C. T. Suddeth

Today, January 6^th, is Three Kings Day, El Dia de los Reyes in Mexico. Rosca de Reye, Kings Cake (ring cake), is a special tradition. The 3 Wise Men bring children presents today. Glorious parades, too.

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January 6^th used to be known as Old Christmas in eastern Kentucky and other parts of Appalachia. The following ballad was common a 100 years ago. (also celebrated in Ireland)

Cherry Tree Carol

When Joseph was an old man, an old man was he
He married Virgin Mary, the Queen of Galilee
He married Virgin Mary, the Queen of Galilee

Joseph and Mary walked through an orchard green
There were cherries and berries, as thick as might be seen
There were cherries and berries, as thick as might be seen

Mary said to Joseph, so meek and so mild:
Joseph, gather me some cherries, for I am with child
Joseph, gather me some cherries, for I am with child

Then Joseph flew in anger, in anger flew he
Let the father of the baby gather cherries for thee!
Let the father of the baby gather cherries for thee!

Then up spoke baby Jesus, from in Mary’s womb:
Bend down the tallest branches, that my mother might have some
Bend down the tallest branches, that my mother might have some

And bend down the tallest branches, it touched Mary’s hand
Cried she: Oh look thou Joseph, I have cherries by command
Oh look thou Joseph, I have cherries by command

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