Ira David Sankey, known throughout the world as the companion of Mr.
Moody, was born in Edenburg, Pa., August 28, 1840. His musical talents
were early developed. Political glee clubs at first monopolized his
genius, but after his conversion in 1857, the Sunday School and Church
opened wider fields, in which he has since labored with increasing
usefulness. In June, 1870, at a Christian Convention in Indianapolis,
after a morning service, where Mr. Sankey led the singing, he met, for
the first time, Mr. Moody. "Where do you live! Are you married? What
business are you in?" at once inquired the Evangelist; "I want you."
"What for?" "To help me in my work in Chicago." "I cannot leave my
business," replied the now astonished singer. "You must," said Moody. "I
have been looking for you for the last eight years." And thus was Mr.
Sankey "called" to be the companion and helper of the great Evangelist.
They have been laboring together, for about a score of years.
[Illustration: Portrait of IRA D. SANKEY]