State Historical Society of Iowa

"The Darkies Rally" Song, 1863

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, Partridge, W. W., "The darkies rally: song & chorus by W.W. Partridge," 1863

Description

Written and composed in 1863 by W.W. Partridge, "The Darkies Rally" was a recruitment song that called for African Americans to volunteer to join the Union army. Motivations for doing so included the promises of their own home, a safe and secure family, employment for pay and above all, a Union of states without slavery.

Transcript of "The Darkies Rally" Song

Source-Dependent Questions

  • Why did the lyricist write this song? Use evidence from the cover of the songbook and the lyrics themselves to explain the purpose of its creation.
  • What positive changes are expected to come about for former slaves after a Union victory according to this song?
  • Keeping in mind its message and purpose, retitle the song.

Citation Information 

Partridge, W. W., "The darkies rally: song & chorus by W.W. Partridge," 1863. Courtesy of Library of Congress