Origins: Hemlocks and Primroses

Subject: Lyr Add: HEMLOCKS AND PRIMROSES (Ralph Stanley)
From: Ferrara
Date: 08 Jun 15 - 10:37 PM

I'm looking for info on the origins of this Appalachian song which is obviously derived from Erin's Green Shore. I first heard Kay Justice sing it, and she recorded it with Ginnie Hawker. They had collected it from a man in Southwest Virginia.

Ralph Stanley recorded it on his album Bound to Ride.

My question is: Does anyone have any idea where Ralph Stanley learned the song?


HEMLOCKS AND PRIMROSES
As recorded by Ralph Stanley on "Bound to Ride," 2005.

Thinkin' of you - while out for a ramble
Down by - a cold frosty stream,
Set down on a bed - of hemlocks and primroses.
Gently I - fell into a dream.

I dreamed I saw - a pretty fair maiden.
such beauty I - never saw before.
Her dress was bound round - with hemlocks and primroses.
So green was - the mantle she wore.

Her hair was of - a dark brown color.
Her teeth was as - ivory so white.
Her eyes they shined - like sparklin' diamonds.
Of stars that shine - on a cold frosty night.

I drew her near - then I awakened
With two empty arms - and you on my mind.
Heaven seemed so near - while I was dreamin'.
It hurts to know - you've left me behind.

Subject: RE: Origins: Hemlocks and Primroses
From: GUEST,#
Date: 09 Jun 15 - 08:32 AM

If no one has an answer for you, Ferrara, try writing to

http://drralphstanleymusic.com/contact.htm

Maybe Nathan could help you out.

Subject: RE: Origins: Hemlocks and Primroses
From: Ferrara
Date: 09 Jun 15 - 10:00 PM

GUEST, thank you very much for the suggestion. I gave it a try. I'll post back here if I get any information.