Early opposition

In the early days, The Salvation Army’s loud brass-band marches and open-air meetings didn’t always impress. “Skeleton Armies” – groups of people (often local larrikins) intent on causing The Salvation Army mischief – were active in many towns, including Bundaberg. In her book, Booth’s Drum: The Salvation Army in Australia 1880-1980, Barbara Bolton writes there was open opposition to the Army from the Licensed Victuallers’ Association, which, in 1887, passed a resolution “that we do not deal with, aid, or assist any person connected with, or employing members of the blue ribbon or salvation fraternities.” But the rotten-egg throwing and insults didn’t deter the early Salvationists – it was welcomed as a means to attracting more people to hear the message of Christ!