Harwicke Drummond Rawnsley

Hardwicke Drummond Rawnsley (1851–1920) was a prominent Anglican clergyman, poet, and dedicated conservationist whose influence extended far beyond the pulpit. Educated at Balliol College, Oxford, he served as the Vicar of Crosthwaite in the Lake District for over thirty years. While he achieved high standing within the Church as the Rural Dean of Keswick and Honorary Canon of Carlisle, he is perhaps most famously remembered as one of the three founders of the National Trust. His deep passion for the English countryside and its preservation was a central theme of his life and frequently colored his literary and hymnological output.

Rawnsley was a prolific author, publishing works on the literary associations of the Lake District and various volumes of sonnets and poems. His hymns are noted for their diversity, covering themes from children's missions to social democracy and the sanctity of nature. His 1904 contribution to Hymns Ancient & Modern, "Lord God, our praise we give," is a notable example of his "In Praise of Nature" philosophy. He also contributed significantly to the influential The English Hymnal (1906), providing texts like "Saviour, Who didst healing give" and the memorial hymn "Lord Jesu, Who at Lazarus' tomb."

A man of great energy and social conscience, Rawnsley also wrote for the "Christian Democracy" movement, reflecting his belief that faith should be active in the pursuit of peace and social equity. His "Keswick School Hymn Book" contributions further demonstrate his commitment to his local community and the education of youth. Rawnsley’s legacy is unique in that it combines the traditional duties of a country vicar with a pioneering role in environmental protection, ensuring that the "streams and fountains" he wrote of in his hymns would be preserved for future generations to enjoy.