Born: February 15, 1838, Westford, NY.
Died: October 18, 1878, Cooperstown, NY.
Buried: Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown, Y.
Chester G. Allen’s life, though not extensively documented, left a mark on the world of Christian music. Born in 1838, Allen’s passion for music and education intertwined to shape a career that would influence generations of worshippers.
Allen found his calling in the bustling city of Cleveland, Ohio, where he devoted himself to teaching music in the public schools. His dedication to nurturing young musical talents was matched only by his own creative pursuits. As a composer and musical writer, Allen’s gift for melody soon caught the attention of prominent figures in the world of hymn writing.
It was Allen’s collaboration with the legendary Fanny Crosby that would produce his most enduring work. The tune he crafted for Crosby’s words “Praise Him, praise Him—Jesus, our blessed Redeemer” became a beloved staple in churches across America. The first lines of this hymn capture the joyful spirit of Allen’s composition:
Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O Earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Allen’s talents extended beyond composing individual hymns. He played a crucial role in compiling and editing collections of music for schools and churches, often including his own compositions. One such collection, “Bright Jewels for the Sunday School,” published in 1869, showcased Allen’s work alongside other notable composers of the era like William Doane and William Bradbury.
In his personal life, Allen found a partner in Cornelia E. Doubleday of Cooperstown, New York. Their union connected Allen to a piece of American folklore through Cornelia’s uncle, the legendary Abner Doubleday.
Chester G. Allen’s life, though relatively brief, was rich with musical contributions. He passed away in 1878 in Cooperstown, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in churches and hearts to this day. While much of his life remains a mystery, the melodies he created speak volumes about a man dedicated to praising his Redeemer through the gift of music.
