Alma Mater
The words to the current Alma Mater were written by A. C. Corcoran, class of 1919, and was first printed in The Tiger on February 18, 1919. It had first been performed by the Glee Club in chapel on Monday morning, February 17. (The Tiger, "Alma Mater", February 18, 1919, Volume XIV, Number 16, page 1.) The Tiger observed that "It went good. Learn it!" The paper also advised the cadets that "when this song is played or sung at student gatherings or on other occasions; all will stand with heads uncovered."
In the February 25 issue of The Tiger, Corcoran was thanked for his contribution. "AN APPRECIATION"
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- Clemson at last has an "Alma Mater" which she can sing in praise of her heroes. To the author of this song we wish to extend our hearty thanks and deepfelt appreciation. In this small way, we, the Corps of Cadets, endeavor to show him that we are glad that there is a man among us who has both genius and spirit and who is willing to use it for his college.
- Clemson at last has an "Alma Mater" which she can sing in praise of her heroes. To the author of this song we wish to extend our hearty thanks and deepfelt appreciation. In this small way, we, the Corps of Cadets, endeavor to show him that we are glad that there is a man among us who has both genius and spirit and who is willing to use it for his college.
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To A. C. Corcoran we extend our thanks and appreciation for his work and, most of all, for his "Alma Mater." (Page 1.)
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To A. C. Corcoran we extend our thanks and appreciation for his work and, most of all, for his "Alma Mater." (Page 1.)
The music was arranged by Dr. Hugh H. McGarity, who helped Robert Farmer, winner of Tiger Brotherhood's contest, put the tune to new music in 1949. The alma mater is sung at the beginning and end of every football game, several other sporting events, and at the end of graduation/commencement ceremonies. Though it has 4 full verses and a chorus, usually only the first verse and the chorus are sung. Traditionally, Clemson University students, alumni, and fans all raise their right arms straight out, and wave their hands, thumb in, back and forth during the alma mater for the last line of the chorus (most raise their hands between the last two lines). This tradition is a throwback to Clemson's days as a military college when cadets would wave their hats in a similar fashion.
The Clemson University Alma Mater
Introduction
Clemson, our Alma Mater,
Hail to thee.
Verse 1
Where the Blue Ridge yawns its greatness;
Where the Tigers play;
Here the sons of dear Old Clemson,
Reign supreme alway.
Verse 2
We will dream of greater conquests
For our past is grand,
And her sons have fought and conquered
Every foreign land.
Verse 3
Where the mountains smile in grandeur
O'er the hill and dale;
Here the Tiger lair is nestling
Swept by storm and gale.
Verse 4
We are brothers strong in manhood
For we work and strive;
and our Alma Mater reigneth
Ever in our lives.
Chorus
Dear Old Clemson, we will triumph
And with all our might
That the Tiger's roar may echo
O'er the mountain height.
