AT CAVALRY

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1895



“At Calvary” – History of the Hymn

Title: At Calvary
Alternate title (from refrain): Mercy There Was Great

Author (lyrics): William R. Newell (1868–1956)
Composer (music): Daniel B. Towner (1850–1919)
Year written: 1895

Background and Origin

William R. Newell was an American evangelist and Bible teacher associated with Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. He wrote the lyrics to At Calvary in 1895 after reflecting deeply on the meaning of Christ’s sacrifice and the transforming power of God’s grace.

Newell reportedly wrote the poem without music. When he showed it to Daniel B. Towner, a well-known gospel song composer and director of music at Moody Bible Institute, Towner immediately composed the tune that is still used today. The hymn was first published in gospel song collections used in evangelistic meetings.

Message and Theme

The hymn centers on personal salvation through Christ’s atoning death. It contrasts the singer’s former ignorance and sin with the revelation of grace experienced at the cross.

Key themes include:

  • Human sin and guilt

  • Christ’s sacrificial death at Calvary

  • God’s mercy and grace

  • Redemption and forgiveness

The refrain is especially memorable:

“Mercy there was great, and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.”

Use in Christian Worship

At Calvary became especially popular in:

  • Evangelistic crusades

  • Revival meetings

  • Protestant and evangelical church hymnals

Its clear gospel message and singable melody made it a favorite for altar calls and testimonies of faith.

Lasting Significance

More than a century after it was written, At Calvary remains a beloved hymn because it:

  • Emphasizes personal conversion

  • Clearly explains the meaning of the cross

  • Expresses gratitude for God’s grace in simple, heartfelt language

It continues to be sung worldwide as a testimony to the central Christian belief that salvation was won at the cross of Christ.

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