Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. ~ Isaiah 7:14
Christmas Song Lyrics Compiled by Charles P. Scott
Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
Lyrics
Jolly old Saint Nicholas, lean your ear this way
Don't you tell a single soul what I'm going to say
Christmas Eve is coming soon; Now, you dear old man
Whisper what you'll bring to me; Tell me if you can
When the clock is striking twelve, when I'm fast asleep
Down the chimney broad and black, with your pack you'll creep
All the stockings you will find hanging in a row
Mine will be the shortest one, you'll be sure to know
Johnny wants a pair of skates
Suzy wants a dolly
Nellie wants a story book; She thinks dolls are folly
As for me, my little brain isn't very bright
Choose for me, old Santa Claus, what you think is right
About This Song
"Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" is a traditional Christmas carol that was developed from a poem crafted by Emily Huntington Miller. In December 1865, the poem was published in "The Little Corporal Magazine" titled, "Lilly's Secret."
The protagonist of this traditional carol also has a rich history. The revered character "Santa Claus," who brightens children's imaginations each Christmas is also known as "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas." However, most people are not aware of the fact that there was a real person bearing the name "Saint Nicholas."
The famous character of "Santa Claus" has little similarity to the bishop "Saint Nicholas," who lived some 1700 years ago in Turkey. He was well-known for his generosity, particularly towards children. "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" is one of the carols that offer reference to his original name.
