[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A darkey song from 1901
Words and music by Carl L. Mittell
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
1. Long years ago, way down in Tennessee
Ah what a babe, as happy as could be
When in de night de stars were in de sky
Mammy would sing to me dis lullaby
Chorus:
Sleep honey boy
An' let yo' tiny eyelids close
Mammy now will watch you
Else de goblins cotch you
Stop dose cries an' close yo' eyes
Sleep, honey boy
Little pickaninny now repose
Angels bright will keep you free de night
Mammy's little honey boy
2. Now ah's ol' mah hair is turning gray
Years hab passed since mammy went erway
Yet in de night when all am sad an' drear
Seems to me dat lullaby ah hear