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Songs published by Bell and Company represented an array of laments and satirical airs. ‘Come Back to Erin’, for example, reflects a plea for a since departed family member or lover to return to Ireland from England. In contrast, other works published by Bell and Company such as ‘Cumberland Crew’, display the historicisation of battles between the Union and Confederate armies during the American Civil War, uplifting Union soldiers as heroes who died honorably for their country. Alongside songs, Bell and Company were additionally booksellers, stationers and periodical agents.
Come Back to Erin, song
Since Mary Ann Learned how to Dance the Tra-la-la-loo, song
