Inspirations From The Past

In the quaint village of Brewster, New York, on March 24, 1820, a baby girl named Fanny Crosby was born. Sadly, at just six weeks old, a doctor's mistake left her blind for life. Yet, Fanny refused to let her blindness define her.

Growing up, Fanny was a bright and cheerful child. She had a remarkable memory, and her grandmother had a great influence in teaching her Bible verses and hymns. Fanny loved music and singing, and she quickly developed a talent for writing poetry.

At the age of 15, Fanny enrolled at the New York Institute for the Blind. She excelled in her studies, and after graduating, she became a teacher at the institute. It was there that she met Alexander van Alstyne, a talented musician, whom she married in 1858.

Fanny's passion for writing hymns grew stronger over the years. She wanted to use her gift to spread the message of God's love and hope. She wrote thousands of hymns under a plethora of writer's names, many of which are still sung in churches around the world today. Some of her most famous hymns include "Blessed Assurance," "To God Be the Glory," and "All the Way My Savior Leads Me."

Despite her blindness, Fanny lived a full and active life. She was a wife and (though only for a short time) mother, and she was involved in many charitable causes. She was also a popular speaker, sharing her inspiring story and her faith with audiences across the country.

Fanny Crosby died on February 12, 1915, at the age of 94. Her legacy as one of the most prolific and beloved hymn writers of all time lives on through her timeless hymns that continue to touch the hearts of millions around the world.