"On, Wisconsin!" is the official state song of Wisconsin. The tune was composed in 1909 by William T. Purdy. It was originally used by the University of Wisconsin football team, with lyrics written by Carl Beck. The lyrics were rewritten for the state song in 1913 by Judge Charles D. Rosa and J. S. Hubbard. The song was widely recognized as the state song at that time, but was never officially designated. Finally in 1959, "On, Wisconsin!" was codified in Chapter 170, Section 1.10 of the statutes.

There are rumors that Paul McCartney owned the rights to song, and possibly sold it to Michael Jackson. In reality it is part of the public domain. Some have also said that the song originated (with lyrics starting "Minnesota! Minnesota!" instead of "On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin") in the 1909 contest which resulted in the University of Minnesota's fight song. Purdy supposedly convinced Beck to drop the idea of entering the contest. The universities in Minnesota and Wisconsin have had a long-running rivalry, so it is unclear if this is true.

Battle Cry

"On, Wisconsin" was the cry that Arthur MacArthur, Jr. used in battle at Missionary Ridge, in the Civil War. He seized the regimental colors, and rallied his regiment with "On, Wisconsin", for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

State Lyrics

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin! Grand old badger state!
We, thy loyal sons and daughters, Hail thee, good and great.
On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin! Champion of the right,
Forward, our motto - God will give thee might!

UW-Madison Lyrics

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!
Plunge right through that line!
Run the ball clear down the field,
(originally "Run the ball clear 'round Chicago")
A touchdown sure this time.
On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!
Fight on for her fame
Fight! Fellows! - fight, fight, fight!
We'll win this game.

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!
Stand up, Badgers, sing!
"Forward" is our driving spirit,
Loyal voices ring.
On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!
Raise her glowing flame
Stand, Fellows, let us now
Salute her name!