In 1773 this song appeared in response to the incident known as the Boston Tea Party. The colonists objected to the tax imposed on the importation of tea into the colonies, while the tax on the exportation of it had been rescinded. In cities all along the eastern seaboard shiploads were either simply refused permission to unload their cargoes, or it was destroyed. In Boston, on 16 December, 1773, upwards of 8,000 people disguised themselves as Mohawk Indians and boarded the ship, Dartmouth. They broke open 342 chests of tea and dumped their contents into Boston Harbor.
This song was published soon after the Boston Tea Party in the Pennsylvania Packet under the name of A New Song, but it became known as The Taxed Tea. The song was sung to the tune of Hozier’s Ghost.
As near beauteous Boston lying, On the gently swelling flood,
Without jack or pendant flying, Three ill-fated tea-ships rode.
Just as glorious Sol was setting, On the wharf, a numerous crew,
Sons of freedom, fear forgetting, Suddenly appeared in view.
Armed with hammers, axe and chisels, Weapons new for warlike deed,
Towards the herbage-freighted vessels, They approached with dreadful speed.
"Soon," they cried, "your foes you’ll banish, Soon the triumph will be won;
Scarce shall setting Phoebus vanish, Ere the deathless deeds be done."
Quick as thought the ships were boarded, Hatches burst and chests displayed;
Axes, hammers help afforded; What a glorious crash they made.
Captains! once more hoist your streamers, Spread your sails, and plough the wave;
Tell your masters they were dreamers, When they thought to cheat the brave.
