THE SALVATION ARMY came to Brainerd in 1891, starting its work in a store building, later moving to a saloon purchased at auction. The headquarters, still in the former saloon, is now located at 410 Front Street. The above picture shows Salvation Army workers during the 1900-1910 period here.

The Salvation Army was founded in London, England, in 1865 by William Booth. Today, The Salvation Army is an international organization, operating in 86 countries and colonies established in the United States in 1880, as a religious and charitable organization.

Brainerd was invaded by The Salvation Army in April, 1891. Under the leadership of Captain and Mrs. N. G. Anderson, the work was begun in a rented store.

When the small group of Salvationists heard that an empty, dilapidated saloon (located at the corner of Main and Fifth Streets) was to be auctioned, they held an all-night prayer meeting to pray that they might have the building. As they arose from their knees and started out the door of their rented "chapel," they found an envelope containing $900 had been slipped under the door. They went to the auction armed with the $900 and the saloon became The Salvation Army in Brainerd.

Today, The Salvation Army is still marching along. The "converted" saloon, having been moved to 410 Front Street, still houses the local Salvation Army. Under the leadership of Captain and Mrs. John Homer, The Salvation Army is still serving the community through local facilities and programs as well as state and national services.

Persecution and opposition was the lot of Brainerd's pioneer officers and soldiers. So much so that the Divisional office found it necessary to transfer the officers often. Between April, 1891, and January, 1892, eight officers had commanded The Salvation Army in Brainerd. Changes came so often in the early days that 106 officers have commanded The Salvation Army during its 80-year history in Brainerd.

Reproduced from the Centennial Edition of the Brainerd Daily Dispatch (1871-1971).