Navigation
In other projects
Learn more
Core topics
Bahá’í Faith
Central Figures
Teachings
Practices

User:Smkolins/sandbox4

From Bahaipedia

Born and raised[edit]

Parse from https://www.familysearch.org/tree/person/details/GQLL-6WF

Born in Maryland about 1877, in 1910 living on W 14th St with his wife Medora working as a pastor.

The 1940 Census says he was in the same place in 1935 - not sure that completely fits with newspaper coverage.

June 2, 1899, Bolden then living in Providence, RI, marries Medora E Richardson from NYNY in Rowan NC. Born about 1877 son of Charles and Adeline Bolden.

Mrried and minister[edit]

Medoa joined Richard in Concrd and was welcomed at a reception and already had a reputation for her ability with music. Richard was serving at Price Memorial Temple in Concord while still a student at Livingstone College and known for his singing. https://newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sf88092969/1900-09-20/ed-1/seq-8/print/image_566x817_from_177,4856_to_1470,6720/ Mrs. Medora Bolden…, The Star of Zion. [Charlotte, N.C.], Sept. 20, 1900. North Carolina Newspapers, North Carolina Digital Heritage Center, p8

Richard had come to Price Memorial Temple in July, 1900, an AME Zion church. There had been a conference for the public and the membership gave the pastor a broadcoth suite. https://newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sf88092969/1900-11-29/ed-1/seq-6.pdf Our Work, by Mrs. R. M. Bolden, The Star of Zion, Nov. 29, 1900, Page 6

New England[edit]

With AMEZ Church (of Tarrytown?) and visited Bridgeport


Tarrytown as pastor of AMEZ Church

active at national conference

New York[edit]

Transferred from Tarrytown to Mother AMEZ in New York, was at Livingstone College of NC.


Conferences[edit]

First known mention of Medora Bolden reading at a national meeting of the AMEZ missionary work of the Mother AME Zion Church. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116161554/later-bahai-medora-bolden-in-church/ Review Church work, The Brooklyn Daily Eagle Brooklyn, New York 10 Aug 1909, Tue • Page 2


https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/gathering-inc-later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-ame-new-york/xxbeattgzvuckkqpbsalsqwrbiernwre_wma-gateway014_1672540670024 Program of Negro Businesses League, New York, August 17, 18, 19, Washington Bee Washington, District of Columbia Aug, 13 1910 - Page 5


Rev. R. M Bolden of NY attended and aided the annual summer camp meeting of the AME Zion Church of Sandy Ground in Perth Amboy NJ, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115564974/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-of-ny/ Camp meeting to close, Perth Amboy Evening News Perth Amboy, New Jersey 27 Aug 1910, Sat • Page 8 and would continue a couple years to come:

Medora Bolden is hosting Richard’s birthday in 1912.

obit of William R Brown; officiated by later Baha'i Rev. R. M. Bolden https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115565071/obit-of-william-r-brown-officiated-by/ Died in New York, The Times Leader Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 07 Sep 1910, Wed • Page 5


https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-new-york/urtifpajmrqnsxanstxgefbginbnapoe_wma-gateway009_1672540917470 Conclude its sessions, Evening Star Washington (DC), District of Columbia Feb, 25 1911 - Page 12


Bolden included in services for T. Thomas Fortune; critical of support


Bolden among program at Bethel AME of NY supporting Booker T. Washington https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115565336/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-among/ Express faith in leader, The Colorado Statesman Denver, Colorado 08 Apr 1911, Sat • Page 1


https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-among-testimonials/cmrekavasfqdpngrwzpowbuxraecoodo_wma-gateway005_1672541144107 Funeral of T F C Jacobs, Washington Bee Washington, District of Columbia Feb, 17 1912 - Page 9


Rev. R. M Bolden was minister in Tarrytown https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115565401/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-was/ Entertained by Helen M. Gould, The Colorado Statesman Denver, Colorado 24 Aug 1912, Sat • Page 1


Bolden talk for Emancipation Proclamation Day

Mother AMEZ Church[edit]

Richard Bolden was leader of the Mother AMEZ Church when it was located at 127 W. 89th St. The Church dated to 1796 and was recognized as the oldest black church of New York dating from 1796 after separating from the Methodist Church and incorporating in 1801. The 89th St address dating from 1904. Bolden was named lead pastor of the church in 1909 and had grown by 500 members and raising money some of which was invested in aquiring residential area at 101-103 W. 138th St and also saw other churches buying associated land. The church led to other churches during Bolden's leadership by 1913 and acquired an orphanage and an elder care facility. It had an annual budget about $16k and net assets above $200k. William E. Townshend was the church clerk. Bolden was on a leave of absence to attend an international church conference in Zurich, Switzerland across early July, 1914 as a delegate of the AMEZ Church, sailing June 21 on the Majestic going to Southampton, then staying in Paris and planning a trip around Europe after the conference returning ugust 9 on the Mauretania. Medora was president of the Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Society and an officer of the Ladies' Progressive Club, the Buds of Promise club,

Bolden was a graduate of Bible Training School of 541 Lexington Ave. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114812624/later-bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden/ The Bible Training School…, The New York Age New York, New York 29 May 1913, Thu • Page 8

it had been founded around 1898-1899 at that location. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116274158/bible-school-founded-1898-1899/ The Bible Teachers' Training School…, Boston Evening Transcript Boston, Massachusetts 12 Nov 1904, Sat • Page 29 by Rev. Dr. J. Balcom Shaw, a Presbyterian https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116274306/bible-training-school-founded-by-rev/ The Rev. Dr. J. Balcom Shaw…, The Brooklyn Daily Eagle Brooklyn, New York 01 Jul 1905, Sat • Page 8



Medora and association thanks for observing Bolden’s birthday. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116162213/later-bahai-medora-bolden-open-card/ Card of thanks, The New York Age New York, New York 09 Oct 1913, Thu • Page 8


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116162276/first-emmanuel-church-with-boldens/ Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 27 Nov 1913, Thu • Page 7


Bolden of Mother Zion delegate to conference

Trip from Liverpool to NY Aug 1913, born in Marion Maryland March 1878 [Abdu’l-Baha left US Dec 1912 for Britain staying until June 1913]

suffered prejudice in London on way to Switzerland’s World Sunday School Congress.

New Church[edit]

To set up new church

Medora co-reviewed the presentations of the Sunday School, and was a delegate to the Sunday School Association. There was a South Carolina Club associated with the Church too.

In Feb 1914 the family lived at 24 W. 140th St. and held Bolden’s birthday.

Setting up Emmanuel Church. Bolden speaks of his "Immanuelism" being a body "as the temple in which the Lord of life dwells. It is the Father's because He made it for His glory." https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116162602/first-emmanuel-church-later-bahai/ News of the Chruches; Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 12 Mar 1914, Thu • Page 7


The location was a residence. There was a "stir" among the neigborhood "which is beyond what has been styled the negroe district. No colored people had come south of 131st street." Various groups had been trying to retrict black residential growth.

The place was a 3 story brick building and was alterred to provide for an assembly room by architect Stephen Wilcox of 788 Riverside Dr.

It was built in 1884. https://s-media.nyc.gov/agencies/lpc/lp/2607.pdf 105 West 130th Street, Designation Report, NYC Landmarks Preservation, p104

This border land moved south like the rise of the Cotton Club on 142nd St which though presenting black talent was originally white customers only and was originally much at the center of crime in the area. https://www.harlemworldmagazine.com/harlem-history-the-cotton-club/ The Legendary Cotton Club In Harlem 1923 To 1935, Harlem World Magazine (date?)

"After and during World War I, thousands of blacks migrated from the South and other areas to look for jobs and, by 1923, the number of blacks in New York was estimated to be 183,428, nearly three times that reported in 1910. Two thirds of these people settled in Harlem which, at that time, was distinctively black (Lewis, "Harlem's First Shining" 57).… Phase one, the Bohemian Renaissance, spanning from 1917-1923, was dominated by white authors writing about black people. These authors, the Bohemians and Revolutionaries, were fascinated with the life of black people (Lewis, Introduction xvii). Eugene O'Neill's Emperor Jones was an example of a play, written by a white author, which featured a black man as a main character who was, in turn, played by a black actor, Charles Gilpin. Ironically, the play was not accepted by the Harlem community. "Although O'Neill's Harlem audience probably knew little, intellectually, of psychic journeys and racial unconscious, they knew that the jungle had no connection with their lives, and they recognized the stereotypes O'Neill was using" (Cooley 60). However, the play was a huge success outside of Harlem for many decades. In fact, Gilpin's superb acting and O'Neill's theatrical affects (gathered from "superficial contacts with black life") combined to produce a play that helped shaped the course of American Drama of the time (Cooley 60). https://academic.kellogg.edu/marklinl/AmLit2/Readings/HarlemRenaissance2.htm The Harlem Renaissance: The Development of a New African-American Consciousness, by Angela Wiley

… the Harlem Hellfighters. https://www.nationalguard.mil/News/Article/3105019/harlem-armory-time-capsule-reveals-snapshot-of-1923/ Harlem Armory Time Capsule Reveals Snapshot of 1923 By Eric Durr, New York National Guard, July 26, 2022

https://www.thoughtco.com/african-american-history-timeline-1920-1929-45440 Black History Timeline: 1920–1929

Visiting in Asbury Park NY - a place occasioned now and then by Medora


Church communities used clubs and fairs as a way to "smooth out frictions" and fundraise. First Emmanuel Church was “enormously active” with clubs and fairs “characteristic of ambitious communities.” https://books.google.com/books?id=zDL4DwAAQBAJ&pg=PA263&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjshciB4Z78AhV3l2oFHahKAWoQ6AF6BAgGEAI Title God in Gotham: The Miracle of Religion in Modern Manhattan Author Jon Butler Publisher Harvard University Press, 2020 ISBN 0674249720, 9780674249721, pp125-6,263

Church, patterns of engagement… 1914

Notes multifaith appreciation towards Jesus Christ across Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Islam, hints at Confusionism and places them at levels with Christianity.

