
author
1812–1885
A 19th-century religious writer from Massachusetts, he wrote practical, encouraging books meant to guide readers toward faith, peace, and everyday Christian living. His work has remained accessible through digitized editions and public-domain archives.

by James William Kimball
Born in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1812, James William Kimball studied at Yale with plans for the ministry, though he did not complete his degree because of health problems. He later worked in business in Boston and was also known for an active writing ministry focused on Christian devotion and instruction.
Kimball wrote books including How to See Jesus, with Fulness of Joy and Peace, The Christian Ministry: Miscellanies for Candidates, and Heaven. His writing is plainspoken and practical, aimed at readers looking for spiritual encouragement rather than abstract theology.
He married Mary S. Tappan in 1838 and had a large family. Kimball died in Newton, Massachusetts, in 1885, leaving behind a body of religious writing that still circulates in library collections and public-domain editions.