Boolavogue Song Lyrics:  10 Reasons to Love a Classic Irish Song

Boolavogue song lyrics allow us to sing along with an Irish ballad that has stood the test of time, captivating audiences with its historical significance and soul-stirring melody. The song, steeped in Irish nationalism, was penned by P.J. McCall in the late 19th century, with the melody traditionally attributed to him as well. 

Today, "Boulavogue" remains an essential piece of Irish cultural heritage. It is frequently performed at gatherings, commemorations, and in Irish pubs, often by traditional folk singers who breathe new life into McCall's evocative portrayal of Irish history.

The song is particularly celebrated around the anniversary of the 1798 Rebellion, as it embodies the spirit of Irish resilience and the fight for independence.  The lyrics recount the poignant tale of Father John Murphy, a leader in the Rebellion.

Perhaps you have heard ...

If you are just here for the lyrics, click here to go directly to them, along with YouTube videos showing two of our favorite performances.  There you can memorize the words, learn the tune and sing along to your heart's content.

Keep going from there and you will have the opportunity to acquire our special collection of Irish activities, in the form of Your Irish Playbook.

But if you would like to know a few more facts about Boolavogue song lyrics first, keep reading.  We will share 10 things to know about this important Irish ballad.

10 Fun Things to Know About the Song

Here are some fun facts about Boolavogue lyrics.  Hopefully they will entice you to sing along next time you hear them!

1. Historical Inspiration: "Boulavogue" is specifically inspired by the events of the Wexford Rebellion during the broader 1798 Irish Rebellion. P.J. McCall wrote the song in 1897 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of these events.
2. Father John Murphy: The song's protagonist, Father John Murphy, was a Roman Catholic priest who became one of the key leaders of the Wexford insurgency. His transformation from a parish priest to a revolutionary figure has been immortalized through the lyrics.
3. Boulavogue Village: The village of Boulavogue in County Wexford is a real place. It served as a key strategic location during the rebellion and is the setting for the song's stirring events.
   
4. Brendan O'Dowda’s Rendition: Brendan O'Dowda, a noted Irish tenor, recorded one of the most famous versions of "Boulavogue." His masterful delivery helped cement the song's place in Irish musical tradition.
   
5. Film Appearance: The song made an appearance in the famous John Ford film "The Quiet Man" (1952). This inclusion introduced the tune to a wider audience and further emphasized its cultural significance.
   
6. Memorials and Plaques: Several memorials and plaques in Wexford commemorate both Father John Murphy and the Boulavogue song, allowing visitors to explore the historical context and significance of the ballad.
   
7. Rebellion Commemoration: The song is often performed at events commemorating the 1798 Rebellion, serving as an anthem that evokes the spirit of that tumultuous period in Irish history.
   
8. Local Pride: For the residents of Wexford and particularly the village of Boulavogue, the song is a source of immense local pride. It connects them to their heritage and the broader narrative of Irish resistance.
   
9. Cultural Impact: "Boulavogue" has been covered by numerous artists and bands across different genres, from folk to classical to rock, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal.
   
10. Educational Use: The song is frequently used in educational settings to teach about the 1798 Rebellion, making it an invaluable tool for imparting historical knowledge through music.
    

Boolavogue Song Lyrics

At Boolavogue, as the sun was setting
O'er the bright May meadows of Shelmalier,
A rebel hand set the heather blazing
And brought the neighbours from far and near.
Then Father Murphy, from old Kilcormack,
Spurred up the rocks with a warning cry;
"Arm! Arm!" he cried, "for I've come to lead you,
For Ireland's freedom we fight or die."

 He led us on 'gainst the coming soldiers,
And the cowardly Yeomen we put to flight;
'Twas at the Harrow the boys of Wexford
Showed Bookey's Regiment how men could fight
Look out for hirelings, King George of England,
Search ev'ry kingdom where breathes a slave,
For Father Murphy of the County Wexford
Sweeps o'er the land like a mighty wave.

 We took Camolin and Enniscorthy,
And Wexford storming drove out our foes;
'Twas at Sliabh Coillte our pikes were reeking
With the crimson stream of the beaten Yeos.
At Tubberneering and Ballyellis
Full many a Hessian lay in his gore;
Ah, Father Murphy, had aid come over
The green flag floated from shore to shore!

 At Vinegar Hill, o'er the pleasant Slaney,
Our heroes vainly stood back to back,
And the Yeos at Tullow took Father Murphy
And burned his body upon the rack.
God grant you glory, brave Father Murphy
And open heaven to all your men;
The cause that called you may call tomorrow
In another fight for the Green again.

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/floweringwoman/2715099692

Our Favorite Performance

Our appreciation of Boolavogue song lyrics was inspired by this rendition, performed by the High Kings.  Have a listen:

Another Version - Which Do You Like Better?

For a more leisurely and introspective version of the song, please enjoy this version performed by Anthony Kearns.

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