William “Singing Billy” Walker (1809-1875)

Composer, Arranger, Author. Produced four books of hymns and songs with novice-friendly "shaped note" musical notation, which simplified teaching and learning choir singing for thousands of churches. The books remain in use today, the most popular being "The Southern Harmony, and Musical Companion" published in 1835, which then sold over 600,000 copies. In this book Walker set the words of a poem by British minister John Newton to the tune "New Britain," and the now-traditional hymn "Amazing Grace" was born. Inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame in 2011. The subject of a South Carolina Educational Television video highlighting his contribution to music in America and around the world. Included in the Spartanburg (SC) music trail, which honors prominent musicians who hail from the Hub City.

Inscription

Marker:
Christian Harmony
Wm. Walker, A.S.H.
Died Sept. 24th 1875 in the 67th year of his age. He was a devoted husband & kind father, a consistent Baptist 47 years, taught music 45 years, the author of 4 books of sacred music. He rests from his labors. He died in the triumphs of faith.
Sing praises unto the Lord.

Plaque:
To the memory of William Walker, A.S.H.
Singin' Billy
Pioneer in Southern Christian Harmony
1809-1875
This marker placed by the South Carolina branch of the National Federation of Music Clubs.
Plot restored by the Woman's Music Club of Spartanburg, S.C. March 16, 1939