It is wonderful to experience such history here in England. Every village has a church building, much of which would be approaching 1000 years old and some much older. You can go into these churches for free and contemplate the histories that were witnessed.
From China to Peru, glorious and gargantuan old world buildings sit -half buried- all around this realm - that they were constructed here in NA at the end of the 1800's by men w donkey carts is one more laudable lie - "founded" is right ! As a Canadian.... ps good luck w your upcoming election, friend.
I never get tired of listening to this narrators lovely voice with her exceptional diction and classic pronunciation. So unusual these days and a delight to receive on the ears.
Yes she does have a pleasant voice. Tone wise and also in terms of her diction. Makes a HUGE difference to me personally, as to whether I can listen or not.
Very interesting. Playing this game in the school playground as a child, we always sang the different 'bells' in different 'voices'. Some delicate and lilting, some soft and timid, others booming and deep, and some authoratively. So as a child I asumed it was a way of knowing where you were in London, from the sound of the various bells, because they do have distinctive peels and tones.
As children we had two people holding hands above others you walked through as we sang the rhyme, the last one being caught when we sang chop of your head.
I am in awe of how much research goes into this, from gathering the stories and folklore to the visuals. And the the narrator is perfect, all the way down to her accent. Thanks, these are so much to watch!
Thank you so much! It’s truly a joy to research and bring these stories to life with all the detail they deserve. I’m so glad you enjoy my narration and the visuals-it means the world to me! :)
I was always told that this rhyme was a map of London you could find yourself around with, assuming of course you could remember the order in which it was recited, sort of google maps of the day. Another what comes round goes round was the death sentence of writing a threatening letter, nowadays using social platforms it's been reduced to three years. Once again L, superb.❣
Interesting that you mentioned the death sentence for writing a threatening letter. I was always told that the saying "What goes around, comes around" was based on that very fact.
I believe so! There are so many versions that list even more churches, far too many to cover in just one video, but it's truly fascinating to catch a glimpse of how London once was. Thank you so much for your kind words, as always! I hope you and your loved ones are doing well 🖤:)
@@The-Resurrectionists Thank you L, I always check for a pulse before rising, and of course make sure no wood is touching elbows.....so much to think about at my age.🤔 Keep well, keep safe.❣
I remember singing this while filing under friends outstretched arms and hoping to not be "chopped". It's fascinating that these rhymes (or versions of them) are passed down through time and as an Australian, to different places. I wonder if these will continue or become forgotten to time? Another beautifully researched and compiled video, thank you ❤
I remember the thrill of playing Oranges and Lemons in the playground too! It’s amazing how these rhymes have travelled across time (and oceans!). Let’s hope they continue to the next generations-thank you for your lovely comment! :)
@@The-Resurrectionists I remember the rhyme from my days in primary school, but don't recall ever playing the game. I just liked the rhyme as I was fascinated with London (I was raised in Edinburgh). I was happy to later see the areas mentioned.
This nursery rhyme always takes me back to when I was a small child in 1950s Derby. Every Sunday my dad would take me to see my granddad who lived on the other side of the city. It was a long walk, especially for little legs, and the whole of the journey would be accompanied by church bells from the many churches that lined the way; I soon learned which bells belonged to which church. Sadly by the time I got married most of these bells had fallen silent but the memory still lives within me and, as I say, this rhyme always reminds of that now lost ere.
Well you've done it again. Excellent journey through London's history as told by it's Bells. And each different bell is telling the tale and character of it's neighborhood , just as you've adumbrated. Marvelous.
We were always taught that this rhyme was always used as a map of London and was to be sung in the same tune as which the bells sounded when they chimed. So you knew where things were from orchards to where they practiced archery
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
I was told (way back in time) that the lines before the name of the church, like Oranges and Lemons, was the sound that the particular church bells sounded like. Never actually having heard the different chimes, I could, of course, not verify this. Another brilliant episode. Thank you.😊
Thank you so much! 🖤 It's quite fascinating to think that the rhyme may reflect the sound of the bells. Though I haven’t heard all the original chimes myself, it’s an intriguing idea that ties the rhyme even deeper into the history of London. I’m thrilled you enjoyed the episode! 😊
I think the rhyme being practically ancient in history, leaves open the possibility it is a map. Many people do not realize during these times most people were illiterate, there were no schools. I think marking churches in a sing-song rhyme would make it easier for all people to navigate an overpopulated city.
I was on my way to bed, but then I saw the new video. Of course I couldn't resist and watched it. And it wath worth every second. Thank you for the interesting and wonderfully told bedtime story!
How wonderful! I’m so glad you couldn’t resist and stayed up to watch it-thank you for your kind words, and I hope it made for a fitting bedtime story! 🌙
Thank you so much for your support! 🖤 I’ve been thinking about merch, and a 'Darkling' T-shirt sounds like a fantastic idea! I’ll definitely keep it in mind for the future!
Once again, a fascinating video! I learned that poem as a song, a piece of music I played on the piano. I had it explained to me, although I don't recall by who, that it laid out a path in medieval London, walking from one church to another. I can't remember what the significance of the path was, though I remember it had one.
Thank you! That’s such an intriguing point about the path... I wonder what its significance might be? I’ll do some digging and see if I can uncover more, and I’ll let you know if I find anything!
It makes sense that the original rhyme didn't have the darker part of it. Making it a way to remember landmarks and navigate the city of London. Always learning something from these videos. 🥰
Thanks for another great deep dive! I was taught that the 'words' of the bells were actually the tunes they played as every church had it's own tune to call the time/congregation to worship, so you could know your map from the bell tolling you could hear on each hour. The bells still tolled the hours until about 1995, so I grew up hearing the ones in the rhymes & many others, all unique
That’s such an interesting detail about the bells and their unique tunes! It makes sense that people could navigate the city by sound alone. What a rich, layered history to uncover-thank you for sharing that!
Yes & when there were heavy fogs & smogs + less stret lighting navigating by sound was really important as people couldn't see to recognise where they were. I don't remember the smogs, but I do remember heavy fogs & darker streets - London could be eerie!
