Horatio Spafford was an American lawyer and Presbyterian elder who wrote the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul," which includes the famous line "When peace like a river, attendeth my way." The hymn was penned in the midst of a series of tragic events in Spafford's life. In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed much of his real estate investments. A few years later, in 1873, Spafford planned to travel to Europe with his family, but due to unexpected business developments, he sent his wife, Anna, and their four daughters ahead while he stayed behind.
Tragically, the ship carrying his family, the S.S. Ville du Havre, collided with another vessel and sank in the Atlantic Ocean. All four of Spafford's daughters perished in the tragedy. His wife, Anna, survived and sent a telegram with the words "Saved alone." While on his way to meet his grieving wife, Spafford was inspired to write the hymn as he sailed past the spot where the shipwreck had occurred.
Despite the profound loss and sorrow, the hymn expresses Spafford's deep faith and trust in God's sovereignty. "It Is Well with My Soul" has since become a well-loved and enduring hymn in Christian worship, resonating with people facing adversity and offering solace in times of trial.