Early opposition

The Salvation Army in Tenterfield wasn’t given a “hero’s welcome”, so to speak. In fact, its brass-band marches down the main street and open-air meetings often caused consternation, with many local larrikins making it their business to interrupt the work of the early Salvationists.

A publication produced for the Army’s centenary in Tenterfield records that: The establishment of the Tenterfield Corps (church) was not without a measure of persecution, the most notable resulting in several newly converted Salvationists sustaining injuries. One wild Irishman vented his wrath by riding his horse into a marching column of newly converted Salvationists and injuries were sustained. Suffering persecution, ridicule and even physical attacks, the newly formed Tenterfield Corps (church) persevered with strict and autocratic military organisation, providing practical help for the poor and the Christian message for all.