Dr. David Saxon, professor of Church History at Maranatha Baptist University, tells the story of Andrew Fuller, an English Baptist pastor and missions supporter, to Randy Melchert. Watch on VCY.tv
Bridgeport, Connecticut: Fanny Crosby
Our Christian Heritage goes “On Location” with the Hymn History of Fanny Crosby who penned “Safe In The Arms Of Jesus” and I Shall Know Him”.
Transcript:
We’re here in Bridgeport, Connecticut, at the P.T. Barnum Museum and Institute of Science and History. While Barnum is the city’s most famous showman, he’s not the only notable resident. Just a block away is the Bridgeport Public Library, which houses a wealth of materials on one of Barnum’s friends: the renowned blind hymnwriter Fanny Crosby.
Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) authored more than 3,000 hymns and poems—some estimates reach 8,000—making her one of the most prolific gospel songwriters in history. Inside the library, you’ll find newspaper clippings, books, hymnals, biographies, autobiographies, and even an autographed copy of one of her works. Remarkably, though blind from infancy (due to a medical mishap), Fanny learned to write by hand so she could sign her books personally.
We have much more to share about her life and legacy, but let’s start by visiting the home where she spent her final years—just about a mile from here in Bridgeport.
In 1900, Fanny moved from New York City to Bridgeport. By 1906, now a widow, she moved in with her sister Carrie and niece Julia at 226 Wells Street. She lived there quietly until her death. Early on the morning of February 12, 1915, at age 94, Fanny passed away peacefully. Her doctor listed the cause as arteriosclerosis, with a secondary cerebral hemorrhage.
Her funeral was held at the First Methodist Episcopal Church (now Golden Hill Methodist Church) on Elm Street in Bridgeport. The pastor, Reverend George M. Brown, delivered the eulogy, speaking to a congregation very familiar with their beloved parishioner. The service featured hymns of special significance: “Faith of Our Fathers, Living Still” (one of Fanny’s favorites), and two she wrote—”Someday the Silver Cord Will Break” and “Safe in the Arms of Jesus.”
“Safe in the Arms of Jesus” held deep personal meaning for Fanny. Many scholars believe it was composed during one of her life’s lowest points—after the death of her only child, a daughter who lived only a few weeks or months in 1858. Fanny rarely spoke of the loss, but the hymn reflects profound trust in Christ’s comfort amid sorrow. At the service’s close, members of the Daughters of the American Revolution distributed flowers to attendees. Fanny was a direct descendant of Mayflower passengers (including Elder William Brewster) and a deeply patriotic American who counted every U.S. president from John Quincy Adams to Woodrow Wilson among her friends.
From the church, her body was taken in procession to Mountain Grove Cemetery, where she was laid to rest.
Mountain Grove Cemetery was founded by P.T. Barnum himself in 1878, and his grand monument stands prominently here (you can see it behind the trees). Nearby is the life-sized statue marking the grave of General Tom Thumb (Charles Stratton), Barnum’s famous little performer. Across the path lies Fanny Crosby’s resting place.
Her original marker is simple: “Aunt Fanny – She hath done what she could” (echoing Mark 14:8). It’s a fitting, humble tribute to a phenomenal woman. But 40 years after her death, in the 1950s, her community felt a more fitting memorial was needed. They erected this monument in grateful and loving memory: “Fanny Crosby, who inspired and edified Christians all over the world by the writing of more than 3,000 hymns and poems. Born in Southeast, New York, March 24, 1820. Married March 5, 1855 to Alexander Van Alstyne. Died in Bridgeport, Connecticut, February 12, 1915.”
The monument also features the opening lines of her most famous hymn, “Blessed Assurance.” But perhaps another of her songs feels even more appropriate here: “My Savior First of All” (also known as “I Shall Know Him”).
Fanny once shared with friends in New York how she imagined meeting Jesus in heaven, despite never having seen Him on earth: “I’ll be looking for His smile.” When they replied that everyone in heaven would be smiling, she said, “Then I’ll ask to see His hands.” She explained she would know her Redeemer by the print of the nails in His hands. This inspired the hymn:
“When my lifework is ended, and I cross the swelling tide, When the bright and glorious morning I shall see; I shall know my Redeemer when I reach the other side, And His smile will be the first to welcome me.
