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Wiltshire Community History

Folk Song Information

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Book Title

Author

Date

Notes

Song Title	Joe, the collier's son
Roud No.	1129
Collected From	Bradshaw, William
Location	Bibury
County	Gloucestershire
Collected By	Williams, Alfred
Alternative Title
Tune
Date
Source Primary	WSRO: 2598/36 Packet 2 - Gloucestershire: Williams, A: MS collection No Gl 58
Source Secondary	Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard, 20th May, 1916, p , Part 31, No. 7
Recording

Song Lyrics
Verse 1 I am Jolly Joe, the collier's son, In Marlborough Town I dwell, I courted lasses, many a one, And I loved them all right well. Verse 2 I courted Nancy and young Kate, And buxom Nelly too; But Rachel's the girl that I adore, And that you soon shall know. Verse 3 I took a walk in Marlborough Town, Down by the Bilstone Hill, And who should I spy but my own true love, With Jack from Ambrose Hill. Verse 4 I hid myself behind the bush, A-distant where they were, He gave her kisses by one, two, three, Not knowing I was there. Verse 5 I boldly stepped up to him, Saying - "Rogue, what hast thou done? I am Jolly Joe, the collier's son Thou must either fight or run." Verse 6 And then to church young Rachel went, A-sore against her will, So maidens all, pity my downfall, By Jack of Ambrose Hill.

Print Song Lyrics

Notes
Williams, Alfred: Ms / WGS: 'I do not think that the town of Marlborough in Wiltshire could have been intended in this song, as the local references do not agree with the neighbourhood. It is a very old piece, whatever its origin may have been. Words of William Bradshaw, Bibury.' Transcribed and edited by Chris Wildridge, 2010.