Lydia Baxter | |
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| Born | Lydia Odell September 2, 1809 Petersburgh, New York |
| Died | January 23, 1874 (aged 64) New York City |
| Occupation | poet, hymnwriter |
| Notable works | "The Gate Ajar for Me" |
| Spouse | John C. Baxter |
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Lydia Baxter (née, Odell; September 2, 1809 – January 23, 1874) was an American poet and hymnwriter. She is chiefly remembered as the author of "The Gate Ajar for Me" and other Sunday school hymns, which became widely known and very popular. This song in particular, and some events associated with it, influenced Ira D. Sankey, American gospel singer and composer, to write his first hymn.