Temperance Songs in American School Songbooks,1840–1860

Abstract

Early school songbooks in the United States served an important role. During the period from the introduction of public school music to the appearance of graded music series, they provided essential song literature and instructional material for early public school music classes. These songbooks often included patriotic songs, songs of the season, and songs about music, and moral and social themes were common. Some sources specifically note the inclusion of temperance songs, but little research has been done on how frequently this occurred. This study explores the inclusion of temperance songs in twenty-three school songbooks during the period from 1840 to 1860, noting dominant themes and tactics utilized by temperance reformers. Findings suggest that many school songbook compilers considered temperance reform an important concern and sought to influence both children and their parents by focusing on the dangers of alcohol. Several dominant themes were identified, including “Cold Water,” “Beware the Cup,” “Temperance Army,” “Home and Family,” and “Take the Pledge.” Although lyricists utilized both persuasion (moral suasion) and coercion, findings do not support the shift toward coercive tactics reported by temperance historians during the 1850s.