Thomas Cotterill

Thomas Cotterill was an English Anglican clergyman and hymn editor whose work contributed to early nineteenth century congregational hymn singing. Born in Staffordshire England, he studied at St Johns College Cambridge before entering the ministry of the Church of England. Cotterill served as a parish priest and developed a strong interest in improving the quality of hymns used in worship. In 1810 he published a hymn collection that included both original texts and selections from earlier hymn writers. His work aimed to provide congregations with hymns that were both theologically sound and suitable for public worship. Cotterill efforts helped prepare the way for later hymnals that expanded the use of hymns in Anglican services. His contributions reflect the growing interest in congregational hymn singing during the nineteenth century.