Yes I remember the different bell tune when we sang it, and when I moved to London and walked about my amazement that those different tunes still chimed in the London streets!
I've never heard this rhyme before, but it was interesting! I just adore the English language when it is spoken and enunciated as well as you do it. I don't know if there's anything to it, but I wondered if you could research "Simple Simon met a pie-man, going to the fair". I learned this from my 1st grade teacher who was English and taught us lots of rhymes and English stories. We also learned "One misty moisty morning when cloudy was the weather". I just love your vlog and always look forward to the next installment, whatever it is! Thanks so much!!!!!
I never heard this,maybe because i live in Belgium but I have a big fascination for Londen(BigBen)I'm following you for a while now and I think you're great❤Keep up the good work dear lady!
Thank you so much for following along from Belgium! 🖤 London is indeed a city full of mystery and history-Big Ben and beyond. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying the journey! :)
Wonderful! Your narration, thought provoking explanations and the exquisite images/engravings accompanying the storyline are superb. I always rejoice when I see another instalment from The Resurrectionists. Thank you.
Thank you for your kind words!🖤 I’m so glad you're enjoying my channel. It’s a joy to bring these forgotten tales to light, and knowing you appreciate all the hard work makes it all worthwhile! :)
As an American i have never heard this rhyme before but as always you have done an amazing job explaining it and the history and backstory of it. Recent subscriber, so glad i can binge so many of your outstanding videos!! Thank you for your work ❤
I’ve often wondered about this rhyme. The part that always catches my imagination the most was not really mentioned and it’s the title and early mentioning of oranges and lemons… . The reasoning it always captures my imagination is that those particular citrus fruits are perfect for stopping Scurvy but are not exactly easy for us to grow in Britain. So they would be imported when we could get them but of course they would be coming in the sort of period the rhyme was first known from areas like Spain and Portugal “who we didn’t exactly have the best of relationships with” 😅or southern Italy but they had to come past Spain and Portugal to get here. So I believe there was a fairly outrageous tax set on them but we was able to get some citrus fruits in high enough quantities to cover the British citizens “who could afford fresh fruits” and more importantly the Navy. They was limes… the only problem was they did the job but was not liked or nearly as potent as lemons and oranges. This brought obvious name calling from different nations including the nickname still used recently “Limey”. So in a long way round it always captures my imagination how average Londoners or even average Brits would have thought to use such highly prized and rarely seen fruits with such little to tie them to the rest of the rhyme?. Was it maybe to do with a citrus tax or was there an event within the Navy that it references but now is a lesser known or non remembered event?. Orrrr am I just totally over thinking a simple opening that just sounded good to the writer?. It’s fun pondering it. 😀👍🏻
What a lovely presented video. We have a rich heritage and it wasnt easily come by. I remember us kids singing these rhymes at school and acting them out plus Ring a ring a roses too. Thank you. Definately subscribed because you are an exquisite narrator.
When you think about it we all used to sing nursery rhymes without a clue to their dark meanings including dropping dead from the plague! So interesting.
The version that we would sing as kids was - Oranges and lemons say the bells of Saint Clement’s. When will you pay me. Next Sunday morning. Chipper chopper Chipper chopper Last man’s head head head head head head OFF. This was accompanied by a hand clapping game that you did with a friend. Two girls facing each other. When you got to the “last man’s head” part, friends would run underneath the two people’s arms (just as in the picture you showed) and then whoever was there when we got to OFF, they were trapped within our arms and ultimately out of the game until the next round. 😂❤
I loved this rhyme. As a child I remember singing this at nursery school - chop off your head shouted very loudly by all 😂 Probably not allowed now. London Bridge is falling down - please..
I love that memory! There’s something delightfully eerie about a room full of children gleefully shouting about chopping off heads 😂I already have a video on London Bridge, you can watch it here: ruclips.net/video/MdKmj6cHc2g/видео.html
Hello. This was very fascinating. I never heard of the rhyme but I know about all those churches. Thank you for sharing this dark piece of history. Be well and I can’t wait for the next video…
Always a pleasure to hear from you! So glad you found it interesting! 🖤 These ancient churches carry such rich history, and it was a delight to dive into their stories and imagine London as it once was. Wishing you and yours all the best! :)
As you continue to produce th excellent videos -and here's the English historian speaking- I shall continue to congratulate you for both your Scholastic research and the brilliant impeccable delivery.
Every day is a school day watching your videos your knowledge is astounding your artistic art work is incredible your voice is beautiful ❤️ please keep up the amazing work, Keeping you and your family in my prayers 🙏 God bless you 🙏🙏
This just popped up on my feed today. I so enjoyed it. I had already known about the meanings of some of the rhyme, but your extra information about the churches is wonderful I subscribed. Thank you
Can you provide a 3 hour compilation of your various stories? I'd like to listen to them as drift off to sleep, or study or do housework. I love your channel and your voice. thank you.
The morbid has always been fascinating, it could very well have been a warning as well as a guide to London's districts. I guess we'll never know for sure. A wonderful subject, though, and presented in your usual inimitable and excellent manner. Thanks once again!
I had always assumed the rhymes spoken by the various churches was a mnemonic for their bell peels, thus enabling the rhymer to navigate around London. It may have also listed the churches in the order they struck time before the adoption of railway time
That’s an excellent theory! 🖤 The rhyme could have served as a mnemonic for navigation, guiding people through the city by the sound of the bells. It’s fascinating to think how practical these rhymes may have been in daily life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I've never heard this tell that I can recall, but your presentation to this macabre tell is both surprising and intriguing at the same time. I find that because of the nature of the simple and even some of the higher classes of the people of that time were so that it would be used as a navigational guide around London, instead of a "chopping block" rhyme since the last two verses, most likely, were added later. My darkness, your research, and presentation are indeed marvelous and well documented. 🖤🖤
I’m delighted you enjoyed it! 🖤 It’s fascinating to think about this rhyme could have once served as a guide through the city. Thank you for your kind words, and I look forward to bringing you more dark tales soon! :)
The version I knew in the 60s ended with the chopper to chop off your head, it didn't have the chop the last man dead. Churches figured highly, certainly in east end traditions, born within the sound of Bow bell made you a cockney, for instance, so I would plumb for the rhyme originating as an aid memoir to navigate the city for a largely illiterate population.
