The Creggan White Hare
The Lore & History
Originating in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, "The Creggan White Hare" tells the tale of a mythical, uncatchable hare residing in the hills of Creggan.
Unlike many traditional hunting songs from the 19th and early 20th centuries, this song doesn't celebrate the victory of the huntsmen. Instead, the hare is the true hero of the story! Group after group—from local hunter Barney Conway and his hounds to wealthy sportsmen arriving in their "fine motor car" with pedigree greyhounds—attempt to surround and trap the creature.
The song itself isn’t really that old and can be traced back to the 1930s, when it was written by a Tyrone man named Barney Conway (mentioned above) who appears in the second verse.
In Celtic folklore, white animals—especially hares—have long held mystical significance, often viewed as shapeshifters, fae creatures, or symbols of otherworldly speed and luck. Some even say white hares are the reincarnation of scorned women, returned to torment the men who have wronged them.
"The Creggan White Hare" celebrates that magical resilience, serving as a clever, satirical nod to the underdog outsmarting every obstacle in her path
Our Take on the Song
When building our arrangement, we wanted to capture both the frantic, high-stakes energy of the chase and the playful victory at the end.
The Bouzouki: Eric uses driving, syncopated rhythms on the Irish bouzouki to mimic the fast-paced pulse of the greyhounds giving chase through the heather. His accompaniment was influenced by the performance of Daoiri Farrell.
The Vocals: Emily brings out the narrative flare of the ballad, leaning into the storytelling, dramatic leaps, and triumphant vocal lines as the hare makes her final escape.
Raise a Glass
As the final verse goes, we hope you'll "drink up a health to that bonnie white hair!"
With one gallant leap, the white hare breaks right through the ring of hunting dogs, leaving the greyhounds winded, the hunters humbled, and the local wildlife triumphant. The hare always gets away in the end, no matter how many hunters or greyhounds give chase!
Love This Song? Hear Us Live!
"The Creggan White Hare" is just one of many traditional tunes, haunting airs, and reimagined folk favorites in our repertoire.
Planning a festival, venue lineup, or private gathering? We’d love to perform for you! Reach out to us directly at secretmossmeadow@gmail.com or visit our contact page to check availability and request booking details.
