George Bennard

George Bennard (February 4, 1873 – October 10, 1958) was an American hymn composer and preacher. He is best known for composing the famous hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross".

George Bennard
Born(1873-02-04)February 4, 1873
Youngstown, Ohio
DiedOctober 10, 1958(1958-10-10) (aged 85)
Reed City, Michigan
Known for"The Old Rugged Cross"

Early years

Bennard was born in the coal-mining and iron-production town of Youngstown, Ohio. When he was still a child, his parents relocated the family to Albia, Iowa. Some time later, they moved again to Lucas, Iowa.[1] Although the young Bennard aspired to become a Christian evangelist, he was compelled to support his mother and sisters after his father died suddenly.[1]

Evangelical and musical careers

After marrying, Bennard became active in the Salvation Army and preached throughout the United States and Canada.[1] He was ordained as a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He spent much of his life in Michigan and Wisconsin. As a well-regarded author of Christian hymns, his most famous work is "The Old Rugged Cross". Bennard retired to Reed City, Michigan, and the town maintains a museum dedicated to his life and ministry.[2] He died in Reed City, Michigan, where the local Chamber of Commerce erected a cross near his home.[1]

Bennard is buried at Inglewood Park Cemetery in Inglewood, California.[1]

References
  1. "Bennard Biography". Cyber Hymnal. Retrieved 2007-03-07.
  2. Reed City Museum Archived 2007-09-28 at the Wayback Machine. A memorial has also been created in Youngstown at Lake Park Cemetery. "Old Rugged Cross part of Youngstown history." Archived 2012-03-20 at the Wayback Machine
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