1915

C. Carlette Thomas’ piano concert at the First Emmanuel Church was reviewed and summarized by Medora for the New York Age. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/3240924/ny-age-5-20-1915-concert-cc-henderson/ A Promising Pianiste, by Medora Bolden, The New York Age New York, New York 20 May 1915, Thu • Page 6

1915 R M Bolden, husband of M E Bolden, living in New York.

More on Immanuelism - that "the Kingdom of God is within you" is another core teaching. "The Emmanuelistes do not expect or look for the KIngdom of God to come in and among the nations through any great pomp or display such as would cause the people to recognize the eternal kingdom; for our Lord the Emmanuel said "that the Kingdom of God cometh not by observation."


1916 bio; delegate to the national defense committee appointed by NY Mayor John Purroy Mitchel to serve under Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Bolden telegrams from St. Louis national defense conference

Bolden among honorary vice-chairs of committee for Booker T. Washington Memorial Fund. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115565645/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-among/ New York citizens organized for work, The Kansas Elevator Kansas City, Kansas 04 Mar 1916, Sat • Page 1

Might run for Congress.


Bolden in memorial for black soldiers of Carrizal Mexico battle https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566012/later-bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-in/ Citizens honor dead soldiers, The Denver Star Denver, Colorado 16 Sep 1916, Sat • Page 3

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116163587/first-emmanuel-church-soon-bahai/ News of the Churches; First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 21 Sep 1916, Thu • Page 5


later Baha'i Rev Richard M Bolden co-signer of black republican committee recommendations https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566079/later-bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden/ An address to the colored voters, The West Virginian Fairmont, West Virginia 25 Oct 1916, Wed • Page 6


1917

Intermittent mention of Bahá'ís[edit]

1918

  • Edna Horah, Monroe Chandler wed by Rev Richard Manuel Bolden, First Emmanuel Church

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114813498/edna-horah-monroe-chandler-wed-by/ Chandler - Horah, The New York Age New York, New York 09 Mar 1918, Sat • Page 8

Emmanuel Church does drama

"there will soon be a consummation of all things… 'neither black nor white nor yellow races, but Sons of God; the resurection of a new man.’"

Mr Foley, Mr MacNutt at Lit Club led by Louisa Washington and Baha'i readings

Louis Gregory spoke at First Emmanuel.

Richard Manuel Bolden a person of color born Mar 1, 1878, was living at W 130th St, NY with his wife Medora, was employed as a clergyman, when he registered for WWI draft Sep 12, 1918

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164011/first-emmanuel-church-soon-bahai/ News of the Churches; First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 16 Nov 1918, Sat • Page 8

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164295/first-emmanuel-church-soon-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 07 Dec 1918, Sat • Page 8

Mrs Bolden in music program reception for minister anniversary https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566120/mrs-rev-richard-m-bolden-in-music/ Twentieth Anniversary of Dr. G. H. Sims, The Nashville Globe Nashville, Tennessee 20 Dec 1918, Fri • Page 5


1919

No mention of Baha’is in New York Age

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164385/first-emmanuel-church-soon-bahai/ Pastor Bolden's Birthday, The New York Age New York, New York 08 Mar 1919, Sat • Page 8

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164515/first-emmanuel-church-soon-bahai/ First Emmanuel, The New York Age New York, New York 19 Apr 1919, Sat • Page 8



Emmanuel Church; George Morris

Bolden talk at YMCA https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115567636/soon-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-talk-at-ymca/ At the YMCA…, The Broad Ax Salt Lake City, Utah 29 Nov 1919, Sat • Page 1


With Baha’is at First Emmanuel/Immanuel Church circa 1920-1922. In a survey of African American newspaper collections I am pursuing, Bolden’s First Emmanuel Church holds mention of Baha’is or the Faith greater than all other coverage of the Baha’is or Faith including mention of Gregory combined.


Period of rising mention of Baha’i Faith or Baha’is…. This pattern of engagement would become the dominant mention of the Baha’is in African American newspapers for many years - but this is just the early days of that interaction. Note mention of names of people and groups significantly varies both in spelling and in reference to same group with more or less depth - some more than others. Some standardization is used in these notes, intending to be expanded as connections are made. But these notes have not been carefully spellchecked or soundness of grammar. An additional review should track visiting pastors and possible connections to other communities, reviews of sermons for Baha’i themes, additional names as well as cross checking names with outer sources.


https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/later-bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-among-observers/kybnqbkwaucfskywlgtifcpxjtieljuz_wma-gateway015_1672541356934 Honor First Alderman, Washington Bee Washington (DC), District of Columbia Jan, 3 1920 - Page 3

No mention of Baha’is

Baha'i meeting mentioned

no mention of Baha’is

Mary Hanford Ford and Mrs Longes, recent pilgrim

no mention of Baha’is https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115150604/bahai-associated-first-emmanuel-church/ Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 06 Mar 1920, Sat • Page 2

Consistent mention of Bahá'ís[edit]

Baha'i Association two meetings

Baha'is make a donation to the church funds.

No Baha’i mention

Baha'i meeting at First Emmanuel Church

First Emmanuel hosts a Tuskegee Founders’ Day event https://www.newspapers.com/clip/113702556/tuskegee-founders-day/ Tuskegee's Founders' Day celebrated in Greater NY, The New York Age New York, New York 17 Apr 1920, Sat • Page 1

Baha'i meeting noted

No Baha’is noted https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115128694/bahais-associated-with-first-emmanuel/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 01 May 1920, Sat • Page 2

This meeting was noted Sunday afternoon 3:30pm. Note that at the time Bolden was also associate pastor of St. Mark's ME Church (noted under that article).

Baha'i meeting noted. Medora's mother Mrs J. P Baxter of Philadelphia PA visited.

Richard Bolden, black, was born in Maryland about 1878, in January 1920 was a renting a home with his wife Medora, born in New York, on W 130th St, NY employed as a minister at Emanuel Church

Baha’i meetings

Baha'is meeting, after Ahmad Sohrab talk.

Miss Van Blacum spoke though this might have been at the end of the 2:30pm Sunday School group, and the group made a donation to the Church's needs reported by Miss Parker.

Baha'is met at First Emmanuel Church; A. Sohrab coming to talk

sick members of First Emmanuel Church and Friday meeting https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115151011/sick-members-of-first-emmanuel-church/ Manhattan and the Bronx, The New York Age New York, New York 26 Jun 1920, Sat • Page 8

Baha'is met via Literary Society at First Emmanuel Church, talk by Fazel Mazandarani trans A. Sohrab


No Baha’i meeting noted https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115151114/bahai-associated-first-emmanuel-church/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 10 Jul 1920, Sat • Page 8

Baha'i Rainbow Circle meetings

Baha'is at First Emmanuel Church; Rainbow Circle; Mr Laden, Mary Hanford Ford, Solon Feldman


Largest Baha'i Rainbow Circle yet, Persia dinner and talk Mirza Ezekiel Effendi, Mr Laden, Pastor Bolden, Mrs Ford, Soloa Feldman, Rev Dean of South America, Mrs Rice-Wray of Detroit, donation. Mr (Howard Colby?) Ives also spoke.

(I’ve confirmed HCI was in town in Aug 1920)

Rainbow Circle meeting adopts constitution, Miss Van Blacum chairlady and read opening quote. Speakers: Mrs Philomeni Alleman, H. G. Pauli, Marco Zinn, Mrs Louisa Washington, O J Hawks, Mrs Ford, W. B. Ledon, Pastor Bolden talk on "Seven golden candlesticks" and a Hindu dinner served.


Bolden of First Emmanuel preaching at Salem ME Church


Mary Ford, Feldman Morris, Townshend… M Van Blacum


Mary Ford, Feldman, Washington, Van Blacum

Mary Ford, Feldman, Washington, Van Blacum

No mention of a Baha’i meeting https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115153177/bahai-associated-first-emmanuel-church/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 11 Sep 1920, Sat • Page 8

A broad review of the Baha'i Faith was published in the Washington Bee starting with Abdu'l-Baha being pleased with the widening circles of activities, seeking healing from "religious, racial, and patriotic prejudices". News that William H. Randall accompanied Fazel Mazandarani in the Chautauqua circuit of talks probably reaching some 1500 people during the tour and handing out free literature. The article then notes that Rev. Mr. Bolden of Harlem's entire church became Baha'is including Bolden himself. The meeting reported on also noted a Jew presided and also spoke with great power and favor seeing the Baha'i Cause using across religious and racial prejudices, and then a Hindu spoke up similarly. There was also mention of a letter from Louisville, KY urging Abdu'l-Baha to visit there, the travels of Martha Root across South America and the promise of raising the Temple in Chicago. https://www.genealogybank.com/newspaper-clippings/bahais-louis-gregory-fazel-mazandarani-william-randal-rev-richard-bolden%E2%80%A6/mnmpuoubuzbntwydznntyunvaprdpoep_wma-gateway016_1672518964106 Growing Interest In Bahai Movement, September 18, 1920 | The Washington Bee, Washington (DC), Page: 7

Woodham, MacNutt, Harris and Luxey presented

The Baha'i meetings with the first speakers being Miss Van Blacum and Mrs. M. Ford. And the Rainbow Circle continued to meet which this time elected officers followed by various talks. One was Mirza Ahmad Sohrab giving a talk and reading a letter to Pastor Bolden from Abdu'l-Baha.

