Katherine Hankey
1834–1911 · Scotland · Romantic
Katherine Hankey (1834-1911) was a Scottish evangelical Christian and prolific hymn writer whose works became central to nineteenth-century Protestant hymnody. She is best remembered for her hymn "I Love to Tell the Story," which became one of the most widely sung evangelical hymns worldwide and exemplifies her gift for combining accessible melodies with clear evangelical theology. Devoted to Christian education and missionary work throughout her life, Hankey composed numerous hymns characterized by their straightforward piety, focus on salvation narrative, and suitability for congregational singing. Her hymns reflected the revivalist traditions of Victorian evangelicalism and were frequently used in Sunday schools and missionary meetings. Hankey's contributions to Christian hymnody extend her influence far beyond her lifetime, securing her place as one of the most significant female hymn writers of the nineteenth century.