Jacob Knapp (1799-1874)

Jacob Knapp was a popular Baptist preacher of the 19th century.

In 1821 he entered a theological college at Hamilton, New York (now Colgate University) He began active work at the Baptist church in Springfield, New York and managed a farm. He moved to Watertown where he became both pastor and manager of a large farm.

In 1832 he experienced a deeper religious impression which he called his second conversion. He applied to the New York Sate Baptist convention to become a missionary. They hesitated and he began preaching as an evangelist on his own responsibility.

He preached at first in school houses and obscure churches but he was soon sought after by larger churches and distinguished parsons.

In Baltimore, Boston and New York vast numbers attended his preaching to the extent protection by the civil authorities was necessary.

His preaching was stern and terrible, yet cultivated. 1000s believed they were converted under his ministry.

In 1845 he published a collection of hymns The Evangelical Harp: A new Collection of Hymns and Tunes Designed for Revivals of Religion and For Family and Social Worship

Jacob lived to the age of 74; he died on 2nd March 1874.

During his lifetime 1000s had heard him preach and many were converted.