Robert Church was a rich African American. He was the first African American millionaire in the south. He was born on June 18, 1939 in Holly Springs, Ohio. His father was Charles B. Church and his mother was Emmeline. She died when Robert was only 12 years old.

Robert Church worked hard and over time owned many Memphis businesses such as a restaurant, a hotel, a park, and even an auditorium. He was a great provider for African Americans living in Tennessee. In 1908, Robert Church founded the Solvent Savings Bank and then was named president of the bank. The same year, Robert and his bank paid off the Beale Street Baptist Church’s creditors.

Robert Church became an important civic leader for African Americans in Memphis. He organized the NAACP in Memphis. He founded and financed the Lincoln League.

Robert Church’s private life had its ups and downs. He was married twice. His first wife was Louisa and they had a baby boy. However, the marriage did not last long before they were divorced. Soon after, he found happiness and married his second wife. They had two daughters.

In 1912, Robert Church, Sr. died at the age of 73. Fifty years after his death, he was voted into the Memphis Hall of Fame. Every year there is an award given out in Robert Church, Sr.’s name. It is given to an African American business leader.