“Taffy was a Welshman” is a traditional nursery rhyme having its origins in Celtic mythology and culture.
The rhyme dates back to the late 18th century England, and was first recorded in the Pretty Song Book by Nancy Cock, 1780, London.
It used to be a very popular anti-Welsh song sung by English people usually on St. David Day. The name Taffy derives from the common Welsh name “Dafydd” and it is also related with the “Taff” river.
“Taffy was a Welshman” Lyrics
Popular Version
Taffy was a Welshman, Taffy was a thief;
Taffy came to my house and stole a piece of beef;
I went to Taffy’s house, Taffy wasn’t in;
I jumped upon his Sunday hat and poked it with a pin.
Taffy was a Welshman, Taffy was a sham;
Taffy came to my house and stole a piece of lamb;
I went to Taffy’s house, Taffy was away,
I stuffed his socks with sawdust and filled his shoes with clay.
Taffy was a Welshman, Taffy was a cheat,
Taffy came to my house, and stole a piece of meat;
I went to Taffy’s house, Taffy was not there,
I hung his coat and trousers to roast before a fire.