From the recording Apple & Setser / WAVE
9. When The Wagon Was New (2:27) (Public Domain) Mid-tempo - acoustic country/bluegrass/roots. ISRC: USCGH 2222638. A nostalgic song from the 1920s, possibly written by Sam McGee, which describes fond memories of the slower pace of life and a greater sense of connection with neighbors back in the days of horse-drawn buggies and wagons in contrast to the busy, less connected lives led due to modern conveniences. Pam and Brad beautifully duet, and the fiddle, mandolin, and resonator guitar invoke the sounds of the 1800s. Although written 100 years ago, the lyrics apply even more so with today's ever-more fast-paced technology.(Pam Setser-lead vocals; Brad Apple- harmony vocals, acoustic guitar, mandolin, acoustic bass; David Johnson-fiddles, resonator guitar)
Lyrics
When the Wagon Was New
Just an old rusty wagon that’s left to rot away One we used to ride in back in the good ole days People all loved their neighbors Everybody was so free A ride in the brand new wagon was something to see
Chorus I can see my daddy Riding up in the wagon seat Momma in her new sunbonnet She looked so nice and neat Children all in the wagon Grandma and grandpa too Oh we used to go to church on Sunday When the wagon was new
Red wheels were on the wagon And the body was green We were just as happy As riding in a limousine People would come from miles around From on the mountainside Take a look at the brand new Wagon and all take a ride
Chorus
Well the automobile is here now and the
wagon days are through Airplanes are humming good neighbors are so few People are all in a hurry and it’s money that gets us through We didn’t need much money when the wagon was new.
Chorus
(Sam McGee, Public Domain)