These two books, written by my great-grandparents, offer unique perspectives into missionary life in the early 1900s. The first book, written by Dr. George S. Benson, covers their move to China, his role in founding Canton English College in 1932, missionary experiences in the Philippines, Korea, and Zambia, as well as stories from his service as president of Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas.
The second book reads like a letter home. It gives insight into the heart of a woman who sacrificed much, but who gave heart and soul in the service of her God. I did not know this book existed until 2013, but I am so grateful for the discovery.
Simply click on the links below to open the pdf files, or right-click and save to your computer. A few folks have contacted me, complaining that the pages are sideways. Although the pdf files might open sideways, you should be able to change the page orientation within your pdf reader.
“As I look back over the years and ask myself how I got where I am and what motivated me to do the things I did that have brought me to this point, I invariably reflect back on my youth and the influences and experiences that led me to become a foreign missionary in the first place.” – Dr. George S. Benson
“At high noon of September 24, 1926 we sailed into Hong Kong harbor aboard the Empress of Australia. Our journey across the Pacific had been delightfully calm, and we landed in the thriving British seaport well and happy.” – Sally Ellis Benson
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And although my grandparents on my dad’s side never wrote books, I’m still very much blessed by their godly legacy. My grandfather took many (like more than 20) short-term trips to India, and my grandmother did a slam-dunk job raising four boys. Click Here to read some of my grandmother’s recollections from days past.
The Trotter Family 
We received a copy of this as a FOL donation, library bound in hard plastic and are unsure what to do with it. It seems too unique to put in our dollar sale. Do you know if there is interest out there? Can’t find a value.
Hey there, Chris! You might want to check with the Harding University library in Searcy, Arkansas. I think they might be very interested. Thanks!
I have read both.
I was born and raised in Hong Kong. I have always been interested in church history. I interviewed Dr Benson in 1986 or 1987. It’s amazing that he could still talk a bit in Cantonese.
I have collected some information about George Benson and his co-workers in China here
http://wahfucoc.org.hk/history/cocpichist_eng.htm
Thank you so much for the link! I look forward to checking it out! — Jonathan T.