Sung by British soldiers fighting in World War I to remind them of their sweethearts at home, Roses of Picardy was among the most popular songs of this time. The lyricist, Frederick Weatherly, claimed that his inspiration was sparked by an infatuation with a French widow who gave him sanctuary during the war. However, having been born in 1848, Weatherly would have been 66 years old and would not have been accepted to go to the front line.
Picardy is a region of Northern France and was the sight of a battle called The First Battle of Picardy. It lasted from September 22-26 in the year 1914. After the war, the song was used as a form of speech therapy to help soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
I am a full time student and mother at Rowan University. I am a dual major in Elementary Education and Writing Arts with an endorsement in Special Education. I enjoy all things horror and love to read, when I can get a moment of peace.