Jacob French

FRENCH, Jacob. b. Stoughton, Massachusetts, 15 July 1754; d. Simsbury, Connecticut, May 1817. He was a composer, singing master, and compiler of three collections: The New American Melody, The Psalmodist’s Companion, and Harmony of Harmony. French was the second son born to Jacob French (nda) and Miriam Downs French (nda). The town of his birth, about 17 miles south and slightly west of Boston, was known for its musical activities. In particular, in 1774, William Billings* led a Singing school* in Stoughton for which Jacob French was recorded as a member.  He married Esther Neal (nda) in Stoughton on 26 May 1779. It appears that they had at least four children. He served in the Continental...

If you have a valid subscription to Dictionary of Hymnology, please log in to view this content. If you require a subscription, please click here.

Cite this article