Although of sketchy origin “The Wexford Carol” was likely composed in the 15th or 16th century based on the musical standards of that time. The song achieved a renewed popularity due to the work of William Grattan Flood (1859–1928), who was organist and musical director at St. Aidan’s Cathedral in Enniscorthy. He transcribed the carol from a local singer and had it published in The Oxford Book of Carols securing its place as one of the most loved Christmas carols.