Katherine D. Tillman, "A Hymn of Praise" (1902)
Oh, God, when days were dark indeed,
When we were fast in Slavery's chain,
Thou then our parents' prayers did heed
And helped us freedom to obtain.
And when adrift upon the world
A child race 'mid the great and strong.
Thy banner o'er was unfurled
And gently were we led along.
Help us to e'er remember Thee
And e'er to endless homage pay
For all the great prosperity
Enjoyed by our race to-day.
Published in Tillman's Recitations, 1902