This song, originally titled "Where the Grass Grows Green" was written and composed by the English music hall entertainer Harry Clifton in 1867, and published by his primary publisher Hopwood and Crew in that year or early in 1868 (judging from the publication serial number 1389). The Bodleian Library has two copies of the original sheet music, with full attribution. An American edition is available online in the Lester S. Levy Collection; from that, I have transcribed the lyrics below, and a MIDI will follow shortly. Note particularly that the fellow's name is Denny Blake, not Danny Black.


WHERE THE GRASS GROWS GREEN
Written, composed and sung by Mr. Harry Clifton
Tempo: Allegretto moderato.

I'm Denny Blake from County Clare And here at your command,
To sing a song in praise of home, And my own native land;
I've sailed to foreign Countries And in many climes I've been,
But my heart is still with Erin, Where the grass grows green.

CHORUS: I love my native Country, And I'm loyal to my Queen,
But I can't forget "Ould Erin," Where the grass grows green.

2. Poor Pat is often painted, With a ragged coat and hat,
His heart and hospitality, Has much to do with that;
Let slanderers say what they will, They cannot call him mean,
Sure a stranger's always welcome, Where the grass grows green.

3. He's foolish but not vicious, His faults I won't defend,
His purse to help the orphan, His life to serve a friend;
He'll give without a murmur, So hi follies try and screen,
For there's noble hearts in Erin, Where the grass grows green.

4. 'Tis true he has a wakness, For a drop of something pure,
But that's a slight debility, That many more endure;
He's fond of fun, he's witty, Tho' his wit is not too keen,
For there's feeling hearts to Erin, Where the grass grows green.

5. There's not a true born Irishman, Wherever he may be,
But loves the little Emerald, That sparkles on the sea;
May the sun of bright prosperity, Shine peaceful and serene,
And bring better days to Erin, Where the grass grows green.


Source: Sheet music published by Lee & Walker, 722 Chestnut St., Philadelphia; undated. Publication number 9807.5.
In the Lester S. Levy Collection.

"The Waterford Boys" is another "traditional Irish" song written by Harry Clifton.

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