Grand Old Duke of York

About the Rhyme

The Grand Old Duke of York is believed to date back to the 15th century. The words of the Nursery rhyme are believed to refer to mock the defeat of Richard, The Duke of York. On December 30, 1460, during the Battle of Wakefield, the Duke of York and his army of men marched to his castle at Sandal. Richard took up a defensive spot countering against the Lancastrian army. The Duke’s castle was built on the site of an ancient Norman motte and bailey tower. It’s humongous earthworks stood at a great height of 33 feet above the ground level. Thus, the lines ‘he marched them up to the top of the hill’. During the battle, in a moment of insanity, The Duke left his fortress and went charging down to make a direct attack on the Lancastrians. This is where the lines ‘He marched them down again’ fits in. The Duke’s army was defeated and Richard, the Duke of York was killed in the battle.

Grand Old Duke of York

Oh the Grand old duke of York,
He had ten thousand men!
He marched them up to the top of the hill,
And he marched them down again!
And when they were up they were up!!
And when they were down they were down!
And when they were only halfway up,
They were neither up nor down!!

More about ‘Grand Old Duke of York’

The Grand Old Duke of York is an ancient marching chant where the children are taught rhythm, movement and repetition. The song tells about Duke of York who took ten thousand men up and down the hill. Its words tend to be accompanied by body movements such as marching up and down to play the words. Such a rhyme is best to train coordination, motor skills and concept of direction (up and down). It may have historical precursors in the history of military English, but to the children of our time it is a rowdy or noisy rhyme. The teachers use it in the classrooms to make the kids active, simultaneously, enhancing the sequence and listening skills. Its melody is catchy and it is a nursery classic all over the world.

FAQs about "Grand Old Duke of York"

1. The Grand Old Duke of York. What is it?
A Duke, the troops up and down a hill.

2. Why is it fun for kids?
As they are permitted to walk and do it out.

3. What skills does it build?
Co-ordination, motor and sequence.

4. What age group suits it?
Early primary and preschool children (3-7).

5. Is it just playful?
It is amusing and educative and it provides rhythm and direction.