Youth Activity Archive

A spirited song praising the American flag and the patriotism it represents.

Lyrics and Music by: George M. Cohan

Recordings

• YouTube – Kiboomers
• YouTube – Listener Kids

Lyrics

You’re a grand old flag,
You’re a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You’re the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev’ry heart beats true
‘neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there’s never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

You’re a grand old flag,
You’re a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You’re the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev’ry heart beats true
‘neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there’s never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

History

“You’re a Grand Old Flag” was written by George M. Cohan for his 1906 stage musical, George Washington, Jr. The song is famous not only for its patriotism but also for a significant early controversy regarding its title. When the song first debuted, it was titled “You’re a Grand Old Rag.” Cohan chose this word based on a real-life encounter with a Civil War veteran.

While sitting next to a veteran of the Battle of Gettysburg, Cohan noticed the man was holding a carefully folded, tattered American flag. The veteran reportedly looked at the flag and whispered, “She’s a grand old rag.” Cohan was so moved by the veteran’s humble devotion that he used the phrase as the centerpiece of his new song.

After the first performances, many people (including patriotic societies and veterans’ groups) objected to the word “rag,” finding it disrespectful to the national ensign. Cohan, a staunch patriot, quickly pivoted and changed the lyric and title to “You’re a Grand Old Flag” to avoid further offense.

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