The following songs were known to be in use in the early days of The Ohio State University. During this era, many of the popular songs of the day, as well as, composition of new songs was very common on college campuses. Many of these compositions were written by college sponsored competitions. In addition, song groups and glee clubs abounded during this era.

One thing that you will notice, as you view each of the songs, from 1880 - 1900, many of the songs use "O. S. U." to refer to Ohio State. Next, "Ohio" is used to refer to Ohio State, from 1900 - 1910. Afterwards, composers started to use "Ohio State" in the lyrics, starting with Ohio State March Song. This transition is very interesting, as it shows Ohio State gaining its identity, as well as, its uniqueness among colleges in both Ohio and the nation, as well.

In regards to the Ohio State University Men's Glee Club, they not only sang the songs of the day, but they also composed their own songs. In 1900 and 1904, they gathered enough songs together to publish Songs of the Scarlet and Gray. You can learn more about this song book, by reading the Notes on Songs of the Scarlet and Gray.

In the area of song competitions, the Ohio State University Alumni Association sponsored a competition in 1916, and published the Songs of Ohio State University song book. The song book, contained many songs and ballads of the day, as well as, songs specific to Ohio State. You can find out more by reading the Notes on Songs of Ohio State University.

Note: The year after the song indicates when the song was written. Also, with the exception of a couple songs, because there was no score available, there is a MIDI file that was generated for each song.

Please e-mail any comments, problems or suggestions to njmetrowsky@gmail.com

Webmaster: Nick Metrowsky
The Ohio State University, BA, History, 1979
Life Member The Ohio State University Alumni Association
Life Member of The Ohio State University President's Club
Annual Member of The Ohio State University Varsity "O" Association

Last Updated: 23 September, 2021