It was selected as the official state song by a concurrent resolution of the Texas Legislature in 1929 following a statewide competition.

[11][12] This song was sung in group by elementary students in Texas at the beginning of their school classes during the 1950s.

As late as the 1990s, this song was still sung before classes in some schools, along with the pledge to the U.S. and Texan flags.

Boldest and grandest, Withstanding ev'ry test; O Empire wide and glorious, You stand supremely blest.

And keep you brave and strong, That you may grow in power and worth, Thro'out the ages long.