Anishinaabewaki (America)
Samuel Francis Smith wrote the lyrics to this song in 1831 while studying at Andover Theological Seminary in Massachusetts. The song was first performed for an audience on the 4th of July in 1831 at a children’s concert in Boston. The melody is based on the British national anthem, “God Save the Queen” but has been given words that reflect 19th century views of immigration, settlement and Indigenous pride. The song was considered the unofficial national anthem until 1931. Although the history of America is complicated and opinions on how to go forward are often divided, we can all appreciate the beauty of our country and reflect on ways to improve access to freedom and equality for all. This song is one the veterans of Gichi-Onigaming / Grand Portage enjoy singing along with on special occasions.
Songs with Jim Spry
In the recording here, Jim and Margaret sing the first verse English and then Ojibwe, then the traditional third verse in English followed by the traditional verse two in Ojibwe.
America My Country Tis of Thee
1
My country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty of thee I sing.
Anishinaabewaki, omaa minokamigaa nagamotamaan.
Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim’s pride
Noosinaanig ogii-nibowag, omaa akiing
from every mountainside let freedom ring.
mii noongom miziwe debenimoyang.
3
Our father’s God to thee
Author of liberty
To thee we sing
Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light
Protect us by thy might
Great god our king
2
My native country thee, land of the noble free thy name I love.
Anishinaabewaki, dibendaagoziyaan zaagitooyaan.
I love they rocks and rills thy woods and templed hills
Nizaagi’aag asiniig miinawaa mitigwakiing
my heart with rapture thrills like that above.
mii jiikendamoyaan omaa akiing.