Suggestive programs for special day exercises/Washington and Lowell Day/Glorious Roll of the American Drum
THE GLORIOUS ROLL OF THE AMERICAN DRUM.
The glorious roll of the American drum
Proclaimed to the world that Freedom had come.
And first brought the gleam of Liberty's ray
To drive the dark clouds of oppression away.
'Twas then, for the first, a drum for freedom had rolled,—
No wonder its rattle had a new valor told!
'Twas equal rights speaking with invincible voice,
And bidding earth's millions in a new hope rejoice.
The eagle-eyed drummer was steel-nerved in his arm.
Inspiring the heroes to defy war's alarm;
The valorous son, with eyes spell-bound on his sire.
His strokes re-inforcing, reproducing his fire;
Both joining the fifer, with blood staining his brow.
True liberty sounding—the American vow.
While thickly around it clouds of battle smoke curled.
Aloft in its beauty was Old Glory unfurled.
As head of the column with fixed bayonets appears.
The wounded and dying lifted proud voice in cheers.
The spirit our fathers—led by George Washington—
Displayed for our banner, thrills to-day every one;
To God and our Country heads and hearts we will give,
For one country, one language, and one flag to live.
(The conclusion of this recitation could be made very effective by an adaptation of the flag salute, the entire school joining in last two lines.)