To the Chief Singer: A Brief Story of the Work and Influence of Barney E. Warren

This book has come into being in response to the desire of many that some record be made of the work and experiences of the man who, next to D. S. Warner himself, has given direction—especially in its formative years—to a religious movement of increasing importance.

This recital of events connected with the life and work of Barney Elliott Warren does not pretend to be a biography in any strict sense—scarcely, indeed, in any sense. It does not follow Mr. Warren from his birth to the present moment as a good biography should do. It neglects many events of great importance to Mr. Warren himself; it is not particularly interested in dates. It is rather an endeavor to preserve something of the flavor of a life rich in experience, beautiful in sacrifice and devotion, and joyful in fellowship; a life, quiet and deep, which without commotion has exerted a widespread and refining influence. It is also intended to bring to the attention of pastors, song directors, young people’s leaders, and Christians in general the circumstances attending the birth of a number of our most popular songs and hymns, and to record the extraordinary effect of the singing of the first evangelistic band. It is even hoped that this recital may encourage an increased emphasis viii]]upon singing “with the spirit, and with the understanding also” in the present congregations.

In the nature of the case the author is indebted for the material to many sources; first, and most important of all, of course, to Mr. Warren himself, who most patiently searched the treasury of his years for pertinent material. Since neither Mr. Warren nor any of his children—so far as we have been able to discover—kept a diary, this record would have been impossible without his fullest co-operation.

Thanks are due Mrs. Warren, who carried on a considerable correspondence during the months the book was in writing; to C. W. Naylor for some of the song stories, and to many friends who shared their memories of Mr. Warren as musician, minister, and friend. Mention should be made of the contribution of Mrs. Nellie Monteith, daughter of Mr. Warren, who, though very ill at the time, yet most graciously shared the memories of her childhood home. Also considerable use has been made of A. L. Byers’ work, The Birth of a Reformation, now out of print.

The author is sensible of the difficulty of a task such as this and must leave the reader to judge how well she has accomplished her purposes. If errors of fact or of interpretation have found their way into this work, the author must assume the responsibility therefor.

A.A.B.

(From the Foreword)