Today’s Leader of Faith
ANNA BARTLETT WARNER
Home Call : 22 Jan 1915
Hymn & Story Writer, Author
Anna Bartlett Warner (1827–1915) was an American hymn writer and author. She is best known for writing the children’s hymn “Jesus Loves Me,” which became one of the most beloved Christian hymns worldwide, often sung by children and cherished for its simplicity and profound message of Christ’s love. The hymn has been translated into countless languages and has remained a staple in Sunday schools and missionary efforts worldwide. She is best known for writing novels and short stories, many of which were used as Sunday school materials.
Warner was born into a prosperous family and received a private education. In 1837, after her father faced financial setbacks, the family relocated to Constitution Island in the Hudson River, across from West Point. She had a sister, Susan Warner. Despite their contrasting temperaments, the sisters shared a strong bond, working and playing together harmoniously while honing their storytelling skills. These skills enabled her to write small stories, many of which were used as Sunday school lessons.
Warner authored several books and composed poems, many of which were set to music as hymns and songs for children. Among all her hymns, her most notable work is the children’s hymns “Jesus Loves Me”. It remains highly popular among children and is still sung today. She also wrote a biography of her sister Susan Warner. She invented an educational game called Robinson Crusoe’s Farmyard, featuring coloured cards painted by both sisters. The game was sold for many years through George P. Putnam, Susan’s publisher. The game encouraged imagination and learning, possibly teaching children about animals, farming, and resource management in a creative way.
Warner passed away on January 7, 1915, at the age of 87. She died at her home on Constitution Island, which she had shared with her sister, Susan Warner. Her passing was mourned by those who had been touched by her life of service and the simplicity of her message about God’s love.