William B. Tappan (1794–1849)

William B. Tappan was an American hymn writer whose life joined steady craftsmanship with pastoral care. Trained as a clock maker, he learned patience, precision, and the value of faithful labor—virtues that later marked his service in the church. He also became a pastor and a devoted Sunday school leader, giving particular attention to children and families learning to sing and confess the truths of Scripture. His calling reflected the conviction that every honest skill can be consecrated to God’s glory: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23).

Death and Burial in Suffolk County, Massachusetts (June 18, 1849)

On June 18, 1849, Tappan finished his earthly course and was laid to rest in Suffolk County, Massachusetts. New England in his day was a place of vigorous church life, home worship, and growing concern for sound instruction among the young. His death invites sober remembrance that fruitful service is measured not by length but by faithfulness. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). In this sense, his quiet perseverance stands as a kind of heroism—ordinary obedience carried on to the end.

Hymns for the Church and the Home

Tappan wrote scores of hymns designed to put clear doctrine into the mouths of ordinary believers. He aimed for songs that were both understandable and tender, helping households and congregations unite truth with affection. Working alongside respected church musicians, he labored to keep hymnody reverent and edifying, so that singing would deepen faith rather than merely stir emotion. His work encouraged believers to “let the word of Christ richly dwell within you… singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs” (Colossians 3:16).

“’Tis Midnight and on Olive’s Brow”

His best-known text, “’Tis Midnight and on Olive’s Brow,” leads worshipers to Gethsemane, watching with the suffering Savior as He bears sorrow in prayer. The hymn turns meditation into intercession, drawing hearts toward gratitude, repentance, and renewed devotion. By fixing attention on Christ’s agony and obedience, it calls believers to follow Him in humble watchfulness: “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak” (Matthew 26:41).