Early Life and Ministry in Liberia
Samuel David Ferguson was born on January 1, 1842, in Charleston, South Carolina. His family emigrated to Liberia when he was young, where Ferguson attended Anglican mission schools. He was ordained as a deacon in 1865 and then as a priest in 1868, serving as rector of St. Mark’s church in Harper, Liberia for over 15 years.
Ferguson dedicated himself to education in Liberia. He founded numerous schools in local villages and later established the country’s first institution of higher learning, Cuttington College, in 1889.
Consecrated as Missionary Bishop
In 1885, Ferguson was appointed Missionary Bishop of Cape Palmas and West Africa. He travelled to New York City for his consecration on June 24, 1885.
This consecration made Ferguson the first African American to become Bishop of Liberia and the first Black member of the Episcopal Church’s House of Bishops.
Lasting Legacy in Liberia
As the fourth Bishop of Liberia, Ferguson oversaw significant spiritual and educational growth in the country. Despite being closed for nearly 20 years during Liberia’s civil war, Cuttington College still operates today in fulfillment of Ferguson’s vision.
Ferguson made an immense impact as both a church leader and education pioneer before his death on August 2, 1900 at age 58. His courage and leadership paved the way for future Black bishops in the Episcopal Church.
