Back
Palms of Victory

“Palms of Victory” – Martin Simpson
From the recording: A Closer Walk With Thee
Guitar & Slide Guitar: Martin Simpson
Fiddle & Strings: Joe Weed
Trumpet: Randy Masters
String arrangement by Martin Simpson
Recorded, mixed and mastered at Highland Studio by Joe Weed (1994).
Produced by Joe Weed.
Publishing: Gourd Music (BMI) / Jozone Music (BMI)

It was parodied by Bob Dylan as Paths of Victory, and I actually learned it after hearing it sung by Hedy West under the title Pans of Biscuits. The hymn Palms of Victory in its original form was chosen by Frank Profitt, the great traditional singer, as the song he wished to hear on his deathbed. (Martin Simpson)

 “Palms of Victory,” is also known as “Deliverance Will Come,” and “The Way-worn Traveler.” Reverend John B. Matthias (1767 –1848) a Methodist Episcopal minister living in New York State is credited with writing the hymn.

 “Palms Of Victory”
I saw the wayward traveler, in garments tattered clad,
And traveling up the Mountain, it seemed that he was sad.
His back was laden heavy, his strength was almost gone,
But he shouted as he journeyed, deliverance will come.

Chorus: Then palms of victory, crowns of glory,
Palms of victory I shall wear.

The summer sun was shining, the sweat was on his brow,
His garments worn and dusty, his step seemed very slow.
But he kept pressing onward, for he was wending home,
Still shouting as he journeyed, deliverance will come.
Chorus
The songsters in the arbor, that stood beside the way,
Attracted his attention, invited his delay.
His watchword being Onwards, he stopped his ears and ran,

And shouted as he journeyed, deliverance will come.
Chorus
I saw him in the evening, the sun was getting low,
He had overtopped the mounting, and reached the vale below.
He saw the golden city, his everlasting home,
And shouted hosanna, deliverance will come.

Chorus

While gazing on the city, just o'er the narrow flood,
A band of holy angels came from the throne of God,
They bore him on their pinions safe o'er the dashing foam,
And joined him in his triumph, Deliverance has come
Chorus

Back to Kingdom Come