Article: The Hymns of Samuel Francis Smith

The year 2008 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Samuel Francis Smith (1808-1895), one of the most important hymnwriters in the United States during the nineteenth century. Smith's significance stems from many factors: he wrote the words of one of America's favorite national hymns, co-compiled the most popular Baptist hymnal of the mid-nineteenth century, published several collections of verse, was widely anthologized in American hymn collections, was prolific in his output, and was frequently the choice of churches and organizations who sought to commission new hymns.

However, surprisingly little attention has been paid to Smith's contributions to congregational song. The chief ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!