Wolcott Hackley Littlejohn: Defender of the Faith

Wolcott Hackley Littlejohn was an influential writer, speaker and leader within the early years of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Before he became an active member, he lost his sight and was no longer able to read or write. Nevertheless, he read continuously and wrote copiously through the eyes and hands of another. Littlejohn was also a profound speaker who drew the attention of people from different faiths. He made numerous lasting contributions to Adventism, but his life was at times wrapped up in controversy. In the 1870’s he challenged George Ide Butler and his philosophy of leadership and in the 1890’s he received pointed critiques from Ellen Gould White because of a controversial article that he published. Throughout his life, Littlejohn proved to be a remarkable man and adept theologian. This article attempts to provide a brief historical overview of his life and contributions to the Seventh-day Adventist Church.