General Taylor
Traditional
Released: October, 2008
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General Taylor History
General Zachary Taylor defeated the Mexican General Santa Ana at Buenavista in February 1847, helping to secure Texas, and gain California, for the United States. He became President of the USA after the war with Mexico, but died after only a short term in office.
A.L. Lloyd thought that this shanty probably dates from around 1850, though many of the elements in it (the ritual funeral, the references to the semi-mythical “Stormy” or “Stormalong”), are older.
General Taylor Lyrics
Well, General Taylor gained the day
Walk him along, John, carry him along
Well, General Taylor he gained the day
Carry him to his bury’n ground
CHORUS:
Tell me way, hey, you Stormy
Walk him along, John, carry him along
Tell me way, hey, you Stormy
Carry him to his bury’n ground
We’ll dig his grave with a silver spade
Walk him along, John, carry him along
His shroud of the finest silk will be made
Carry him to his bury’n ground
CHORUS
We’ll lower him down on a golden chain
Walk him along, John, carry him along
On every inch we’ll carve his name
Carry him to his bury’n ground
CHORUS
General Taylor he’s all the go
Walk him along, John, carry him along
He’s gone where the Stormy winds won’t blow
Carry him to his bury’n ground
CHORUS
General Taylor he’s dead and he’s gone
Walk him along, John, carry him along
Well, General Taylor he’s long dead and gone
Carry him to his bury’n ground
CHORUS x2
