Eben E. (Eben Eugene) Rexford

Born in Johnsburg, New York, in 1848, he moved with his family to Wisconsin as a child and began publishing poetry while still young. He went on to become a prolific American writer and poet whose verses appeared in newspapers and magazines, and he became especially well known for lyrics that were set to music.

Alongside his literary work, he wrote popular and gospel songs and developed a strong reputation as a horticultural writer. That mix of interests made his career unusually broad: he could write a tender lyric, edit periodicals, and also speak knowledgeably about flowers and gardening.

He died in 1916, but his name remained closely tied to the warm, melodic songs that helped carry his words to a wide audience. For listeners and readers today, he stands out as a versatile 19th- and early-20th-century author whose work connected poetry, music, and everyday life.