Mary Had A Little Lamb Lyrics - (Traditional)

About “Mary Had a Little Lamb”

Mary Had a Little Lamb is a classic English nursery rhyme that was first published in the 19th century. The lyrics were written by American writer Sarah Josepha Hale, and it tells the story of a girl named Mary and her loyal lamb. The nursery rhyme is known for its simple yet charming melody, which has made it a staple in early childhood education.

• Written by: Sarah Josepha Hale


• Published: 1830


• Composer: Lowell Mason (original melody)


• Famous Recordings: First recorded by Thomas Edison in 1877


• Historical Significance: Based on a true story about Mary Sawyer and her pet lamb


• Statue Location: Sterling, Massachusetts

Lyrics and Meaning.

The nursery rhyme tells a simple yet endearing story:
*Mary had a little lamb, its fleece was white as snow. And everywhere that Mary went, the lamb was sure to go. It followed her to school one day, which was against the rules. It made the children laugh and play, to see a lamb at school. And so the teacher turned it out, but still it lingered near, and waited patiently about, till Mary did appear. "Why does the lamb love Mary so?" the eager children cry. "Why, Mary loves the lamb, you know," the teacher did reply.

The lyrics reflect themes of innocence, loyalty, and the bond between Mary and her lamb, highlighting the charm and simplicity of childhood experiences. The lamb's loyalty and the children's amusement at seeing it in school underscore the playful and innocent nature of the story.