West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) proudly upholds a vibrant tradition of school songs that resonate deeply with students, alumni, and the wider community. Among these cherished anthems are the spirited “On, On Buffaloes” fight song and the reverent Alma Mater, each holding a unique place in the university’s history and Texan identity.
“On, On Buffaloes”: A Texas Fight Song Born from the Gridiron
The rousing “On, On Buffaloes” serves as the university’s quintessential fight song, embodying the energetic spirit of the WTAMU Buffaloes. Penned by Jack Curtice, a dedicated member of the football coaching staff from 1938 to 1941, this Texas Song has stood the test of time. Despite attempts to introduce alternative fight songs over the years, including one as recent as 1963, Curtice’s composition has consistently captured the hearts of the WTAMU faithful. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its ability to encapsulate the fighting spirit of the university.
The lyrics themselves are a call to arms, urging the Buffaloes to victory:
***On, on Buffaloes,***
***We are right for the fight tonight;***
***Hold that ball and hit that line,***
***Every buffalo will shine;***
***And then we'll fight for maroon and white,***
***And we'll roar for the old varsity;***
***We'll kick, pass and run***
***Till those ________ are done;***
***And we'll bring home the victory!***
***W -- T -- A -- M, WTAM, Fight! Fight! Fight!***This Texas song, with its direct and forceful language, is designed to ignite passion and unity. The emphasis on “maroon and white,” the university’s colors, reinforces school pride, while the repeated “Fight! Fight! Fight!” chant leaves no doubt about the intended message of unwavering support for the Buffaloes.
WTAMU Alma Mater: A Reverent Hymn to Texas Roots
In contrast to the spirited fight song, the WTAMU Alma Mater offers a moment of reflection and reverence. Written in 1921 by S. Elizabeth Davis, an assistant professor of English, this Texas song served a significant role in university life from its inception. During the era when chapel attendance was mandatory, the Alma Mater provided a solemn and meaningful conclusion to the morning’s program.
Wallace R. Clark, the head of the music department during that period, emphasized the importance of singing the Alma Mater with both “enthusiasm as well as with reverence and feeling.” He considered it a “hymn” to be sung with respect and only on appropriate occasions, instilling in students a deep appreciation for its significance. Over eight decades later, this Texas song continues to be sung with reverence by WTAMU students and alumni, a testament to its lasting impact.
The lyrics of the Alma Mater evoke the vast Texas landscape and the enduring values of the university:
***Over boundless reach of prairie,***
***Over rolling plains,***
***Over cliff and crag and canyon,***
***Alma Mater reigns!***
***To Maroon and white our colors,***
***We would faithful be --***
***Hearts as bold as western breezes,***
***Souls as pure and free!***
***Round thy image, Alma Mater,***
***Hallowed memories twine;***
***Bless the sacred ties of friendship***
***Pledged before thy shrine.***
***Thou hast taught us, Alma Mater,***
***All we have to give;***
***In the joy of loving service,***
***Ever let us live.***
***Alma Mater! Alma Mater!***
***We will faithful be;***
***Through the years that lie before us***
***We'll remember thee!***This Texas song speaks of loyalty, friendship, and service, core values instilled in WTAMU graduates. The imagery of the “boundless reach of prairie” and “rolling plains” connects the Alma Mater to the Texan landscape, grounding the university’s identity in its geographical context.
In conclusion, both “On, On Buffaloes” and the WTAMU Alma Mater are integral parts of the university’s heritage. These Texas songs not only represent school spirit and reverence but also contribute to a strong sense of community and tradition that unites generations of WTAMU Buffaloes.
