Harriet E. Buell

Hattie Eugenia Peck Buell (1834–1910) was an American poet whose contribution to gospel hymnody is defined by one of the most beloved "identity" hymns of the 19th century. Born in Cazenovia, New York, she spent the majority of her life in Manlius before moving to Washington, D.C., in her later years. A frequent contributor to the Northern Christian Advocate in Syracuse, she was known for her ability to translate complex spiritual truths into simple, relatable verse that resonated with the burgeoning camp meeting movements of her time.

Buell’s primary legacy rests upon the hymn "My Father is rich in houses and lands," commonly known by its refrain, "I’m a child of a King." Written in 1877, the text was inspired by the contrast between earthly poverty and spiritual royalty. The hymn gained massive popularity after it was paired with a melody by John B. Sumner, appearing in nearly 400 different hymnals. Its message of dignity and divine inheritance made it a favorite in revival services and missions, eventually spreading globally with translations into German, Swedish, and various other languages.

In addition to her most famous work, Buell authored several other devotional pieces, such as "O the brightness and the glory of love that came to me" and "Keep looking unto Jesus." Her writing often emphasized the personal relationship between the believer and the Savior, characterized by a sense of hope and spiritual assurance. Despite the loss of her husband in 1905, she remained active in her literary pursuits until her death in 1910, leaving a legacy as a writer who provided generations of Christians with a lyrical reminder of their spiritual worth.