Chords
The Old Rugged Cross

The Old Rugged Cross was composed in 1912 by George Bennard, a Methodist evangelist and song-writer. The inspiration to write this song came after an experience of ridicule and scoffing for his faith. Bennard felt that the world needed a tangible manifestation of the love of Christ, which he found in the image of the cross. The song was first performed publicly at a revival meeting in Michigan.

Key: G

Introduction:  D7   G  

 G                            C 
On a hill far away stood a old rugged cross
         D7                       G 
The emblem of suffering and shame
                                    C 
And i love that old cross where the dearest and best
          D                        G 
For a world of lost sinners was slain

           D                       G 
So I' ll cherish the old rugged cross
            C                     G     D 
Till my trophies at last I lay down
         G             G7          C      Am7 
I will cling to the old rugged cross
            G           D         G       D 
And exchange it some day for a crown

            G                    C 
To the old rugged cross i will ever be true
        D                        G 
It' s shame and reproach gladly bear
                                   C 
Then he' ll call me some day to my home far away
           D                   G 
Where his glory forever I' ll share

           D                       G 
So I' ll cherish the old rugged cross
            C                     G     D 
Till my trophies at last I lay down
         G             G7          C      Am7 
I will cling to the old rugged cross
            G           D         G       D 
And exchange it some day for a crown
         G             G7          C      Am7 
I will cling to the old rugged cross
            G          D             C           G 
And exchange it some day for a crown