Jesse Lyman Hurlbut

Born in New York City in 1843, he graduated from Wesleyan University in 1864 and went on to serve as a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He held pastorates in several New Jersey communities before moving into broader church work connected with Sunday-school and tract publishing.

He became especially well known as a religious educator and writer. Works such as Hurlbut's Story of the Bible, The Story of the Christian Church, and Bible Atlas show his gift for explaining scripture, history, and geography in plain language that ordinary readers could enjoy.

That same talent made his writing last. Even decades later, readers still turn to his books for their simple organization, accessible tone, and strong focus on teaching the Bible and Christian history to both young people and adults.