Hold the Fort
 by P. P. Bliss
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The events upon which this religious hymn was inspired occurred on October 4th & 5th, 1864. A strategic position at Allatoona Pass northwest of Atlanta was held by a small Federal division when threatened by attack. A signal flag from across the valley atop Kennesaw Mountain sent a message from Union Major General William T. Sherman, "Hold fast, for we are coming." These words led to the post-war hymn, "Hold the Fort, for I Am Coming." But Union Brigadier General John M. Corse's division was outnumbered and surrounded when Confederate Major General Samuel G. French summoned them to surrender. Corse refused, and fierce fighting ensued. The situation seemed almost hopeless until reports convinced French that Federal reinforcements might soon arrive. The Confederates broke off the attack and the pass was held.

Ho! My comrades, see the signal
 Waving in the sky! Reinforcements now appearing Victory is nigh!

(chorus) "Hold the fort, for I am coming!" Jesus signals still
, Wave the answer back to Heaven "By Thy grace, we will!"

See the mighty host advancing, Satan leading on; 
Mighty men around us falling Courage almost gone. (chorus)

See the glorious banner waving Hear the bugle blow!
 In our Leader's name we'll triumph Over ev'ry foe. (chorus)

Fierce and long the battle rages, But our Help is near; 
Onward comes our great Commander Cheer, my comrades, cheer! (chorus)