Gardner C. Taylor papers

The Gardner C. Taylor papers mainly consist of sermons both in paper form and sound recordings (1977-2008), with a small amount of correspondence (1996-2014), photographs (1952-2004), and ephemeral materials (1948-2016) generated during Taylor’s later life. The bulk of the collection dates from the mid-1980s to the late-1990s.

The strength of the collection can be found in the sound recordings, mainly in standard audiocassette format of Taylor preaching at Concord Baptist Church of Christ in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York and at other venues. There are 266 sound recordings, with the bulk dating between 1986 to 1990. These sermons often touch on the theme of human struggle and Christian faith.

Only two original books of typescript drafts and transcripts of Taylor’s sermons are available within the papers, dating 1987-1989. All of the other sermon books are in the form of photocopies of originals most likely located at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Taylor’s correspondence (1996-2014) mainly relates to the affect his preaching and knowledge has inspired to those in Christian ministry, as well as his writings and publication of his works. Additionally, often letters refer to requests for speaking engagements or requests for Taylor to preach at various churches and for events. Included are letters regarding various awards Taylor has been nominated for or received. Ephemeral materials include programs for events attended, news clippings, as well as some collected Christian magazines which highlighted Taylor’s work as a minister and preacher.

The earliest item within the papers is a ledger book (1921-1924) for Mount Zion Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, which contains member rolls. Taylor’s father, Reverend Washington Monroe Taylor, was minister of the church at the time. Of interest is a copy of a 1988 proposal, “The Carl Stewart Show: A proposal to develop a radio show that combines the very essence of the Black religious experience, dynamic preaching, insightful commentary, and spirit-filled music,” that was presented to Taylor in his capacity as pastor of Concord Baptist Church of Christ.

Photographs are mainly color images of Taylor at various events, with occasional black and white images mixed throughout. Of note is a black and white portrait of Taylor as a younger man, circa 1950s, within the collection.