Joseph Mohr

Joseph Mohr (1792–1848) was an Austrian Roman Catholic priest and writer. He was born in Salzburg, Austria, on December 11, 1792, and was ordained as a priest in 1815 at Salzburg Cathedral. He served as an assistant priest and vicar in various locations, including Mariapfarr, Oberndorf, and Wagrain. Mohr is best known for writing the poem that became the lyrics to the Christmas carol "Silent Night" in 1816. He collaborated with Franz Xaver Gruber, who composed the melody for the carol in 1818. The song was first performed on Christmas Eve in 1818. He died in 1848 in Wagrain, Austria, where he is also buried. His contribution to church music remains his most enduring legacy.