“Hail Columbia” was previously considered one of the unofficial national anthems of the United States until 1931, when “The Star-Spangled Banner” was officially named the national anthem. “Columbia” is the poetic name for the national personification of the United States, which originated during the 18th century. The music was composed by Philip Phile in 1789 for the first inauguration of George Washington and titled “The President’s March.” It became the song “Hail, Columbia” when arranged with lyrics by Joseph Hopkinson in 1798. It was the anthem for the President until it was replaced by the song “Hail to the Chief”. It is now the official Vice Presidential anthem. (source)
Lyrics
Hail Columbia, happy land!
Hail, ye heroes, heav’n-born band,
Who fought and bled in freedom’s cause,
Who fought and bled in freedom’s cause,
And when the storm of war was gone
Enjoy’d the peace your valor won.
Let independence be our boast,
Ever mindful what it cost;
Ever grateful for the prize,
Let its altar reach the skies.
Refrain
Firm, united let us be,
Rallying round our liberty,
As a band of brothers joined,
Peace and safety we shall find.
Immortal patriots, rise once more,
Defend your rights, defend your shore!
Let no rude foe, with impious hand,
Let no rude foe, with impious hand,
Invade the shrine where sacred lies
Of toil and blood, the well-earned prize,
While off’ring peace, sincere and just,
In Heaven’s we place a manly trust,
That truth and justice will prevail,
And every scheme of bondage fail. Refrain
Behold the chief who now commands,
Once more to serve his country stands.
The rock on which the storm will break,
The rock on which the storm will break,
But armed in virtue, firm, and true,
His hopes are fixed on Heav’n and you.
When hope was sinking in dismay,
When glooms obscured Columbia’s day,
His steady mind, from changes free,
Resolved on death or liberty. Refrain
Links
The following content is available below to Plus Members:
- PDF includes:
- Song with chords
- MIDI file
- MP3
The post Hail Columbia appeared first on Beth's Notes.