"(recorded in Kenton, Suffolk by John Howson, 1986) The words to this extremely popular song were written by the Music Hall singer Leo Dryden (1863 -1939), with music by Will Godwin. According to Music Hall specialist Tony Barker, "Dryden must immediately have realised the song's immense appeal for, in an Era advert, dated 31st October, 1891, he announced it as a 'song that will be sung in every home where the mother tongue is spoken'. The rousing melody and sentimental lyrics telling of a homesick prospector dreaming of 'England's valleys and dells', certainly made such an impact with the British public that it passed almost at once into the canon of popular song. Dryden claimed that Francis, Day and Hunter paid £20, the most they had paid up to that time, for the publication right. Its fame was so great that it was remembered long after the name of its singer had been forgotten. Such was Dryden's eventual eclipse that, after the First World War, he sang the song in the streets unrecognised." Dryden made a cylinder recording of The Miner's Dream of Home in 1898 (Berliner E2013). Fred Whiting always said that it was his favourite song.

Song transcribed by Dan Quinn

Song notes: Mike Yates"

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VTC6CD words