Did You Know?

Dr. J. R. Howerton served as the president of Montreat for only one year, 1906-1907, but his impact began much earlier and is still present today. Born in LaFayette, Kentucky, in 1861, he attended Southwestern Presbyterian University in Clarksville, Tennessee (now Rhodes College in Memphis) and Columbia Theological Seminary.  He served churches in Corpus Christi, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Norfolk, Virginia.

In 1896 he accepted the pastorate of First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte. He was soon introduced to Montreat, which had been founded in 1897, and first preached there during the summer of 1900. He often spent summer vacations in the cool mountains and came to know John Huyler, the New York candy manufacturer who had funded much of the venture.

By 1905 Montreat was in a precarious financial position; Huyler owned most of the property as a result of the indebtedness. Howerton believed that such a retreat center was just what the Presbyterian Church (PCUS) needed.  The Synod of North Carolina listened favorably to his argument and formed a committee to purchase the property.  The General Assembly agreed to support the venture.  Huyler’s price – $50,000.  Where would the church get such a sum of money? 

Howerton proposed that Montreat sell five hundred shares of stock at $100/share, with each shareholder receiving a lot.  With all shares sold, he paid Huyler $25,000 immediately and used the remaining funds for much needed improvements.

In 1907 the charter of the Mountain Retreat Association was amended to reflect its new purpose.  A few years later Huyler forgave the remaining indebtedness of $25,000. Howerton, meanwhile, having secured Montreat for the PCUS, accepted the position of Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy at Washington and Lee University, where he remained until his death in 1924.

Thanks to the Presbyterian Heritage Center, especially Nancy Midgette, for this glimpse from the past. Stop by the PHC for even more Montreat history and so much more.