The interesting history behind the Twelve Days of Christmas

Rick Patrick editor@riverbendnews.org Among the many songs of the season that can be heard nonstop during this time of year is “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Few songs have as rich a history as this popular holiday classic. Although the song is centuries old, it remains a favorite among many. A little bit of digging can unearth some very interesting thoughts and facts about the song and its “gift list.” Many historians believe the song is of French origin, although the lyrics first appeared in an English children’s book titled “Mirth Without Mischief,” published in 1780. According to an article in Good Housekeeping, the original lyrics list “four colly birds,” instead