Episode 19

The Story of the "Old Rugged Cross" - Albion Michigan

Published on: 17th May, 2026

The "Old Rugged Cross" might be one of the most popular and familiar hymn's written at the turn of the century.

But the unique history behind the story of the hymn - is that is deeply rooted in the Midwest - written by George Bennard, who grew the son of a coal minder in Ohio, and later Iowa - became a Christian at a Salvation Army event in Iowa, and later became a traveling preacher.

The story takes Bennard to Albion, Michigan - where he begins writing the famous hymn.

#Oldruggedcross #AlbionMichigan #MidwestSmalltown

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About the Podcast

Midwest Small Town
Welcome to Midwest Small-Town
Where to Go, Stay, and Play in the Midwest

We’re on a mission to uncover the charm, character, and hidden gems of small-town America—one Midwest town at a time. Through engaging videos and our companion podcast, we take you on the road to explore unique places to visit, stay, eat, and experience across the Heartland.

But we’re more than just travel guides.
At Midwest Small-Town, we believe the future of America is found in its small towns. Our real passion is to inspire people to “Go Small and Come Home”—whether that means planning your next weekend trip, relocating to a quieter life, or even starting a business in a place where community still matters.

If you're looking for authentic stories, beautiful backroads, and real people making a difference in their hometowns, you’re in the right place.

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About your host

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Daniel Cline

Dan is the host of "Midwest Small Town" a podcast shining a light on Small Town U.S.A., exploring where to go, stay, and play across the American Midwest—while sharing the stories that make the Heartland unforgettable. Hosted by Dan, the show dives into local history, hidden gems, and the backroads most travelers miss.
Dan’s passion for the region runs deep. After years of documenting abandoned places and forgotten history on his original channel, Midwest Ghost Town, he merged that love of storytelling into one home—Midwest Small Town. From thriving main streets to long-forgotten ghost towns, each episode celebrates the people, places, and past that define the Midwest.
New episodes drop weekly, inviting listeners to slow down, explore deeper, and discover the stories waiting just beyond the highway.