Syracuse University Alma Mater

The Syracuse University Alma Mater is the school song for Syracuse University (SU) and was written by Junius W. Stevens in 1893. It is based on the then-popular song Annie Lisle. It was first sung under the title "Song of Syracuse" by the University Glee and Banjo Club on March 15, 1893. The song includes three verses, but only the first verse is commonly sung.

Alma mater

According to the 1997-1998 "Syracuse University Student Handbook", author Junius W. Stevens recalled "while I was walking home across the city an idea for the song came to me. I had often noticed how the setting sun lighted up the walls of Crouse College long after dusk had fallen over the city and valley. As I walked through the empty streets, the words of a song took shape in my mind. By the time I reached home, the song was finished."

Where the vale of Onondaga
Meets the eastern sky
Proudly stands our Alma Mater
On her hilltop high.
Flag we love! Orange! Float for aye-
Old Syracuse, o'er thee,
Loyal be thy sons and daughters
To thy memory.

When the evening twilight deepens and the shadows fall,
Linger long the golden sunbeams on the western wall.
Flag we love, Orange,
Float for aye,
Old Syracuse o'er thee!
Loyal be thy sons and daughters
To thy memory

When the shades of life shall gather, dark the heart may be,
Still the ray of youth and love shall linger long o'er thee'.
Flag we love, Orange,
Float for aye,
Old Syracuse o'er thee!
Loyal be thy sons and daughters
To thy memory

Fight song

The university also has a fight song entitled "Down the Field," commonly played after SU scores in athletic matches.

Down down the field goes old Syracuse
Just watch those backs hit the line and go thro'
Down down the field they go marching
Fighting for the Orange staunch and true
Rah rah rah!
Vict'ry's in sight for old Syracuse
Each loyal son knows he ne'er more will lose lose
So we'll fight, yes we'll fight and with all our might
For the glory of old Syracuse