Joseph Swain (poet) facts for kids
Joseph Swain (born in 1761 – died April 14, 1796) was a British Baptist minister and writer of religious songs. He was born in Birmingham, England. Joseph lost his parents when he was young. Later, he learned the skill of engraving, first in Birmingham and then in London.
He became very religious in 1782. He was baptized by John Rippon in London on May 11, 1783. After this, he became a Baptist minister. From 1792 until he died, he was the pastor at the East Street Baptist church in Walworth.
A Popular Preacher
Joseph Swain was a very popular speaker. Many people liked to hear him preach. Because so many people came to his church, they had to make the building bigger three times!
His Writings
Joseph Swain also wrote many religious poems and songs, called hymns. Many of his songs were very popular throughout the 1800s. Today, not many people remember them. Many of his songs were published together in 1792. This collection was called Walworth Hymns.
One of his hymns, "My Song in the Night," was included on an album in 2009. The album was called Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing. It was released by the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.
His Final Years
Joseph Swain died when he was 35 years old, on April 14, 1796. He was buried in the Bunhill Fields burial ground in London. His gravestone was moved after it was damaged during World War II. It is now in the middle of the burial ground. It is near the monument for Daniel Defoe and the gravestone for William Blake. Both Defoe and Blake were famous writers.
Joseph Swain's grandson was also named Joseph Swain. He also became an engraver.
