Pastor And Banker

W. R. Pettiford was born on his father's North Carolina farm in 1847. In his youth he worked for a tanner, then returned home to run the farm. In 1868, art the age of 21, Pettiford, who was then serving as a clerk in the Baptist church of Rocksboro, realized he had been called to spread the Gospel.
By 1877, Pettiford's theological studies had led him to Selma University, where he became a member of the school's pioneer faculty. As an instructor, Pettiford was remembered by students and co-workers alike as a well-spoken, patient man who taught the advantages of hard work by example. He was also one of the most successful fundraisers the University ever had.
After marrying Della Boyd of Selma, Pettiford left professorship for a pastor's duties at 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Soon the Baptist pastor saw that many black workers employed in the area needed financial as well as spiritual advice.
In 1890, the progressive clergyman organized the Alabama Penny Savings and Loan Association. With the help of other black leaders, Pettiford raised $25,000 in capital. He then traveled the back roads of the area, personally convincing rural blacks of the advantages of saving.
By 1907, Alabama Penny Savings had branches in Selma, Anniston and Montgomery and had helped more than 1,000 black families build their own homes. It had also become the second largest black owned bank in America.

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