American Songs & Ballads- Historical Themes
[Number 45 Lady Washington is a parody of The Grey Cock, Child 248. It was published in the late 1700s.]
B. Historical Themes Contents
43. Brave Wolfe 98
44. The Taxation of America 101
45. Lady Washington 107
46. Bold Dighton 107
47. Paul Jones 111
48. Old England Forty Years Ago 112
49. Constitution and Guerriere 118
50. Wasp Stinging Frolic 120
51. Perry's Victory 122
52. James Bird 124
53. Noble Lads of Canada 127
54. The Hunters of Kentucky 130
55. The Maid of Monterrey 133
56. Buena Vista 135
B. Historical Themes
These fourteen numbers form perhaps the most important section of the manuscript, for it was from such songs that many
Americans before the Civil War learned their history. "Brave Wolfe," for example, is the classic popular rendering of the
French and Indian War in the eighteenth century. After a curious preliminary attempt to present the English general as a
lover, we hear of his martial gallantry at the decisive battle of Quebec in 1759 — a gallantry matched by that of the Frenchman
Montcalm. In some ways "Brave Wolfe" is the American Chanson de Roland.
"The Taxation of America," in 35 stanzas, has a somewhat didactic text said to have been written by a Connecticut school-
master. The modern reader notes that "America" was pronounced "Americay" in rhyming. This pronunciation (later "Americy" in the "deeply rutted villages") appears in the Orderly Books of New York's Fourth and Second Regiments, where a Revolutionary soldier copied down a song to the stanzaic form and probably the tune of "God Save the King":
God save America
Free from tyrannic sway.
For the entire text see Body, Boots & Britches, page 338.
It is a pity that the Stevens-Douglass Manuscript does not have a greater number of Revolutionary songs. "Lady Washington,"
not found elsewhere, here has only 3 stanzas. "Paul Jones," a spirited songs of our naval "bucksking heroes," here has only 9
stanzas and does not record the Commodore's most famous speech, "I have just begun to fight," though Walt Whitman
paraphrased it in "Song of Myself." "Bold Dighton," in 26 stanzas, has a hero (perhaps American) of the Napoleonic Wars after the Revolution; note that Dighton rescued both British and American prisoners.
Seven songs commemorate the War of 18 12, which had been important to Western New York. "Old England Forty Years
Ago" in its 42 stanzas includes a review of the war, apparently sung to the tune of "The Girl I Left behind Me." "Constitution
and Guerriere" commemorates a sea fight of August, 18 12, and "Wasp Stinging Frolic" describes a victory of that October.
Two ballads are inspired by Perry's victory on Lake Erie in September, 1813: "Perry's Victory" is standard heroics and
probably is no longer sung; until recently "James Bird" was still
a favorite because it romanticized the fate of a lad who fought
boldly but later was executed for desertion — perhaps Bird is the
only American deserter ever celebrated by the American folk.
"Noble Lads of Canada" reports with some wry satire an
American victory of September, 18 14, in northern New York.
"The Hunters of Kentucky" goes far from New York to the
battle of New Orleans in 18 15; the song was popular in theaters.
There are two songs here about the Mexican War: "The Maid
of Monterey," copyrighted in 1852, commemorates a battle of
September, 1846; "Buena Vista," whose author is known, refers
to a battle fought in February, 1847. Neither of these two songs
seems of the folk, who had not had time to re-create "popular"
songs. Moreover, those who sing "genuine" folksongs always
intersperse a few "author songs."
45. Brave Wolfe
The story of Major General James Wolfe, a man of high character disappointed in love and dying on the day of his greatest vic-
tory, is one that appeals to popular imagination. According to Thompson, military duty had called Wolfe to the New World after
Elizabeth Lawson, whom he had courted four years, refused him.
Here he took part in the successful siege of Louisbourg in 1758.
When he returned to England, he became engaged, not to Miss
Lawson, but to Katherine Lowther, sister of the first Earl of Lons-
dale. It is to her he bids farewell on the eve of his second departure
for America. On Thursday morning, September 13, 1759, the French found the English drawn up in battle formation on the
Plains of Abraham. In the second charge Wolfe was wounded,
though tradition asserts that he lived long enough to hear the news
of victory.
Mackenzie reports that this song is of American composition,
appearing in Boston broadsides of the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Many of the changes in the different versions are omissions and inversions; for instance, in Flanders many lines are
interchanged, and there are six that do not appear in Douglass. Some
lines from the Mackenzie and the Thompson versions are not found
in Douglass, whereas Douglass stanzas 7, 8, 13, 14, and 16 are not
in Mackenzie, and stanzas 7, 8, and 16 are not in Thompson. Ozark
omits Douglass stanzas 7 and 8 but has four lines not in Douglass.
Ozark's line corresponding to Douglass stanza 9, line 4, states the
situation more specifically, saying, "From the French invasion."
Flanders and Ozark are the only books examined that give tunes.
The song may be heard, however, on the recording made by Frank
Warner for his album, Hudson Valley Songs (Disc). This other
York State version is shorter than Douglass, but, except in its first
stanza, its lines are much like corresponding ones in Douglass.
Brave Wolfe
1. Cheer up my young nen all
Let nothing fright you
Though oft objections rise
Let it delight you
2. Let not your fancy move
When'er it comes to trial
Nor let your courage fail
At the first denial
3 . I sat down by my love
Thinking that I wood her
I sat down by my love
But sure not to delude her
4. But when I got to speak
My tonge it doth quiver
I dare not speak my mind
Whenever I am with her
5. Love here's a ring of gold
'Tis long that I have kept it
My dear now for my sake
I pray you to accept it
6. When you the posy read
Pray think upon the giver
My dear remember me
Or I'm undone forever
7. Then Wolfe he took his leave
Of his most lovely jewel
Although it seemed to be
To him an act most cruel
8. Although it's for a space
I'm forc'd to leave my love
My dear where'er I rove
I'll ne'er forget my dove
9. So then this valiant youth
Embarked on the ocean
To free America
From factions dire commotion
10. He landed at quebec
Being all brave and hearty
The city to attack
With his most gallant party
1 1 . The Wolfe drew up his men
In rank and file so pretty
On Abrahams loly heights
Before this noble city
12. A distance from the town
The noble french did meet them
In double numbers were
Resolved for to beat them
13. Montcalm and this brave youth
Together they are walking
So well they do agree
Like brothers they are talking
14. Then each one to his post
As they do now retire
Oh then their numrous hoste
Began their dreadful fire
15. Then instant from his horse
Fell this most noble hero
May we lament his loss
In words of depest sorrow
16. The french were seen to break
Their columns all are flying
Then Wolfe he seems to wak
Tho' in the act of dying
17. And lifted up his head
(The drums did sound and rattle [ ) ]
And to his army said
I pray how goes the battle
18. His aid-de-camp reply 'd
Brave general 'tis in our favor
Quebec and all her pride
'Tis nothing now can save her
19. She falls into our hands
With all her wealth and treasure
then brave Wolfe reply'd
1 quit the world with pleasure
44. The Taxation of America
According to Frank Moore, Peter St. John wrote this "rebel"
account of the Stamp Act's cause and effect. He was a schoolmaster
in Norwalk, Connecticut, at the beginning of the Revolution.
Historical personages and events of the time are quite easily
identified. North was Frederick North, second Earl of Guilford
(1732-1792), Prime Minister of England during the Revolution. The
mention of Bute as "his father" is probably a reference to the fact
that John Stuart, third Earl of Bute (17 13-1792), was thought to
have a continuing influence on the British Government long after
his official withdrawal from public life in 1766. Thomas Hutchinson
(1711-1780), at one time governor of Massachusetts, went to Eng-
land in 1774 to avoid popular anger because of his British sympa-
thies. Six years later Robert Rogers (1731-1795), commander of
"Rogers' Rangers" during the French and Indian War and of the
"Queen's Rangers" after the outbreak of the Revolution, also sailed for England. Quite possibly both told "ample stories" of colonists ready to turn Tory.
The American leaders referred to, besides Washington, are Nathanael Greene (1742-1786), who took part in the battles of
Trenton, Brandywine, and Germantown; Horatio Gates (1728—
1806), who defeated Burgoyne at Saratoga in October, 1777; and
Israel Putnam (17 18-1790), who participated in action at Noodle's
Island, Breed's Hill, Long Island, and the Hudson Highlands.
