Our First National Anthem: Hail Columbia

Our National Anthem was officially adopted today in 1931.  It's odd to imagine a time before the Star Spangled Banner was our nation's song.

Before 1931 there was no official national anthem, but there was an unofficial one:  Hail, Columbia.  The song served during offical ceremonies and still can be heard today on one particular occasion.  Hail, Columbia is now the song used to accompany the Vice President, similar to how Hail to the Chief is used to introduce the President at an event.