Song View

The melody of the Irish folk song known as Carrickfergus is originally known as "Do bhí bean uasal" (Once upon a time there was a noblewoman) and likely derives from two different older melodies. The Irish lyrics date from the first half of the 19th century and are attributed to the poet Cathal Buí Mac Giolla Ghunna.

The authors of the first and third verses of the English text are unknown; the second verse is attributed to the poet Dominic Behan, who learned the song from the actor Peter O'Toole. Behan published his version in the book Ireland Sings in 1965.