T. R. Burnett (1842–1916)

Thomas R. Burnett was a preacher, writer, and editor among the churches of Christ in Texas. Born in Tennessee, his family moved to Fannin County, Texas around 1850 when T. R. was eight years old. He served in the 34th Texas Cavalry (CSA) during the Civil War. Burnett taught school and edited several small Texas newspapers. Immersed by Professor Charles Carlton in 1874, Burnett established the Christian Messenger at Bonham, Texas, in 1875, appointing Carlton its first editor. Through the Messenger, Burnett resisted the introduction of instrumental music into Texas churches, fought the idea of the "hired preacher," and attacked Austin McGary's demand for rebaptism of converts already immersed. In 1894 Burnett sold the Messenger to the Gospel Advocate, joining the Advocate staff with a page called, "Burnett's Budget. He was well known for his debating skills and acerbic wit, which once caused David Lipscomb to drop him from the editorial staff of the Gospel Advocate.