Isaac Watts

Isaac Watts was born in Southampton England, on July 17, 1674. His father had served several prison terms because of his non-conformity. In 1702 Watts became pastor of Mark Lane Chapel, a large Congregational church in London. Although ill health forced his virtual retirement within a few years, the congregation insisted that he remain pastor as long as he lived. Watts was a highly gifted man, admired by Anglicans and non-conformists alike. He served as a private tutor, and many of his books...See more

Isaac Watts was born in Southampton England, on July 17, 1674. His father had served several prison terms because of his non-conformity. In 1702 Watts became pastor of Mark Lane Chapel, a large Congregational church in London. Although ill health forced his virtual retirement within a few years, the congregation insisted that he remain pastor as long as he lived. Watts was a highly gifted man, admired by Anglicans and non-conformists alike. He served as a private tutor, and many of his books reflect his educational concerns. His knowledge and writings cover a broad spectrum of topics, such as philosophy, singing, piety, and even popular children's poetry. Watts wrote prodigiously, and is most known as the author of over 750 hymns. On the day of Watts's death, Matthew Arnold declared Watts's "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" to be the fines hymn in the English Language. Others include "O God, Our Help in Ages Past" and "Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun." Isaac Watts died on November 25, 1748 and was buried in the non-conformist burial ground at Bunhill Fields. See less