This recitation was recorded in the USA by Hank Williams Sr, and Red Sovine, and in Ireland by John Kerr, and Larry Cunningham. The only version still available is by Larry Cunningham on a cassette called "Larry Cunningham and the Original Mighty Avons Reunion Tape" Ritz Records Catalogue #417. Ritz Records, 5/6 Lombard Street, Dublin 2, Ireland phone 011-353-1-6779244.

Here are the words:

(Intro is sung):
I've just been to heaven, with someone so true.
I dreamed about Mama last night.
She read me the Bible as she used to do.
I dreamed about Mama last night.

(Recitation:)
She never closed her eyes to sleep till we were all in bed,
And on party nights till we came home she always sat and read.
We had little thought about it then for we were young and gay,
Just how much Mama worried when we children were away.
We only knew she never slept while we were out at night,
That she waited just to know that we'd all come home all right,
And sometimes when we'd stay away till one, or two, of three,
It seemed to us that Mama heard the turning of the key,
For always when we'd step inside, she'd call and we'd reply.
We were all too young back then to understand the reason why.
Till the last one had returned, she always kept a light,
For Mama couldn't sleep until she'd kissed us all goodnight.
She had to know we were safe before she went to rest,
For she always feared the world might harm the ones she loved the best.

Once she said, "When you are grown to women and to men,
Perhaps I'll sleep the whole night through. It might be different then."
So it seemed that night and day we knew our mother's care,
For always when we got back home we found her waiting there.

Then came the day we were called together 'round her bed.
"The children are all with you now," the kindly doctor said.
Then in her eyes there gleamed again that old-time tender light
That told that she waited just to know we made it home all right.
She smiled that old familiar smile and prayed to God to keep
Her children safe from harm throughout the years, and then she went asleep.

(Ending is sung:)
My dream is a treasure that I'll always keep.
I dreamed about Mama last night.


I would be happy to make a tape of the song for you, if you want to call me at (518) 842 5857. Please send $2 to cover cost of tape and mailing to: Bobby O'Brien 49 McCleary Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010-2816 USA