Hi Marion, I've written quite a few songs about historical events. I find it very helpful to research the event as much as possible. That includes historical facts, names of individuals involved, newspaper accounts, diaries from the time period, and certainly any other songs which might be out there.

When you start writing your song, try to find some small, specific aspect of the event. Hopefully, you will be able to relay the essential facts of the event while keeping the song centered on one individual's perception. It is important to have all the facts, but don't try to put them all in the song.

Stan Rogers and Eric Bogle are good examples. Find some of their historical songs and check out how they did it. Bogle's "Greenfields of France" & "The Band Played Waltzing Matilda", as well as Rogers' "Billy Green" & "Take It From Day To Day" are a few to start with. Good luck,

Camai,
Mike