Chorus: I shall know Him, I shall know Him, And redeemed by His side I shall stand; I shall know Him, I shall know Him, By the print of the nails in His hand.”
S2E16: Obadiah Holmes with David Saxon
Dr. David Saxon, professor of Church History at Maranatha Baptist University, tells the story of Obadiah Holmes, a colonial American Baptist, who was whipped for the crime of preaching without a license. Watch on VCY.tv
America’s Founding Pastors: Princeton, NJ
Our Christian Heritage goes “On Location” with Randy Melchert to a Princeton, NJ cemetery to find the grave of America’s Founding Pastors: Jonathan Edwards, Samuel Davies, and John Witherspoon. Explore the intertwined histories of Princeton University and the prominent religious figures who shaped its early development. It highlights the legacies of Jonathan Edwards, Samuel Davies, and John Witherspoon, demonstrating how these influential ministers – pivotal figures in the Great Awakening and champions of religious freedom – also served as presidents of the institution and profoundly impacted the intellectual and spiritual landscape of America. The narrative underscores the original purpose of Princeton as a training ground for ministers dedicated to spreading the Gospel, and connects these academic leaders to the broader narrative of American patriotism and the founding of the nation. Watch on VCY.tv
Transcript:
I’m standing outside the president’s plot of Princeton Cemetery here in Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton is one of the oldest colleges in America, right up there with Harvard, Yale, and the College of William & Mary. Originally called the College of New Jersey, it traces its roots back to the Log College founded by William Tennent to train preachers for the “New Light” Presbyterian movement. These were the supporters of the religious revivals during the Great Awakening.
Let’s go look at some of the graves you’ll see inside the president’s plot.
As we enter the cemetery, a few markers stand out. One of the most prominent is that of Aaron Burr—the Aaron Burr involved in the famous duel with Alexander Hamilton, as immortalized in the Broadway musical Hamilton. Aaron Burr’s father, Aaron Burr Sr., was one of the early leaders who helped found the College of New Jersey.
Right behind Aaron Burr’s grave is that of Jonathan Edwards, the third president of the college. Yes, the Jonathan Edwards of the Great Awakening, famous for preaching “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” He promoted revivals across the region and was a close friend and associate of George Whitefield. Edwards was appointed president late in his ministry but sadly died just a few months after taking office. He’s still buried here in the president’s plot.
Who took over Princeton after Jonathan Edwards? Edwards was widely published on both sides of the Atlantic—even Benjamin Franklin advertised collections of his sermons in colonial newspapers.
The man chosen to fill the gap was Samuel Davies, buried right next to Edwards. You can see Edwards’ grave, and then Davies’. Samuel Davies served as the fourth president of the college.
Most interestingly, Davies had been a pastor in Virginia before coming to Princeton. He was one of the first non-Anglican pastors licensed in Virginia, a colony with an established state church (the Church of England). Davies arrived as a missionary and fought for the rights of English freemen to worship freely. He helped establish “reading houses” (simple meeting places where dissenters gathered to read sermons, since they couldn’t have their own ministers). One famous example was Pole Green Church—we’ve visited the site on earlier tours. (Unfortunately, the original Pole Green Church was destroyed during the Civil War, but there’s a semi-replica that gives a sense of what it looked like.)
While ministering there, Samuel Davies preached to a young boy who attended services with his mother. That boy’s name was Patrick Henry. You’ve heard of Patrick Henry’s legendary oratory as a revolutionary leader. But Henry himself said that the greatest orator he ever heard was Samuel Davies. Davies was a powerful preacher. He served for about two years before he, too, passed away.
Later, another key figure would lead the college. His tomb is a couple down from Samuel Davies—in fact, there’s a small marker noting him as a “Revolutionary Patriot.” Yes, that’s Reverend John Witherspoon, signer of the Declaration of Independence and sixth president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton). He led for nearly two decades, elevating the institution to new heights. Witherspoon was not only a pastor but a patriot who signed the Declaration and influenced other founding documents.
