[DISCLAIMER: This song contains antiquated racial language. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1919.
Words by Neile Edwards.
Music by Wallace C. Chambers.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
1. To New York Rufus William went and soon a job he got
Thought he liked the lights so bright just an awful lot
But when the Winter rolled around poor Rufus got cold feet
Packed his valise with all his clothes and made a quick retreat
He walked into the station and planked down all his fare
The Crier called track Two, the Dixie Flier’s there
Then Rufus wailed in accents loud and plain
“For lans sake Mister please sir hold dat train”
Chorus
Hold dat train
I’m on my way to Dixie Land
Hold dat train
I’m goin’ home again
Hold dat train
That’s where I’m goin’ to make my stand
Oh say there Mister, please sir hold dat train
I’m goin’ where the climate suits my clothes
I just can’t stand this weather goodness knows
Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee
All shore looks good to me so hold dat train
Hold dat train
‘Cause I’m on my way back home to Dixie Land
2. So Rufus took his ticket and started through the gate
The gateman stopped him on the spot and said you’re mighty late
I guess you’ve got your pullman too which I will have to punch
You can’t go through without it man so listen to this huntch
In ridin’ on these fastest trains a sleeping birth you’ll need
You also should provide some cash to give yourself some feed
Then Rufus groaned as if he were in pain
I’ll pay it all but make ’em hold dat train