The battles mentioned occurred in the years 1776-1778, but not
always with the outcome credited to them by Mr. St. John. In June,
1776, the colonial forces at Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, did
repel the British under Peter Parker, and after the Battle of Mon-
mouth, June 28, 1778, Sir Henry Clinton's forces withdrew during
the night. Victory at the Brandywine, September 1 1, 1777, however,
went to the British under Sir William Howe (1729-18 14). After
that battle the Americans retreated with a loss of 300 killed, 600
wounded, and 400 taken prisoner, whereas the British loss was only
600 killed and wounded. The reference to Burgoyne in fetters seems
also to be unjustified, for John Burgoyne and a few of his officers
were not held prisoner, as were most of the British captured at the
Battle of Saratoga. The reference to Howe's trembling "with terror
and dismay" is probably explained by the fact that he was recalled
at his own request in 1778.
It is possible that "The Taxation of America" was written that
year or soon after; its account of the war closes with hope for the
day "when we shall all be freemen in North America."
The Douglass version is close to that given in Moore, which has
two extra stanzas. One tells of the Pilgrims' voyage, and the other
wishes success to our allies. The first two lines of Douglass stanza 5
are quite confused. In Moore, they read,
Old Satan the arch traitor,
Who rules the burning lake,
Where his chief navigator
Resolved a voyage to take.
Other words from Moore, inserted in brackets, clarify the present
version.
The Taxation of America
While I rehearse my story americans give ere
Of britain fading glory you presently shall hear
I'll give A true relation attend to what I say
Concerning the taxation in north america
The cruel lords of britain they glory in their shame
The project they have hit on may joyfuly proclaim
Tis what they are starving [striving] after to take our rights
away
To rob us of our charter in north america
There are two mighty speakers who [rule] in parliament
Who allways have been seekers some mischeif to invent
Twas north and bute his father this horrid plan to lay
A mighty tax togather in north america
They searched the gloomy regions of the infernal pit
To find among those legions one who excelled in wit
To ask of them assistance to tell them how they may
Sub due without resistance this north america
Old satan the arch traitor resolved a voyage to take
Who rules so navigated upon the burning lake
For [the] britanic ocean he launches fast away
To land he had no notion in north america
To take his seat in britain it was his souls intent
Great georges throne to set on and rule the parliament
His comrades were persuing a diabolic way
For to complete the ruin of north america
They tried the arts of magic to bring their schemes about
At length the gloomy project was artfully found out
The plan was long indulged in a clandestine way
But lately was divulged in north america
These subtle arch combigners [combiners] addessed the british court
All three were condensigners [undersigners] to this pleasant report
There is a pleasant land scape that layeth far away
Beyond the wide atlantic tis north america
9. There is a wealthy people who sojourn in that land
Their churches all with steeples pleasently do stand
Their houses like the lily [gilly] are painted red and gay
They flourish like the lilly in north america
10. The land with milk and honey continualy doth flow
The want of food or money they seldom ever know
They heap up gold in tresure they have no debts to pay
They spend their time in pleasure in north america
11. On turkey fowls and fishes most frequently they dine
With gold and silver dishes their tables always shine
They crown their feasts with butter they eat and rise to play
In silk the ladies flutter in north america
12. With gold and silver laces they do themselves adorn
They ruby [the rubies] deck their faces repugnant [refulgent] as the morn
Wine sparkles in their glasses they spend a happy day
In meriments and dances in north america
13. Let not our suit affront you when we address your throne
O king this wealthy country and subjects are your own
And you their lawful sovereign they truly must obey
You have a right to govern them in north america
14. O king you have heard the sequel to what we now present
Is it not just and equal to tax this wealthy tribe
The question being asked his majesty did say
My subjects shall be taxed in North america
15. Invested with my warrants my republicans [publicans] shall go
One tenth of all their currants they shal on us bestow
If they indulge rebellion or from my precepts stray
I'll send my war battalions to North america
16. I'll rally all my forces by water and by land
My light dagoons and horses shall go at my comand
I'll burn town and city with smoke the smoke becloud the day
I'll show no human pity in North america
17. Go on my hearty soldiers you need no fear of ill
There is hutcherson [Hutchinson] and rogers their familiar will fillfil
They tell such ample stories believe them sure we may
That one half will turn tories in North america
18. My gallant ships are ready to waft you o'er the flood
Then in my cause be steady whitch is supremely good
Go ravage steal and plunder and ours shall be the prize
They quickly will nook [ knock 1 under in North america
19. The laws I have enacted I never will revoke
All though they are neglected my fury to provoke
I'll forbear to flatter I rule with mighty sway
I'll take away the chater [charter] from North america
20. O george you are distracted by sad expiricence find
The laws you have enacted are of the blackest kind
I'll make A short discation [digression] and tell you by the way
We fear not your oppression in North america
21. Our fathers were distressed while in their native land
By tyrants were oppressed as I do understand
For freedom and religion they were resolved to stray
And try the desert regions of north america
22. If rightly I remember the country to explore
They landed in November on plimouth desert shore
The savages were molested with fear fled away
In peace our fathers settle this North America
23. We are the bold descendants for liberty we'll fight
The claim of indeependence we challenge as our right
Tis what kind heaven gave us who then shall take away
Kind heaven too will aid us in North America
24. We never will nook under O George we do not fear
The rattling of your thunder nor ligtening of your sphere [spear]
Though rebels you declare us we are strangers to dismay
Therefore you cannot scare us in North America
25. To what you have commanded we never will concent
Although your troops are landed upon the continent
We'll take our swords and muskets and march in bright aray
And drive the brittish redcoats from North America
26. We have a bold commander who fears no sword or gun
A second Alexander hs name is Washington
His men are all collected and ready for the prey
To fight they are direcled for North America
27. We've Green and Gates and Putman to manage in the feild
A gallant train of footmen who'd rather die than yeald
A noble band of horseman trained in the martial way
For to augment our forces in North America
28. O George you are engaged all in A dirty cause
A cruel war have waged repugnant to all laws
Go tell the brute cration you are cruder than they
To fight your own relation in North America
29. Ten millions you've demanded and twice ten millions more
Our riches you intended should pay the mighty score
Who now will stand your sponsor your charges to defray
For sure you cannot conquer this North America
30. I will tell you in metre if you'll attend awhile
We have forced your sir peter from sullivans fair isle
At monmouth town we gained the honors of the day
The victory obtained in North America
3 1 . We truly were your betters hard by the brandywine
We led hin fast in fetters whose name was John Burgoyne
We'll make your horse [Howe] to tremble with terror and dismay
Free heroes we resemble in North America
32. Confusion to the tories that black infernal name
In whiten great brtain glories for ever to her shame
We'll send each sole revoker [foul revolter] to smutty Africa
Or noose him in a hatter [halter] in North America
33. A health to our brave footman who handle sword and gun
To Green Gates and puman [Putnam] and conquering Washington
May their names be wrote in letters whitch never Shall decay
While sun and moon shall glitter in North America
34. Success unto the congress of the united states
Who triumph in conquest of Washington and gates
To all both land and seaman to glory in that day
When we shal all be freemen in North america
35. Succes to the legislature that rules this gentle hand
To trade and navigation by water and by land
May all with one opinion our wholesome laws obey
Throughout the vast dominion of North america
45. Lady Washington
Thompson quotes this Douglass version. I have not found the song printed elsewhere; Flanders' "Lady Washington's Lamentation" is entirely different and is more elaborate than this little dialogue.
Lady Washington
1 . Saw you my hero saw you my hero saw you my hero George.
I have traveled oer the plain
And inquired of every swain
But no tidings can get of my George
2. I saw not your hero i saw not your hero i saw not your hero george
But im told hes at the van
Where the battle path began
I must haste to take care of my men
3. Oer hills and oer dales oer hills and oer dales
Where the drums they sound alarm
O ye gods i give you charge to protect my hero george
And return him safe home to my arms.