Loved singing this when small. My granddaughters now sing it. I explained to them about the different bells especially the east end bells. They liked the chop chop off the head!
Greetings my dear Lady darkling.What powerful charms you possess.Your narrative conjured to my mind thoughts of the bells of Notre Dame,and the beloved hunchback of Notre Dame.His name was Quasimodo if I'm not mistaken.
Ah, Quasimodo and Notre Dame! 🖤 Thank you for the lovely comparison. These bells seem to ring through history, don’t they? Sending my darkest regards to you!
As always a fantastic vid with many wonderful examples of artwork to illustrate. One thing though, I always thought that it might include scurvy in there. I don't know how long the UK has been growing citrus fruits, but I imagine that as they originated in much warmer climates, may have been trickier to grow and cultivate than other regular fruit like berries, pears and apples - especially once they were needed as an onboard ration for saloirs - that they probably commanded a greater price. Imagining someone hanging for the theft of a few apples seems a bit much to me, but for a few of the more exotic and much-sought after oranges and lemons? Definitely worth the risk of hanging for!
Thank you so much! 🖤 That’s a great point about scurvy and the value of citrus fruits. It would make sense that oranges and lemons, being rarer and more precious, could have been worth the risk in a time when something as basic as vitamin C could mean life or death!
Another fascinating, and stunningly BEAUTIFUL video. I do not recall hearing this nursery rhyme throughout my life in the US, over the last half of the 20th century till now. I wonder why it was dropped... Thank you SO much for this production.
Not sure how accurate it is but the sayings "one for the road" and "on the wagon" may come from people being executed in London. "One for the road" may be where a prisoner was given a drink in a tavern before being taken to the scaffold and "on the wagon" may be where they were deigned another drink because they had to be transported to their deaths. Not sure how true this is but could have some basis in fact.
Fun fact: Idris Davies wrote a work in the 30's which inspired a song by Pete Seeger in the 50s called "The Bells Of Rhymney" which uses the pattern of this rhyme. It talks of the bells of coal mining towns of Wales. I'm actually torn about the last lines. I don't think it's a map in rhyme, as the bells would most likely be unique to the church, and perhaps easily identified if you heard them. But those last lines don't really seem to fit the rest of the poem. Although I do agree it does tell a specific tale. Perhaps of someone caught stealing fruit, and cheekily declaring they'll pay the day they become rich which will be who knows when? 😊
Fascinating, I remember it from my childhood of course & I do think the last 2 lines are likely to have been added later, but why,I've no idea. So sad that the bell makers have now, so recently gone. Fantastic research yet again, many thanks.
This was always taught as a map of London and recited in the same tunr as the bells of that church. Each curch area was linked to what's in the rhyme. Like archery to fruit orchards or markets and financial districts
We had a rhyme with the game that have totally different words, but it is played the same way. In English it doesn't sound right to me, but I translate it for you. Coriander Coriander so through the forest. My mother and father cook good food. My little brother is choking on a bunch of grapes. The last one's head is cut off. Chop chop...cut off
That’s fascinating! I love hearing about different versions of these rhymes from around the world. It seems no matter where we are, dark tales have a way of creeping into our childhood games! Thank you for sharing 🖤
I haven't had a reply for a couple of weeks . However that's not important. Our Queen darkling continues the most amazing videos with her incredible voice. Thank you soooooo much mate/Queen darkling. I really wish we could give you far more likes and views. You truly are deserving mate /Queen
Thank you so much for your continued kindness and support, my fellow Darkling! 🖤 I’m sorry for any missed replies-rest assured, every comment means the world to me. Your words are always appreciated, and I’m so grateful for your encouragement! :)
The rhythm of the bells matching the rhyme’s meter could certainly have helped people navigate London... I’ll have to give it a try-thank you for the tip! And thank you for watching! 🖤
Aahh my dark mistress I have missed thee. I recently undertook to change my abode and have been out of touch whilst my pine box was trundled along with my furniture and unceremoniously dumped at the bottom of the pile...it has taken me quite some time to extricate myself. And all the while I used the lure of listening to your sweet baleful harmonicals to draw me upright from amoungst the debris of my new dwelling. Thank you again for making my non existance seep into the light. Is it a coincidence though that I happen to be reading the classic tale "1984" when this particular segment from you showed up on my feed? For those not familiar with Orwell's masterpiece, this rhyme is central to the plot as a link to the past that big brother has obliterated. Oddly fortuitous that the syncronicity is so blatant. Mayhap the universe has more in store for me to discover. I await your next offering with bated anticip... ...ation😈
Ah, my dear Darkling, it’s wonderful to hear from you once again! 🖤 What an intriguing synchronicity, to be reading 1984 just as this episode arrives. Indeed, the rhyme serves as such a powerful link to the past in Orwell's masterpiece, a haunting reminder of what was lost to time and tyranny. I do hope your pine box has found its rightful place and that the transition to your new abode wasn’t too troublesome. May it now offer you the peace needed to sink further into forgotten tales and whispered histories..... Until next time!
Thank you so much! To be honest, I’m not really sure! One of the reasons I started this channel was because I couldn’t find the kind of vintage, spooky storytelling and history content I enjoyed, so I thought I’d try making it myself-and here we are! 🖤
I believe that the person being lighted to bed was the new bride and the "chopper" was chopping off her maidenhead. It seems likely, as many comment, that this is part of a completely different rhyme which has somehow become attached to the oranges and lemons one. A number of ancient rhymes seem to fit this pattern.
Excellent analysis. Love to know more about your team. Bells are also integral part of Buddhist praying. Bells signify as a reminder for prayer timings. And make connection with higher authority or god.
