Here's the version written by the Barleycorn and best known by the Wolfe Tones.

BOYS OF THE OLD BRIGADE By Pat McCuigan Intro: A young son asks his father why he's sad at Easter time. The son explains that it was at Easter that the Irish rebellion took place. The rebellion that opened the doors of freedom for most of Ireland. And that one day will bring freedom to the North as well.

1. "Oh (C)father, why are (F)you so sad, on (C)this bright (F)Easter (G7)morn? When (C)Irishmen are (F)proud and glad Of the (C)land where (G7)they were (C)born." "Oh, (C)son, I see sad mem'ries view Of (F)far-off distant (G7)days, When, (C)being just a (F)boy like you, I (G7)joined the old (C)brigade."

Chorus: (G)Where are the lads who stood with me When (C)histor(F)y was (G7)made? Oh, (C)gra mo chree I (F)long to see The (C)Boys of the (G7)Old Bri-(C)gade.

2. From hills and farms the call to arms Was heard by one and all, And from the glens came brave young men To answer Ireland's call. 'Twas long ago we faced the foe, The old brigade and me, But by my side they fought and died That Ireland might be free.

3. And now, my boy, I've told you why On Easter morn I sigh For I recall my comrades all From dark old days gone by, I think of men who fought in the glen With rifles and grenade May Heaven keep the men who sleep From the ranks of the old brigade.