46. Bold Dighton
An early nineteenth-century broadside owned by the Harvard
Library reports the action occurring off Guadaloupe in 1805, when
four hundred British and American prisoners of war escaped from
the French at Bassaterre. The original title was "The Escape from
Bassaterre." The author of the broadside, P. Russel, had been
wounded and imprisoned.
The "Umpire" of stanza 6, line 2, is apparently a corruption of
the phrase, yon pier in the broadside. The French exclamation in
stanza 11, "Mondieu fractre engla" appears in the broadside as
"Moil Dien! footer Englas" and in Mackenzie as u Mon Dieu, fracter
engier The first phrase is "My God!" but it is a question whether
the latter one is warning of "an English outbreak" or an expression
of abuse with the French word / 'outre, which is not in decent use.
The Mackenzie version (A) is very nearly the same as the Doug-
lass one. The corrections in brackets are from Mackenzie. In two
places the Douglass wording seems preferable. In stanza 16, line 2,
the words in the Mackenzie version are "to run down the corvette"
and in stanza 1 8, line 4, "jump over board." Gardner and Chickering
gives a shorter version, which varies considerably from Douglass,
and a tune, page 235.
Bold Dighton
1. Come all you heroes that plough the rough main
Give ear to my story the truth I'll explain
It was our misfortune which hapened in great war
And how we escaped from the French at Bastar
2. We were then confined on the Guadaloupe shore
Of true valiant seaman four hundred or more
Shut up in A small compass being greatly distressed
With painful diseasses and famine oppressed
3. A gallant young hero from saint louis he came
Both generous and wealthy called Dighton by name
He had the heart of a lion the soul of a prince
And friendships kind impulse to us did evince
4. He came to our prison he mourned our sad fate
He launched out his gold to releive our sad state
Five hundred bright guineas he gave I am sure
Which did greatly relieve us in this distressed hour
5. At this generous action the French did complain
They soon did confine him with fetters and chains
With us in the prison it there we might see
But from his chains and his fetters we soon set him free
6. Says Dighton my boys if you'll take my advice
Now if you'll prove constant it is done in a trice
Down by the Umpire the Tiger doth lie
A stout and fine coaster she is fit for the sea
7. The captain's on shore and we have all things on board
A plenty of cannons pikes pistols and swords
Now if you will prove constant and stand by my side
We will board her my boys and we will sail next tide
8. Then at this adventure we all did agree
Each breast loaded with ardour to fight and be free
American Songs and Ballads 109
Come give us your signal each sailor replied
We are ready to conquer or to die by your side
9. Prepare for the conflict no longer delay
But keep yourselves cool boys my orders obey
Three gallant young seaman as seconds he chose
Our signal for freedom was death to our foes
10. Then out of our prison we all rushed amain
The three guns were fired the French guards were slain
On board of the tiger we soon rushed our way
We cut both her cables and stood out for sea
1 1 . Which caused a sad rumpus it being midnight
The Frenchmen bawled out in a terrible fright
Mondieu fractre engle drums beat and bells toll
Our hero shouts freedom to each valiant soul
12. Their fortress was open their cannon did play
Their shot flew like hail as we got under weigh
They shattered our spars as we sailed from the shore
To bid them good bye we a broadside let pour
1 3. Then out of all danger we thought ourselves clear
But for this mistake we did pay very dear
Next morning at daylight it was there we espied
The lion a corvette hang down on our side
14. She pled us with grapeshot with broadside so sore
Which soon caused the Tiger to make her guns roar
With thirty-six eightens the lion did growl
And eighteen brass nines the fierce Tiger did howl
1 5. Yard arms and broadsides for three glasses we lay
At length our broadside cut her mainmast away
Says Dighton my boys if you are tired of this fun
You now have your choice to fight or to run
16. To spare blood and slaughter the crew did incline
To run from the corvette it was our design
But at this same moment they grapled us so fierce
And then sword in hand was our only resource
1 7. To board and to slaughter thev were fully bent
To give us no quarters was their sole intent
no A Pioneer Songster
To board us thrice over they tried with this view
But they were repulsed by the Tiger's bold crew
1 8. Then Dighton cried out as each hero should feel
Whose eyes transfered fury like bright burnished steel
There is death to each man on the point of my sword
Come all my bold heroes let us jump aboard
19. Then over the bulwark he jumped like a roe
The stroke from his sabre laid two Frenchmen low
On board of the corvette we all rushed so fierce
That soon from their quarters the French did disperse
20. Steel sparkle pikes rattle and swords loudly clash
And the blood on her decks like salt water did dash
Her scuppers with huge streams of crimson did pour
And the blue seas all around us roll'd purple with gore
2 1 . Three hundred brave seamen were slain of their crew
When the Frenchmen gave out and they cried out Mondieu
They fell on their knees and their weapons let fall
And then our bold hero for quarters did call
22. We soon gave them quarters and then we did hear
That for to engage us they did volunteer
The trebled our metal with e'en two for one
But fortune's kind favor saved freedoms bold son
23. Then Dighton cried out now the battle is o'er
Let the french learn this lesson and teach it on shore
Go back to their country with friends and take care
To treat well in future each prisoner of war
24. To conduct the french back we the Tiger then gave
Our seamen were generous and valiant as brave
Then down to Antigua with our Corvette we bore
And on the next morning we all jump'd ashore
25. Drank health to each seaman that ploughs the rough main
A4ay each crown'd with laurels return back again
May the fair of our country some grattitude show
To the sons of the ocean that fight the proud foe
26. And as for brave Dighton our true valiant friend
May glory pursue him while honors attend
And when he does die may seaman draw near
Come kneel at his tombstone and let fall a tear
47. Paul Jones
The battle on which the song is based occurred September 23,
1779. Paul Jones, with his flagship, Le Bonne Homme Richard, and
four others, encountered a fleet of forty sail off Flamborough
Head, merchantmen convoyed by the Serapis, which had forty-
four guns and was commanded by Captain Richard Pearson, and
the Countess of Scarborough, with twenty guns. Jones engaged the
Serapis, and another of his ships, the Pallas, engaged the Countess;
the rest of his fleet did not fall into battle line as commanded. In
fact, according to Stevenson, the Alliance (Lion, stanza 7, line 2) ran
away. The Douglass and Neeser versions imply that on its return it
opened fire on the Richard; the Rough and Ready version that it
came back to help the Richard. Whichever was the case, Jones
emerged from the encounter successful. The reference to "glasses"
means "hour glasses" and indicates the duration of the battle.
Not only are there several songs about this engagement, but there
is also much variation between the versions of this particular song.
The Douglass account is longer than that in either Mackenzie,
Brown, or Firth, though not so long as those in Rough and Ready
or in Neeser, the latter of which transscribes an original broadside.
Paul Jones
1 . An American frigate from Baltimore came
Her guns mounted forty the ricaard [ Richard] by name
Went to cruise in the channel of old england
With a noble commander Paul jones was the man
2. We had not sailed long before we did espy
A large forty four and a twenty close by
Those two warlike ships full laden with store
Our captain pursued to the bold yorkshire a shore
3. At the hour of twelve Pierce [Pearson] came along side
With a fond [loud] speaking trumpet whence came you he cried
Quick give me an answer I hailed you before
Or this very instant a broadside I'll pour
4. Paul jones he exclaimed my brave boys we'll not run
Let every brave seaman stand close to his gun
When a broad side was fired by these brave Englishmen
And we bold buckskin heroes returned it again
5. We fought them five glasses five glasses most hot
Till fifty brave seamen lay dead on the spot
And full seventy more lay bleeding in their gore
Whilst the Pierce's loud cannon on the Richard did roar
6. Our gunner affrighted unto paul jones he came
Our ship is sinking likewise in a flame
Paaul Jones he replied in the height of his pride
If we can do no better we'll sink alongside
7. At length our shot flew so quick they could not stand
The flag of proud Britain was forced to come down
The lion bore down and the richard did rake
Whiten caused the heart of brave richard to ache
8. Come now my brave buckskins we've taken a prize
A larg forty four and a twenty like wise
They are both noble vessels well laden with store
We will toss off the can to our country once more
9. God help the poor widows who shortly must weep
For the loss of their husbands now sunk in the deep
We'll drink to Paul Jones who with sword in hand
Shone foremost in action and gave us command
48. Old England Forty Years Ago
The War of 18 12 is reviewed with some detail in this ballad. The
story begins with a reference to American success in the Revolu-
tion, then refers to the impressment of seamen, which caused fur-
ther trouble between England and the United States. As the pro-
tests of President James Madison (1751-1836) were unavailing, war
broke out.
