O Home Beloved

1. O home belov'd, where'er I wander
On foreign land or distant sea
As time rolls by, my heart grows fonder
And yearns more lovingly for thee!
Tho fair be nature's scenes around me
And friends are ever kind and true
Tho joyous mirth and song surround me
My heart, my soul still yearn for you

2. The flow'rs around me may be fairer
Than those that bloom upon thy hills;
The streams, great, mighty treasure bearers
More noted may be than thy rills
No world renown my humble village
Like these great towns may proudly claim;
Yet my fond heart doth thrill with rapture
Whene'er I hear thy humble name

3. Ye valleys fair and snowcapped mountains
Ye peaceful hamlets 'mid the trees
Ye murm'ring streams and crystal fountains
Kissed by the cool, soft, balmy breeze
Words cannot tell how well I love thee
Nor speak my longing when I roam
My heart alone can cry to heaven
"God bless my own dear mountain home."

Text: Evan Stephens, 1854–1930. © 1948 IRI