Baxter, Lydia, the writer of "There is a gate that stands ajar" and other popular hymns, was born in Petersburg, N. Y., September 2, 1809. She was converted early in life, and united with the Baptist Church. Later in life she resided in New York City. She was an invalid for many years, but a patient and cheerful sufferer. She died June 22, 1874. A volume of her poems, titled Gems by the Wayside, was published in 1855.