F. D. Srygley was born on December 22, 1856, in the hill country of North Alabama. He entered Mars’ Hill Academy and studied under the late T. B. Larimore. He became a Christian in August, 1874. Brother Srygley was a close student of the Word of God. He never doubted it for a moment. He began preaching the gospel soon after he became a Christian. He was logical in presenting his subject, and, above all, he was Scriptural in his teaching. He had no theories to preach; but he loved the truth of God, and loved to preach it. His style was simple and direct. The common people understood him and loved him. In November, 1889, he became one of the editors of the Gospel Advocate. Brother Srygley died on August 2, 1900, at his home in Donelson, TN. His lifelong friend, T. B. Larimore, preached his funeral.

J. N. Hall was born at Pleasureville, Kentucky Feb. 5, 1849. Hall has proved himself to be a very successful newspaper man. In 1879, he engaged with Elder F. L. Dupont in publishing the Baptist Gleaner, at Fulton, Ky. In 1881 the Gleaner was consolidated with the Baptist Banner. In 1884 Hall, in partnership with Elder J. B. Moody, revived the Baptist Gleaner. Later he became connected with the Baptist Reaper, and changed its name to Baptist Gleaner, and continued its publication for five years. In 1898 the American Baptist Flag of St. Louis, Mo., was sold at auction, and J. N. Hall bought it and became editor. He has held over ninety public debates, besides written discussions.