William Harrison Oldham was born August 19, 1875, at Rosehill, Kansas. He was united in marriage to Myrtle M. Elmore in Cushing, Oklahoma on November 25, 1897, at the home of the bride’s parents, John and Dorcas Elmore. He became a minister in the Church of God (Evening Light Reformation) movement early in life. Although, not well known as a music writer, he did write the music for the lyrics of Clara M. Brooks‘ song, “Draw Me Close to Thee,” #442 in the Evening Light Songs hymnal. Surely, no one could have written a more befitting melody and harmony to those soul-stirring words. In later years, his son, Dale Oldham, wrote both words and music to the wonderful song “Let Me See Jesus Only.”
William H. Oldham departed this life November 19, 1945, in Anderson, Indiana, at the age of 70. His body was laid to rest in East Maplewood Cemetery, Anderson, Indiana. His wife, Myrtle, departed this life March 17, 1965, at the age of 84 and is buried beside her husband.