George Bennard
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| George Bennard | |
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| Born | February 4, 1873 Youngstown, Ohio |
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| Died | October 10, 1958 (aged 85) Reed City, Michigan |
| Known for | "The Old Rugged Cross" |
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".
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[edit] 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 when his father died suddenly.[1]
[edit] Evangelical and musical careers
After marrying, Bennard became active in the Salvation Army and preached throughout the United States and Canada.[1] 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". He died in Reed City, Michigan, where the local Chamber of Commerce erected a cross near his home.[1]
Bennard is buried in Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood, California.[1]