The Royal Mint is probably the oldest Instutution existing in the World. He still produces coins and medals for some sixty countries. The Mint is now over 1,100 years old.
It is nice to know about the folklore of nursery rhymes which often means that have to scratch the surface to find the real truth about our English history.
I've always thought that the words represented the individual peels of bells of the churches, for instance "You owe me 5 farthings" if you say that out loud it could be the chimes. "I do not know" could be a funeral bell. T
Said a bar bell of Stepney. Who lived good though not Rich in the blocks of Hamlets. Bright like a fairy she planted flowers from her Queen. Aunties on the busses are real yo.
Well, this is a new one on me, probably because I'm American. So I'm guessing it never caught on here because all the references to the different churches and their neighborhoods wouldn't have made sense to us. But fascinating none the less, thank you.
As a child i learnt to find my way around London by looking out for the spires of different churches because they were the tallest structures in the city. Even as late as the 1950s st Paul's cathedral was still one of London's tallest buildings and visible from any where in the city. Living just across the river i knew that as long as i could find my way too st Paul's id always be able to find my way home. St Paul's, the monument, Southwark power Station and the OXO tower were my sign posts.if i went further afield i knew that if i could find battersea power station i just had to follow the river and pass half a dozen bridges to get home as soon as i was old enough to walk i was out and about exploring the city i don't think that i have ever been lost in London in my entire life
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
This takes me back to when I used to sing this to my daughter well over a decade ago. At the end, I always changed it to “here come a neighbour to cut up your bread”. When you are trying to get your baby or toddler to sleep, you need to change things up sometimes lol.
As an American the idea of anything being in use for more than 200 years let alone bells almost a thousand, and still in use, is just awe inspiring.
The Constitution has been used for over 200 years.
It is wonderful to experience such history here in England. Every village has a church building, much of which would be approaching 1000 years old and some much older. You can go into these churches for free and contemplate the histories that were witnessed.
From China to Peru, glorious and gargantuan old world buildings sit -half buried- all around this realm - that they were constructed here in NA at the end of the 1800's by men w donkey carts is one more laudable lie - "founded" is right ! As a Canadian....
ps good luck w your upcoming election, friend.
You need extend your reach into history, and broaden your view & experience of the world.
As a Brit born and bred, I have to say I totally agree with you.
Oh, we want out 13 colonies back now 😂
I never get tired of listening to this narrators lovely voice with her exceptional diction and classic pronunciation. So unusual these days and a delight to receive on the ears.
Thank you so much for such lovely words! 🖤:)
😀 @@The-Resurrectionists
Yes she does have a pleasant voice. Tone wise and also in terms of her diction. Makes a HUGE difference to me personally, as to whether I can listen or not.
Yes, me too. I get so tired of that awful American narration you get so often these days@@scathatch
Yes I agree great stories, and that beautiful English accent brings the story all together😊😊😊
Very interesting. Playing this game in the school playground as a child, we always sang the different 'bells' in different 'voices'. Some delicate and lilting, some soft and timid, others booming and deep, and some authoratively. So as a child I asumed it was a way of knowing where you were in London, from the sound of the various bells, because they do have distinctive peels and tones.
Thank you for sharing! London’s bells certainly do have their own sound and 'personality', so this makes complete sense to me! :)
Yes, the chimes of each church varied - each had a different phrase or tune, and these are referenced (presumably accurately) in the nursery rhyme.
yes all the old Rhymes we sang in the play ground
As children we had two people holding hands above others you walked through as we sang the rhyme, the last one being caught when we sang chop of your head.
@@Glory3823brainwashed and not the slightest inclin 😂
I am in awe of how much research goes into this, from gathering the stories and folklore to the visuals. And the the narrator is perfect, all the way down to her accent. Thanks, these are so much to watch!
Thank you so much! It’s truly a joy to research and bring these stories to life with all the detail they deserve. I’m so glad you enjoy my narration and the visuals-it means the world to me! :)
I was always told that this rhyme was a map of London you could find yourself around with, assuming of course you could remember the order in which it was recited, sort of google maps of the day. Another what comes round goes round was the death sentence of writing a threatening letter, nowadays using social platforms it's been reduced to three years. Once again L, superb.❣
Interesting that you mentioned the death sentence for writing a threatening letter. I was always told that the saying "What goes around, comes around" was based on that very fact.
I believe so! There are so many versions that list even more churches, far too many to cover in just one video, but it's truly fascinating to catch a glimpse of how London once was. Thank you so much for your kind words, as always! I hope you and your loved ones are doing well 🖤:)
@@The-Resurrectionists Thank you L, I always check for a pulse before rising, and of course make sure no wood is touching elbows.....so much to think about at my age.🤔 Keep well, keep safe.❣
This rhyme featured in George Orwell's 1984. It represented the old historic England as opposed the modern oppressors.
I remember singing this while filing under friends outstretched arms and hoping to not be "chopped". It's fascinating that these rhymes (or versions of them) are passed down through time and as an Australian, to different places. I wonder if these will continue or become forgotten to time?
Another beautifully researched and compiled video, thank you ❤
Yes, same childhood here in Canada. This has been our European heritage as western nations ✌
I remember the thrill of playing Oranges and Lemons in the playground too! It’s amazing how these rhymes have travelled across time (and oceans!). Let’s hope they continue to the next generations-thank you for your lovely comment! :)
Oh yes, i remember singing that, and one person would be caught in the arms😮😁
Wow, thanks for
reminding me...😁❤🙏🏻
@@The-Resurrectionists I remember the rhyme from my days in primary school, but don't recall ever playing the game. I just liked the rhyme as I was fascinated with London (I was raised in Edinburgh). I was happy to later see the areas mentioned.
Same here in Wales UK.
Beautifully narrated as always! The rhyme does indeed take us through a history of London; one which we must never lose! Thanks!
Thank you! Indeed, the rhyme preserves a piece of London’s history that’s invaluable. We must never let these stories slip away!
