The Opportunity You Have Been Waiting For ... From Gipsy Camp to Pulpit ... Gipsy Simon Smith [opening lines of broadside]

From Gipsy Camp to Pulpit

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Smiling Methodist evangelist Gipsy Simon Smith (1875–1943) looks out benevolently from this tall narrow broadside which advertises a performance to hear him give the good word (“Good Singing —Large Choir”) at a Methodist Episcopal church in Coventryville. The attendance must have been substantial as “Churches, Societies, Lodges and Industrial Establishments” were requested to make advance reservations.

“One of the most unusual British Home Child stories is that of Gypsy Simon Smith. Simon was born to Bartholomew and Susan Smith in a gypsy camp in the middle of Epping Forest in England on July 25, 1875. Simon’s father, Bartholomew, and his father’s brothers, Cornelius and Woodlock attended an evangelical meeting at a Plymouth Brethren church. At this meeting, the brothers made a decision to become followers of Jesus Christ. They were the first in their community to commit to Christianity. Their decision impacted many gypsy families.”

Price: $45.00