We’ll try to find the statue of Reverend Witherspoon somewhere on campus later. But this is just a glimpse of the fascinating stories here. If you get the chance, read some of the preaching by Jonathan Edwards, Samuel Davies, or John Witherspoon. The early leaders of America’s founding colleges—including Princeton—were men deeply committed to training ministers to spread the word of God throughout the new country. Their influence on faith, education, and even the American Revolution runs deep.
S2E15: Billy Sunday with Terrence White
Randy Melchert interviews Dr. Terry White of the the Winona History Center at Grace College on Billy Sunday, baseball player turned evangelist. Our Christian Heritage – S2E15. Watch on VCY.tv
The Pioneer Mother, Kansas City
A sculpture in the middle of the park – inscribed with a Scripture reference. Designed by Alexander Phimister Proctor, and dedicated in 1927, this bronze sculpture sits near the Santa Fe Trail, inscribed with Ruth 1:16, to commemorate their “unfaltering trust in God.” Watch on VCY.tv
Transcript:
Welcome to Kansas City.
We’re here at the site of a fascinating monument: the Pioneer Mother statue in Penn Valley Park. This location sits near one of the summits of the city, overlooking much of Kansas City.
What you see is a statue not dedicated to a single individual, but to a concept—the Pioneer Mother. It was presented to the people of Kansas City by businessman Howard Vanderslice in 1927 to commemorate the pioneer mothers who, with unfaltering trust in God, endured the hardships of the unknown West to prepare for us a homeland of peace and plenty.
As we look at the statue, there’s an inspiring quotation carved around the base from the Book of Ruth: “Whither thou goest, I will go; where thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”
It’s noteworthy that here, at one of the high points of the city, the monument highlights themes of faith and family. In the distance, you can even catch a glimpse of the Liberty Memorial, honoring World War I veterans.
This isn’t your typical “Christian heritage” site in the traditional sense, but it does mark an important aspect of our nation’s history: the deep Christian faith that sustained many pioneers as they built this country. Dedicated nearly 100 years ago on November 11, 1927, the Pioneer Mother sculpture—created by renowned western artist Alexander Phimister Proctor—honors the courage, determination, and trust in God of those early settler women.
S2E14: Hudson Taylor, Part 2
Boscobel, WI: Birthplace of the Gideons
An old hotel, a small town, and the birthplace of the Gideons in Boscobel, Wisconsin Watch on VCY.tv
Transcript: We’re just south of the town of Boscobel, Wisconsin—along the Wisconsin River. Boscobel is one of those quiet towns you might drive right past without noticing, but it’s a beautiful area with rich history.
There’s an interesting historical marker here commemorating a chance meeting between two Christian businessmen back in September 1898. This was in the era of traveling salesmen—like the ones in The Music Man—who went from town to town by train or buggy. Hotels were often full, and private rooms weren’t always available; guests frequently had to share.
In this case, two traveling salesmen—John H. Nicholson from Janesville and Samuel E. Hill from Beloit—ended up sharing Room 19 at the Central House Hotel (later known as the Boscobel Hotel). They didn’t know each other at first, and neither realized the other was a fellow believer.
As the story goes, one of them asked, “Do you mind if I keep the light on for a little while? It’s my practice to read from the Bible each night before bed.” The other replied, “Please do—I’m a believer, too.”
That simple exchange sparked an idea. They discussed the need for an organization to support Christian commercial travelers and provide mutual encouragement. Though the first formal meeting of what became Gideons International happened later in Janesville, the Gideons have always recognized this hotel room in Boscobel as the birthplace of their movement.
About a year later, as their group grew, they decided to take action: place Bibles in hotel rooms across the country so other travelers could find spiritual comfort and guidance. Today, Gideons International has distributed well over two billion copies of God’s Word (that’s billion with a “b”) in hotels, hospitals, schools, and other places around the world.
Right here at the historical marker—near the site of that original hotel—you’ll often find free Gideon New Testaments available for the taking. It’s a fitting spot to reflect on this small-town beginning that grew into a global ministry. If you’re ever passing through Boscobel, stop by and pick one up—it’s a tangible piece of that inspiring story.
