About
Nineteenth-century Irish poet who is best remembered for "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," a verse that was set to music as a popular hymn.
Before fame
He attended Trinity College, Dublin and later immigrated to Canada.
Trivia
His romantic life was marked by tragedy: his first fiancee drowned on the eve of their wedding, and his second wife-to-be died of pneumonia.
Family life
He was born into a wealthy family in Banbridge, Ireland.
Associated with
John Tesh performed a cover of Scriven's poem-turned-hymn, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."
