon’s reference to “Strawberry Fields Forever” in the Beatles’ 1966 song points to a Salvation Army orphanage in Woolton, England?
John Lennon is said to have played with childhood friends in the trees behind the children’s home when he was a boy. The facility closed in 2005 but reopened in late 2019 where it continues to provide care and support for young people with learning difficulties and other barriers to employment in Liverpool.
Did you know that The Salvation Army was originally named “The Christian Mission”?
The name changed in order to better reach the unbelieving working classes. This change reflected a commitment to inclusivity and a desire to serve people beyond traditional church-goers!
Did you know that founders Catherine and William Booth, along with their family, were vegetarians?
The Booth’s belief in a plant-based diet stemmed from a commitment to better health and a compassionate stance against animal cruelty!
Did you know that in 1900, The Salvation Army’s first disaster response was to the devastating hurricane in Galveston, TX, claiming over 1,000 lives?
Today, the Salvation Army responds to various crises globally, offering support, meals and spiritual care to first responders and survivors.
The Salvation Army has a rich history filled with many more fascinating facts and achievements. The innovation and ground-breaking initiatives all revolve around a singular purpose: winning souls for Christ and bringing glory to God. May it always be so!