This nursery rhyme always takes me back to when I was a small child in 1950s Derby. Every Sunday my dad would take me to see my granddad who lived on the other side of the city. It was a long walk, especially for little legs, and the whole of the journey would be accompanied by church bells from the many churches that lined the way; I soon learned which bells belonged to which church. Sadly by the time I got married most of these bells had fallen silent but the memory still lives within me and, as I say, this rhyme always reminds of that now lost ere.
Brought up in Derby?You poor thing! 😂
I'm amazed each episode by the amount of excellent artwork you're able to include. It speaks of many hours of research in addition to the exegetical.
Thank you so much! The research and artwork take a lot of time, but it's so worth it when they help bring these stories to life :)
Well you've done it again. Excellent journey through London's history as told by it's Bells. And each different bell is telling the tale and character of it's neighborhood , just as you've adumbrated. Marvelous.
Thank you for your lovely comment! So glad you enjoyed it! 🖤:)
We were always taught that this rhyme was always used as a map of London and was to be sung in the same tune as which the bells sounded when they chimed. So you knew where things were from orchards to where they practiced archery
Excellent analysis as always - and what a chilling portrait it gives of medieval life!
Thank you! Glad you liked it! 🖤 :)
I just found your channel the other day, I love how nuanced they are!!!
Welcome to the channel! Thank you for being here and for your kind words :) 🖤
I had never heard of this one. I loved learning all about it. You did an amazing job yet again! 💙
I’m so glad I could introduce you to this one! Thank you for watching and for your kind words :)
Another great video.
I love the idea of a London map, makes perfect sense; 150 years before "The Knowledge"
Thank you so much :) 🖤
I was taken by the bit about the bells and the thought that some of them have been in use for a thousand years. That's so freaking cool.
I agree, I'm suddenly filled with the urge to visit London just to hear them.
Makes one feel good just hearing them.... Funny bells and organs were removed from said churches and bell towers.....
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
Yep, that caught me out that bit. Something I hadn't thought about, but obvious once said. Everytime I hear one from now on I'll think about that.
I was told (way back in time) that the lines before the name of the church, like Oranges and Lemons, was the sound that the particular church bells sounded like. Never actually having heard the different chimes, I could, of course, not verify this. Another brilliant episode. Thank you.😊
Thank you so much! 🖤 It's quite fascinating to think that the rhyme may reflect the sound of the bells. Though I haven’t heard all the original chimes myself, it’s an intriguing idea that ties the rhyme even deeper into the history of London. I’m thrilled you enjoyed the episode! 😊
That was always my understanding too...
I think the rhyme being practically ancient in history, leaves open the possibility it is a map.
Many people do not realize during these times most people were illiterate, there were no schools. I think marking churches in a sing-song rhyme would make it easier for all people to navigate an overpopulated city.
I was on my way to bed, but then I saw the new video. Of course I couldn't resist and watched it. And it wath worth every second. Thank you for the interesting and wonderfully told bedtime story!
How wonderful! I’m so glad you couldn’t resist and stayed up to watch it-thank you for your kind words, and I hope it made for a fitting bedtime story! 🌙
@@The-Resurrectionists I'm normally not sooo much into youtube merch, but if there ever will be a t-shirt with "Darkling" on it, I would love it :D
Thank you so much for your support! 🖤 I’ve been thinking about merch, and a 'Darkling' T-shirt sounds like a fantastic idea! I’ll definitely keep it in mind for the future!
Once again, a fascinating video! I learned that poem as a song, a piece of music I played on the piano. I had it explained to me, although I don't recall by who, that it laid out a path in medieval London, walking from one church to another. I can't remember what the significance of the path was, though I remember it had one.
Thank you! That’s such an intriguing point about the path... I wonder what its significance might be? I’ll do some digging and see if I can uncover more, and I’ll let you know if I find anything!
It makes sense that the original rhyme didn't have the darker part of it. Making it a way to remember landmarks and navigate the city of London. Always learning something from these videos. 🥰
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching :) 🖤
@@The-Resurrectionists🥰
Thanks for another great deep dive! I was taught that the 'words' of the bells were actually the tunes they played as every church had it's own tune to call the time/congregation to worship, so you could know your map from the bell tolling you could hear on each hour.
The bells still tolled the hours until about 1995, so I grew up hearing the ones in the rhymes & many others, all unique
That’s such an interesting detail about the bells and their unique tunes! It makes sense that people could navigate the city by sound alone. What a rich, layered history to uncover-thank you for sharing that!
Yes & when there were heavy fogs & smogs + less stret lighting navigating by sound was really important as people couldn't see to recognise where they were. I don't remember the smogs, but I do remember heavy fogs & darker streets - London could be eerie!
Yes I remember the different bell tune when we sang it, and when I moved to London and walked about my amazement that those different tunes still chimed in the London streets!
I've never heard this rhyme before, but it was interesting! I just adore the English language when it is spoken and enunciated as well as you do it. I don't know if there's anything to it, but I wondered if you could research "Simple Simon met a pie-man, going to the fair". I learned this from my 1st grade teacher who was English and taught us lots of rhymes and English stories. We also learned "One misty moisty morning when cloudy was the weather". I just love your vlog and always look forward to the next installment, whatever it is! Thanks so much!!!!!
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! :) I’ll definitely look into "Simple Simon" for a future episode! 🖤
I loved this rhyme
I never heard this,maybe because i live in Belgium but I have a big fascination for Londen(BigBen)I'm following you for a while now and I think you're great❤Keep up the good work dear lady!
Thank you so much for following along from Belgium! 🖤 London is indeed a city full of mystery and history-Big Ben and beyond. I’m thrilled you’re enjoying the journey! :)
❤❤❤@@The-Resurrectionists
Wonderful! Your narration, thought provoking explanations and the exquisite images/engravings accompanying the storyline are superb. I always rejoice when I see another instalment from The Resurrectionists. Thank you.
Thank you for your kind words!🖤 I’m so glad you're enjoying my channel. It’s a joy to bring these forgotten tales to light, and knowing you appreciate all the hard work makes it all worthwhile! :)
Wonderful history lesson.
Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the video-it’s always such fun to dig into these rhymes and uncover their roots :)
As an American i have never heard this rhyme before but as always you have done an amazing job explaining it and the history and backstory of it. Recent subscriber, so glad i can binge so many of your outstanding videos!! Thank you for your work ❤
I had never heard this one before, so I doubly enjoyed this video! Thank you for making such wonderful informative content.
💕🦇
Never heard it either, love the idea of it as a map. I’m American, for the record.
@@suzannecyoung maybe that's why we haven't..
Thank you so much!🖤 So glad you enjoyed this one, especially as it was new to you! :)
I’ve often wondered about this rhyme. The part that always catches my imagination the most was not really mentioned and it’s the title and early mentioning of oranges and lemons… . The reasoning it always captures my imagination is that those particular citrus fruits are perfect for stopping Scurvy but are not exactly easy for us to grow in Britain. So they would be imported when we could get them but of course they would be coming in the sort of period the rhyme was first known from areas like Spain and Portugal “who we didn’t exactly have the best of relationships with” 😅or southern Italy but they had to come past Spain and Portugal to get here. So I believe there was a fairly outrageous tax set on them but we was able to get some citrus fruits in high enough quantities to cover the British citizens “who could afford fresh fruits” and more importantly the Navy. They was limes… the only problem was they did the job but was not liked or nearly as potent as lemons and oranges. This brought obvious name calling from different nations including the nickname still used recently “Limey”. So in a long way round it always captures my imagination how average Londoners or even average Brits would have thought to use such highly prized and rarely seen fruits with such little to tie them to the rest of the rhyme?. Was it maybe to do with a citrus tax or was there an event within the Navy that it references but now is a lesser known or non remembered event?. Orrrr am I just totally over thinking a simple opening that just sounded good to the writer?. It’s fun pondering it. 😀👍🏻
What a lovely presented video. We have a rich heritage and it wasnt easily come by. I remember us kids singing these rhymes at school and acting them out plus Ring a ring a roses too. Thank you. Definately subscribed because you are an exquisite narrator.
When you think about it we all used to sing nursery rhymes without a clue to their dark meanings including dropping dead from the plague! So interesting.
The version that we would sing as kids was -
Oranges and lemons say the bells of Saint Clement’s.
When will you pay me.
Next Sunday morning.
Chipper chopper
Chipper chopper
Last man’s head head head head head head OFF.
This was accompanied by a hand clapping game that you did with a friend. Two girls facing each other.
When you got to the “last man’s head” part, friends would run underneath the two people’s arms (just as in the picture you showed) and then whoever was there when we got to OFF, they were trapped within our arms and ultimately out of the game until the next round. 😂❤
Now I understand why this rhyme was included in George Orwell's "1984."
That's where I know it from
@@HopeGardner3amed As most of those I know.
Exactly! Orwell’s inclusion of the rhyme in 1984 was a masterstroke-a brilliant use of symbolism.
@@The-Resurrectionists it always flew over my head until your video. You clearly show us how much sophisticated the people of old were.
I loved this rhyme.
As a child I remember singing this at nursery school - chop off your head shouted very loudly by all 😂
Probably not allowed now.
London Bridge is falling down - please..
I love that memory! There’s something delightfully eerie about a room full of children gleefully shouting about chopping off heads 😂I already have a video on London Bridge, you can watch it here:
ruclips.net/video/MdKmj6cHc2g/видео.html
Fascinating thanks for sharing this video, gets the brain ticking about other rhymes and songs.
Will be back to find the stories behind them too 👍
Hello. This was very fascinating. I never heard of the rhyme but I know about all those churches. Thank you for sharing this dark piece of history. Be well and I can’t wait for the next video…
Always a pleasure to hear from you! So glad you found it interesting! 🖤 These ancient churches carry such rich history, and it was a delight to dive into their stories and imagine London as it once was. Wishing you and yours all the best! :)
@@The-Resurrectionists ☺
As you continue to produce th excellent videos -and here's the English historian speaking- I shall continue to congratulate you for both your Scholastic research and the brilliant impeccable delivery.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m truly honoured by your praise, and I appreciate your continued support 🖤
Every day is a school day watching your videos your knowledge is astounding your artistic art work is incredible your voice is beautiful ❤️ please keep up the amazing work,
Keeping you and your family in my prayers 🙏
God bless you 🙏🙏
This just popped up on my feed today. I so enjoyed it. I had already known about the meanings of some of the rhyme, but your extra information about the churches is wonderful I subscribed. Thank you
Can you provide a 3 hour compilation of your various stories? I'd like to listen to them as drift off to sleep, or study or do housework. I love your channel and your voice. thank you.
An excellent suggestion! I could definitely put some compilations together....watch this space! :) 🖤
The morbid has always been fascinating, it could very well have been a warning as well as a guide to London's districts. I guess we'll never know for sure. A wonderful subject, though, and presented in your usual inimitable and excellent manner. Thanks once again!
A very well researched and presented story as always 😍. My darkest love to the lady of the darlings 😃.
Thank you, dear Darkling! 🖤 Your kind words always brighten my day!
I had always assumed the rhymes spoken by the various churches was a mnemonic for their bell peels, thus enabling the rhymer to navigate around London.
It may have also listed the churches in the order they struck time before the adoption of railway time
That’s an excellent theory! 🖤 The rhyme could have served as a mnemonic for navigation, guiding people through the city by the sound of the bells. It’s fascinating to think how practical these rhymes may have been in daily life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I've never heard this tell that I can recall, but your presentation to this macabre tell is both surprising and intriguing at the same time.
I find that because of the nature of the simple and even some of the higher classes of the people of that time were so that it would be used as a navigational guide around London, instead of a "chopping block" rhyme since the last two verses, most likely, were added later.