The personal references are explained as follows: On October 25,
Stephen Decatur captured the Macedonian near Madeira, and on
December 26, off San Salvador, William Bainbridge captured the
Java. In the West, Brigadier General William Hull surrendered
without a battle to General Isaac Brock, lieutenant governor of
Upper Canada, on August 1 6. Hull was tried for treason, cowardice,
and neglect of duty. Though he was found guilty of the last two
and sentenced to be shot, President Madison commuted his execu-
tion because of his service during the Revolution. The statement in
the ballad that he "his army sold" is not sustained by the records.
When the news came that Hull was besieged, Brigadier General
William Henry Harrison was sent to relieve him, but the news had
traveled too slowly. The fact that part of Harrison's army was
surprised and defeated by Colonel Proctor is ignored in the ballad.
It was not until after Perry's success on Lake Erie, when Proctor's
forces were retreating because of lack of naval support, that Har-
rison's army overtook and defeated them, October 5.
In September, 1812, Isaac Chauncey was given command of the
naval forces on Lakes Ontario and Erie. He co-operated with the
army led by Major General Henry Dearborn in the capture of York
(now Toronto) on April 27, 181 3. A month later Dearborn took
Fort George, at the mouth of the Niagara River. Colonel James Mil-
ler took part in the action there, at Chippewa, and at Lundy's
Lane and commanded at the battle of Brownstown in 18 12. Lieuten-
ant Colonel Eleazer Wheelock Ripley took part in the action both
at York and at Fort George. Colonel Edmund Pendleton Gaines
was put in command of Fort Erie in 18 13 and successfully defended
it against British attack. On July 4-5, 18 14, Lieutenant Colonel Win-
field Scott drove the enemy in a running fight sixteen miles to
Chippewa. The Battle of Niagara, variously referred to as Bridge-
water or Lundy's Lane, on July 25, 18 14, was one of the hardest
fought in the war. Lieutenant General Sir Gordon Drummond com-
manded the British forces, and Major General Jacob Jennings
Brown, the American ones. Americans and British both claim the
victory.
The "horrid crime" at Washington was the burning of public
buildings by the British under command of General Ross. His force
went on to Baltimore, where he was killed in the fighting that en-
sued.
For an explanation of the reference to Hull, see the introduction
to "Constitution and Guerriere"; for Perry, see "Perry's Victory";
for Downie, MacDonough, Macomb, and Prevost, see "Noble Lads
of Canada"; and for Jackson, see "The Hunters of Kentucky."
The Douglass version of this song, though much like that in Green
Mountain, has five more stanzas in conclusion. Green Mountain gives
Silas Ballou of Richmond, New Hampshire, as the author. The two
known broadside copies are in the New York Historical Society and
the Barry Collection of Ballad Prints. The latter copy mentions
"The Girl I Left behind Me" as the tune.
Old England Forty Years Ago
1. Old england forty years ago
When we were young and slender
Conspired to give A mortal blow
But god was our defender
2. Jehovah saw their horrid plan
Great Washington he gave us
His holiness inspired the man
With power and skill to save us
3. She sent her fleets and armies o'er
To ravage steel and plunder
Our heroes met them on the Shore
And beat them back with thunder
4. Our independence they confessed
Aand with their hands they Signed it
But on their hearts twas neer impressed
For there I ne'er could find it
5. And since that time they have been still
Our liberties invading
We bore it and f orebore until
Forbearance was degrading
6. Regardless of a sailors rights
Impressed our native seamen
Made them against their country fight
And thus enslaved our freemen
7. Great madison besought the foe
And minldly [mildly] did implore them
To let the suffering captives go
But they wouldnot restore them
8. Our commerce to they did invade
Our ships searched and seiged
Declaring also we should trade
With none but whom they pleased
9. Thus madison in thunder spake
We've power and we must use it
Our freedom surely lies at Stake
And we must rouse or loose it
American Songs and Ballads 115
10. We will make old england children know
We are the brave decendants
Of those floged theeir fathers so
And gained their independance
1 1. Our soldiers and our seamen to
Were put in warlike motion
Strait to the field our sotdiers flew
Our seamen to the ocean
1 2 . They met their foes on lowering wave
With courage Skill and splender
And sunk them down to watery graves
Or forced them to surrender
13. Decatur Hull and Bainbridge dear
Did wonders in our navy
Brave capain Hull sunk the guerriere
And Bainbridge sunk the Java
14. Decatur took A ship of fane
High on the waving waters
The macedonian was her name
And home in triumpp brought her
15. Perry with flag and sail unfurled
Met Barely [Barclay] onlakeerie
At him his machless thunder hurled
Till Barclay grew quite weary
16. He gained the victory and renounee
He worked him up so neatly
He brought old englands banners down
And swept the lake compleetly
1 7. Proud Downie fell on lake champlain
By f ortin quite forsaken
He was by bold Mcdonough slain
And all his fleet were taken
1 8. When e'er they met columbias sons
On lakes or larger waters
They fell beneath our thundering guns
Or humbly cried for quarters
19. When Prevost thus had lost his fleet
He gave out special orders
1 1 6 A Pioneer Songster
For his whole army to retreat
And leave the yankee borders
20. Through drery wilds oer fog [bog] and fen
The luckless general plundered
He fled with fifteen thousand men
From macombs fifteen hundred
2 1 . Let William Hull be counted null
And let him not be named
Upon the rolls of valiant souls
Of him we are ashamed
22. For his campaign was worse than vain
A coward and A traitor
For paltry gold his army sold
To brock the speculator
23. When proctor found brave Harison
Had landed on his regions
Away the tim'rous creature run
With all his savage legion
24. But over taken were and most
Of them were killed or taken
But Proctor soon forsook his post
And fled to save his bacon
25. At little york beneath the guns
Of Chauncey dearborn landed
And quickly made old englands sons
Resign what he demanded
26. From georges fort to eries beach
Our savage fees were beaten
Their naked bones were left to bleach
When wolves their flesh had eaten
27. Brav A4iller Ripley Gains and Scott
At erie and bridge water
At chipperway in battle hot
Their bravest foes did slaughter
28. How often Brown [made] drum mond fly
From scenes of dessolation
The terror of his noble eye
Filled him with constination
American Songs and Ballads 1 1 7
29. At Wasington their horrid crime
Must tarnish brittish glory
Children must blush in futre times
To read their shamefull story
30. They burnt the volumes which comprised
The best of information
The barbrous [their barborous deeds] will be despised
By every Christian nation
31. At Baltimore A deadly blow
The sons of mischief aimed
The sons of fredom met the foe
And victory justly claimed
3 2 . Amidst their ranks our thunder burst
And many were killed and wounded
Their cheif commander bit the dust
And all their schemes confounfounded
33. What wonders did brave Jacson do
When aided by kind heavens
Their leader and four thousand slew
And lost but only seven
34. Some interposing angels hand
Repelled their vile intrusion
The remnant of their broken band
Fled off in sad confision
35. They passed thro' numerous triying scenes
In most of them defeated
Their ground defeat at New Orleans
The blood [y] scene completed
36. Soon after this sweet peace arrived
Our armies were disbanded
Our scattered foes who had survived
The war were home commanded
37. What has our infant country gained
By fighting that old nation
Our liberties we have maintained
And raised our reputation
38. We gained the freedom of the seas
Our seamen are releaced
1 1 8 A Pioneer Songster
Our mariners trade where they please
Impressments too have ceased
39. Now in our selves we can confide
Abroad we are respected
Weve checked the rage of Brittish pride
Their haughtiness corrected
40. First to the god of boundless power
Be thanks and adortion
Next madison the wondrous flower
And jewel of the nation
41. Nex congress does our thanks demond
To them our thanks we tender
Oour heroes next by sea and tand
To them our thanks we render
42 . Let us be just in union live
Then who will dare invade us
If any should our god will give
His angels charge to aid us
49. Constitution and Guerriere
On August 2, 1812, according to Stevenson, Captain Isaac Hull of
the Constitution left the port of Boston without orders. Having
heard rumors of British ships to the north, he sailed in that direction
until on August 19 he sighted the English frigate Guerriere off Hali-
fax. Hull attacked and destroyed the Guerriere, which was com-
manded by Captain Dacres. The battle inspired this ballad, as well as
an ode recorded by Gray, the text of which is entirely different.
