The great American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is revered for his classic literary works. His poem “Christmas Bells” has become one of our most well-known and beloved Christmas carols, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” What is less known, though, is the story behind the poem.

Reeling from the tragic death of his wife and the war wounds of his son, Longfellow penned the words to “Christmas Bells” during one of the darkest times in American history. And while the words of the poem reflect his obvious despair and grief, it is the triumphant message of “peace on earth, good will to men” for which this song — and Longfellow's personal story — is remembered.

Beautifully written and illustrated, this story will touch your heart as it did for tens of thousands of concertgoers who heard it presented by Edward K. Herrmann and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square at their annual Christmas concert in 2008. A DVD of that moving and inspirational presentations is included.