Dr. Frank Charles Thompson was a young preacher in the late 1800s when he became disappointed with the reference Bibles being sold to preachers. Dr. Thompson believed the Bible should be presented in a simple, but scholarly way. He saw the need for a well-organized reference Bible that would be of practical use to the layman as well as a minister.

This photo shows the original hand-written notes in the margins of Dr. Thompson's personal Bible. This rare artifact, shows the beginning of the Thompson Bible

In 1890, Dr. Thompson began the work he would continue for the rest of his life. He completed the "thought suggestions" opposite the verses throughout the Bible. These are what became the "chain-links" that are the heart of the Thompson system. Some of the men in Dr. Thompson's church saw his Bible and told him this would be a great help to them in their Bible study too. They encouraged Dr. Thompson to have his Bible, with marginal references, published so that everyone could enjoy the blessing of this helpful study tool.

In 1908, the first edition of the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible® was printed by Methodists Book Concern of Dobbs Ferry, New York. It became known as the most helpful, trustworthy and unbiased study Bible available. The Thompson® Bible continues to have that reputation today.

In 1913, Dr. Thompson joined with B.B. Kirkbride in Indianapolis, Indiana to form the Kirkbride Bible Company. This was to assure the constant improvement of this remarkable study tool, and the widest distribution possible.

Today, the Thompson® Chain-Reference Bible offers you a complete study library in one volume. With over 78 practical features for in depth Scriptural appreciation and understanding, nothing can match what the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible offers:

• Over 100,000 topical references
• Over 8,000 Chain Topics
• Updated Archaeological Supplement with photos and maps
• Outline studies of each book of the Bible
• Journey maps and Bible harmonies
• Biblical Atlas
• Bible Book Outlines
• Over 4,000,000 Thompson Chain-Reference Bibles sold!

Wouldn't you like to own a Thompson®? Choose your Thompson® now.