C. Austin Miles

C. Austin Miles (1868–1946) was a prolific American gospel song writer and composer best known for some of the most enduring hymns in Christian worship. He was born Charles Austin Miles on January 7, 1868, in Lakehurst, New Jersey, and spent his early years in the northeastern United States growing up with a strong interest in both music and Christian devotion. 

Miles pursued higher education in science and pharmacy, attending the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and the University of Pennsylvania, and he worked professionally as a pharmacist until 1892. At that point he felt called to devote his life fully to writing gospel songs, believing he could serve God more effectively through music than through pharmacy. 

In 1892 Miles published his first gospel song, List! ’Tis Jesus’ Voice, through the Hall‑Mack Publishing Company. He soon became deeply involved with that firm, serving as editor and manager for 37 years, where he not only wrote but also helped shape the production of many hymn collections that were widely used in churches and evangelistic meetings.

Over the course of his career he wrote or composed hundreds of gospel songs and hymn texts, many of which were included in early twentieth century hymnals and songbooks. His music often reflects themes of personal devotion, trust in Christ, and intimate fellowship with the Savior. 

Miles’s most famous hymn is “In the Garden” (also known by its first line, I Come to the Garden Alone), written in 1912. This hymn has become a staple of Christian worship, especially in devotional settings, and is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of personal communion with Christ. The song gained widespread popularity through evangelistic campaigns and remains one of the most beloved gospel hymns in English‑speaking churches.

Charles Austin Miles died on March 10, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His work continues to be sung around the world, cherished for its heartfelt expression of faith and closeness to Christ.