Tom of Bedlam - English Folk Song

"Tom of Bedlam" or "Bedlam Boys" was first published in 1720 by Thomas D’Urfey, according to wikipedia, under the title ‘Mad Maudlin’s Search’, and is a reply to an earlier Bedlam song, ‘Mad Tom o’ Bedlam’. It describes Mad Maudlin’s search for her lover, Mad Tom. There were in fact many versions of such songs and poems, all celebrating/mocking the delusions and antics of the lunatics from Bedlam (Bethlehem Royal Hospital in Beckenham, South-east London). In the 18th century the hospital used to charge visitors a penny each to come and watch the lunatics, and this became a popular pastime amongst the middle and upper classes.
Performed by John Roberts.
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