My darkness, your research, and presentation are indeed marvelous and well documented. 🖤🖤
I’m delighted you enjoyed it! 🖤 It’s fascinating to think about this rhyme could have once served as a guide through the city. Thank you for your kind words, and I look forward to bringing you more dark tales soon! :)
The version I knew in the 60s ended with the chopper to chop off your head, it didn't have the chop the last man dead. Churches figured highly, certainly in east end traditions, born within the sound of Bow bell made you a cockney, for instance, so I would plumb for the rhyme originating as an aid memoir to navigate the city for a largely illiterate population.
Thats the version I knew in the 80s too, the chopper to chop off your head
Thanks for this excellent London history that we didn’t get in our school history lessons.
Loved singing this when small. My granddaughters now sing it. I explained to them about the different bells especially the east end bells. They liked the chop chop off the head!
This is a new one for me. It is definitely an interesting rhyme and with thr other verses it probably was a way for people to learn the city
I’m so glad you found it interesting, especially having never heard the rhyme before! 🖤Thanks so much for watching! :)
Thanks for all your deep dives into these rymes 🤗🤗🤗🤗🧚♂️🧚♂️🧚♂️🧚♂️🧚♂️🧚♂️
You're more than welcome! Thank you for watching 🖤
Greetings my dear Lady darkling.What powerful charms you possess.Your narrative conjured to my mind thoughts of the bells of Notre Dame,and the beloved hunchback of Notre Dame.His name was Quasimodo if I'm not mistaken.
Ah, Quasimodo and Notre Dame! 🖤 Thank you for the lovely comparison. These bells seem to ring through history, don’t they? Sending my darkest regards to you!
As always a fantastic vid with many wonderful examples of artwork to illustrate. One thing though, I always thought that it might include scurvy in there. I don't know how long the UK has been growing citrus fruits, but I imagine that as they originated in much warmer climates, may have been trickier to grow and cultivate than other regular fruit like berries, pears and apples - especially once they were needed as an onboard ration for saloirs - that they probably commanded a greater price. Imagining someone hanging for the theft of a few apples seems a bit much to me, but for a few of the more exotic and much-sought after oranges and lemons? Definitely worth the risk of hanging for!
Thank you so much! 🖤 That’s a great point about scurvy and the value of citrus fruits. It would make sense that oranges and lemons, being rarer and more precious, could have been worth the risk in a time when something as basic as vitamin C could mean life or death!
Another fascinating, and stunningly BEAUTIFUL video. I do not recall hearing this nursery rhyme throughout my life in the US, over the last half of the 20th century till now. I wonder why it was dropped... Thank you SO much for this production.
Not sure how accurate it is but the sayings "one for the road" and "on the wagon" may come from people being executed in London. "One for the road" may be where a prisoner was given a drink in a tavern before being taken to the scaffold and "on the wagon" may be where they were deigned another drink because they had to be transported to their deaths. Not sure how true this is but could have some basis in fact.
Fun fact: Idris Davies wrote a work in the 30's which inspired a song by Pete Seeger in the 50s called "The Bells Of Rhymney" which uses the pattern of this rhyme. It talks of the bells of coal mining towns of Wales.
I'm actually torn about the last lines. I don't think it's a map in rhyme, as the bells would most likely be unique to the church, and perhaps easily identified if you heard them. But those last lines don't really seem to fit the rest of the poem. Although I do agree it does tell a specific tale. Perhaps of someone caught stealing fruit, and cheekily declaring they'll pay the day they become rich which will be who knows when? 😊
Fantastic as always...
Thank you so much! 🖤 Your support means the world to me :)
I'm still learning about the area I grew up in. This is educational. Never gave any thoughts to the rhyme being so deep, or dark. Fascinating 👍
Fascinating, I remember it from my childhood of course & I do think the last 2 lines are likely to have been added later, but why,I've no idea. So sad that the bell makers have now, so recently gone.
Fantastic research yet again, many thanks.
I agree, it’s sad that the Whitechapel Bell Foundry is no more 🖤 Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching! :)
@The-Resurrectionists love your videos, they're very interesting.
Thank you, that makes me so happy to hear! :)
Great research!
Thank you so much!🖤 Your support means the world to me :)
This was always taught as a map of London and recited in the same tunr as the bells of that church. Each curch area was linked to what's in the rhyme. Like archery to fruit orchards or markets and financial districts
What a fascinating video, with such great research. And also a joy to listen to. Thank you.
We had a rhyme with the game that have totally different words, but it is played the same way. In English it doesn't sound right to me, but I translate it for you.
Coriander Coriander so through the forest. My mother and father cook good food. My little brother is choking on a bunch of grapes. The last one's head is cut off. Chop chop...cut off
from what language please ?
@@Anonymous-km5pj Yes please do tell, what language & country you know this version from?
Coriander would suggest Middle Eastern regions. India maybe or Pakistan.
That’s fascinating! I love hearing about different versions of these rhymes from around the world. It seems no matter where we are, dark tales have a way of creeping into our childhood games! Thank you for sharing 🖤
@@Anonymous-km5pj Afrikaans
Very interesting. Still part of nursery rhymes today but stops at the Great Bell of Bow
I haven't had a reply for a couple of weeks . However that's not important. Our Queen darkling continues the most amazing videos with her incredible voice.
Thank you soooooo much mate/Queen darkling. I really wish we could give you far more likes and views. You truly are deserving mate /Queen
Thank you so much for your continued kindness and support, my fellow Darkling! 🖤 I’m sorry for any missed replies-rest assured, every comment means the world to me. Your words are always appreciated, and I’m so grateful for your encouragement! :)
The metrical patterns in the rhyme match the sounds of the sets of bells. This too would help with navigation.
Try it, it works ...!
The rhythm of the bells matching the rhyme’s meter could certainly have helped people navigate London... I’ll have to give it a try-thank you for the tip! And thank you for watching! 🖤
A+ video!
LOVE IT! Amazing video!
Thank you so much! I'm thrilled you loved it! 🖤 :)
Very, very cool 😎.
I've never heard that one, but love it 🖤
I think it started as a mnemonic and was added to as folks added to it..
👍🏻🖤🧟♂️🦍🖤👍🏻
Thank you! 🖤 So glad you enjoyed it :)
That's a fascinating look into London's incredible history.
