A particular favorite of enlisted men in the Union army, it was written in 1863 by Walter Kittredge and first performed in that year at Old High Rock, Lynn, Massachusetts.

A Methodist camp meeting variant appeared with title "Tenting Again" in 1869, using the same tune but words modified for the religious environment.

We've been tenting tonight on the old camp-ground, Thinking of days gone by, Of the loved ones at home that gave us the hand, And the tear that said, "Good-bye!"

No more on march or field of strife Shall they lie so tired and worn, No rouse again to hope and life When the sound of drums beat at morn.

We are tired of war on the old camp ground, Many are dead and gone, Of the brave and true who've left their homes, Others been wounded long.