“Bobby Shaftoe” is a traditional English nursery rhyme that dates back to the 17th century. The rhyme is about a young man named Bobby Shaftoe who goes to sea, leaving his sweetheart behind. A simple melody often accompanies it, which has been popular with children for many generations.
While the rhyme’s origins are not entirely clear, some historians believe that it may have been inspired by the real-life exploits of a sailor that lived in the 18th century. The song has also been used politically by supporters of Robert Shafto, an 18th-century British member of parliament.
Lyrics for Bobby Shaftoe
The lyrics of the rhyme vary somewhat, but the most commonly known version goes like this:
Bobby Shaftoe’s gone to sea,
Silver buckles on his knee,
He’ll come back and marry me,
Bonny Bobby Shaftoe.
Bobby Shaftoe’s fine and fair,
Combing down his auburn hair,
He’s my friend forever more,
Bonny Bobby Shaftoe.