Horatio Spafford

Horatio Spafford (1828-1888) was a prominent American lawyer and Presbyterian church elder. He is best known for writing the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul" after experiencing profound personal tragedies. In 1871, Spafford lost much of his wealth in the Great Chicago Fire. Two years later, his four daughters perished in the sinking of the SS Ville du Havre; his wife Anna survived. Despite these hardships, Spafford's faith remained steadfast, inspiring him to pen the famous hymn. In 1881, he and his wife moved to Jerusalem, where they established the American Colony, which provided philanthropic aid to the local community. Horatio Spafford's life was marked by resilience and a deep commitment to his religious beliefs.