S2E13: Hudson Taylor, Part 1
In 19th-century England, James and Amelia Taylor famously prayed, ‘Dear God, if you should give us a son, grant that he may work for you in China.’ Their son, James Hudson Taylor, would go on to become the most influential missionary of the modern missionary movement. Author Vance Christie tells Hudson Taylor’s story to Randy Melchert. Watch on VCY.tv
The Writing of the Old Rugged Cross
The Old Rugged Cross is one of the most beloved – and most claimed hymns! Our Christian Heritage has been to the Old Rugged Cross church on Pokagon, MI where it was first performed in its entirety and we’ve interviewed the couple that restored the church. We’ve also been to Sturgeon Bay, WI where the Friends Church is that it was first partially performed. But on this stop we’re at the site where it was written – in an apartment of a professor of Albion College that became a fraternity house before it was demolished in the 60s. This marker was recently restored after the previous was destroyed in a car crash in 2020.
Transcript:
We’re here in Albion, Michigan, at the site of the birthplace of one of the most beloved hymns in Christian history: “The Old Rugged Cross.”
There are actually several historical markers related to the hymn in the area. This spot marks where it was written. In December 1912 (and into 1913), George Bennard lived right behind me in what is now a vacant lot. At the time, he was staying in a rented apartment in the home of Professor Delos Fall at 1101 East Michigan Avenue, near Albion College.
Later, that same house became the chapter house for Delta Tau Delta, the first fraternity established at Albion College. In 1959, during the college’s 125th anniversary, a historical marker was placed here honoring the composition of the hymn—one of the most famous in church history and the standout among the more than 300 hymns George Bennard wrote.
Sadly, in 2020, a car accident destroyed the original monument. But as you can see, it’s been beautifully rebuilt—and many say it looks better than ever.
The marker reads in part: “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 over 300 hymns, but none achieved the fame of “The Old Rugged Cross.”
What’s especially moving are the powerful words etched on these markers: “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 someday for a crown.”
While the hymn was composed here in Albion, it had key early performances elsewhere. Parts of it were first performed in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, during evangelistic meetings at the Friends Church (from late December 1912 to January 1913). We’ve visited that site as well. The completed version was then sung in its entirety on June 7, 1913, at the First Methodist Episcopal Church in Pokagon, Michigan (near Niles). We had an incredible interview with the family and volunteers who restored and recreated that historic church to its original condition—it’s now part of The Old Rugged Cross Historic Site.
Even though Bennard lived here during the hymn’s composition, there’s a fourth significant site connected to its legacy: the Old Rugged Cross Museum (also known as part of the Old Rugged Cross Historical Society), located about a couple of hours north in Reed City, Michigan, where the Bennards lived later in life. (Note: There’s also a related historic site and museum in Pokagon focused on the church and first full performance.)
If you’re interested in church history and hymns like this one, mark these places on your map. Check them out at christianheritage.info—search for “The Old Rugged Cross” to find more details on these inspiring locations.
Rush Limbaugh
A conservative icon. The man who saved AM radio. And yet divorced 3 times. And an OxyContin addict. But yet shortly before he died, even he found Jesus! Join us for a OCH Short on Rush Limbaugh!
Transcript:
Welcome to Historic St. Louis. We’re here at Bellefontaine Cemetery, one of the city’s most historic resting places. I’m Randy Melchert, and today we’re at the gravesite of a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Rush Limbaugh was a highly controversial figure who many credit with saving AM radio. His nationally syndicated radio show ran from 1988 until his death in 2021. He was called everything from a trailblazer to a provocateur, drawing callers from across the country and shaping conservative discourse for decades.
As a private individual, Rush faced significant personal struggles: multiple divorces, battles with addiction (including painkiller dependency), and other challenges. Yet, toward the end of his life—after his 2020 diagnosis of advanced lung cancer—he spoke openly about finding profound peace and strength through faith.
One of his longtime friends and occasional radio guests, author Joel Rosenberg (who once worked for Rush early in his career), shared that Rush had made a deep, personal commitment to Jesus Christ as his Savior in 2019, just a couple of years before his passing. This wasn’t merely a passing moment; it transformed his final days. Rush publicly referenced his faith on air while facing stage 4 lung cancer, emphasizing how it gave him hope, confidence, and acceptance of God’s sovereignty.
