The Holly and the Ivy

The Story Behind The Holly and the Ivy

"The Holly and the Ivy": Origins and History

Holly has long been associated with Christmas due to its evergreen quality. Ivy, too, keeps its green leaves throughout the winter. It makes sense, then, that these two would feature in the carol "The Holly and the Ivy."

The words of the carol occur in three broadsides (narrative songs or poems printed on inexpensive paper and sold in public places from the 16th to the 19th century). This particularr broadside was published in Birmingham, England in the early 19th century.

An early mention of the carol's title occurs in William Hone's 1823 work Ancient Mysteries Described, which includes "The holly and the ivy, now are both well grown" among an alphabetical list of "Christmas Carols, now annually printed" that were in the author's possession.

The words of the carol were included in the 1861 collection A Garland of Christmas Carols where it is claimed to originate from "an old broadside, printed a century and a half since" [i.e. around 1711]: Husk's 1864 Songs of the Nativity also includes the carol, stating:

This carol appears to have nearly escaped the notice of collectors, as it has been reprinted by one alone, who states his copy to have been taken from "an old broadside, printed a century and a half since," i.e. about 1710. It is still retained on the broadsides printed at Birmingham.

The carol has continued to be a beloved holiday favorite and has been covered by singers such as Bing Crosby and Garth Brooks. The hymn also has many more traditional versions.
 

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