The Happy Family

When Charles William Fry, a builder and Wesleyan Methodist evangelist from the Wiltshire village of Alderbury, chose to offer his family's support to The Christian Mission that had commenced its ministry in Salisbury during the spring of 1878, it led to the unintentional formation of the first Salvation Army band. Selling up their home and business, the Happy Family, as they were known, travelled around the United Kingdom supporting General William Booth for almost four years. After Charles Fry was promoted to Glory in 1882, his three sons continued working for the Salvation Army in England, Scotland, France, Canada and Australia. However, all three would resign their membership by the end of the 19th century and, as with those who dared challenge the leadership of William Booth, including several of his own children, are often overlooked by Salvationist historians. The Happy Family - Charles Fry & the First Salvation Army Band is the previously untold story of the bond between faith and family and, above all, a total commitment to the service of God.