Miss Van Blacum again led the Baha'i meeting Sunday afternoon at the First Emmanuel Church. Later at the Thursday night Rainbow Circle meeting Prof. Kladgin of Columbia University gave a talk on Esperanto, Mrs. Cruger speaking of travels to the Middle East, Mrs M. Ford, Ahmad Sohra, Mr. Morris, Louis Boyle of DC, Mr. Laden and Mrs Altman who herself raised $100 towards the Rainbow Circle's work. Esperanto classes were to begin and a representative of the Chinese land was to speak at an October meeting.

The Sunday 11 service at the First Emmanuel Church included a Mrs Ford (Mrs. Mary Hanford Ford) Miss Van Blacum led the afternoon Baha'i meeting with Mrs Ford and Mr Morris. At the 8pm service Rev. Bolton presented Walter Guy a letter of introduction !o the churches in St. Augustine, Fl. A capacity audience gathered for the Rainbow Circle with a Chinese dinner served for 50 people with Mr. Ladew master of ceremonies. The articles of incorporation of the Rainbow Circle were read by Mary Ford and adopted. Prof. Kladgin spoke on Esperanto, Beatrice Irwin spoke on "The Science of Color", and Mrs Sohrab and mother performed, with Fazel Mazandarani giving a talk translated by Ahmad Sohrab.

Bolden at recital

In a 1921 talk at A.M.E. Church, 32nd and Gray's Ferry Road, Philadelphia, Pa Madera’s mother was in Philadelphia Mazandarani described his time with the First Emmaneul Church saying "When I arrived in New York last year, I found these Bahá'ís, who are the followers of `Abdu'l-Bahá, forming a circle, forming a society in Harlem, in the church of Reverend Bolden, a very progressive, colored minister. The society was called the Rainbow Circle, because this society had the all –inclusive principle of bringing all the races together; the white, the colored , the Persian, the Chinese, the Syrian, the Japanese etc.; all used to come together and sit side by side, and once a month they had an international dinner.” - https://bahai-library.com/anon_mazandarani_united_states#_Toc219800791 "Address to A.M.E. Church” Jináb-i-Fádil Mazandarání in the United States by Asadu'llah Fadil Mazandarani (published as Jinab-i-Fadil Mazandarani) compiled by Omeed Rameshni 2009

Miss Van Blacum again led the Sunday afternoon Baha'i meeting. There is no mention of the Rainbow Circle at this meeting.

Rev Bolden in recital at Fleet St Church, Brooklyn https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115148580/later-bahai-rev-bolden-in-recital-at/ On October 26…, The New York Age New York, New York 09 Oct 1920, Sat • Page 8

Baha'is meet led by M. Van Blacum with talk by Mr Morris; Rainbow Circle talks inc Mr. Morris

Miss M. Van Blacum again led the Sunday afternoon Baha'i Meeting at the First Emmanuel Church. The Thursday evening Rainbow Circle coverage was of some length including a prayer and talk by Mrs. Altman, a talk by Mr Laden, another by Dr. Simpson on "How I became a Bahai(sic)" and others including one by Pastor Bolden.

Baha'i meetings at Emmanuel Church; Urbain Ledoux sermon, Mrs. Attman, Rainbow Circle, Mrs Ford


M Van Blacum leads Association meeting, unnamed speakers; Roy Williams sermon at evening service, Major Jackson (Honre Jaxon?) talk at Rainbow Circle

Mr. Daly of the Urban League spoke at the Church and was given an offering. Miss M. Van Blacum again led the Baha'i meeting Sunday afternoon. Mary Ford gave a talk on Luke 14 at the evening service. The Rainbow Circle met while Pastor Bolden was away at the ME Church on East Orange for Armistice Day. Substituting for him was Rev. Simpson and Mrs Ford with Mrs. Altman and others speaking.

Mary Ford talk "Holy Communion and its meaning" at Sunday morning sermon about the early history of Christian meetings. Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting. The Rainbow Circle meeting was led by Pastor Bolden with readings from Abdu'l-Baha by Miss Silverberg, a prayer by Mrs Altman and talks by Bolden and Altman, and closing by Mrs. Copeland.

Named Baha'is were made mention of at the Sunday afternoon meeting including: Mr. Zims, Mr. Morris, Mrs Ford, Miss M. Van Blacum. On Thanksgiving Day a service included William Townshend giving a talk on the League of Nations, Mrs. Washington on "The Meaning of Thanksgiving Day" and other contributions. The Rainbow Circle meeting included a prayer by Mrs Altman, brief talks by an Abyssinian Mr Carl, Mr Ladew, Dr. Powell, Mr. Grassmere, Mrs Behman, Miss Sunshine, Mr Morris, Mrs Fold, and from DC came Rev. Ryan, Mrs Levan, and Mrs Boyle.

Mary Hanford Ford sermon on Isaiah, Zarhariah, Revelations; Association meeting; Rainbow Circle - J Harrison, Pastor Bolden, Urbain Ledoux MC, Mrs Ford, Marc by T. Greene, Mr & Mrs Townshend, Mrs Chandler, Pastor Bolden

Baha'is in First Emmanuel Church choir performance; Rainbow Circle; Interracial program

The "Baha'i Association" now was the name of the Sunday afternoon meeting still led by Miss M. Van Blacum of Montclair, NJ. A Sunday evening service was given by Rev. Dr. Ives (Howard Colby?) on "The Emmanuel" of Isaiah 11. The end of the 3rd quarter of the Church's finances reported the Rainbow Circle contributing $48, the third highest of 11 units reporting contributions.

Baha'i Association led by Miss Van Blacum with talks by Mrs Van Bergen, Mrs Tate, Pastor Bolden. The Rainbow Circle speakers inc Pastor Bolden, Prof. Kladgin on Esperanto, with readings of Abdul-Baha by Mrs Ford, Mr Hanko, Wm Townshend, Mrs Van Bergen. Mrs Anthony, Mrs Copeland.

Mrs Ford introduced Mrs Cooper and Mrs Franklin of California, just returned from Haifa and pilgrimage. Also Malcom McGillevray talk


-> https://bahai-library.com/tags/Wandeyne_Deuth

Bolden published an article in Reality magazine "Our Future Government” in January 1921. By March he was a contributing editor along with Albert Vall, Mary Hanford Ford, Howard MacNutt, and Horace Holley which continued at least December. In April an article “The Rainbow Circle” characterized the group’s activities in February and March. In May Bolden published an article “Tolerance”. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=nyp.33433081895991&view=1up&seq=7 -> Bolden remained with Reality magazine as a contributing editor until Nov 1927. https://bahai-library.com/smith_reality_magazine Reality Magazine: Editorship and Ownership of an American Bahá'í Periodical by Peter Smith published in From Iran East and West: Studies in Babi and Bahá'í History, vol. 2, pages 135-156 Los Angeles: Kalimat Press, 1984

  • "Our Future Government" by Dr. Richard M. Bolden, Reality, Jan 1921,v3n1, pp20-22.

Reality noted activities in Feb-Mar.

  • “The Rainbow Circle”, Reality, April 1921, pp40-1: “The activities of the Bahai Cause in the Rainbow Circle during February and March were attractive and inspiring. Rev. Richard Manuel Bolden, the founder and Pastor of the First Emmanuel Church, 105 West 130th Street, seeks to gladden and welcome all races and nationalities in his institution. The attendance on the part of white national and religious groups with the colored people is increasing and exceptionally harmonious. While Thursday night is featured especially for and by the Rainbow Circle, the Sunday services and other mid-week gatherings have proportionally mixed audiences.

The intra-racial dinner for the month of February was one that made a very deep and helpful impression. It was a German Dinner. Among the speakers were several Germans. The speakers were: Dr. Bolden, Mrs. Carlos Van Bergen, Marco Zim the noted artist, Mrs. Valerie De Mude Kelsey of New Rochelle, Mr. Schober and Mrs. Logie who has recently returned from Haifa, Palestine. Other short talks were made by Mr. B. N. Darakjian of Turkey, T. J. Callaway of Washington, D. C., Miss R. Sunshine, and Mr. Goodfellow. The brother of Miss Sunshine, who has just arrived from the battlefront in Russia, was presented to the audience.

