http://www.sibeliusmusic.com/cgi-bin/show_score.pl?scoreid=79418The song comes from the attractive coastal town and fishing port of Scarborough, North
Yorkshire which originated from a charter granted by King Henry III on 22 January 1253.
The charter, which gave Scarborough many privileges, stated "The Burgesses and their heirs
forever may have a yearly fayre in the Borough, to continue from the Feast of the
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary until the Feast of St Michael next following".
The origin of the song is unknown, and is known as a traditional air. It probably originated in
the early era of the fayre, round about the 13th century, but, like most folk songs, was likely
to have evolved to it’s best known form over a longer period of time. The song can be read
as either a Medieval love song, or a clever way for a trader to capture the attention of the
public he is selling his herbs to.
According to old records, the 45-day Scarborough Fayre, was held annually from 15
August to 29 September and was soon internationally famous. Merchants came to it from all
areas of England and Europe, also from Norway, Denmark, the Baltic and the Ottoman
Empire.
Large crowds of buyers, sellers and pleasure seeking spectators attended the fayre.
Prices were determined by ‘Supply and demand’, with goods often being exchanged
through the barter system.
Records show that from 1383 Scarborough’s prosperity slumped. In the early 17th century
competition from other town’s markets and Fayres and increasing taxation saw grass now
growing in the streets of Scarborough. Shipping and house alike ‘fell into decay’.
The market was revived again in the 18th century, but due intense competition from other
town’s Fayres Scarborough Fayre ended in 1788.
Although the Charter for an official Fayre in Scarborough is no more, there IS a Fayre
organised by Scarborough people today and usually takes place in summer, composed of a
week of events revolving around the towns medieval history with jugglers, jesters, musicians
and much more!
The latest Event Start Date is 24th July 2006.
So if you want to go to Scarborough Fayre, - you STILL can!
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