Happy Birthday, B.T. Roberts: Honoring 202 years of Vision and Legacy
July 25, 2025, marks the 202nd birthday of the Rev. Benjamin Titus (B.T.) Roberts (1823–1893), founder of Chili Seminary — now Roberts Wesleyan University. A man ahead of his time, Roberts was a bold leader, educator, minister, abolitionist, and social reformer whose legacy still shapes the mission and values of the university that bears his name.
B.T. Roberts founded the Free Methodist Church in 1860, driven by a vision for holiness, freedom from slavery and oppression, and a church that welcomed all — including the poor and marginalized. His commitment to justice and equality, paired with a passion for Christian education, led to the establishment of Chili Seminary in 1866. That seminary would later become Roberts Wesleyan University, continuing his mission of preparing students to lead with character, compassion, and conviction.
A few lesser-known facts about Roberts:
He initially trained as a lawyer before pursuing ministry.
He and his wife, Ellen, had seven children and worked together to advance education and justice.
He pastored several churches in New York State.
Roberts was a committed abolitionist, and many early Free Methodists were active in the Underground Railroad.
His values of simplicity, generosity, and service to others still resonate deeply at Roberts Wesleyan today.
He is buried in North Chili Rural Cemetery on Buffalo Road.
Each year, his legacy is shared with new generations of students.
As Roberts Wesleyan University looks to the future, it continues to walk in the footsteps of B.T. Roberts — boldly committed to Christ-centered education, social justice, and preparing students to transform the world.
Happy 202nd Birthday, B.T.!
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About the author
Roberts Wesleyan University
As a community of learners committed to historic Christianity, Roberts Wesleyan University seeks to prepare thoughtful, spiritually mature, service-oriented people who will help transform society.
We are a private Christian university in Rochester, New York, offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs.
As the only NCAA Division II institution in the region and member of the East Coast Conference, Roberts is committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and competitive athletics.