Except for an extra stanza (No. 9) the Douglass version is almost
word for word the same as that in Stevenson, though the latter is in
six-line rather than four-line stanzas. The Douglass version shows
more word variation from those recorded in Cox and Firth, and in
both of the latter Douglass lines 1 and 2 of stanza 5 and lines 3 and
4 of stanza 6 are not found.
Firth mentions the air, "The Landlady of France," and Trident
prints the tune to which the song is sung at Annapolis.
American Songs and Ballads i 1 9
Constitution and Gurriere
I often have been told that the Brittish seamen botd [bold]
Could beat the tars of France neat and handy O
But they never found their match till the Yankees did them
catch
For the Yankee tars for fighting are the dandy O
the Gurriere so bold on the foaming ocean roll'd
Commanded by Dacres the grandee O
With as choice a brittish crew as a rammer ever drew
They could beat the Frenchmen two to one so handy O
When this friggate hove in view O said Daacres to his crew
Prepare ye for action and be handy O
On the weather guage we'll get her and to make her the men
fight better
We will give to them gun-powder and good brandy O
Now this boasting Britain cries make that Yankee ship your
prize
You can in thirty-minutes do it handy O
Or in twenty-five I'm sure if you'll do it in a score
1 will give you a double share of good brandy O
When prisoners we've made them with switchel we will treat
them
We'll welcome them with Yankee Doodle dandy O
O the British balls flew hot but the yankees answered not
Until they got a distance that was handy O
O cries Hull unto his crew we will try what we can do
If we beat those boasting Britons we're the dandy O
The first broadside we poured brought the mizen by the board
Which doused the royal ensign quite handy O
O Dacres he did sigh ad to his officers did cry
O I didn't think the Yankees were so handy O
The second told so well that the fore and mainmast fell
That made this lofty frigate look quite handy O
O says Dacres we're undone so he fires a lee gun
And the drummers struck up Yankee Doodle dandy O
When dacres came on board to deliver up his sword
He was loth to pard with it it look'd so handy O
120 A Pioneer Songster
9. You may keep it says hull what makes you look so dull
Cheer up and take a glass of good brandy O
O Britons now be still since we've hook'd you in the gill
Dont boast upon your Dacres the grandee O
10. Come fill your glasses full and we'll drink to captain Hull
And so merrily we'll push about the brandy O
John Bull may toast his fill let the world say what it will
But the Yankee boys for fighting are the dandy O
yo. Wasp Stinging Frolic
About noon on October 18, 181 2, according to Stevenson, the
American sloop of war Wasp engaged the brig Frolic, manned by
the English. After a hard battle off Albemarle Sound, the Americans
boarded the Frolic, which surrendered. Unfortunately for the vic-
tors, the Poictiers, a British 74, then appeared, taking both the Wasp
and the Frolic to Bermuda.
Neeser has printed two ballads about this engagement, one of
which, almost word for word the same as Douglass, is from an orig-
inal broadside in the collection of the American Antiquarian Society,
"Wasp Stinging Frolic or Engagement between the American Sloop-
of-War Wasp, of 18 guns, and the British Sloop-of-War Frolic, of
20 guns."
Wasp Stinging Frolick
1. A fine little sloop from the delaware came
To cruise on the seas and the wasp was her name
With a noble commander who fear'd not the foe
And a crew who would stand fast let it blow high or low
Then fill up your glass let's laugh drink and sing
And toast the brave wasp which the british did sting
2. Not long had she sailed oer the oceans blue wave
Ere good fortune a fine opportunity gave
To convince the proud foe who on value of [t] harp
That a tight Yankee Wasp has a sting that is sharp
Then fill up your glass
3. A sail was sung out by a man at our mast head
More rapidly on the ship quickly sped
To the Brittish in season the Yankees drew near
American Songs and Ballads 121
And each brave noble heart was undanted by fear
Then fill up your
The enemy seeme'd in a frolicksone mood
And they made the frolic as light as they could
But when her sharp sting the wasp 'gan to run out
They began to conclude it was no frolicksome bout
Then fill up your gla[ssesl
Then broadside and broadside full at it thy went
The Wasp sung the Frolick unto her content
Till dismasted and shatter'd quite passive she lay
And found with reluctance the devil to pay
Then fill up your glasses
The flag of Great Britain was forced to be lowered
And o'er it Columbia's bright eagle now soared
The battle was won and the triumph complete
And the Frolick so stung that she owned fairly beat
Then up your glasses
From the deck of the Wasp five seamen so brave
With sorrow were launched to a watery grave
But their comrades so bold had the pleasure to know
That sixty poor brittons went with them below
Then fill up your
The Frolick was man'd and ordered for port
Having seen full enough of true Yankee sport
But the devil of it was that the very next day
Both Frolick and Wasp had to steer 'tother way
Then fill up your glasses
A huge seventy-four with them chanced to meet
And no chance was now left to make good a retreat
To give up the bold crew were compell'd rather toth [loath]
And the Poictiers the wasp and the frolick took both
Then fill up your
But no honor was lost to the American name
And the Wasp long shall shine on the records of fame
And we hope e'er the war we're engag'd in is o'er
[Thjat our Navy will have a few frolicks more
Then fill up your
122 A Pioneer Songster
j/. Perry's Victory
The victory of September 10, 1813, broke England's power on
the Great Lakes. Oliver Hazard Perry, with a fleet of nine ships,
defeated a British force commanded by Robert H. Barclay. The
Lawrence, Perry's flagship, bore the brunt of the battle at first.
When that was almost demolished, Perry transferred to the Niagara,
commanded by Jesse Duncan Elliott, and from there continued to
direct the battle.
There is little variation between the texts given by Kenedy, Rough
and Ready, Neeser, which is from an original broadside, and Doug-
lass. Spaeth (1) mentions James Hutton as the author of a ballad
called "Perry's Victory" published by G. E. Blake of Philadelphia.
