“An Irish Laborer”
Description
Singer is an Irish laborer, willing to work but told "No Irish wanted here". He retains his pride, praising the Irish for their generosity and their willingness to fight for America. He asks Americans to welcome the Irish.
Notes
The potato famine of 1845 brought millions of Irish emigrants to America; they were often resented by nativists and segments of the American labor movement.
This is clearly related to "No Irish Need Apply," sharing a few lines, but as it consists mostly of praise and exhortations, and lacks the narrative of that song, I've classified it separately. - PJS
Cross references
- cf. "No Irish Need Apply" (subject)
- cf. "The Honest Irish Lad" (subject)
- cf. "There Is Na Luck About the House" (tune)
References
- Beck 84, "An Irish Laborer" (1 text)
- Creighton-NovaScotia 123, "Irish Labourer" (1 text, 1 tune)
- DT, IRSHLABR*
- Roud #1137
- BI, Be084