Lewis Redner

Lewis Henry Redner was an American musician renowned for composing the beloved Christmas carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem," originally titled "St. Louis." Born in Philadelphia, he balanced his career in real estate with a passion for music, serving as organist and choirmaster at several churches, most notably the Church of the Holy Trinity from 1861 to 1864 and again from 1869 to 1871. It was during his tenure there that he set Pastor Phillips Brooks's poem, inspired by a pilgrimage to Bethlehem, to music on Christmas Eve in 1868, leading to the carol's first performance the following day. Beyond his musical contributions, Redner was deeply engaged in community service, playing a pivotal role in local charities. He was a founding member of the Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission in 1878, which provided essential support to the homeless. Redner's legacy endures through his music, particularly "O Little Town of Bethlehem," which has become a staple of Christmas celebrations, cherished for its poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics. His work not only enriched the musical landscape of his time but also reflected a commitment to social welfare, marking him as a significant figure in both the arts and community service in 19th-century America.