In one poignant broadcast segment, he reflected: “It’s tough to realize that the days where I do not think I’m under a death sentence are over now. We all are, is the point. We all know that we’re going to die at some point, but when you have a terminal disease diagnosis that has a time frame to it, then that puts a different psychological and even physical awareness to it.
The only thing that any of us are certain of is right now today. That’s why I thank God every morning when I wake up. I thank God that I did. I try to make it the best day I can no matter what. Don’t look too far ahead. I certainly don’t look too far back.
I try to remain as committed to the idea that what’s supposed to happen will happen when it’s meant to. I mentioned at the outset of this—and the first day I told you—that I have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. That is of immense value, strength, confidence. And that’s why I’m able to remain fully committed to the idea that what is supposed to happen will happen when it’s meant to.”
President Donald Trump surprised many by awarding Rush the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the nation’s highest civilian honor—during the 2020 State of the Union address, with First Lady Melania Trump placing the medal around his neck.
For a man who influenced millions worldwide through his voice and opinions, Rush came to realize in his final chapter that the one thing that truly mattered was where he would spend eternity.
S2E12: The Lone Star Revival
In this episode, Dr. David Saxon tells about the endless strife, burnout, and discouragement many missionaries faced in India before God worked mightily and the Lone Star Revival was born. He also tells the incredible story behind the name and how this mission field was repeatedly kept from being abandoned, despite the many efforts to do so.
S2E11: What Is Revival? (Part 2)
In 1971, evangelist twins, Ralph and Lou Sutera, were involved with the Saskatoon Revival, which traveled around the world and impacted lives, churches, communities, and mission fields.
In this episode, Ralph Sutera continues to weigh in on what revival is and on who needs to be revived.
S2E10: What Is Revival? (Part 1)
In 1971, a revival took place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, where God saw fit to work in a marvelous way. Not only has this moving of the Spirit of God affected that area, but it has also gone around the world and continues to minister to people even to this day.
So, what is revival all about and what does it means to really meet God at a deeper level? Listen as Evangelist Ralph Sutera weighs in.
S2E9: An Interview with Ralph and Lou Sutera (Part 2)
In 1971, there was a spiritual tsunami that happened in Saskatoon. It sent shockwaves throughout all Canada and North America and has touched many parts of the world.
Listen in as twin evangelists, Ralph and Lou Sutera, continue to tell the powerful story of how God showed up and sent true revival.
S2E8: An Interview with Ralph and Lou Sutera (Part 1)
On October 13, 1971, twin evangelists, Ralph and Lou Sutera, began revival meetings at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Little did they know that this was going to be the beginning of the great Saskatoon Revival. Listen in as they share the powerful story of how God showed up and worked in lives, families, churches, towns, and countries.
S2E7: Emilee Nelson on Remembering Dr. Ed Nelson
Dr. Ed Nelson has been in full-time Christian service for over seventy-five years. He has worked as a pastor, evangelist, educator, author, and mentor and has been a huge influence in Christian education in America.
Listen in as Emilee Nelson remembers her grandfather and recounts key stories from the life of “a sinner saved by grace.”
S2E6: Pastor Ken Spilger on His Near Death Experience
On September 17, 1980, a small plane crashed near St. Louis, MO. The plane was carrying a small group of pastors who were returning from a pastors’ conference in Kansas City and only one survived.
Listen in as Ken Spilger, senior pastor at Grace Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO, recounts the story of the crash; his recovery from the third degree burns, which he sustained on about a third of his body; and of God’s amazing grace through it all.
S2E5: Jeremy Beller on American Baptist History
Dr. James Beller was the author of America in Crimson Red, a book which takes a look at some of the lesser-known figures in American history and the Christians who, many of them, sacrificed their lives to ensure that we would have the religious freedom that we take for granted today.
Join Jeremy Beller, Baptist history expert and son of the late Dr. James Beller, as he shares some of the inspiring stories from church history and why it’s important to study church history.
S2E4: Vickie Beller on America in Crimson Red
Dr. James Beller was the author of America in Crimson Red, a book which takes a look at some of the lesser-known figures in American history and the Christians who, many of them, sacrificed their lives to ensure that we would have the religious freedom that we take for granted today.
Join Vickie Beller, wife of Dr. James Beller, as she tells the story of her late husband and how he came to write the book.