About Elizabeth Rundle Charles
Elizabeth Rundle Charles, née Rundle, was born on January 2, 1828, in Tavistock, Devonshire, England, the daughter of John Rundle, Member of Parliament. She married Andrew Paton Charles, a barrister, in 1851. Elizabeth became a prolific author and hymn writer, focusing on works that popularized the history of early Christianity in Great Britain and Europe, as well as the lives and struggles of key figures such as Martin Luther and John Wesley. Her writings include historical novels, poetry, and devotional works, notable among them The Chronicles of the Schönberg-Cotta Family, The Three Wakings (1859), and Poems (New York, 1867).
In hymnology, Elizabeth contributed both original hymns and translations from Latin and German. Her works were included in The Voice of Christian Life in Song; or, Hymns and Hymn-writers of Many Lands and Ages (1858) and her later collections. Her hymns reflect themes of Christian devotion, joy in Christ, thankfulness, and reflection on the cross and sacraments.
Elizabeth Rundle Charles passed away on March 28, 1896. She is remembered for combining literary skill with deep Christian insight, producing works accessible to both children and adults, and enriching 19th-century hymnody.
Notable Hymns:
- Age after age shall call thee blessed – Annunciation, from The Three Wakings, 1859
- Around a Table, not a tomb – Holy Communion, 1862
- Come, and rejoice with me – Joy in Christ, c. 1846
- Jesus, what once Thou wast – Reflecting on Christ’s unchangeable nature
- Never further than Thy Cross – Passiontide, 1860
- What marks the dawning of the Year? – New Year, 1859
- The little birds fill all the air with their glee – Thankfulness, 1859
Her hymns were included in popular hymnals such as The Family Treasury, Mrs. Brock’s Children’s Hymn Book, and The Sunday School Hymnary (1905). They remain recognized for their simplicity, devotional depth, and suitability for children’s instruction.
