George Bennard (1873–1958) was an American evangelist and composer who served in both the Salvation Army and the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1912, Bennard was going through a period of intense personal trial and spiritual searching. Reflecting deeply on the meaning of the cross and the Apostle Paul's words about suffering, he began composing a melody. After months of prayer and refinement, he completed the lyrics to 'The Old Rugged Cross' in 1913. The hymn immediately captured the hearts of millions, offering comfort by reminding believers of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and the promise of exchanging their heavy crosses for a crown of glory.
Source: Public-domain pre-1931 hymn publication
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
The emblem of suffering and shame
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world
Has a wondrous attraction for me
For the dear Lamb of God left his glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary
In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine
A wondrous beauty I see
For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died