The excellent Christian media Ministry of "SONGTIME USA"

http://www.songtime.com/

frequently features a "Hymn Story" as part of it's regular radio broadcast, and these are apparantly drawn from a book on this topic which may be available through the Ministry Bookstore. I think (not sure) that the Author may be a "Bill DAIGLE". In the Monthly newsletter I recieve as an occasional contributor to the Ministry, a written article on the history of a particular Hymn is usually featured, and they are always quite interesting. Purchacing the book is one of those things I've put off for way too long, but I think that you would find that it would address your quest about as well as anything commonly available could.

Not only does the researcher cover the history of the Hymn, but gives biographical insight into the life and times of the Composor, Lyricist, and frequently those who had a part in the inspiration of the song. If the "testimony" or conversion experience of the Composer is of note, that is covered as well. Fascinating material, really.

I was unable to find specific links to that book at the Sontime site just now due to "timing out", but suggest that you check them out and perhaps inquire directly via E-mail. Pastor John DeBRINE and his staff have always impressed me as being really genuine, down-to-earth (yet hearts in Heaven) Christian folk, and I'm pretty sure that you will be blessed in any interaction you may have with them.

May the Master's Blessings attend your research!

Oh, BTW; "Wayfaring" is one of my favorites as well. As mentioned in an earlier thread, I hardly ever can play/sing it without getting blessed all foolish and overcome with emotion to the point that it's difficult or impossible to finish all the verses! Needless to say, I don't generally attempt it in public!

Here's a few other sources for scores and MIDI on "Wayfaring":

http://www.ccel.org/cceh/0007/x000725.htm

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/i/a/iamapoor.htm

With my appologies for being too numb/lazy to memorize all the HTML incantations for converting URLs into "Blickies". Perhaps someday this site will catch up with the rest of the internet forum world (HINT...)an do it automatically. In the meantime I'm sure that you're familiar with the old "cut & paste" routine. Shalom; Uncle Jaque, Maine