Scott Joplin, the American ragtime pianist and composer, became known as the “King of Ragtime” in 1898. At the same time, another talented musician of African descent heard the beat of a different drummer. Thomas D. Ferguson was one of the earliest Salvation Army soldiers in Boston. In 1889, Tom arrived by boat, having previously joined The Salvation Army in Jamaica, his homeland. 

Tom Ferguson became one of the most well-known Salvationists in America and, in time, throughout the world. Tom was an accomplished musician, composer, poet and writer. He penned the lyrics and composed the music for more than 40 popular Salvation Army songs. His songs vibrated with the rhythm and movement characteristic of the Afro-Caribbean music that gained global popularity throughout the early 20th century. Songs like “When We Get Home” and “Song of Triumph” are enthusiastically sung around the country. Salvationists around the world still sing his most celebrated song, “By the Way of the Cross.” 

Evangeline Booth, who was the National Commander of The Salvation Army at this time, featured Tom as the lead singer and conductor of a talented songster brigade named The Commander’s Own during the 1914 International Congress in London. The elite group of 13 African-American singers surged in popularity throughout the congress. More than 20,000 Salvationists dressed in national costumes, representing 54 nations and speaking 34 languages that were inspired by Ferguson’s songs. “Goodbye, Pharaoh, Goodbye” became the favorite song of the congress. Delegates loved the song! Spontaneous waves of singing wafted through the packed auditorium. The War Cry reported that one delegate remarked, “None but a cynic could have sat quietly and refused to make the movements which go with the song!” 

Commissioner John McMillan wrote “When your song ‘By the Way of the Cross’ was sung before an audience of over a 1,000 people in Congress Hall (a large London corps), the impression was so great, it touched us in spots which words of eloquence rarely reach. Go on and use your God-given talents to the glory of Christ.”

Tom returned to Boston. From his welcomed arrival in 1889 until his retirement in 1946, Tom served at the Boston Palace Corps, where he eventually became corps sergeant-major. Tom sang in nearly every town in New England. At 85 years of age, and as a resident of a Malden, MA nursing home, Tom continued to sing and compose songs of inspiration and faith. He never stopped writing poetry and music. 

So What?

In what ways are you using your God-given talents to fulfill the Lord’s will in your life? What amazing transformations are unfolding through your gifts?