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Lyrics and Information

Concord Hymn

Sung at the Completion of the Battle Monument, July 4, 1837
Words by Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
Tune: OLD 100TH or OLD HUNDREDTH, attributed to Louis Bourgeois (1510-1561), 1551
Key signature: G major (1 sharp)
Time signature: 4/4
Meter: 8.8.8.8.
Public Domain
Organ Performance at Hymns Without Words
1. By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled, Here once th′em battled farmers stood And fired the shot heard round the world.
2. The foe long since in silence slept; Alike the conqu′or silent sleep; And Time the ruined bridge has swept Down the dark stream which seaward creeps.
3. On this green bank, by this soft stream, We set today a votive stone; That memory may their deed redeem, When, like our sires, our sons are gone.
4. Spirit, that made those heroes dare To die, and leave their children free, Bid Time and Nature gently spare The shaft we raise to them and thee.