David and Ann Ledgerwood: Music

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Lyrics--Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 1864
Music--Appalachian Folk Melody

Henry Wadworth Longfellow wrote this poem on December 25, 1864, when he saw newspaper photographs of the death and destruction of the Civil War. These lyrics are traditionally sung to a melody called "Waltham" written by Jean Baptiste Calkin as is printed in many hymnals. We feel that this appalachian melody more accurately reflects the somber mood of the poet when he penned the words in 1864. The most powerful words are in the fourth verse--"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep". Hallelujah!! All praise to Him who sits on the throne!

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair, I bowed by head;
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong, and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep:
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."