>I am trying to create an exhibit based on the real tales behind common
>nursery rhymes, such as Ring around the Rosie being the black plaque or Mary,
>Mary, Quite contrary being Mary Queens of Scotts.  If anyone knows of sources
>I could use for this exhibit please post them to the list or e-mail me at
>[log in to unmask] Thanks, Annmarie
>

The rhyme Pop Goes the Weasel is said to be a counting song for children to
use when winding yarn on a weasel (a wooden stand with a wheel, with about
eight spokes that have flat arms on the end, attached to the top, not easy
to describe).  They would sing this while winding the yarn and at the end
of the song the weasel would actually make a popping noise which lets you
know that a certain amount (like a yard) has been reached.  When they
reached the desired amount they could slide off the yarn and have a
measured skein ready for use.

Carla Hosein

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