Perrys Victory
1 . Ye tars of Columbia give ear to my story
Who fought with brave Perry where cannons did roar
Your valour has gained you an immortal glory
A fame that shall last till time is no more
Columbian tars are the true sons of mars
They rake fore and aft when they fight on the deep
On the bed of lake erie commanded by perry
They caused many Britons to take their last sleep
2. The tenth of September let us all remember
So long as the globe on her axis rolls round
Our tars and marines on Lake Erie was seen
To make the proud flag of great Britain come down
The van of our fleet the british to meet
Commanded by Perry the Lawrence bore down
Her guns they did roar with such terrific power
That savages trembled at the dreadful sound
3. The lawrence sustained a most dreadful fire
She fought three to one for two glasses or more
While Perry undaunted did firmly stand by her
The proud foe on her heavy broadsides did pour
Her masts being shatter'd her rigging all tatter'd
Her booms and her yards being all shot away
And few left on deck to manage the wreck
Our hero on board her no longer could stay
American Songs and Ballads 123
4. In this situation the pride of our nation
Sur heaven had guarded unhurt all the while
While many a hero maintaining his station
Fell close by his side and was thrown on the pile
But mark you and wonder when elements thunder
When death and destruction are stalking all round
His flag he did carry on board the Niagara
Such valour on record was never yet found
5. There is one gallant act of our noble commander
While writing my song I must notice with pride
While launch'd in the boat that carried the standard
A ball whistled through her just close by his side
Says Perry the rascals intend for to drown us
But push on my brave boys you never need fear
And with his own coat he plugg'd up the boat
And through fire and sulphur away he did steer
6. The famed Niagara now proud of her Perry
Display'd all her banners in gallant array
And twenty five guns on her deck She did carry
Which soon put an end to this bloody affray
The rear of our fleet was brought up complete
The singal [signal] was given to break through the line
While starboard and larboard and from every quarter
The lamps of Columbia did gloriously shine
7. The bold British lion roared out his last thunder
When Perry attacked him close in the rear
Columbias Eagle soon made him crouch under
And roar out for quarter as soon you shall hear
O had you been there I now do declare
Such a sight as you never had seen before
Six red bloody flags that no longer could wag
All lay at the feet of our brave Commodore
8. Brave Elliot whose valour must now be recorded
On board the Niagara so well play'd his part
His gallant assistance to Perry afforded
We'll place him the second on Lake Erie's chart
In the midst of the battle when guns they did rattle
The Lawrence areck and the men most all slain
124 ^ Pioneer Songster
Away he did steer and brought up the rear
And by this manoeuvre the victory was gained
9. Oh had you but seen those noble commanders
Embracing each other when the conflict was o'er
And viewing all those invincible standards
That never had yielded to any before
Says Perry brave Elliot give me your hand sir
This day we have gained an immortal renown
So long as Columbia Lake Eree commands sir
Let brave Captain Elliott with laurels be crowned
10. Great Britain may boast of her conquering heroes
Her Rodneys her Nelsons and all the whole crew
But none in their glory have told such a story
Nor boasted such feats as Columbians do
The whole British fleet was captured complete
Not a single vessel from us got away
And prisoners some hundreds Columbians wondered
To see them all anchored and moored in our bay
1 1. May heaven still [smile] on the shades of our heroes
Who fought in that conflict their country to save
And check the proud spirit of those murdering bravoes
That wish to divide us and make us all slaves
Columbians sing and make the woods ring
We'll toast those brave heroes by Sea and by land
While Britains drink cherry Columbians Perry
We'll toast him about with full glass in hand
b
52. James Bird
Here in western New York, close to the scene of Bird's heroism,
dereliction, and death, the ballad of his life has been preserved prac-
tically complete. Even Thompson (New York) and Eddy (Ohio)
give shorter forms, though Shoemaker (Pennsylvania) has all the
stanzas, perhaps because the ballad was composed in that state.
James Bird, according to a study by Mr. Charles B. Galbreath
referred to in Thompson and in Eddy, had transferred to the Ma-
rines to escape army discipline but as a Marine had proved his brav-
ery in the Battle of Lake Erie, 18 13. After deserting guard duty, he
was court-martialed and executed at Presque Isle (Erie, Pennsyl-
America?! Songs and Ballads 125
vania) in October, 18 14. Mary Elizabeth King, a descendant of
James Bird, tells his story in the article, "More Light on the Ballad
of 'James Bird'" (NYFQ, VII [1951], 142-144).
The ballad composed by Charles Miner was published, according
to Brown, "in his paper, The Gleaner, at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsyl-
vania." King mentions the publication date as 18 14 and the tune to
which it was sung, "The Dour Black Watch." The song has devel-
oped variations of wording. In some cases the Douglass text is prefer-
able; in some it is clarified by comparison with other versions. For
instance, the Douglass line naming Hull responsible for our sur-
render is weakened in the Thompson version to "How, you know,
our troops surrendered."
James Bird
1 . Sons of Freedom listen to me
And ye daughters too give ear
You a sad and mournfull story
As was ever told shall hear
2. Hull you know his troops surrendered
And defenceless left the west
Then our forces quick assembled
The invader to resist
3. Amongst the troops that marched to erie
Were the kingston volunteers
Captain Thomas then commanded
To protect our west frontiers
4. Tender were the scenes of parting
Mothers wrung their hands and cried
Maidens wept their swains in secret
Fathers strove their hearts to hide
5. But there's one among their number
Tall and gracefull in his mien
Firm his Step his look undaunted
Scarce a nobler youth was seen
6. One sweet kiss he snatched from mary
Craved his mothers prayer once more
Press'd his fathers hand and left them
For lake eries distant shore
126 A Pioneer Songster
7. Mary tried to say farewell James
Waved her hand but nothind spoke
Good bye Bird may heaven protect you
From the rest a parting broke
8. Soon they come where noble Perry
Had assembled all his fleet
There the noble Bird enlisted
Hoping soon the foe to meet
9. Where is Bird the battle rages
Is he in the strife or no
Now the cannons roar tremendous
Dare he meet the hostile foe
10. Aye behold him see him Perry
In the self same ship they fight
Though his messmates fall around him
Nothing can his sous [soul] affright
11. But behold a ball has struck him
See the crimson colors flow
Leave the deck exchaimed brave Perry
No cried Bird I will not go
1 2 . Here on deck I took my station
Ne'er will Bird his colours fly
I'll stand by you gallant captain
Till we conquer or we die
13. Still he fought though faint and bleeding
Till our stars and stripes [arose]
Victory having crowned our efforts
All triumph [triumphant] o'er our foes
14. And did Bird receive A pension
Was he to his friends restored
No nor never to his bosom
Clasped the maid his heart adored
1 5. But there came most dismal tidings
From lake Eries distant shore
Better if Bird had perished
Midst the battle awful roar
American Songs and Ballads 127
1 6. Dearest parents said the letter
This will bring sad news to you
Do not mourn your first beloved
Tho' this brings sad news to you
17. I must suffer for deserting
From the brig Niagara
Read this letter brothers sisters
'Tis the last you'll have from me
1 8. Sad and gloomy was the morning
Bird was ordered out to die
Where's the breast not dead to pity
But for him would heave A sigh
19. Lo he fought so brave at Erie
Freely bled and nobly dar'd
Let his courage plead for mercy
Let his precious life be spaired
20. See him march and bear his fetters
Harsh they clank upon the ear
But his Step is firm and manty
For his heart ne'er harbored fear
2 1 . See he kneels upon his coffin
Sure his death can do no good
Spare him hark! O God they've shot him
Oh his bosom streams with blood
22. Farewell Bird farewell for ever
Friends and horn hee'll see no more
But his mangled corpse lies burried
On lake Eries distant shore
53. Noble Lads of Canada
Commodore George Downie was in command of the British fleet
on Lake Champlain when on September n, 18 14, he was killed and
his force defeated by the American fleet, Thomas MacDonough
commanding, in the Battle of Plattsburg.
While the Battle of Plattsburg was being fought on Lake Cham-
plain, Sir George Prevost led a British attack on the American land
128 A Fioneer Songster
forces commanded by Brigadier General Alexander Macomb, who
had only 1500 regulars and some militia. Although far outnumbering
the Americans, the British were repulsed, their retreat hastened by
the outcome of the battle on the lake. Thompson explains that the
Growler and the Eagle had been captured by the British previously.
The mention of the crowing of A4acDonough's cocks refers to the
fact that a British shot had smashed a coop on MacDonough's flag-
ship, thus releasing a cock that flew to the top of a mast and crowed,
a sign of good luck. According to tradition, the poem was composed
by Miner Lewis in Clinton County, New York.
The version in Thompson has three more stanzas than the one in
Douglass.
