Albert was born in Pennsylvania, United States, and was a very "gentle baby and child".
On Sundays their father would let the children go to play in a small city yard only one at a time.
Albert was baptized at the age of thirteen, and began to take part in church work.
For instance, teaching in a mission school, calling on aged people and invalids, and conducting a weekly neighborhood meeting.
After Albert sailed to Japan he decided to establish a university where all colors of skin could be taught.