West Virginia Women Writers: Ida L. Reed

State Library Services
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Culture Center, Building 9
Charleston, WV 25305

Phone: (304) 558-2045
Email: wvlcref@wv.gov

Ida L. Read, a song writer best known for her song “I Belong to the King,” was a West Virginian from birth to death. She was born on a farm in Philippi in 1865. Even though she was ill and close to poverty, she believed God’s love was expressed in nature and people caring for each other.

She wrote over 2,000 songs, but never received royalties since she sold them without copyright for a dollar or two.  Along with three books, and over 2,000 songs, she also wrote articles for the West Virginia Protestant.

I Belong to the King

This Week in West Virginia History