Hi Steve,

TY for you help and it is overwhelming evidence that points to Bridgewater. I'll add to that. I already posted Mrs. Baggs version. Who is Jesse Cole and when did he sing this?

There Was A Farmer Lived Near Bridgewater [Bruton Town]- Sung by Jesse Cole of Oakley, Hampshire. (H. 1285)Collected by G.B. Gardiner, Charles Gamblin,

1. There was a farmer lived near Bridgewater
He had two sons and one daughter dear,
And they though fitting to plough the ocean
To plough the raging main so clear.


2. And through the woods as we was riding
And there we lost and never found
In seeking of it over fluttered [flattered],
In a brake of briar he was killed and thrown.

3. "Now a servant man's going to wed our sister,
Our sister for it is all in vain,
Yes, and their courtship shall soon be ended,
I'll send him to his silent grave."

Richie