Photos courtesy Clinton Theological Seminary (CAR Photo Database)
German Americans were the largest ethnic group in the country, making up as much as 25–35% of the population in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin. In Missouri, they comprised 10–15%. (1)
How could Adventists effectively minister to such a large group without speaking their language? Preaching, evangelizing, giving Bible studies — none of it would reach hearts unless it could be done in a language they understood.
Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, had a German Department for young Adventists of German heritage. However, its training did not fully prepare students for the specific challenges of ministry among German-speaking communities. Recognizing this need, the General Conference voted at the 1909 Annual Council to establish a seminary dedicated to training ministers to serve in German.
In February 1910, a committee met in Kansas City, Missouri, to consider proposals from various towns. The town of Clinton stood out, offering the former Baird College building and 105 acres of land. After reviewing the site, church leaders approved the purchase. Local businesses were contracted to renovate the building and furnish the new school.
By mid-October 1910, Clinton German Seminary opened its doors. That first year, 100 students enrolled, and numbers steadily grew. The seminary quickly became a hub for Adventist youth of German descent. Some faculty members, including the president, were barely older than the students, creating a warm, close-knit family. Students later praised the campus’ genuine Christian spirit and mutual care, often describing their time there as life changing.
Then came World War I. As early as 1914, anti-German sentiment surged across the United States — even before the country officially joined the war in 1917. One might have thought that such hostility was unlikely, given how large a share of the population was of German descent — but that did not prevent tensions and suspicion from rising. Adventists were watched by the Bureau of Investigation, suspected of being German sympathizers or spies. In response, the seminary changed its name to Clinton Theological Seminary, and instruction largely shifted from German to English. Yet, the town of Clinton — its leaders, citizens and business community — remained supportive and helped to stem the tide of hostility.
After the war, enrollment declined. The seminary struggled to provide sufficient work opportunities for students, and many German Americans began to abandon their native language. More Adventist youth opted for English-speaking colleges.
By 1925, Clinton Theological Seminary had lost its distinct identity and relevance. The Church decided to close its doors. Yet in its 15 years, the seminary conferred 38 degrees — including Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Theology — and issued 262 diplomas. Many others took courses without completing a program but went on to serve faithfully in the mission field, both at home and abroad.
Denis Kaiser is an associate professor of church history at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University.
