Psalmody, Shape Notes, and Sankey: The Evolution of Protestant American Hymnody in the 19th Century

Authors

Paul T. Anderson, Harding UniversityFollow

Publication Date

Spring 2020

Subject Area

Section 3: Build Your Kingdom Here: Faith Communities in a Crisis

Abstract

With improvements in the lyrics, rhythms, emotional appeal, and overall quality of hymns, nineteenth century Protestant American hymnody evolved from crude psalmody to gospel songs with influences from the American frontier, new denominations, and the African-American spiritual. By examining the general trends in Christian singing in the 1800's, a better understanding can be had of the origins of popular church music today.

About the Author

Paul T. Anderson is a junior from Newnan, Georgia. He is pursuing a degree in Social Science with Licensure, with a minor in Bible and Ministry, with the ultimate goal of teaching high school history. He serves as the Vice President of the Eta Phi chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, and is also a member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society, the American Studies Institute, and Chi Sigma Alpha men’s social club.