Lydia Baxter (September 2, 1809 – January 23, 1874 ) was an American poet. Lydia Baxter was born at Petersburg, New York, September 2, 1809. She is chiefly known as the author of “The Gates Ajar," and other Sunday school hymns, which became widely known and very popular. In 1855, she published a book of poems, principally of a religious character, entitled Gems by the Wayside. She died in New York City, January 23, 1874.