During the month of February Mr. Harry Barnhardt, the national community chorus leader with his assistant Mr. Hugh Watson, gave demonstrations of what he regards as a possibility for spiritual awakening in the community through a thousand trained voices expressing Love and Good-will to all mankind. On Friday night he was accompanied by his wife and son, also the distinguished sculptor, Mr. George Gray Barnard with his wife and daughter.

Mr. Kruse, president of the Hobo Association, with a group of workers, made splendid talks on several occasions. Mr. Fieldman who never fails to be interesting was heard with delight. Miss Fieldman gave a musical recital.

The Irish Dinner was another fine evidence of unity. It was largely attended. Ex-County Judge Walter Martin was the special speaker.

The Esperanto class, under Professor Klajin has advanced far enough to be reading the New Testament. We could wish that it attracted more members. The French class, under Madame Hirsch, has increased, and a new class for beginners is taught by one of the advanced pupils. All of the activities of the Sunday and Thursday evening meetings of the Bahai Cause and Rainbow Circle are carried on with the same spirit of enthusiasm and unity.”

  • “Tolerance” by Richard Manuel Bolden, Reality, May 1921, v3n5, pp36-7
  • “Bahai(sic) Activities; An unusual and unique entertainment…”, Reality, Aug 1921, v4n8, p25
  • "Why the Words ‘Negro' and 'Negress' are Objectionable”, by Richard Manuel Bolden, Reality, Sep 1921, v4n9, pp23-4


Mary Ford read from Abdu'l-Baha on the Trinity at the close of the main Sunday service. The Baha'i Association met under M. Van Blacum. The Rainbow Circle had a "Good Will" dinner presided over by Regine Sunshine. Pastor Bolden spoke and Mme M. Hersch read from Hidden Words, a prayer by J Harrison, talks by Mrs Ford, Mr Fieldman, Mr and Mrs Davenport, Mrs Washington, Mrs Bolden, Mrs Townshend, Mrs Robinson, Mrs Copeland and Mrs Zims, and closing by Mr Hanks.

The Sunday afternoon Baha'i meeting was presided over by Miss M. Van Blacum with talk by Mrs Ford, others. The Rainbow Circle meeting of Thursday evening included reading of "The Hidden Words" by Mrs Sanford, Mrs. Ford, and reading letters from other cities, and travelers from afar. Mrs. Harriet Gibbs Marshall of DC, Mrs Porter of New York, Mr. Oglesby of Boston, Mr Morris and Mrs. C. Van Bergen as well.

Baha'i Association talks: Mrs Ford, Mrs Van Bergen, Mr Morris, Pastor Bolden, under M Van Blacum; Rainbow Circle inc Regine Sunshine led meeting talks by Pastor Bolden, Mary Hanford Ford, Prof. Marion sang, talk by Mr Feldman

Van Blacum, Morris, Copeland; Rainbow Circle had Mr Hanks MC music and prayer, Mrs Ford and Pastor Bolden talks, and prayers by Mr Feldman, Miss Silverberg, Mr Illidge, others.

Urbain Ledoux contributed to the Sunday morning sermon. The afternoon Baha'i Association meeting had Mr. Davenport read from a book quoting Abdu'l-Baha with piano by Viola Walker Pastor Bolden, Mr. Morris, Mrs. Copeland and others made remarks. The Rainbow Circle meeting Thursday night followed an Italian dinner prepared by Mrs. I. Davenport. Miss. M. Van Blacum was mistress of ceremonies for the meeting starting with a reading from Abdu'l-Baha followed by Mary Ford on "The Difference between Prayer, Meditation, and Concentration". with visitor Mr. Brown of London.


Baha'is at First Emmanuel Church; Mary Ford talk at Sunday School on "The Wedding Party". M Van Blacum opened Baha'i Association with Ford talk "The Mysterious Power" with Mr Morris, Mr Feldman, Mrs Copeland, Mrs Washington also speaking. At the Rainbow Circle MCed by Mr Feldman and a reading, Pastor Bolden gave a talk and Mr Townshend gave a prayer with piano like Lillie Feldman, and talk by Mrs Ford on "Love and Race prejudice”.

Mary Hanford Ford addressed the children's Sunday School. The afternoon Baha'i meeting also included Ford who was presented with flowers before her travels away a few weeks by Mrs. Copeland. Pastor Bolden and Mrs Lehman also spoke. M. Van Blacum was the association president. Pastor Bolden spoke to the Rainbow Circle on the life of Frederick Douglass, Mrs Ford on "The Mystery Divine", J. Simpson on the Baha'i Revelation before their move to Morocco Algiers, and selections from "The Hidden Words" by D. Champ and Mrs Emily Townshend. The Rainbow Circle session was led by Mme. DeBedet.

The Sunday afternoon Baha'i Association meeting had a reading from "The Hidden Words" by Miss Silverberg, a reading on Christ by Abdu'l-Baha was read by Miss J. Anthony, another reading by Georgia Barker, comments of Mr Morrison. Mrs Bolden birthday party. Rainbow Circle inc Miss Silverberg.

The Sunday afternoon Baha'i meeting was opened by Mrs Copeland, a reading by Mrs Walker, and talks by them and Mrs Tate, Mr Dyke and closing by Pastor Bolden. The Rainbow Circle meeting inc a German dinner by Mrs. Davenport, and the evening meeting MC's by M. Zim, and talks inc Mrs. Kelsey, Mr Shaffer and Mrs. Loges back from Palestine. Visitor B. N. Darakjian of Turkey was recognized and made a short talk, as well as T. J. Calloway of Washington DC, Miss R Sunshine, and Mr. Goodfellow.

Baha'i Association presided by Miss Van Blacum, talks by Mrs. Copeland, Mrs. Washington, Prof. Parchment. The Rainbow Circle had several speakers - Brtha Funk of the International Garment Workers, and others.

Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting, readings by Mrs Van Bergen and comments by Mrs Copeland, Mrs Washington and Prof. Parchment, and closing by Bolden. The Rainbow Circle inc talks by Bertha Funk of the International Garment Workers, Mr Feldmand on "The economic question" Mr. Cruse and Bolden on "An opportunity to work”.

Baha'is at Rev Bolden birthday reception - Wm E. Townshend was MC, Miss M. Van Blacum represented the Baha'i Association and Mr. Hanko the Rainbow Circle with Fred Moore of the NYAge among those making remarks.

Mrs. Copeland led the Baha'i Association meeting and Mr Davenport did the devotions with remarks by Mrs. Lehman, Mrs. Washington, Miss Silverberg and Mrs Copeland, with closing remarks by Pastor Bolden. Pastor Bolden presented the report of the "Baha'i Rainbow Circle" in donations for the Church. J. T. Simpson gave a reading on the Holy Spirit by Abdu'l-Baha, among other visitors talks.

Association meeting led and prayer by Van Blacum and a talk via Mrs J C Van Bergen from Abdu'l-Baha, Pastor Bolden, Mr Morris. Rainbow Circle had Pastor Bolden led devotions with headings by H. Sanford, Miss Silverberg, and Rev. Bolden, Mrs. Copeland, Rev Hogans, Mr Harris, Prof Kladgen, Max Schober.

First Emmanuel among Eastern services.

Rev Tate of DC talked to the Baha'i Association Sunday afternoon on "The Power of Divine Love" with comments of M. Van Blacum and Mr. Morris. The Rainbow Circle had a presentation for J. T. Simpson read "The Three Questions" and Bolden on "The Spirit is One" and other comments including Miss Silverberg.

The Baha'i Association met Sunday afternoon at the First Emmanuel Church was opened and closed by M. Van Blacum and a reading by Pastor Bolden of Abdu'l-Baha's Writings, and talks by Mrs Copeland and Mr. Morris. At the Thursday night Rainbow Circle and Irish dinner was served prepared by Mrs. Davenport. The event included a reading from the Hidden Words by Mrs. Kelsey of New Rochelle, and other talks and an Esperanto class Monday evenings was also noted at the Church.

The Baha'i Association meeting was opened by M. Van Blacum offering a reading a paper by Abdu'l-Baha entitled "Are all Christian Baha'is?" and a talk by Mr. Morris, (this paper has not otherwise been identified.) An evening Rainbow Circle session was led by Pastor Bolden and Mis. H. Sanford read from the Hidden Words and Mrs. J. T. Simpson gave an unnamed reading upon which Pastor Bolden developed a talk, and then an open period had talks by Mrs. Copeland, Mrs. Lehman, and Mr. Morris.

Bolden did a short sermon at the First Emmanuel Church before going to the Union Baptist Church on Wesford St where he did a 50th anniversary sermon. The Emmanuel service continued by Rev. Hogan and Rev. Accoe. There was an afternoon Baha'i Association meeting but no notes of events. At the Thursday Rainbow Circle there was a commentary by Abdu'l-Baha on the Bible verse "Many are called but few are chosen" read by Jean Anthony. Mrs. McLean offered a reading from the Hidden Words. Mary Ford had returned and spoke of events in Boston and St. Augustine.

Rev. Bolden sermon at Union Baptist Church

M. Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with other talks uncommented upon.The Rainbow Circle meeting was led by Pastor Bolden and started with a reading from the Hidden Words by M. Schober. which was followed from another Baha'i text "The Power and Influence of Divine Manifestation(s?)" by Mrs. Lehman. Mrs. Ford contributed a talk.

