I am thrilled to have found this thread on the lyrics/poem "The Maid of Monterrey". In going through my husband's grandmother's estate (she was a history teacher and died at age 100) nearly 3 years ago I found the poem/song, "The Maid of Monterey" written in very flowery handwriting with great flair on plain paper. It looks very old. The paper has been folded several times but I hope to have it restored. It is still completely readable. The lyrics are nearly identical to "Q" as posted above on September 09,2003. The most interesting bit of information I can add is that my document is very clearly dated at the end: February 18th, 1837. I can not verify that this was indeed written by hand on this date but when you look at the handwriting, it seems completely feasible. This pre-dates any research I have uncovered concerning this poem/song. My research does not place US (English speaking) soldiers in Monterrey, Mexico in 1837. I can find no post-Alamo battles being fought as far south as Monterrey, Mexico. Please note that my version is 'Monterey'. Here is my version:

The Maid of Monterey

The moon was shining brightly across the battle plain;
The gentle breeze fanned lightly the features of the slain;
The guns had hush'd their thunder, the drums in silence lay.
Then came the Senoretta, the Maid of Monterey.

She cast a look of anguish on dying and on dead,
Her lap she made the pillow of those who groaned and bled.
And when the dying soldier for one bright gleam did pray,
He blessed the Senoretta, the Maid of Monterey.

She gave the thirsty water, and dressed the bleeding wound,
And gentle prayers she uttered for those who sigh'd around.
And when the bugle sounded, just at the break of day,
We blessed the Senoretta, the Maid of Monterey.

For tho' she loved her nation, and prayed that it might live,
Yet for the dying foeman, She had a tear to give;
Then here's to that bright beauty, who drove deaths pangs away,
The meek-eyed Senoretta, the Maid of Monterey.

Feb. 18th 1837


I would love to hear from anyone out there. 3/23/2009