Henry Wilder Foote
American Unitarian Hymn Writers and Hymns
"American Unitarian Hymn Writers and Hymns" by Henry Wilder Foote is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This work outlines the development of hymnody within the American Unitarian movement, detailing the contributions made by various hymn writers over a span of approximately 150 years. The book provides insight into the significance of these hymns in reflecting the liberal religious thought of their time. The opening of the text begins with an exploration of American Unitarian hymnody, citing the notable contributions of early hymnists and the evolution of hymn collections used in Unitarian churches. It highlights the transition from traditional metrical psalms to new lyrical expressions reflective of a more contemporary and intellectual religious identity. Specific figures like John Quincy Adams and John Pierpont are acknowledged for their poetic contributions, while the text emphasizes the broader cultural and literary movements, such as Transcendentalism, that influenced the creation and acceptance of Unitarian hymns. This section sets the stage for a more detailed exploration of individual hymn writers and their works throughout the rest of the book.