"Derry's Walls" is a historical song sung in Northern Ireland. It commemorates the
Siege of Derry
The siege of Derry in 1689 was the first major event in the Williamite War in Ireland. The siege was preceded by an attempt against the town by Jacobite forces on 7 December 1688 that was foiled when 13 apprentices shut the gates. Thi ...
in 1689.
The author of the words is unknown, and it is sung to the tune of "
God Bless the Prince of Wales.”
A modified rendition is also popular amongst supporters of
Rangers F.C.
Lyrics
Verse 1
The time has scarce gone round boys
Three hundred years ago
When Rebels on old
Derry
Derry, officially Londonderry, is the second-largest City status in the United Kingdom, city in Northern Ireland, and the fifth-largest on the island of Ireland. Located in County Londonderry, the city now covers both banks of the River Fo ...
's Walls
Their faces dare not show
When
James and all
his rebel band
Came up to Bishops Gate
With heart and hand, and sword and shield
We caused them to retreat.
Chorus.
:We'll fight and won't surrender
:But come when duty calls
:With heart and hand, and sword and shield
:We'll guard old Derry's Walls.
Verse 2
Tho blood did flow in crimson streams
Through many a winter's night
They knew the Lord was on their side
To help them in their fight
They nobly stood upon the walls
Determined for to die,
Or fight and gain the victory
And raise the Crimson high;
Chorus.
:We'll fight and won't surrender
:But come when duty calls
:With heart and hand, and sword and shield
:We'll guard old Derry's Walls.
Verse 3
At last, at last, with one broadside,
Kind heaven sent them aid,
The boom that blocked
The Foyle was broke
And James he was dismayed
The banner, boys, that floated
Was run aloft with joy,
God bless the ship that broke the boom,
And saved the Apprentice Boys!
Chorus.
:We'll fight and won't surrender
:But come when duty calls,
:With heart and hand, and sword and shield
:We'll guard old Derry's Walls.
References
{{authority control
Year of song unknown
Culture of Northern Ireland
Rangers F.C. songs
Songs with unknown songwriters