Rosin the Bow

 “Rosin the Bow” is an American folk song popular in the 19th century, probably of British or Irish origin, first published in Philadelphia during 1838.

The song refers to rosining the bow of a violin, and the tune has been used in many songs for political campaign jingles, slave songs, comedy songs, or other folk songs. Early versions of the song relate the story of a man who was popular in his youth, then in late life, the ladies refer to him as “Old Rosin, the beau”, as he prepares for the grave. As a drinking song, the chorus chimes, “Take a drink for Old Rosin the Beau” and uses dark comedy, with jests about his grave or tombstone taken in stride.

Here is the 2nd South Carolina String Band performing the song

The first verse sets the tone:

I have travell’d this wide world over,
And now to another I’ll go.
I know that good quarters are waiting,
To welcome old Rosin the beau.

More ways to integrate music into your classroom.