Albion in Calhoun County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

Birthplace of "Old Rugged Cross"

February 20, 2010

1. Birthplace of "Old Rugged Cross" Marker

Inscription. "The Old Rugged Cross," one of the world's best-loved hymns, was composed here in 1912 by the Rev. George Bennard (1873-1958). The son of an Ohio coal miner, Bennard was a lifelong servant of God, chiefly in the Methodist ministry. He wrote the words and music of over 300 other hymns. None achieved the fame of "The Old Rugged Cross," the moving summation of his faith.

"I'll cherish the Old Rugged Cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the Old Rugged Cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown."

Erected 1960 by Michigan Historical Commission. (Marker Number 215.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Arts, Letters, Music. In addition, it is included in the Michigan Historical Commission series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1912.

Location. 42° 14.814′ N, 84° 44.451′ W. Marker is in Albion, Michigan, in Calhoun County. Marker is at the intersection of East Michigan Avenue (State Highway 99) and College Court, on the left when traveling east on East Michigan Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Albion MI 49224, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Δ𝚻Δ (a few steps from this marker); Albion College

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(approx. 0.2 miles away); The Observatory (approx. ¼ mile away); Birthplace of Famed Song (approx. ¼ mile away); First Presbyterian Church (approx. half a mile away); The First Home (approx. half a mile away); Mother's Day In Albion / Mother's Day (approx. 0.6 miles away); Homestead Savings & Loan Association, F.A. (approx. 0.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Albion.

Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. This list includes markers discussing the composition of the song "Old Rugged Cross".

Photographed By Michael McRivette, February 20, 2010

2. Birthplace of "Old Rugged Cross" Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on March 3, 2020. It was originally submitted on February 20, 2010. This page has been viewed 1,580 times since then and 47 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 20, 2010. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.