JACKSON IN THE VALLEY

Though its origin is unclear, according to some sources, this song is freely adapted from the war-time "poetry" of Private John B. Driscoll (nicknamed "John-Boy"), of the Gooch County Irregulars, Company J, and sung to the melody of the contemporary fiddle tune, "Cripple Creek". This rousing musical narrative recounts the early war achievements of "Stonewall" Jackson's famous "Foot Cavalry," as they seemingly miraculously defeat all prospective invaders of the Shenandoah Valley in the spring of 1862, then march to Lee's support at Richmond during the Seven Days Campaign.