Historic Sheet Music Collection
Title
Document Type
Score
Publication Date
1916
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
While the shot and shell were screaming upon the battlefield
The boys in blue were fighting their noble flag to shield
Came a cry from their brave Captain "Look boys! our flag is down;"
Who'll volunteer to save it from disgrace
"I will" a young voice shouted, "I'll bring it back or die,"
Then sprang into the thickest of the fray
Saving the flag but gave his life. All for his country's sake
They brought him back and softly hear him say...
[Chorus]
Just break the news to mother
She knows how dear I love her
And tell her not to wait for me
For I'm not coming home
Just say there is no other
Can take the place of mother,
Then kiss her dear sweet lips for me
And break the news to her
[Verse 2]
From afar a noted general had noticed this brave deed,
"Who saved our flag? speak up lads, 'twas noble, brave indeed"
"There he lies, Sir" the captain, "he's sinking very fast"
Then slowly turned away to hide a tear
The general in a moment knelt down beside the boy
Then gave a cry that touched all hearts that day
"It's my son, my brave young hero, I thought you safe at home"
"Forgive me, Father for I ran away"
Recommended Citation
Harris, Chas K., "Break The News To Mother" (1916). Historic Sheet Music Collection. 1857.
https://digitalcommons.conncoll.edu/sheetmusic/1857
The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.
Comments
Break the News to Mother
By Chas. K. Harris
This song was originally published in 1897 during the Spanish American war, when it was virtually taken up and sung by the entire nation. The author and compose Mr Chas K. Harris who is also the Author of the world famous song 'After the Ball," since the outbreak of the present war has been besieged by requests for copies of this one time famous song, the human heart appeal of which had kept it alive for these many years. In response to this appeal he has issued this new edition. The song remains unchanged with the exception of the title page and will undoubtedly take its place as an immortal classic with such songs as "Home Sweet Home" and 'The Vacant Chair".
Published by Chas K. Harris. New York, Chicago, Toronto, Albert and Son Sydney & Feldman & Co London
Back Cover Advertisements: Published and Copyright by Chas. K. Harris from Columbia Theatre, Broadway and 47th Street, New York
Some of these resources may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes. Such materials should be seen in the context of the time period and as a reflection of attitudes of the time. The items are part of the historical record, and do not represent the views of the library or the institution.