The song is set to the tune "O Tannenbaum" and Byers' lyrics' theme is centered on his love and praise for Iowa.

Whilst in jail in Libby Prison in Richmond, Virginia,[2] he was inspired to write "The Song of Iowa" after hearing the Confederate bands playing "Maryland, My Maryland" (also set to "O Tannenbaum") outside his prison cell.

[5] As a result of the contest, approximately 250,000 students had learned the song by heart and every school in the state had been singing it.

[7] The song would be performed at ceremonial events in the state, usually immediately after the American national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner".

Most criticisms were based upon Iowa's state song sharing the same tune as that of Maryland's.

So long as time's great cycle runs, Or nations weep their fallen ones Thou'lt not forget thy patriot sons, O!