What 19th-century hymn became famously associated with the Titanic disaster? Learn!
Sarah Flower Adams was an English poet and hymn writer, best known for her hymn "Nearer, My God, to Thee." Here are some interesting facts about her:
Born in 1805: Sarah Flower Adams was born on February 22, 1805, in Harlow, Essex, England.
Talented Family: She came from a family with artistic and literary inclinations. Her father, Benjamin Flower, was a newspaper editor and political reformer, and her sister, Eliza Flower, was also a hymn writer and composer.
Poet and Playwright: In addition to hymn writing, Sarah Flower Adams was a poet and playwright. She wrote several poems and plays during her lifetime.
Unitarian Beliefs: The Adams family held Unitarian beliefs, and Sarah was influenced by these theological perspectives. Her hymn "Nearer, My God, to Thee" reflects a deep spiritual connection.
"Nearer, My God, to Thee": The hymn "Nearer, My God, to Thee" is one of her most famous works. It is a Christian hymn that expresses a desire for a closer relationship with God, especially in times of adversity. The hymn is associated with the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912, as some survivors reported hearing the ship's band play this hymn during its final moments.
Collaboration with her Sister: Sarah collaborated with her sister Eliza on a collection of poems titled "Vivia Perpetua." This collection, published in 1841, showcased the sisters' literary talents.
Marriage to William Bridges Adams: Sarah married William Bridges Adams, a railway engineer and inventor, in 1834. The couple had one child, but Sarah's health declined, and she died at the young age of 43 on August 14, 1848.
Posthumous Recognition: Despite her relatively short life, Sarah Flower Adams left a lasting impact through her hymns and poetry. "Nearer, My God, to Thee" continues to be widely sung and is considered a classic hymn.
Sarah Flower Adams' hymn has endured through the years and remains a powerful and moving expression of faith and devotion.