American Old Time Song Lyrics: 40 The Worlds Fair Fire

Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 40

THE WORLD'S FAIR FIRE.
Copyright, 1893, by Henry J. Wehman.
By Grace Carleton. Tune-"The Broken Home."

Oh! hark that dreadful warning! Like lurid skies, at dawning,
The Fire King's wings are sweeping thro' the air;
Where shines the fair "White City," are heard the cries of pity,
And moans of wild and anguishing despair!
Upon yon tower standing, Chief Murphy, brave, commanding,
The Fire Brigade is battling with the foe;
With horror-stricken faces, where not a hope one traces,
A mighty throng is swaying far below!

Chorus.
Oh, those gallant souls that perished! in all hearts their fame be cherished-
Heaven shield their orphans from the cold world's ire!
Thro' the breadth of every city, for their wives be love and pity-
Honor to the heroes of the World's Fair Fire!

Wild flames were upward rearing! Was there a fireman fearing?
Ah! no, they battled on to shield and save!
A cry, "The walls are failing!" in that abyss appalling
How many now were soon to find a grave!
One thought, to home and dear ones, the gentle and the near ones,
And down they sank with noble duty done!
God's pity for them ever! Can we forget them? Never!
They live within our memories every one!-Chorus.

We praise the men in battle, where cannon fiercely rattle-
We rear them stately monuments of pride;
Where demon flames are raging, and firemen are engaging
To die, shall fame unto them be denied?
Their Little ones are pleading, the mangled and the bleeding
Can toil for them no more upon this earth!
Protect them, mighty nation! and homes or every station
Remember still their gallantry and worth!- Chorus.