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Cold Blows the Wind (Drew)

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Alternative title: Unquiet Grave (Drew)

Performer: Drew, George H.
Place Collected: Moreton-in-Marsh
Date collected: 1907 (29 Mar)
Collector: Sharp, Cecil
Roud Number: 51
Other Numbers: Child 78

Despite the sombre nature of the song, it proved hugely popular with traditional singers, mainly in southern England, but occasional North American versions have been found.  Although the folk theme of the song is very old, no version earlier than a broadside of 1832 has been found.  The theme of mourning disturbing the rest of the death runs throughout other folk songs, e.g. The Wife of Usher’s Well.