Mary Hanford Ford spoke to the children's Sunday School. The Baha'i Association under Miss Van Blacum opened with a reading and then talks by Mrs. Ford, Mrs. Tate(?), and Mrs. Copeland. The Rainbow Circle had a French dinner by Mrs. W. Davenport. A Baha'i reading was said by Mrs. J. Simpson and Miss Silverberg chaired the exchanges by Mrs. Tate and Mr. Benfjamin on "Economics" and Mrs Ford, Mr Robinson, and Dr. Charles G. Pease.


Mary Ford talk at the Mother's Day Sunday morning service. The Baha'i Association meeting had Mrs Tate, Mrs Ford, Mr Morris talks and Mr Davenport and Mrs Copeland offered readings and prayers. Rainbow Circle had Mr. Yahl back from Palestine give a talk, D. Small a reading from Abdu'l-Baha, and talks by Pastor Bolden, Gratia Galler, and Mrs Copeland ran a fundraiser for the church redecorating.


The Baha'i Association met with Miss Van Blacum reading an unnamed paper by Abdu'l-Baha and Mr Paul() of Brooklyn and Rev Bolden giving talks.


Mary Ford reading at Sunday morning sermon, Baha'i Association talks by J T Simpson, Pastor Bolden, and a Spanish Dinner. The Rainbow Circle had violinist Errington Kerr and sister C. Kerr and songs by Pauline Jackson and Mrs L. Tuckett and talks by Mrs Ford, Mr Morton.

The Baha'i Association hosted talks by Mr Morris, Rev. Bolden, and Alfred Warsaw, under Miss Van Blacum. Rev. F. Hill of Providence had licenses Pastor Bolden to preach several years ago in Providence - Mrs. Hill was present from Charlotte, NC. At the Rainbow Circle meeting they had a Spanish dinner and among the talks Mrs. Tate gave a report of the (race amity) convention recently held in DC, as ell Mr. Feldman, George Latimer, and Mrs. Kelsey.

Mrs. Copeland opened the Baha'i Association afternoon meeting and a reading on art by Mrs. M. H. Ford, and others by Mrs. Tate, Mr. Borris, and Mr Bigelow. The Rainbow Circle included a reading from a book of Abdu'l-Baha by Mme DeBader, followed by talks by Pastor Bolden and Alfred Warsaw.

Mrs Copeland among talk at Baha'i Association. The Rainbow Circle had Abdu'l-Baha reading by Pastor Bolden, Louis Gregory talk as well as the race amity convention. Mr Benjamin and Feldman also spoke.

Bolden remained along with seven people of color on Committee of Management (Marcel Apatewen). https://www.newspapers.com/clip/81317059/list-of-men-who-quit-amidst-restructing/ The Men Who Resigned, The New York Age New York, New York 18 Jun 1921, Sat • Page 1

Mrs. Ford spoke to the Sunday School children. At the Baha'i Association meeting she again spoke as well as Mr. Davenport. The funeral of Sarah Walker, member of the Rainbow Circle had Pastor Bolden officiating.


Miss Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting that hosted talk by Mr. Nickson and Mr Morris. At the Rainbow Circle Mrs. Lehman, was followed by Mme DeBadet reading from Some Answered Questions and comments of Mary Hanford Ford, S. Feldman, and Pastor Bolden.

Mrs Ford was named as president of the Baha'i Association with speakers Mr. Morris, Mr. Simpson, and Mrs Ford. There is no mention of the Rainbow Circle.

Mrs. Ford spoke to the Sunday School children and presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with Mr Morris and others speaking. At the Rainbow Circle Mme De Bades read from the Hidden Words and Mr Thomas and Mary Hanford Ford spoke.

Bolden, First Emmanuel Church preaching at Salem M E Church https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114813601/bahai-richard-manuel-bolden-first/ Salem M E Church and Lyceum, The New York Age New York, New York 23 Jul 1921, Sat • Page 5

The Rainbow Circle meeting had Rev Simpson reading from Abdu'l-Baha, Mrs Ford offered a prayer and talks by Pastor Bolden, Florian Kruge, and Mrs Ford.


Bolden's Sunday morning sermon services was about Luke 16:10 with the question "if in the great world questions have men been faithful in the little things? In the economical things? In religious things? In the love of mankind? God's world begins with the little things, the atoms. The big things take care of themselves.” Miss Burnedene Mason of East Orange, NJ sang "The Cry of Rachell” and “Siners please doan let dis harvest past". Bolden and Mary Ford talks at Sunday School with “very large attendance… a number of visitors present”. Baha'i Association led by M Van Blacum talks by Mrs Ford, Mr Morris, etc with closing remarks of Pastor Bolden. On Thursday the church had an outing to Rye Beach and that evening the Rainbow Circle meeting inc Bolden opening, Mr Fieldman reading from Abdu'l-Baha and talks by Rev Bolden, Miss Silverberg, Mrs F. Kruge, Mr Morris and Mrs Ford. The Baha’i Association and friends on Friday night July 29 “motored” to Teaneck Baha’i Center at West Englewood, the "Roy Wilhelm camp”.

- at the time Star of the West was only presenting articles on Baha’i texts, no ‘events’. Baha’i News didn’t exist yet. newspapers.com, genealogybank.com and chroniclingamerica.loc.gov have no other mention of this visit to Teaneck.

M Van Blacum, Ford, Morris, Townsend, DeBadet, Florian Kruge…


At the Rainbow Circle Pastor Bolden led the meeting, Miss Silverberg read from Reality Magazine, a prayer, S. Fieldman, A. K. Manucher talk on Palestine, Dr. C. T. Walker remembered by Mrs Talbert.


Mary Hanford Ford presided at the Baha'i Association meeting, Mrs. S. Lockette offered the prayer, William T. Townshend a reading, Pastor Bolden a talk, with other remarks by Mr Morris, Miss Silverberg, and Mrs Ford. At the Rainbow Circle Rev. Simpson read from the Hidden Words and a prayer by D. Smalls, a reading by Mr Fieldman from a book by Abdu'l-Baha, talks by Bolden and Ford (speaking of Green Acre.) etc


The Baha'i Association start with a reading via Miss Silverberg and a prayer by Mr Hanks, Pastor Bolden gave a talk and Mr Morris and a reading by Emily Townsend.


Mary Hanford Ford open, gave the devotions, and the primary talk of the Baha'i Association meeting. Mr. Morris also spoke. At the Rainbow Circle Bolden opened the meeting and gave the talk, with readings from Abdul Baha by Maggie Johnson and Sadie Lockett, and additional talks by Mr. Feldman and A T Manucher of Persia, accompanied by three students.


Rainbow Circle meeting opened by Bolden, reading from Rev J T Simpson from Hidden Words, by L Fieldman from Some Answered Questions, talks by Pastor Bolden, F. Kruge, Mary Hanford Ford and A. Blackstone.

Ford meeting with Mr Morris, Rev. Simpson, W. Rives

Miss M. Van Blacum returned to Baha'i Association meetings, gave readings, following which Mrs Ford and Pastor Bolden gave talks. No mention of the past Rainbow Circle meeting

The Baha'i Association met Sunday afternoon at which Catherine Robinson and W. Davenport spoke from Some Answered Questions with other talks by Mr Morris, Pastor Bolden and J. Harrison. The Rainbow Circle met for a dinner.

At the Baha'i Association meeting Mary Ford gave a talk, led by Miss Sanford, and a reading from Abdu'l-Baha's book by W. Davenport. At the Rainbow Circle had a dinner by Mrs Davenport, Pr. Kladgin read from Hidden Words, W. E. Townshend from Some Answered Questions, S. Fieldman and Mr Schrober talks, prayer for the sick by M Van Blacum and Pastor Bolden closed the meeting.

M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Mrs Ford, Mr Morris, Pastor Bolden and others. Mrs Sanford read from the Hidden Words at the Rainbow Circle, then M. Schrober, Mrs. Scott, Mme DeBadet read from Some Answered Questions and Paston Bolden gave a talk. Miss Knobloch spoke of her work in Germany and Mrs. Ford gave a closing talk.

M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting and reading from Abdu'l-Baha's writings, followed by talks by Mr. Morris and Mrs. Copeland. Miss Sanford gave a reading of "How to become a Baha'i". The Halloween party committee of the Rainbow Circle was Mr and Mrs Davenport and Mrs Copeland. At the Rainbow Circle meeting Marie Watson spoke on return from pilgrimage, music and readings from "Answered Questions" and "Hidden Words" by Miss Fieldman, Miss Sanford, Mary H. Ford, and Mrs. Copeland.


Mrs Ford talk during Sunday morning sermon; the Association also with talk by Mrs Ford, others by Mrs Copeland, Mr Morris and Van Blacum led the meeting and closing remarks by Bolden. The Rainbow Circle had a program presented by Mrs Copeland and Ms Davenport; J. Simpson read from Psalms, and a prayer by Mrs Chandler, Mrs Copeland read from Hidden Words, Mr Feldman reading from Some Answered Questions on Mohammed, Bolden and Mary Ford talks, bowed by Mr Hanks, Silverberg and Mrs Tate.