Noble Lads of Canada
1 . Come all ye British heroes I pray you lend your ears
Draw up your British forces and then your volunteers
We'er going to fight the Yankee boys by water and by land
And we never will return till we conquer sword and hand
We'er the noble lads of Canada come to arms boys come
2. O now the time has come my bous to cross the Yankee's line
We remember they were rebels once and conquered John
Burgoyne
We'll subdue those mighty Democrats and pull their dwellings
down
And we'll have the states inha[b]ited with subjects to the crown
We'er the noble lads &c
3. We've as choice a British army as ever crosse'd the seas
We'll burn both [town] and city and with smoke becloud the
skes
We'll subdue the old green mountain boys their Washington is
gone
And we'll play them yanke doodle as the yankees d Burgoyne
We'er the noble lads &c
4. Now we've reached the Platsburg banks my boys and here we'll
make a stand
Until we take the yankee fleet McDonough doth command
We've the Growler and the eagle that from smith we took
away
American Songs and Ballads ng
And we'll have their noble fleet that lies anchored in the bay
Weer the noble lads &c
Oour fleet is hove in view my boys the cannon loudly roar
With death upon our cannon balls we'll drench their decks with
gore
We've water craft sufficient to sink them in an hour
And our orders is to to board and Yankee's flag destroy
Weer the noble lads &c
Now the battles growing hot my boys I dont know how 'twill
turn
While McDonough's boats on swivels hung continually do burn
We see such constant flashing that the smoke beclouds the day
And our larger boats they've struck and our smaller run away
O we've got to far from Canada run for life boys run
Prevost he sigh'd aloud and to his officers he said
1 [wish] the devil and those yankees could but sail alongside
For the tars of france and England cant stand before them well
O I think they'd flog the devil and drive him back to hell
O weve got to far Canada &c
Now prepare for your retreat my boys make all the haste you
can
The yankees are surrounding us we'll surely be burgoyned
Behind the hedges and the ditches and the trees and every stump
You can see the sons of biches and the cursed yankees jump
O we've got to far &c
Now we've reached the chazy heights my boys we'll make a
short delay
For to rest our weary limbs and to feed our beasts with hay
Soon McDonousfhs cocks becran to crow was heard at starks
barn
And a report throughout the camp was the general alarm
O weve got to far &c
O Prevost sighed aloud and to his officers did say
The yankee troops are hove in sight and hell will be to pay
Shall we fight like men of courage and do the best we can
When we know they will flog us two to one I think we'd better
run
O we've got to &c
130 A Pioneer Songster
1 1 . Now if ever I reach Quebec alive I'll surly stay at home
For McDonough's gained a victory the devil fight Macomb
I had rather fight a thousand troops as good as ever crossed the
seas
Than fifty of those Yankees behind the stumps and trees
O we've got to far &c
1 2 . They told us that the f edralists were friendly to the crown
They'd join our army and the democrats pull down
But they all unite as a band of brothers joined
They will fight for independence till they die upon the ground
O we've got too far
13. The old '76's have sallied forth upon their crutches they do lean
With their rifles leveled on us with their specks they take good
aim
For there's no retreat in those my boys who'd rather die
And we make no doubt that these are those that conquered
John burgoyne
When we got &c
14. Now we've reached the british ground my boys we'll have a
day of rest
And I wish my soul that I could say 'twould be a day of mirth
But I've left so many troops behind it causes me to mourn
And if ever I fight the Yankees more I'll surely stay at home
Now we've got back to Canada stay at home boys stay
15. Here's a health to all the british troops likewise to general pre-
vost
And to our respective families and the girls we love most
To McDonough and Macombe and to every yankee boy
Now fill up your tumblers for I never was so dry
Now we'eve all got back to Canada stay at home boys stay
54. The Hunters of Kentucky
The incident that gave rise to this song is one that justifies its
boasting tone. Stevenson reports that a brigade of 800 Kentucky
riflemen (Rickaby says 2000) led by General John Coffee marched
800 miles through wilderness to take part in the Battle of New Or-
leans, January 8, 1815, covering the last 100 miles in less than two
days. Under Andrew Jackson they defeated the British commanded
American Songs and Ballads 131
by Major General Sir Edward Pakenham, who was killed in the
engagement. Botkin explains the references to beauty and booty in
a note giving "Booty and Beauty" as a countersign used by an Eng-
lish officer. In Sound Off (New York, 1929) Dolph reports that the
song did not become popular with soldiers till the time of the Mexi-
can War; Spaeth ( 1 ) mentions its use as a campaign song for Andrew
Jackson.
Although Stevenson records the song anonymously, Belden,
Ozark, and Sandburg agree that Samuel Woodworth (1 784-1 842) is
the author. ("The Old Oaken Bucket" is probably the best known of
Woodworth's other songs.) According to Ozark, "The Hunters of
Kentucky" was "first published in The Port Folio (II [Dec, 1822],
527-529)"; Spaeth (1) mentions its publication in 1824 with a tune
"of the traditional type known as 'Miss Bailey's Ghost.' " Rickaby
cites Woodworth's Melodies, Duets, Trios, Songs and Ballads (1826)
as authority that the song was written for Arthur Keene, an Irish
tenor singer who first appeared on the American stage in 1817 and
that the tune was "Miss Baily." Dolph and Ozark give tunes, though
the latter gives only a short version of the words. Constance Rourke
in American Humor (New York, 193 1 ) describes the first time
"The Hunters of Kentucky" was sung in 1822. An actor dressed as
a frontiersman appeared on the stage with a rifle over his shoulder.
The song was applauded boisterously; within a few weeks it was
being sung in theaters throughout the country.
The first version in Belden consists of three four-line stanzas quite
different from Douglass in wording; but (B) and (C), which are
fragmentary, and the complete Stevenson, Botkin, Sandburg, Ken-
edy, Dolph, and Rough and Ready versions correspond almost ex-
actly to Douglass. Sandburg reports that his text is from a broadside
in the Congressional Library. The only noticeable variation is that
Botkin, Belden (C), Dolph, and Sandburg have longer refrains, re-
peating "Old Kentucky," "Oh, Kentucky," or "The Hunters of
Kentucky."
The Hunters of Kentucky
1. Ye gentlemen and ladies fair
Who grace this famous city
Just listen if you've time to spare
132 A Pioneer Songster
While I rehearse a ditty
And for the opportunity
Conceive yourselves quite lucky
For 'tis not often that you see
A hunter from Kentucky
Oh Kentucky
The hunters of Kentucky
2. We are a hardy free born race
Each man to fear a stranger
Whate'er the game we join in chase
Despising toil and danger
And if a daring foe annoys
What'er his strength or force is
We'll show him that Kentucky boys
Are alligtors — horses
Oh Kentucky &c
3 . I s'pose you've read it in the prints
How packingham attempted
To make Old Hickory Jackson wince
But soon his schemes repented
For we with rifles ready cock'd
Thought such occasion lucky
And soon around the general flock'd
The hunters of Kentucky
Oh Kentucky &c
4. I s'pose you've heard how Ney Orleans
Is fam'd for wealth and beauty
There's gals of every hue it seems
From snowy white to sooty
So packenham he made lies brags
If he fights was lucky
He'd have their gals and cotton bags
In spite of Old Kentucky
Oh Kentucky &c
5. But Jackson he was wide awake
And wasn't scared at trifles
For well he knew what aim we take
With our Kentucky rifles
American Songs and Ballads 133
Sow he led us down to Cypress Swamp
The ground was low and mucky
There stood John Bull in matial pomp
But here was Old Kentucky
Oh Kentucky &c
6. We rais'd a bank to hide our breasts
Not that we thought of dying
But then we always like to rest
Unless the game is flying
Behind it stood our little force
None wish'd it to be greater
For ev'ry man was half a horse
And half an alligator
Oh Kentucky &c
7. They didn't let our patience tire
Before they show'd their faces
We didn't choose to waste our fire
But snugly kept our places
And when so near we saw them wink
We thought it time to stop 'em
It would have done you good I think
To see the Kentuckians drop 'em
Oh Kentucky &c
8. They found at length 'twas vain to fight
When lead was all their booty
And so they wisely took to flight
And left us all the beauty
And now if danger e'er annoys
Remember what our trade is
Just send for us Kentucky boys
And we'll protect you ladies
Oh Kentucky &c.
55. The Maid of Monterrey
The Battle of Monterrey occurred in the early part of the war be-
tween the United States and Mexico, with General Zachary Taylor
in command of the American troops. It was a hard-fought battle,
lasting from September 20 to 24, 1846, the Mexicans contesting each
134 A Pioneer Songster
house as the fighting progressed through the city. The loss of the
Americans was 120 killed and 368 wounded. Although the Mexican
loss is not known, it was probably greater.
James Hatch of San Antonio attributes this song to James T.
Little, a veteran of the Mexican War. Although it seems to have been
popular in that locality, J. Frank Dobie (Foller de Drinkin GoiCd)
[Austin, 1928] ) has found no printed copy. The one he quotes, with
melody, from oral tradition has four more lines than Douglass. These
are the last four lines of Dobie's second stanza. The last four lines of
Douglass' second stanza correspond with the first four of Dobie's
third. There are other variations in wording, perhaps the most no-
ticeable being Dobie's line 3 of stanza 1 :
The gentle breeze fanned lightly. . . .
Duncan Emrich, then at the Library of Congress, informed us of an
edition published by F. D. Benteen, of Baltimore, and by W. T. Mayo,
of New Orleans, in which the authorship is attributed to J. A.
