“Shall We Gather at the River”

Description

"Shall we gather at the river, Where bright angel feet have trod... Yes, we'll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful river... That flows by the throne of God." A description of the happy life after death in the land of God

Notes

Reverend Robert Lowry (1826-1899) wrote this piece (which he titled 'Beautiful River") on a hot day in 1864. Although it is perhaps the only memorable thing Lowry ever produced, it is reported that he was not fond of it. - RBW

Recordings

• Alcoa Quartet, "Shall We Gather at the River" (Columbia 15022-D, 1925)
• Chuck Wagon Gang, "Shall We Gather at the River" (Columbia 20630, 1949)
• Kanawha Singers, "Shall We Gather at the River" (Brunswick 328, 1929)
• Uncle Dave Macon, "Shall We Gather at the River" (Vocalion 5162, 1927)
• Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Swagerty, "Shall We Gather at the River?" (OKeh 40216, 1924)

References

1. RJackson-19CPop, pp. 26-29, "Beautiful River" (1 text, 1 tune)
2. DT, GATHRIVR*
3. Roud #14037
4. BI, RJ19026