The first season's meeting of the Baha'i Association Mrs. Copeland conducted devotions, Miss Sanford, Mrs Tate, Mrs Copeland, Mr Morris and Rev Bolden spoke. The Rainbow Circle memorialized the recently deceased President Roosevelt and a dinner by Mrs W. Davenport and assistants. Sadie Lockette read from the Hidden Words and Mme Hirsch read from a text by Abdu'l-Baha.


Miss Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with a reading and prayer followed by several talks of unnamed people. At the Rainbow Circle meeting Pastor Bolden, Mrs Ford, and Mrs Schober spoke, there was a reading by Mme De Badett from the Hidden words and another reading from Some Answered Question by Mr Hanks.

Bolden's sermon points to the influence of dwellers on God's Holy mountain on peace plans of the time. M Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Pastor Bolden, Mrs Ford, and Mrs Copeland. At the Rainbow Circle meeting Mrs Tate read from the Hidden Words and Mrs B. Scott and Mr Hanks read from Some Answered Questions. Pastor Bolden spoke as well as Mrs. Ford whose topic was "The Birthday of Baha'u'llah". Mme DeBadet closed with a prayer.

M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting and "enthusiastic" talks were given although names and topics not said. Mrs. Davis read from the Hidden Words at the Rainbow Circle followed by readings from Some Answered Questions by Mrs Kelsey of New Rochelle and S. Fieldman, and Pastor Bolden on "Peace Conference, and Mrs Ford also spoke. Mrs. Ford was also praised for "her faithfulness to the church”.


M Van Blacum, Urban Ledoux, Dorothy Small, T Greene, Murcher


M. Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting and there were "excellent" talks by unnamed people of unnamed topics.The Rainbow Circle shared the news of the death of Abdu'l-Baha for which Mrs Copeland read from the Hidden Words, Mr Hanks, Miss Sanford, and Mr Zim, And Mary Hanford Ford read "The necessity of following divine teachings" by Abdu’l-Baha while Mrs Kelsey of New Rochelle read from Revelations 19 and a talk by Mr Manucheron.

Mary Ford reading at Sunday morning sermon on "What is meant by blasphemy against the Holy Ghost?". Baha'i Association led by M Van Blacum. Rainbow Circle contribution to church. Rainbow Circle meeting readings from Abdu'l-Baha by Miss Sunshine, Mr Hanko, Mrs Copeland, Mr. Maneck of India introduced by Mrs Ford.

Baha'i Association meeting led by Mrs Copeland and speakers Miss Johnson, Mrs Tate, and closed by Rev Bolden. Mary Ford talk at Sunday evening service. The Rainbow Circle was led by Mrs. Davenport with an interracial dinner Sunday and a the Thursday evening meeting Mrs Tate read from the Hidden Words, Mr Hank from Some Answered Questions and comments of Pastor Bolden, Prof. Kladgin, Mme Hersch closing with a donation to the church.

Baha'i Association meeting held with talks. The Rainbow Circle was another interracial dinner by Mrs Davenport with readings from Hidden Words by Mrs Fittey, Mr Hanks from "Mysterious forces of Civilization", a letter from son of Mrs Kelsey in Haifa on the funeral-memorial of Abdu'l-Baha, talks by Mrs Ford, Pastor Bolden and Mrs Copeland.

There was no Baha'i Association meeting though there was a Rainbow Circle meeting. At that meeting Mme. DeBadet read tablets of Abdu'l-Baha, there were comments by Mrs. Copeland, Mrs Tate, and Pastor Bolden. There was a separate meeting at the St. Marks-in-the-Bowerie memorial meeting and an additional memorial at First Emmanuel Church by Mrs Copeland.

obit of Joe Hodges; funeral by Rev Richard M Bolden https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115161565/obit-of-joe-hodges-funeral-by-bahai/ Veteran actor dies from hemorrhage (sic), The New York Age New York, New York 21 Jan 1922, Sat • Page 6

The Baha'i Association meeting was presided over by M. Van Blacum with speakers Mrs Ackerman of Newark, NJ, Mrs Ford, Copeland and Rev Bolden. At the Rainbow Circle a reading of the Hidden Words was done by Miss Anthony, prayer by Mrs. Bolden, and others. There was a reading the Diary Ahmad Sohrab by Mr. Hanko, and Mme Hirsch reading from a Tablet by Abdu'l-Baha and other talks.

Association meeting led by Miss Silverberg, Mrs Warsaw read from Abdu'l-Baha, talks by Mr Warsaw, Mr Morris, and others. Rainbow Circle meeting led by Medora Bolden, Fannie Brown prayer, Mr Fieldman and Mr Hanko reading from Abdu'l-Baha, Jean Anthony reading from Hidden Words, talks by Mr Fieldman, and song by Mr Sykes, talk by Mr Morris, closing prayer by Mrs George Scott.

The Sunday afternoon meeting of the Baha'i Association was presided over by Mrs Copeland and talks by Mr Morris, Rev. Bolden and Mrs Copeland. A regular interracial dinner was held for the Rainbow Circle the last Thursday evening of the month, with prayer by Rev. Bolden, a reading of Abdu'l-Baha by S. Feldman, a talk by Mary Hanford Ford, and a closing prayer by W. Davenport.

The Sunday afternoon Baha'i Association was led by M. Van Blacum with devotions and a paper of Abdu'l-Baha's. Talks were made by Pastor Bolden, Mrs Simpson and Mrs Copeland. The Rainbow Circle was opened by Rev. Pastor, with a reading from the Hidden Words by William E. Townsend, another reading of Abdu'l-Baha was read by S. Fieldman, and talks by Mrs Ford and Mr Hanks.

M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with talks offered by Rev. Bolden, Mrs Ford and Mrs Copeland. The Rainbow Circle meeting was led by Pastor Bolden with readings from a text of Abdu’l-Baha by Mrs Talbot and Mrs Scott, another by Miss Silverberg, a talk by Mrs Ford and a closing by Pastor Bolden.

Baha'is Wm E. Townshend assist at sermon, Among the presenters to the Sunday School children's classes was Mrs Tate. The Baha'i Association meeting was noted briefly only but “full". The Rainbow Circle meeting was opened by Pastor Bolden, readings by Jean Anthony from the Hidden Words and other readings and prayers by S. Feldman and Mr Hanko with Mary Hanford Ford giving the main talk of the meeting. There was also a surprise birthday part for Mrs M. E. Bolden.

Mrs Ford offered a reading during the Sunday morning service of John 10:30 "I and my Father are one" with Bolden expanded on. Lillian Hogans was a new teacher for the Sunday School students with Superintendent Hogans. The Baha'i Association meeting had Mr Fieldman, Mr Simpson and Mrs Ford speakers. There is no mention of the Rainbow Circle meeting.


Wm E. Townshend MC and paper for occasion, Mary Ford for Rainbow Circle, Mrs E. Townshend for Bible Class; Pastor Bolden's talk, gifts inc JT & Mrs Simpson, Marcus Zim, Mme Marris Hersch, J. Anthony, Mr Hanko, Mr & Mrs Illidge, George Morris, Van Blacum, Miss Sanford, Wm & Mrs Davenport, Mr & Mrs Copeland, Jean Silverberg, W. E. & Mrs Townshend, Mary Ford, JW & Mrs Scott. George Morris.

The Baha'i Association ("Circle") was presided over by M. Van Blacum including a reading of a tablet of Abdu'l-Baha and speakers included Postor Bolden, G. Morris, and J T Simpson. The Rainbow Circle had a reading from Hidden Words by Emily Townshend, another by Mr. Hanks, and talks by Pastor Bolden and Mrs Ford.

Medora Bolden led the birthday celebration, with the church decorated by Theresa Green and Dorothy Small. William E. Townsend was the MC including a presentation by M Ford for the Rainbow Circle group and Mrs E. Townsend for the Bible Class and many others. Among gifts inc JT & Mrs Simpson, Marcus Zim, Mme Maria Hersch, Miss J Anthony, Mr Hanko, Mr & Mrs Illidge, Miss Van Blacum, Mrs. Wm F. Favenport, Mr and Mrs Copeland, Jean Silverberg, W. E & Mrs Rownsend, Mary Ford, Mrs B. E. Robinson.

Mrs Copeland ran the Baha'i Association meeting with other talks. Contributions were mentioned of the Rainbow Circle donation via Rev. Bolden. At the Rainbow Circle Mrs. Scott did a reading from the Hidden Words, a prayer by Mrs B. E. Robinson, a talk by Mrs Copeland, a paper by Miss Canton, and a reading from "Reality" (magazine) by Jean Anthony. And another talk by Mrs. Spotswood of Freeport, Maine.


Miss M. Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with reading from a tablet of Abdu'l-Baha, talks by Pastor Bolden, Mrs Tate, Mrs Copeland, and S. Fieldman all on the subject of "Faithfulness" from Bolden's Sunday morning sermon, and an original paper by Mrs Coston on "My Duty" with closing remarks of W. C. Davenport. At the Rainbow Circle Pastor Bolden and Mrs J. Scott gave talks and listened to a reading from Horace Holley's book "Baha'i, the Spirit of the Age" read by Mr. Hanko.( published in 1921 - https://www.worldcat.org/title/900333 )

Lillian Bell talk at First Emmanuel Church https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115163069/lillian-bell-talk-at-first-emmanuel/ War Worker to lecture, The New York Age New York, New York 25 Mar 1922, Sat • Page 8

M Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with speakers Mrs Ford, S. Fieldman, Pastor Bolden and William E. Townshend. Bolden preached from Rev 21:1. Mrs. Emily Townshend led a girls class in a play "The Rainbow Kimona" as a benefit for the Easter rally. S. Fieldman led the Rainbow Circle with a talk on Immortality. G. Morris, Mrs Bolden, Mrs Copeland and Mrs Schrieber took part.


