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Keep the history alive! |
Part of the spirit of Razorback football is the singing of the Alma Mater. In the class of 1906, and just east of the steps of Old Main, you will find the name of Brody Payne. What has become known as the Alma Mater, was penned by Payne as a tribute to the University as he was moved and inspired by the early morning sunrise shining off of the towers of Old Main. As one of the true heroes of the University, his name is often overlooked as people step over it each day without adding anymore significance to it than any of the other thousands carved into the sidewalks.
Music for the song was provided by Henry Tovey who was the director of the Glee Club at the time. Tovey is also known for providing the music for the Arkansas Field Song (commonly known as the Arkansas Fight Song) in 1918. As a result, both of the most famous songs associated with the University were set to music by the same person.
In 1909, Payne submitted the song to a competition chartered to find a song that was representative of the University. By the end of the competition, he had won first place giving the University its new Alma Mater.The song has gone on to become recognized as one of the top 25 college songs in America.
The first verse is what has become the common portion that is sung at football games, but below is the complete version as penned by Payne.
Music for the song was provided by Henry Tovey who was the director of the Glee Club at the time. Tovey is also known for providing the music for the Arkansas Field Song (commonly known as the Arkansas Fight Song) in 1918. As a result, both of the most famous songs associated with the University were set to music by the same person.
In 1909, Payne submitted the song to a competition chartered to find a song that was representative of the University. By the end of the competition, he had won first place giving the University its new Alma Mater.The song has gone on to become recognized as one of the top 25 college songs in America.
The first verse is what has become the common portion that is sung at football games, but below is the complete version as penned by Payne.
"Pure as the dawn on the brow of thy beauty
Watches thy soul from the mountains of God
Over the Fates of thy children departed
Far from the land where their footsteps have trod.
Beacon of hope in the ways dreary lighted;
Pride of our hearts that are loyal and true;
From those who adore unto one who adores us-
Mother of Mothers, we sing unto you.
We, with our faces turned high to the Eastward,
Proud of our place in the vanguard of Truth,
Will sing unto thee a new song of thanksgiving-
Honor to God and the Springtime of Youth.
Shout of the victor or tear of the vanquished;
Sunshine or tempest thy heart is e'er true;
Pride of the Hills and the white-laden Lowlands-
Mother of Mothers, we kneel unto you.
Ever the Legions of Sin will assail us,
Ever the Battle in Cities afar;
Still in the depths will thy Spirit eternal
Beckon us on like a piloting Star.
Down in dim years do thy dead children call thee,
Wafted to Sleep while the Springtime was new;
We, of the Present, thy hope of the Future-
Mother of Mothers, we pray unto you."
The words for Arkansas Fight (known originally as the Field Song) were written by William Edwin Douglas in the class of 1913, and are shown below. His name can be found just east of Brady Payne's on the sidewalk in front of Old Main. On your next visit to the University, make a side trip to Old Main and pay homage to these two people for what they have meant to Hog fans everywhere.
However, the song is now owned by The Southern Music Company in San Antonio, Texas. (it's ironic that a Texas company would own the license to one of the most famous University of Arkansas songs.) The beginning words are the ones which I chose for my ebook about all of the things associated with the history of Razorback football. The words "Hit That Line" say it all!
However, the song is now owned by The Southern Music Company in San Antonio, Texas. (it's ironic that a Texas company would own the license to one of the most famous University of Arkansas songs.) The beginning words are the ones which I chose for my ebook about all of the things associated with the history of Razorback football. The words "Hit That Line" say it all!
"Hit that line! Hit that line!
Keep on going!
Take that ball right
down the field!
Give a cheer. Rah! Rah!
Never fear. Rah! Rah!
Arkansas will never yield!
On your toes, Razorbacks,
to the finish,
Carry on with all your might!
For it’s A-A-A-R-K-A-N-S-A-S
for Arkansas!
Fight! Fight! Fi-i-i-ight!"
All razorback fans can appreciate these three individuals and their contributions which have provided some of the most cherished traditions associated with the University and its athletic programs.
Whatever you do, always remember to - Keep the history alive!
Whatever you do, always remember to - Keep the history alive!
Join us next month, as we once again recall tales of the games, players, and coaches from the past.
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