Isaac Watts (1674-1748)

Isaac Watts (1674-1748) was an English hymnwriter, non-conformist minister and theologian born in Southamption, who wrote some 750 hymns.  Often is recognised as the “Father of English Hymnody”, as he was the first prolific and popular English hymn writer, credited with some 750 hymns. Many of his hymns remain in active use today and have been translated into many languages.

Watts was brought up in the home of a committed Nonconformist — his father, also called Isaac, had been gaoled twice for his religious  views.

The younger Isaac was educated at King Edward VI School and leart the classics, Latin, Greek and Hebrew. He showed an early propensity for rhyme.

Being non-conformist, Watts went to the Dissenting Academy at Stoke Newington in 1690. His education led him to the pastorate of a large Independent Chapel in London, and he also found himself in the position of helping trainee preachers.

Taking work as a private tutor, he lived with the Hartopp family at Fleetwood House and later in the household of Sir Thomas Abney and Lady Mary Abney. Though a non-conformist himself, Sir Thomas practised occasional conformity to the Church of England as necessitated by his being Lord Mayor of London 1700–01. Likewise Isaac Watts held religious opinions that were more non-denominational or ecumenical than was at that time common for a non-conformist; having a greater interest in promoting education and scholarship, than preaching for any particular ministry.

On the death of Sir Thomas Abney, Watts moved permanently with widow, Lady Mary Abney, to Abney House, in Stoke Newington. The beautiful grounds at Abney Park led down to an island heronry in the Hackney Brook where Watts sought inspiration for the many books and hymns written during these two decades. He died there in Stoke Newington and was buried in Bunhill Fields, having left behind him a massive legacy.