Visions from the Mountaintop
N. J. and Lucy Holmes, two Presbyterian ministers and distinguished members of their community, founded Holmes Bible College in 1898 at the Altamont Hotel on Paris Mountain in Greeneville, South Carolina. They strove to establish an institute of higher learning that would train and equip young men and women to become fervent and dedicated Christian leaders.
Even though the institution changed locations during its early years, from Greenville to Atlanta, GA to Columbia, SC, the school relocated back to its original home in Greeneville in 1905. After ten years at the top of Paris Mountain, the Board of Trustees decided it would behoove the institute to move to a more urban location. Hence, daily operations were moved to the College's current home at the corner of Buncombe Street and Briggs Avenue. With the impending construction of the Western Connector, the College has purchased new land that borders Furman University.
The school has experienced several names changes throughout its history as well. Initially named the Altamont Bible and Missionary Institute, it was redubbed the Holmes Bible and Missionary Institute near the end of Mr. Holmes life. Further names changes included the Holmes College of Theology and Missions, followed by the Holmes Theological Seminary, then the Holmes College of the Bible, and eventually the final title of Holmes Bible College.
Even though the College is more than 100 years old, it has only had four presidents. First and foremost, the Rev. N. J. Holmes served as president until his death in 1919. His successor, Paul F. Beacham, had a tenure that spanned fifty-nine years until his death in 1978. Mr. Beacham was succeeded by Kenneth D. Benson until his retirement in 1996, paving the way for Dr. Richard Waters to take the helm of Holmes Bible College as its current president.
Maintaining the legacy that N. J. and Lucy set in place, the College currently offers a variety of liberal arts degrees that are specifically tailored to educate ministers-in-training. Their offerings include courses in Bible and theology, practical ministry, and general education. In addition, in the spirit of its legacy, Holmes Bible College also sponsors a Christian service and social ministry program in order to facilitate a comprehensive educational experience.