William McCarty, comp. The American National Song Book. 1842.
Naval Song: ‘Columbia, how bright is the fresh-blooming wreath’C
Which thy heroes, who fight for thy good,
While living entwine, and when dying bequeath,
From their death-bed, embalm’d with their blood.
And, O! while we live in the brightness it spreads,
And lights us on Liberty’s way,
Let us never forget ’tis their glory that sheds
Its fair tints o’er Columbia’s day.
By thy beacon-light still let us steer:
In thy wisdom, and virtue, and valour we trace
Whate’er to thy country is dear.
And still, in the day of distress, let us turn
To thee as our guide and our star,
Thy glories, reflected from heaven, will burn
Bright again round Columbia’s car.
Whose achievements now blazon thy name;
Forget not their lives are devoted to you,
’Tis thy glory that lives in their fame.
The laurels they’ve won, by their blood on the main,
Columbia, O never forget:
They’re the hero’s life gem, and will light him again
To still brighter victories yet.
Who respects not the deeds of her brave?
From Oblivion’s tomb can she e’er save her name,
Who protects not her patriot’s grave?
O never, Columbia! then ne’er let this stain,
The stream of thy glory pollute;
Let thy heroes’ bright wreaths ever honour’d remain,
Entwined with thy liberty’s root.