M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting opening with a reading from a text by Abdu'l-Baha and speakers Mr Fieldman, Mr Morris, and Mrs Copeland and an original paper by Mrs Tate and closing prayer and comments by Van Blacum. Mrs E. Townshend's play was repeated. The Rainbow Circle had Bolden offering devotions, Mr. Robinson the Reality Magazine gave a talk as did Mrs Ford and Rev. S. LaRue.

Speakers at the Baha'i Association were Pastor Bolden and Mrs Ford. Bolden opened the Rainbow Circle and the keynote speaker Mrs. Kruge on her pilgrimage to Abdu'l-Baha in Haifa and visit to Mt. Carmel, supplemented by a reading from a book by Abdu'l-Baha by Mme DeBadet with additional remarks by Pastor Bolden. There was a funeral service for Mrs. W. C. Davenport with Pastor Bolden leading the services. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/5771525/bahai-meeting-at-first-emmanuel-church/ News of the Churches; First Emmanuel Church, April 15, 1922 | The New York Age, New York, NY, Page: 2

The book Infinite horizons: the life and times of Horace Holley by Kathryn Jewett Hogenson mentions Paston Bolden as a member of the first elected Spiritual Assembly of New York for 1922 pp175,429.

Baha'i Association met with S. Feldman talk on Easter, and another by Rev. Sissel, led by M Van Blacum and closing by Bolden. Bessie E Robinson presented at the Literary Society. The Rainbow Circle meeting was conducted by Bolden with a reading from Reality Magazine by Mr Hanko, talks by Bolden, Mrs Watson and Mrs Ford and closing by Mr Warsaw.

M Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with a short talk followed up by Mr Simpson, Mrs Washington and Rev Bolden. Rev. Bolden led the Rainbow Circle meeting of Apr 20 with the topic of Conan Doyles spiritualism is no "uplifting value" is known to the POC. J. Simpson read one of Abdu'l-Baha's texts and Mrs Ford gave a talk.

Baha'i Rev. Richard Bolden in anniversaries area churches https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115163417/bahai-rev-richard-bolden-in/ News of the Churches; Joint Anniversary Services, The New York Age New York, New York 29 Apr 1922, Sat • Page 2

Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with speakers Mrs Ford, J T Simpson and others. Pastor Bolden started the Rainbow Circle meeting followed by Mr Hanko's reading from "Some Answered Questions" and then talks by Bolden, Mrs Ford, and Mrs Belford who's talk was "Marriage at Canna of Galilee". Emily Townshend led another performance of Rainbow Kimona.


Mary Ford talk at Baha'i Association and Bolden and other too. M Van Blacum presided. Rainbow Circle meeting had talks by Bolden and Mrs Ford and readings from an Abdu'l-Baha text by JT Simpson.


The Baha'i Association had JT Simpson, Pastor Bolden, and others present - no mention of M Van Blacum. At the Rainbow Circle was led by Pastor Bolen with a reading from Abdu'l-Baha "What is liberty and freedom?" by Mr Hanko and a prayer by Mr Illidge.

M Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Pastor Bolden, Mrs Ford, J Simpson and Mrs Copeland. The coverage of the Rainbow Circle including a talk by Hari G. Govil.

M. Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with a reading from a text by Abdu'l-Baha and then a talk by J. Simpson and other speakers followed. At the Rainbow Circle Mr. Hanko read the uncredited talk by Abdu'l-Baha "The necessity of following the teachings of divine manifestation" while Mrs Benning of Paris gave a talk on her work in France on "The Power of Service". Additions were also from Pastor Bolden and Mrs Ballord.

At the Baha'i Association talks were made by J. Simpson, Mrs. Ford and Mrs. Copeland presided over by M. Van Blacum, and closed by a talk by Pastor Bolden. The Rainbow Circle was led by Pastor Bolden with Mrs Scott reading from Some Answered Questions. Mrs Balford read a paper, followed by talks by Pastor Bolden and Mr Hayes of Atlanta.

M Van Blacum presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with a talk as well, followed by Mrs Copeland, Mr Simpson, Pastor Bolden and others. The Baha'i Association was noted contributing to the church's quarterly fundraising, though no mention of the Rainbow Circle being made separately. The Rainbow Circle did meet with a reading by Mr. Hanko on an uncredited talk of Abdu'l-Baha's "Man's Knowledge of God" with discussion by Pastor Bolden, Miss Silverberg, Mr. Hanko and others.

There were plans to enlarge the church facility. Van Blacum led the Baha'i Association meeting with Pastor Bolden and J. Simpson speaking. The Rainbow Circle was abbreviated but had a talk by Pastor Bolden and Jean Silverberg read from the Hidden Words.

The Baha'i Association meeting was held but no details listed. At the Rainbow Circle Mrs J. Scott opened with a reading of the Hidden Words, then M. Zim read from Reality magazine, and Pastor Bolden and Urban Ledoux gave talks. Mrs. Copeland read from the "Holy Mariner" (uncredited prayer of Baha'u'llah's.)

Mrs Copeland presided at the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Mrs. Ford, Louis Gregory, and others. At the Rainbow Circle Pastor Bolden gave a talk as did Mrs. Lockett, Mrs Copeland, Miss Small, Mrs Valentine, Mrs Ford and Miss Silverberg.

Rainbow Circle had international talks by Mr Nuero, Mr Governe, Pastor Bolden and there were readings from Abdu'l-Baha by Mr Hanko and Mrs Lockett.

Rainbow Circle led by Bolden, various talks.


Baha'i Rev. Richard Bolden statement on police brutality says he doesn’t have personal knowledge but hears rumors of it but if it occurs then it should be addressed. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115377042/bahai-rev-richard-bolden-statement-on/ (by Rev. Richard M. Bolden), The New York Age New York, New York 22 Jul 1922, Sat • Page 2


Mrs. S. Lockett led the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Mr Copeland and Mrs Ford, and a recitation by Tilly Maysee and a solo sung by Mr Pervia. There was also a Rainbow Circle meeting opened by Pastor Bolden with speakers Urbain Ledoux and Mr. Antonius.

Wilson Lamb voice training at First Emmanuel Church https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115164247/wilson-lamb-voice-training-at-first/ Wilson Lamb, The New York Age New York, New York 05 Aug 1922, Sat • Page 5

Mrs. S. Lockett led the Baha'i Association meeting with talks by Mr Copeland and Mrs Ford, and a recitation by Tilly Maysee and a solo sung by Mr Pervia. There was also a Rainbow Circle meeting opened by Pastor Bolden with speakers Urbain Ledoux and Mr. Antonius.


Medora Bolden president of Literary Society, Rainbow Circle meeting led by Bolden, readings from Abdu'l-Baha by Mrs S. Sacket, Mrs Copeland, talks by Bolden & Urbain Ledoux.

possibility of Baha'i Richard Bolden candidacy https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115164602/possibility-of-bahai-richard-bolden/ Harlem women favor party candidates, The New York Age New York, New York 12 Aug 1922, Sat • Page 1

Mrs Copeland led the Baha'i Association meeting though without further details. The Rainbow Circle started with a prayer by Bessie Robinson. J. Silverberg read from the Hidden Words and Bessie Scott read from the uncredited "The Unveiling of the Divine Plan". There were talks by Rev Bolden and Dr. Clark.


no mention of Baha'i Association at First Emmanuel Church; Rainbow Circle reads Abdu'l-Baha by Mr Hanks & Mrs Copeland, prayer by Mr Davenport, talks by Rev Bolden & Rev Hogans


Baha'i Richard Manuel Bolden, First Emmanuel Church, afternoon sermon at Bethny Church https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114813346/bahai-richard-manuel-bolden-first/ Englewood, NJ, The New York Age New York, New York 26 Aug 1922, Sat • Page 3


Baha'i Association meeting held. Rainbow Circle held and talks inc Bessie Scott, Mary Ford, Mrs Copeland led by Mrs S. Lockett

brief mention of the Rainbow Circle meeting inc talks by Bolden & Mrs Copeland

Horace Holley spoke to Sunday School; reports of auxiliaries - Mrs Bolden for choir, Rainbow Circle, Mrs E & Wm Townshend on history of the church

Baha'i Association meeting inc talks by Mrs Copeland, Mrs Lockett and others. More quarterly reports inc Rainbow Circle donation.

https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn86056950/1922-09-23/ed-1/seq-1/ Bullets fly in New York's YWCA rooms, The Chicago whip. (Chicago, Ill.) 1919-19??, September 23, 1922, Image 1

Breakdown of connection[edit]

1922 Medora dies

An overflow crowd attended the funeral services of Mrs Medora Bolden, nee Richardson, Sep 21 with Pastor J. W. Brown of the Mother AME Zion Church officiating. She and her forebears were profiled including graduating from Livingstone College in Salisbury NC. She was buried in Cypress Hills Cemetery with relatives. Among the telegrams of condolence were from J. Hanko and JT Simpson, and flowers were sent including the "Baha'i Headquarters" (National Spiritual Assembly?) and the Rainbow Circle.

