Pop goes the weasel

Posted by Gary on July 04, 2003

In Reply to: Pop goes the weasel posted by ken kesner on July 04, 2003

: your origin for "pop goes the weasel" is not correct. It refers to the noise made by a yarn winder, which is an accessory to a spinning wheel. Children turned the winder,sang the little ditty, while momma operated the wheel. A worm gear moved a thin piece of wood as the winder turned and "poped" when a mesured length of yarn was accumulated on the winder.[usually one furlow,or about 2yards].

Evidence?

• Pop goes the weasel Lotg 07/07/03