Although Alexcenah Thomas wrote over 40 hymns, she is primarily remembered for this one, "Bring Them In." An educator, originally from Philadelphia, she served in various schools as teacher and principal.
The music was composed by W. A. Ogden (1841-1897), a successful hymnwriter, publisher, and educator. In 1870 he published "The Silver Songbook" which sold over half a million copies. In 1887 he became Superintendent of Music in the Toledo, Ohio, public schools. He wrote lyrics to such hymns as "Look and Live," "Seeking the Lost," and "He is Able to Deliver Thee," and music to "All Things Are Ready" and "Gathering Home."
Our family performs this hymn on piano, autoharp, guitar, and harmonica.