The Story of Fifty-Seven Cents

Robert Shackleton's book 'The Story of Fifty-Seven Cents' recounts the heartwarming tale of Hattie May Wiatt, a young girl who, with just 57 cents, inspired a community to build a new church. When Reverend Conwell learned of Hattie May's dream of a bigger church, he turned her modest savings into a powerful symbol of hope and generosity. Through his inspiring sermon, the congregation rallied around Hattie May's vision, auctioning off the 57 pennies for an impressive sum. The resulting funds were used to purchase a nearby property that would later become Temple University, and the Samaritan Hospital. This book reminds us of the incredible impact that even the smallest act of kindness can have, and the power of a community united behind a shared vision.