Beyond the River

Author: J. E. Marsh

James Edward Marsh (Sr.) was born May 7th, 1889 (some sources give 1890), in Blount County, Alabama. He studied music under a number of teachers, including A.M. Pace, Homer Morris, and J. Henry Showalter. In addition to farming and owning a furniture store in Pinson, Alabama, he taught singing schools, published at least three songbooks, and served as a music and choir director in the Methodist Church. He was instrumental in organizing the Alabama State Singing Convention and served as its President. In addition to his own lyrics, Marsh set the words of others to music, including the popular bass lead song "Happy am I" written by J.M. Henson. J.E. Marsh died April 17th, 1970. David Hamrick from Mrs. J.R. Baxter & Videt Polk, Gospel Song… Go to person page >