Burl Ives - The Sow took The Measles



Boys and girls sometimes get the measles

but in this song even a sow,

which is another name for a lady pig

took the measles too



How do you think I begin in the world?

I got me a sow and sev'ral other things;

The sow took the measles and she died in the spring



What do you think that I made of her hide?

The very best saddle that you ever did ride;

Saddle or bridle or any such a thing,

The sow took the measles and she died in the spring



What do you think that I made of her nose?

The very best thimble that ever sewed clothes;

Thimble or thread or any such thing,

The sow took the measles and she died in the spring



What do you think I made of her tail?

The very best whup that ever sought sail;

Whup or whup-socket, any such thing

The sow took the measles and she died in the spring



What do you think that I made of her feet?

The very best pickles that you ever did eat;

Pickles or glue or any such thing,

The sow took the measles and she died in the spring