John P. Ordway

1868 John Pond Ordway Massachusetts House of Representatives

John P. Ordway (1824–1880) was an American physician, composer, and music publisher. He is best known for his contributions to minstrel shows and for composing the popular song "The Old Folks at Home" in collaboration with Stephen Foster.

Early Life

John Pond Ordway was born on August 1, 1824, in Salem, Massachusetts. He pursued a career in medicine and graduated from the Harvard Medical School in 1847. Despite his medical background, Ordway had a profound interest in music, which led him to become a significant figure in the American music scene of the 19th century.

Musical Career

Ordway's passion for music saw him founding the Ordway Aeolians, a minstrel troupe, in the 1850s. The troupe gained popularity for their performances and contributed to the spread of minstrel shows across the United States. Ordway's compositions often reflected the musical styles of the time, blending elements of folk music and popular music.

One of his most notable collaborations was with Stephen Foster, a prominent American songwriter. Together, they composed several songs, including the enduring classic "The Old Folks at Home" (also known as "Swanee River"). This song became one of the most famous pieces of American music and remains a staple in the repertoire of American folk songs.

Contributions to Music Publishing

In addition to his work as a composer and performer, Ordway was also a music publisher. He established the John P. Ordway & Co. publishing house, which played a crucial role in disseminating popular music during the mid-19th century. His publishing company helped to popularize many songs that are now considered classics of American music.

Later Life and Legacy

John P. Ordway continued to balance his medical career with his musical endeavors throughout his life. He passed away on April 27, 1880, in Boston, Massachusetts. His contributions to American music, particularly in the realm of minstrel shows and popular song composition, have left a lasting legacy.

See Also

• Minstrel show
• Stephen Foster
• The Old Folks at Home
• Harvard Medical School
• American folk music