The song “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” was published in 1863. This was written as a motivational song. It was used by both sides in the American civil war. Both soldiers of the North and the South dreamed of the lyrics in this tune. Songs like this were what kept up soldier morale. It was not so much the cause as it was the motivation to go home to loved ones, which kept these heroes marching on. Below is some information on this historical tune which you may find interesting.

“When Johnny Comes Marching Home” was written by a band leader of the name Patrick Gilmore. However, it was published under the pseudonym of ‘Louis Lambert’. The dedicated love of Gilmore’s sister inspired him to write the song. She insistently worried and prayed for the safe return of her fiancé, Captain John O’Rourke. O’Rourke was a light Artillery soldier for the Union army. Gilmores sister never gave up hope of his safe return. The depth of her devotion and love were what kept the soldier marching on.

The song is a joyful reflection of what a soldiers homecoming is like. The lyrics speak of the day when “Johnny” comes home. Johnny being the generic name of any soldier who makes his way back home.

The words go on to talk about how happy all the town will be. Friends and loved ones will greet them happily. Children will shower their paths with roses, the church bells will ring, crowds will shout hooray hooray, and love and friendship will fill the warriors heart.

The song provided something to look forward to for soldier and love ones alike. Soldiers would brave the battle with determination to get back home. Wives, fiancé, children, moms, dads, and friends, would dream of the day they saw their “Johnny” walking down the path for home. The thought kept motivation alive for all.

When Gilmore wrote this song over 200 years ago it is certain that he had no idea how much fame it would earn. He most likely never dreamed that his work of art would go on to become a nationally treasured piece of war history. However, it truly has become just that.

Whether you read the lyrics as a poem or listen to this masterpiece set to music, you should take the time to enjoy it. “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” is a treasured part of American history. It tells the story of homesick soldiers and heartbroken family. Most of all it paints the picture of the healthy return of heroes, Americas most brave.

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