Regional anthem of Illinois | |
Lyrics | Charles H. Chamberlin, abt. 1890 |
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Music | Archibald Johnston, 1876 |
Adopted | 1925 |
"Illinois" is the regional anthem (or state song) of the U.S. state of Illinois. Written in about 1890 by Civil War veteran Charles H. Chamberlin (1891–1894), the verses were set to the tune of "Baby Mine," a popular song composed in 1876[1] by Archibald Johnston (died 1887).[2] "Illinois" became the state song by an act of the 54th Illinois General Assembly in 1925.[3]