Letter From a Literary Legend
A signed 1907 letter from the author of an iconic bestseller
Last summer, I got to hold in my hand a letter written over a hundred years ago by a legend in the genre of personal growth literature. The picture above is of that letter.
If you don’t recognize the name of Russell H. Conwell, you’ve missed learning about a remarkable figure in American history. He was a man of many roles — a minister, lawyer, philanthropist, and educator — whose impact continues to resonate today.
Born in 1843, Conwell’s life reflected his dedication to spiritual growth and education, and he is perhaps best remembered for founding Temple University in Philadelphia.
Conwell’s journey to establishing Temple University began in 1882 when he moved to Philadelphia to serve as pastor of Grace Baptist Church. His passion for education became evident when a young man approached him, lamenting his lack of time and money for schooling. Conwell agreed to tutor him, and soon, more students joined in, earning the nickname “night owls” for their evening studies.
What began as a small group quickly grew into a significant movement, and in 1888, The Temple College was born. By 1907, it officially became Temple University. Conwell was its first president.
