Old Mother Hubbard is a popular English nursery rhyme and children’s song, which tells the story of an old woman, Mother Hubbard, and her dog.
The rhyme typically features a simple and repetitive structure, making it accessible and engaging for young children.
Lyrics for Old Mother Hubbard
Old Mother Hubbard
Went to her cupboard
To give her poor dog a bone.
But when she got there,
The cupboard was bare.
And so the poor dog had none,
And so the poor dog had none.
She went to the baker’s
To buy him some bread.
But when she came back
She thought he was dead.
She went to the joiner’s
To buy him a coffin.
But when she came back,
The sly dog was laughing,
The sly dog was laughing.
She went to the barber’s
To buy him a wig.
But when she came back,
He was dancing a jig.
She went to the fruiter’s
To buy him some fruit.
But when she came back,
He was playing the flute,
He was playing the flute.
She went to the hosier’s
To buy him some hose.
But when she came back,
He was dressed in his clothes.
The dame made a curtsy,
The dog made a bow.
The dame said, “Your servant,”
The dog said bow wow,
The dog said bow wow.
Origins and History for Old Mother Hubbard
The origin of Old Mother Hubbard is unclear, and various theories exist about its history.
Some suggest it originated in the 16th century, while others believe it gained popularity in the 19th century.
The rhyme has been the subject of numerous adaptations, parodies, and illustrations in children’s books and other media.
“Old Mother Hubbard” has remained a classic nursery rhyme and is a beloved part of children’s literature and culture.