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Any photos not otherwise credited are from the personal collection of Frank Passic, Albion Historian.
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Morning Star, March 24, 2024, pg. 7 As we approach this Easter season, we are reminded of our religious heritage here in Albion, and one of Albion's 'claim to fame.' Rev. George Bennard (1873-1958) was a traveling evangelist during the early 20th century who lived in an apartment at the home of professor Delos Fall at 1101 E. Michigan Ave. The house later became the home of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity before it was demolished in the 1960s. It was at this residence in December, 1912 that Rev. Bennard penned the first verse and chorus of one of the greatest hymns of the Christian church: "The Old Rugged Cross." Bennard finished up the rest of the hymn elsewhere during his travels. The hymn was first sung publicly at revival meetings Bennard was conducting in Pokagon, Michigan, near Niles. It was picked up by evangelist Billy Sunday and his song leader Homer Rodeheaver, and became a hit nationwide. The hymn did not make Rev. Bennard rich, however. He sold the rights to the Rodeheaver Company of Winona Lake, Indiana for $500, and the copyright was renewed years later for $5,000. Through the years Bennard also wrote numerous other gospel songs, but none matched the success of "The Old Rugged Cross." While not traveling, Rev. Bennard made his home in Albion during the 1930s and 1940s. He operated his Bennard Music Company and gospel tract company in downtown Albion at 108 W. Porter St., in the rear of the Art Craft Press. A State of Michigan historical marker (No. 215) entitled "Birthplace of Old Rugged Cross" was erected in and dedicated in October, 1959 along E. Michigan Avenue between the sidewalk and the curb. This plaque stood there for sixty-one years before it was hit and destroyed in 2020 by a wayward vehicle. A successful fund-raising project subsequently ensued. The plaque was refurbished and restored to a new base in late 2021 where it remains today for all to read. Will your church be singing "Albion's hymn," "The Old Rugged Cross" this Sunday? Let your minister know you want it to be sung. From our Historical Notebook this week we present a photograph of the fully restored "Birthplace of The Old Rugged Cross" plaque, the text of which concludes, "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 some day for a crown." Support your church by your attendance this Easter Sunday.  The State of Michigan historical Marker (No. 215) was Refurbished and Restored in Late 2021
All text copyright, 2024 © all rights reserved Frank Passic
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