Hewitt. The copyright date is February 2, 1852.
The Maid of Monteray
1. The moon was shining brightly
Along the battle plain
The light was streaming faintly
On the features of the slain
The guns had hushed their thunder
The drums in silence lay
Whence came the Seineretta
The maid of Monteray
2. She cast a look of anguish
On dying and on dead
Of her lap she made a pillow
For those that groaned and bled,
She gave the thirsty watter
She dressed their bleeding wounds
A gentle prayer she uttered
For those that groaned around
3. And when the dying soldier
For one bright gleam did pray
American Songs and Ballads 135
He blessed the Seineretta
The maid of Monteray
4. Although she loved her nation
And prayed that it might live
Yet for a dying foeman
She had a prayer to give
Then here's to that bright beauty
Who drove deaths pangs away
The dark eyed Seineretta
The maid of Monteray
j6. Buena Vista
On February 22-23, 1847, near the Mexican village of Buena
Vista, 4700 United States troops, led by General Zachary Taylor,
defeated 20,000 Mexicans, commanded by Santa Anna. The battle
practically ended the northern campaign of the Mexican War.
Saltillo is a Mexican city near Buena Vista; Guanajuato, Puebla,
and Guadalajara are cities from which came Mexican troops. The
personal references are explained as follows: John Paul Jones O'Brien
was bre vetted a major for gallantry at Buena Vista, where he was
wounded. Captain George Lincoln was killed in action. During the
second day of battle, forces commanded by Major John Macrae
Washington held a key point when three regiments of Illinois and
Kentucky troops were retreating in disorder. Captain Thomas West
Sherman was brevetted a major for action at Buena Vista, and
Major Braxton Bragg was brevetted a lieutenant colonel. "Gallant
Davis" refers to Jefferson Davis, colonel of the First Mississippi
Rifles, whose regiment was charged by a body of lancers greatly
superior in numbers. He routed them by forming his men into a V
shape and exposing the enemy to cross fire. Charles Augustus May
was brevetted a colonel for his part in the battle; Humphrey Mar-
shall and William H. Bissell also distinguished themselves. A. R.
o
Porter, captain of the Arkansas Volunteers; Archibald Yell, colonel
of the First Arkansas Volunteer Cavalry; John J. Hardin, colonel of
the First Illinois Regiment; W. R. M'Kee, colonel of the Second
Kentucky Regiment; and Henry Clay, lieutenant of the Second
Kentucky Volunteers and son of the statesman, were killed in the
battle.
136 A Pioneer Songster
Stevenson dates this account, written by Albert Pike, as February
28, less than a week after the battle. The Douglass version shows
many changes in wording from the original given in Stevenson. For
instance, in stanza 2, line 5, the odds have increased from "three to
one" to "four to one"; in stanza 3, line 1, "Morelos" has become
"Lo Pueblas" in Douglass; the A4exican leader's name in Stevenson
is spelled Santana; in stanza 7, line 6, the Stevenson word "Aztec"
has become "mexique" in Douglass. In Stevenson stanza 8, line 3,
Vaughan is mentioned among the slain, but in the next line Marshall
is not mentioned; in fact, the line is quite different:
But the shattered troops cling desperately unto that crimsoned plain.
Stanza 14 of Pike's poem is omitted from Douglass, and Pike's last
line of the last stanza is different:
And everlasting glory unto Buena Vista's dead!
The Douglass version corresponds quite closely to the version in
Rough and Ready. Improvements suggested by the latter have
been inserted in the Douglass version in brackets.
Buena Vista
1. From the Riogrande's waters to the icy lakes of maine
Let all exult for we have met the enemy again
Beneath their stern old mountains we have met them in their
pride
And rolled from Buena vista back the battles bloody tide
Where the enemy came surging like the Mississippi's flood
And the reaper Death was busy with his sickle red with blood
2. Santa Anna boasted loudly that before 2 hours were past
His lancers through saltillo should persue us thick and fast
On came his solid infantry line marching after line
Lo their great standards in the sun like sheets of silver shine
With thousands upon thousands yea more than four to one
A forest of bright bayonets gleamed fiercely in the sun
3. Lo Guanajuato's regiment Lo Pueblas bosted corps
And Guadalajara's chosen troops all veterens tried before
And galoping upon the right four thousand lances gleam
Were waving in the morning light their blood red pennons
streams
American Songs and Ballads 137
Aan there his stern artillery climbs up the broad plateau
Today he means to strike at us an overwhelming blow
Now hold on strongly to the heights for lo the mighty tide
Comes thundering like an avalanche deep terible and wide
Now illinois stand ready Now Kentucky to their aid
For a portion of our line alas is brken and dismayed
A regiment of fugitives is fleeing fron f eild
And the day is lost if illinois and brave kentucky yield
One of obriens guns is gone on on their masses drift
And their infantry and lancers now are passing round our left
Our troops are driven from the hills and flee in wild dismay
And round us gathers thick and dark the mexican array
Santa Anna thinks the day is gained and riding yet more near
Minons dark clouds of lancers sternly menaces our rear
Now Lincoln galant gentleman lies dead upon the field
Who strove to stay those men that in the storm of bullets reeled
Now Washington fire fast and true fire sherman fast and far
Lo Bragg comes thundering to the front to breast the adverse
of war
Santa anna thinke the day is gained on on his masses crowd
And the roar of the battle rises up more terrible and loud
Not yet our brave old general cones to regain the day
Kentucky to the rescue Mississippi to the fray
Now charge brave illinoisans gallant Davis drives foe
And back before his rifles the red waves of lan[c]ers flow
Upon them yet once more my braves the avalanche is stayed
Back rolls the mexique multitude all broken and dismay
Ho May to Buena vista for the enemy are near
And we have none there who can stop their vehement career
Still swelling downward cones the tide porter and yell are slain
Marshall before him drives apart but still they charee in vain
And now in wild confusion mixed purseers and pursued
On to saltillo wildly drifts a frantic multitude
Upon them with your squadrons may out leaps the flashine steel
Before his serried column how how the frightened laners reel
They flee amain now to the left to stay their triumph there
Or else the day is surley lost in horror and despair
For their hosts are pouring swiftly on like a river in the spring
Our flank is turned and on our left their cannon thundering
138 A Yioneer Songster
10. Now brave artillery bold dragoons S[t]eady my men and calm
Through rain cold hail and thinder now nerve the galant arm
What though their shot falls round us here still thicker than the
hail
We'll stand against then as the rock stands firm against the gale
Lo their battery is silenced now our iron hail still showers
They falter halt retreat Hurrah the glorious day is ours
11. In front too has the fight gone well where upon gallant lane
And on stout mississippi the bold lancers chareed in vain
Ah brave third indana ye have nobly wiped away
The reproach that through another corps befell your state to-
day
Like corn before the tempest crushed before your storm of fire
Santa Anna's boasted chivary a shattered wreck rettire
1 2 . Now charge again santa anna or the day is surley lost
For back like broken waves along our left your hoardes are
toseg [tossed]
Still louder roar two batteries his strong reserve moves on
More work is there before you men ere the good fight is won
Now for your wives and children stand ready my braves once
more
Now for your lives your honor fight as you never fought be-
fore
1 3. Ho hardin breasts it bravely McKee and Bissel there
Stand firm before the storme of balls that fills the astonished air
The lancrs are upon them too the foe swarms ten to one
Hardin is slain mckee and clay the last time see the sun
And many another gallant heart in that last desperate fray
Grew cold its last thoughts turning to its loved ones far away
14. Still sullenly the cannon roared but died away at last
And oer the dead the dying came the evening shadows fast
And then above the mountains rose the cold moons silver shield
And patiently and pityingly looked down upon the field
And careless of his wounded and neglectfull of his dead
Dispairingly and sullen in the night santa anna fled
1 5. And thus on Buena vistas heights a long days work is done
And thus our brave old general another battle won
And still our glorious banner waves unstained by flight or shame
American Songs and Ballads 139
And the mexicans among their hills still tremble at our name
So honor unto those that stood disgrace to those that fleed
And everlasting honor to the brave and sralland dead