Story Behind The Song

general Lee's surrender at Appomattax although bringing the end to the darkest chapter of American History was visionary in Lee's regard...the bright columns are that of Washington & Lee university and the chapel of respite is his chapel at the foot of the hill...he was an educated, intellectual who understood the price that was paid...and where the future must lead...

Lyrics

v1
oh my general what do you see
the surrender's been signed Grant's taken his leave
tears fall from dark Piedmont skies
where will you ride to
v2
blue and grey lie side by side
flags fly low in the breeze
find a place to hide
can this moment melt what hatred did freeze
chorus
i see bright columns aglow on a hill
i see great p;urpose to rise
a chapel of respite a beacon of light
the south risen up from this dark chapter of night
v3
as brute force retires
keen minds will ascend
and books and not barracks
will order young men
v4
i'm weary of leading brave boys
on paths to their death
i've sworn to uphold bitter peace
and i will til the last of my breath
chorus
i see bright columns aglow on a hill
i see great p;urpose to rise
a chapel of respite a beacon of light
the south risen up from this dark chapter of night
bridge
when johnny comes marching home again, hurrah, hurrrah
when johnny comes marching home again hurrah
the men will cheer and the boys will shout
the ladies they will all turn out
and we'll all be gay when
johnny comes marching home
v5
oh my general that's fine indeed
the stableboy waits
with your trusty old steed