-> https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Livingstone_College named after white Scot missionary to Africa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Livingstone .


The Baha'i association had talks by Mrs Copeland, Mrs Lockett and others. There is no mention of the Rainbow Circle meeting.

Republican Committee passes resolution honoring Medora Bolden https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164615/republican-committee-passes-resolution/ Co. Committee honors the late Mrs. Bolden, The New York Age New York, New York 07 Oct 1922, Sat • Page 1

The Baha'i Association had talks by Mrs Copeland, Mrs. S, Lockett and Rev Bolden. Many gathered for the Rainbow Circle in part because it included Shelia Davies of India giving a talk.

First Emmanuel Corp meeting; Wm E. Townshend officer https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115165904/first-emmanuel-corp-meeting-wm-e/ 1st Emmanuel Church Corporation Meeting, The New York Age New York, New York 21 Oct 1922, Sat • Page 2

Baha'i Association met after the Sunday School had had talks by Mrs. S. Lockett, Mrs. Anthony, Mr Davenport, Miss B. Parker, Miss M. Johnson, and Mrs. Copeland. There is no mention of the Rainbow Circle meeting though there was a followup memorial for Medora E. Bolden. S. Lockett, Mrs Anthony, Davenport, B. Parker, M. Johnson, Copeland


There is no coverage of Baha’is/Faith at the First Emmanuel Church after October 1922, or any in 1923 available at present, if any exists.

Another direction[edit]

https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn92061886/1922-11-06/ed-1/seq-1/print/image_681x464_from_4111%2C5519_to_5403%2C6399/ Rev. R. M. Bolden is running for Assembly, Tarrytown daily news. (Tarrytown, N.Y.) 1912-1931, November 06, 1922, Page 1

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164740/first-emmanuel-church-bahai-associated/ The First Emnanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 18 Nov 1922, Sat • Page 7


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116164884/first-emmanuel-church-was-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 02 Dec 1922, Sat • Page 7

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116168267/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 09 Dec 1922, Sat • Page 7


Memorial and Memorial Fund for Medora. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116170952/memorial-for-medora-bolden-bahai/ Church members to found memorial to Mrs. Medora Bolden, The New York Age New York, New York 10 Mar 1923, Sat • Page 8


FEC hosted Weynona Pendleton recital. https://archive.org/details/sim_music-magazine-and-musical-courier_1923-12-27_87_26/page/29/mode/1up Wynona Pendleton heard in recital, Musical Courier 1923-12-27, p29


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116171280/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 16 Feb 1924, Sat • Page 5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116171593/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 23 Feb 1924, Sat • Page 5


Bolden seeks protection from KKK at Roosevelt gravesite Oyster Bay https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566173/bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-seeks/ Threatened by Klan at the grave of Roosevelt, The New Era Omaha, Nebraska 15 Aug 1924, Fri • Page 1


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172057/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 28 Sep 1924, Sun • Page 5


From the BYA May 16, 1925, Bolden joined in the criticism of the YMCA movement that made the gospel a kind of "social cult for a few pretended intellects or demoralizing social uplift agency" though by the 1930s it was more mainstream to incorporate popular cultural forms than criticize them. https://archive.org/details/blackchurchesofb00tayl/page/84/mode/1up The Black churches of Brooklyn by Clarence Taylor Publication date 1994, p84,251

Bolden at Brown reception https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115567682/bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-at-brown/ Dr. W. W. Brown is tendered reception, The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 21 Mar 1925, Sat • Page 9


Bolden chairs fundraiser for hospital https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115567887/bahai-rev-r-m-bolden-chairs-fundraiser/ Harlem citizens raise $9000 more for medical center, The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 20 Jun 1925, Sat • Page 6

Reconnecting with Bahá'ís[edit]

As an example of the white community standards of music and society used as markers for progress in black communities Bolden denounced "disreputable" dance halls in 1926, echoed by New York Age editor Fred Moore. The city block of W 113th St protested a dance hall set up on the block.


profile of annual Teaneck interracial meeting of Baha’is inc Rev Bolden. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/27977346/profile-of-annual-teaneck-interracial/ Followers of Baha meet in Teaneck in annual session, The Record Hackensack, New Jersey 28 Jun 1926, Mon • Page 13 continued


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172489/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ The Fourteenth Anniversary, The New York Age New York, New York 10 Sep 1927, Sat • Page 10 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172407/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 25 Sep 1926, Sat • Page 5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172301/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 26 Sep 1925, Sat • Page 5


funeral assisted by Baha'i Rev R M Bolden https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115568030/obit-for-m-e-corrothers-miller/ Prominent New Jersey woman dies, The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 09 Oct 1926, Sat • Page 9


Baha'i Louis Gregory at First Emmanuel Church https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115006039/bahai-louis-gregory-at-first-emmanuel/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 18 Dec 1926, Sat • Page 16


Bolden spoke at Souvenir Feast in Teaneck NJ "pastor of the Harlem Immanuel Church, who spoke with the fire and feeling of his gifted race on the significance of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as a racial unifier.”


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172577/first-emmanuel-church-rev-richard/ Rev. Bolden endores Rev. Oliver for Bishop, by Richard M. Bolden, The New York Age New York, New York 24 Sep 1927, Sat • Page 3

1928 from Bermuda

Bolden a delegate to the Republican National Convention


Bolden gives sermon https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566382/bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-gives/ M. E. Church notes, The Record Hackensack, New Jersey 21 Jan 1930, Tue • Page 12


The International Labor Defense founder Charles Alexander, speaking against the NAACP, National Urban League, and black churches in general were "agents of the capitalist class in the ranks of the Negro race”. April 1933 Bolden led a group of Harlemites and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson asked attorney Samuel Leibowitz to set up a defense fund without communist connections like the Scottsboro Defense Fund to fund appeals despite Leibowitz being a political Democrat. https://archive.org/details/communistsinharl00nais/page/84/mode/1up Communists in Harlem during the depression by Naison, Mark, Publication date 1983, pp36, 71, 83-4,94 -> https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Labor_Defense, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottsboro_Boys,


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116172670/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 25 Feb 1933, Sat • Page 7


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114813433/bahai-richard-manuel-bolden-first/ First Emmanuel Ch., The New York Age New York, New York 27 May 1933, Sat • Page 7


Bolden MC of funeral/memorial for Rev Becton in NY. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566420/bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-mc-of/ Rev. Becton is buried (continued), The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 03 Jun 1933, Sat • Page 4

Anniversary of First Emmanuel Church by Richard https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116176695/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ Rev. Richard Manuel Bolden to celebrate 20th anniversary as Pastor of 1st Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 09 Sep 1933, Sat • Page 7


Memorial for Medora Bolden by First Emmorial Church. Msttirf June 1899 in Livington College in NC while Richard was a student. https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116176866/memorializing-medora-bolden-doing-first/ Extol Pastor's late wife, The New York Age New York, New York 23 Sep 1933, Sat • Page 2


Bolden memorial talk for Abraham Lincoln https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566474/bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-memorial/ New York minister to speak at Trinity Church, The Montclair Times Montclair, New Jersey 09 Feb 1934, Fri • Page 9


Bolden among dinner reception for minister birthday https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566543/bahai-rev-richard-m-bolden-among/ NY Pastor feted on birthday, The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 12 Jan 1935, Sat • Page 20

Seriously ill but home https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115026008/bahai-rev-richard-bolden-letter-back/ Rev. R. M. Bolden at home gives thanks, The New York Age New York, New York 11 Jul 1936, Sat • Page 2


https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116177274/guest-pastor-at-first-emmanuel-church/ Rt. Rev. C. C. Alleyne guest preacher at 1st Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 12 Jun 1937, Sat • Page 10

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116177372/first-emmanuel-church-formerly-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church, The New York Age New York, New York 25 Sep 1937, Sat • Page 10



Birthday https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114813620/bahai-richard-manuel-bolden-first/ Celebrates Birthday, The New York Age New York, New York 12 Mar 1938, Sat • Page 4


25th Anniversary of First Emmanuel https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71948217/rev-richard-manuel-bolden-bahai/ First Emmanuel Church marks 25th anniversary, The New York Age New York, New York 10 Sep 1938, Sat • Page 5


Bolden in history of Mother Zion church ME https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115566614/bahai-rev-richard-bolden-in-history/ Paul Robeson's brother pastor, by Baxter R. Leach, The Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 25 Mar 1939, Sat • Page 15

Patient in Metropolitan Hospital, Welfare Island

-> https://www.nyam.org/library/collections-and-resources/archives/finding-aids/ARC-0002.html/ Sep 1940 Bolden dies.

Died by June 19 {41 - https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115026329/bahai-rev-richard-bolden-among/ Religious Activities; Ministers hold memorial service, The New York Age New York, New York 21 Jun 1941, Sat • Page 12


  • John David Bosch, by Angelina Dilibe Allen notes Bolden led the burial service for Mountfort Mills. pp?

References[edit]

Retrieved from "https://bahaipedia.org/index.php?title=User:Smkolins/sandbox4&oldid=129222"
Powered by MediaWiki