Indiana, Our Indiana

Indiana, Our Indiana. It is the official state song of the U.S. state of Indiana, adopted by the Indiana General Assembly in 1913. The lyrics were written by Russell P. Harker, a student at Indiana University, and the music was composed by the university's band director, Earl M. Millen. The song serves as a spirited alma mater for the university and a proud anthem for the entire state, commonly performed at official state events and Indiana Hoosiers athletic competitions.

History and composition

The song's origins trace directly to the Indiana University Marching Hundred, under the leadership of Earl M. Millen. In 1912, Millen sought a new fight song for the university and collaborated with lyricist Russell P. Harker, a member of the IU Glee Club. The composition was first performed publicly in 1913 at a football game against the University of Chicago. Its immediate popularity led to a campaign by the Indiana Daily Student newspaper, which successfully petitioned the Indiana General Assembly for official recognition. The legislature formally adopted "Indiana, Our Indiana" as the state song on March 14, 1913, during the administration of Governor Samuel M. Ralston. The song shares its status with the state's other official anthem, "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away" by Paul Dresser.

Usage and traditions

The song is performed ubiquitously at events associated with Indiana University, most notably by the Indiana University Marching Hundred at Memorial Stadium and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. It is played following every score by the Indiana Hoosiers football team and at the conclusion of basketball games. A key tradition involves the audience raising their right hands during the final line, "Indiana, we're all for you!". The anthem is also a staple at official state ceremonies, including inaugurations for governors like Eric Holcomb and events at the Indiana Statehouse. It is commonly heard at Indianapolis 500 festivities and during sessions of the Indiana General Assembly.

Cultural significance

As both a state song and a university alma mater, "Indiana, Our Indiana" holds a unique dual significance in Hoosier culture. It fosters a shared identity between the state's flagship university and its citizens, bridging Big Ten Conference athletics with statewide pride. The song is deeply embedded in the rituals of Indiana University, contributing to the campus culture alongside landmarks like the Sample Gates and the Indiana Memorial Union. Its lyrics, referencing the "college days" and "crimson and cream," have made it a enduring symbol for alumni worldwide, while its official state status ensures its presence at events honoring Indiana's history and heritage, connecting it to figures from Benjamin Harrison to Virgil I. Grissom.

Recordings and performances

Numerous recordings of the song exist, primarily by university ensembles. The Indiana University Marching Hundred has released it on multiple albums, and it is featured on compilation records of Big Ten Conference fight songs. The Indiana University Singing Hoosiers and the IU Glee Club have also recorded vocal versions. Notable performances include its play at the NCAA basketball tournament during the championship eras of coaches Bob Knight and Branch McCracken, and at the Rose Bowl following the 1968 and 1991 seasons. It is regularly performed for visiting dignitaries at the Indiana Statehouse and during televised broadcasts of Indiana Hoosiers games on networks like ESPN and Big Ten Network.

See also

* On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away * Indiana University Marching Hundred * Hoosiers * List of U.S. state songs * Alma mater

Category:Indiana state symbols Category:American state songs Category:Indiana University songs