London's Burning

"London's Burning" is a traditional English round (a song where different groups start singing at staggered intervals) that may commemorate the Great Fire of London of 1666.

The Great Fire of London

The Great Fire of London began on September 2, 1666, in a bakery on Pudding Lane and burned for four days, destroying much of medieval London. The fire consumed:

• 13,200 houses
• 87 churches
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Most of the buildings of the City of London

Despite the massive destruction of property, the recorded death toll was remarkably low, though the true number may never be known.

The Song's Message

The lyrics capture the urgency and chaos of the fire:

"London's burning, London's burning, Fetch the engines, fetch the engines, Fire fire! Fire fire! Pour on water, pour on water."

The references to "engines" refers to the primitive fire engines of the era—hand-operated pumps that required teams of men to operate. The call to "pour on water" reflects the desperate attempts to fight the blaze.

A Round for Singing

"London's Burning" is one of the most popular rounds for group singing. Its simple four-part structure makes it ideal for:

• Teaching children about rounds and harmony
• Group singing activities in schools
• Campfire songs
• Introduction to musical concepts

Each group starts at a different time, creating overlapping harmonies that grow increasingly complex and exciting—perhaps mirroring the chaos of the fire itself.

Historical Questions

While the song is traditionally associated with 1666, some scholars question this connection:

• The earliest printed version dates to the 18th century
• No contemporary accounts from 1666 mention the song
• The reference to "engines" may suggest a later origin, when fire engines were more common

Regardless of its exact origins, the song has become permanently associated with the Great Fire in popular memory.

Educational Value

The song serves as a memorable introduction to:

• The history of the Great Fire of London
• How fires were fought in earlier eras
• Musical concepts like rounds and harmony
• British history and heritage

Cultural Impact

"London's Burning" remains popular in British schools and has spread internationally as one of the most well-known rounds in the English language. It provides a simple yet powerful way to remember one of the most significant events in London's long history.