This circa 1862�song originates from North Carolina and was written by�Carrie Bell Sinclair. It demonstrates the patriotism found on the home front of the American South during the American Civil War. It is currently in the collection at North Carolina State University.
Lyrics (to the tune of Bonnie Blue Flag)
Oh! yes, I am a Southern girl, and glory in the name,
And boast it with far greater pride than glittering wealth or fame.
We envy not the Northern girl, her robes of beauties rare,
Though diamonds grace her snowy neck, and pearls bedeck her hair.
Chorus-�Hurrah! hurrah! for the sunny south so dear,
Three cheers for the homespun dress the Southern ladies wear.
The homespun dress is plain, I know, my hat�s palmetto too;
But then it shows what Southern girls for Southern rights will do.
We have sent the bravest of our land to battle with the foe,
And we will lend a helping hand; we love the South, you know.
Chorus
Now, Northern goods are out of date; and since Old Abe�s blockade,
We Southern girls can be content with goods that�s Southern made.
We sent our sweethearts to the war, but dear girls, never mind,
Your soldier love will ne�er forget the girl he left behind.
Chorus
The soldier is the lad for me� a brave heart I adore;
And when the sunny South is free, and when fighting is no more, I
�ll choose me then a lover brave from out the gallant band,
The soldier lad I love the best shall have my heart and hand.
Chorus
The Southern land�s a glorious land, and has a glorious cause;
Then cheer, three cheers for Southern rights, and for the Southern boys.
We scorn to wear a bit of silk, a bit of Northern lace;
But make our homespun dresses up, and wear them with such grace.
Chorus
And now, young man, a word to you; if you would win the fair,
Go to the field where honor calls, and win your lady there,
Remember that our brightest smiles are for the true and brave,
And that our tears are all for those who fill a soldiers grave.
Chorus
