Washington Gladden
1836–1918 · USA · Romantic
Washington Gladden (1836–1918) was an American Congregational minister and prolific hymn writer who became a leading voice in the Social Gospel movement of the late 19th century. Serving primarily at the First Congregational Church in Columbus, Ohio, he authored numerous hymns that reflected his progressive theological views and commitment to social justice, including the popular hymn "O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee." Gladden's hymnody emphasized practical Christian ethics and social responsibility rather than purely spiritual concerns, making him a pioneer in adapting Protestant hymnody to address contemporary social issues. His works were widely published and sung in American Protestant churches, influencing generations of congregational worship. He remains an important figure in American hymnody for his integration of social activism with traditional church music.