Thank you
I’ve never heard this before. I love your channel
Thank you for this one!
You’re very welcome! 🖤 I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
Beautifully researched and illustrated. Thanks
Aahh my dark mistress I have missed thee. I recently undertook to change my abode and have been out of touch whilst my pine box was trundled along with my furniture and unceremoniously dumped at the bottom of the pile...it has taken me quite some time to extricate myself. And all the while I used the lure of listening to your sweet baleful harmonicals to draw me upright from amoungst the debris of my new dwelling. Thank you again for making my non existance seep into the light. Is it a coincidence though that I happen to be reading the classic tale "1984" when this particular segment from you showed up on my feed? For those not familiar with Orwell's masterpiece, this rhyme is central to the plot as a link to the past that big brother has obliterated. Oddly fortuitous that the syncronicity is so blatant. Mayhap the universe has more in store for me to discover. I await your next offering with bated anticip...
...ation😈
Ah, my dear Darkling, it’s wonderful to hear from you once again! 🖤 What an intriguing synchronicity, to be reading 1984 just as this episode arrives. Indeed, the rhyme serves as such a powerful link to the past in Orwell's masterpiece, a haunting reminder of what was lost to time and tyranny. I do hope your pine box has found its rightful place and that the transition to your new abode wasn’t too troublesome. May it now offer you the peace needed to sink further into forgotten tales and whispered histories..... Until next time!
Such an unfamiliar rhyme. I still find your story telling intriguing and your voice rich and lustrous.❤
Thank you so much! 🖤 Your kind words about my storytelling mean the world!
I always thought the bells tunes had seemed to sound the words out.
when i was a child we played a game to this rhyme [which was sung]
Yes same. We played this game in playground in hampshire but i dont recall it being played in lincolnshire when my family moved back in 1972
I’m from Lincoln and we played it at school…maybe by the 70s it just wasn’t cool! Ooh I’m a poet!!!
Thanks for this video so interesting. Lovely London so much history. Makes me feel so proud maybee because im a Londoner...... ! X
LOVE your channel. Already watched all your videos, thank you! Any channels youd recommend following, that are as well done as yours?
Thank you so much! To be honest, I’m not really sure! One of the reasons I started this channel was because I couldn’t find the kind of vintage, spooky storytelling and history content I enjoyed, so I thought I’d try making it myself-and here we are! 🖤
Love your work,extremely well done.Thankyou
Thank you so much for your kind words! 🖤
I believe that the person being lighted to bed was the new bride and the "chopper" was chopping off her maidenhead. It seems likely, as many comment, that this is part of a completely different rhyme which has somehow become attached to the oranges and lemons one. A number of ancient rhymes seem to fit this pattern.
Ive never heard an oranges and lemons nursery rhyme before this
I’m glad I could introduce you to the rhyme! 🖤 It’s such a fascinating one, with so much dark history behind it. Thank you for watching!
Never heard this one before. Guess that's due to my being from the U.S.
As a Londoner, I love your historical content 😊
Gosh - down memory lane! I went to an Anglican Church School - St Michael’s - and we often played that game and sang the song in Grade R 😊
Excellent analysis. Love to know more about your team. Bells are also integral part of Buddhist praying. Bells signify as a reminder for prayer timings. And make connection with higher authority or god.
The voice of an angle conveying such things of interest.
The Royal Mint is probably the oldest Instutution existing in the World. He still produces coins and medals for some sixty countries. The Mint is now over 1,100 years old.
Thank you for Such a informative and fascinating and professional post....
That was so interesting, many thanks from New Zealand
It is nice to know about the folklore of nursery rhymes which often means that have to scratch the surface to find the real truth about our English history.
Fascinating, I have learnt something new & also about London chucres. Humpty Dumpty is anotger childen's nursey rhyme with hidden meanings
I remember playing out that rhyme in school playgrounds of uk in late 60s early 70s and a game played at birthday parties 😮
I've always thought that the words represented the individual peels of bells of the churches, for instance "You owe me 5 farthings" if you say that out loud it could be the chimes. "I do not know" could be a funeral bell. T
Thank you very much for uploading, your elocution is wonderful*****
Always remember that wonderful things are able to grow from the darkest of spaces.
Said a bar bell of Stepney.
Who lived good though not Rich in the blocks of Hamlets.
Bright like a fairy she planted flowers from her Queen.
Aunties on the busses are real yo.
Well, this is a new one on me, probably because I'm American. So I'm guessing it never caught on here because all the references to the different churches and their neighborhoods wouldn't have made sense to us. But fascinating none the less, thank you.
I’m so glad you found it fascinating! 🖤 Thank you for watching, even though the rhyme isn't familiar to you, I really appreciate it :)
As a child i learnt to find my way around London by looking out for the spires of different churches because they were the tallest structures in the city. Even as late as the 1950s st Paul's cathedral was still one of London's tallest buildings and visible from any where in the city. Living just across the river i knew that as long as i could find my way too st Paul's id always be able to find my way home. St Paul's, the monument, Southwark power Station and the OXO tower were my sign posts.if i went further afield i knew that if i could find battersea power station i just had to follow the river and pass half a dozen bridges to get home as soon as i was old enough to walk i was out and about exploring the city i don't think that i have ever been lost in London in my entire life
You need to publish a book with all the different versions from all the nursery rhymes you resurch
Thank you so much! A book would be fantastic: Definitely something to think about in the future! 🖤
@@The-Resurrectionists I would definitely buy it 😊
Fascinating! Thank you.
St Hilda's Church in Old Hartlepool, County Durham, is relatively new, having opened in 1200. However, it stands on an old monastery site from sometime in the 600s.
Where I live an ice-cream van plays this tune.
Wow what an amazing video.Thankyou
This takes me back to when I used to sing this to my daughter well over a decade ago. At the end, I always changed it to “here come a neighbour to cut up your bread”. When you are trying to get your baby or toddler to sleep, you need to change things up sometimes lol.