In 1908, Billy Sunday significantly expanded his evangelistic reach, conducting several impactful revival campaigns that elevated his national prominence. Notable revivals that year included:
- Bloomington, Illinois: This campaign marked Sunday’s first major urban revival, setting the stage for subsequent large-scale efforts. The dates of the Bloomington meetings were December 27, 1907-February 3, 1908.
- Spokane, Washington: Invited by Prohibition advocates, Sunday held a significant revival here, reinforcing his influence in the temperance movement. Society for American Baseball Research
- Jacksonville, Illinois: Photographs from 1908 depict Sunday preaching against “booze” in a tabernacle on South Main Street, highlighting his commitment to the temperance cause.
- Charleston, Illinois: In April 1908, Sunday led a revival that influenced the local baseball team to adopt the moniker “Charleston Evangelists,” reflecting the impact of his campaign on the community. Wikipedia
- Springfield, Illinois: Sunday’s initial efforts in 1908 laid the groundwork for a comprehensive six-week revival in 1909, which resulted in over 4,000 conversions and the establishment of enduring community institutions like the Washington Street Mission. Illinois Times
These 1908 campaigns were pivotal in transitioning Billy Sunday from regional evangelist to a national figure, capable of organizing large-scale revivals and mobilizing extensive volunteer networks.
Evangelist Billy Sunday (1862-1935) 