

Music of the Mills Folk music is the music of the people, binding them together and forging identity. Millworkers, many of whom were immigrants, sang songs to make the time pass, to express their feelings, and to make political statements. Click on the song titles to hear the music of the mills. Songs will open in Windows Media Player. "Bread and Roses" - Traditional; original poem by Jim Oppenheim in support of the great Bread and Roses strike in Lawrence, 1911; adapted as song lyrics in 1976 "When First Into This Country" - Traditional- From Mike Seeger/New Lost City Ramblers", 1950s "CottonMill Girls" - Traditional- From Hedy West, 1960s "A Weaver's Life" - Tune: Traditional; Words by Dorsey Dixon, 1950s "No Irish Need Apply" - Tune: Pete Seeger; Words- Anon. New York, 1865 "I Cannot Be A Slave" - Tune: "I Won't Be A Nun," British, 1810; Words - Anon., Lowell, MA, 1830 (Sung by 1500 Millgirls, 'Turnout' of 1836) Copyright Stone House Music

Tsongas Industrial History Center / Boott Cotton Mills Museum - 115 John Street, Lowell, MA 01852 Phone: 978-970-5080 Fax: 978-970-5085 Contact Us