Discovering Nancy Spain: The Journalist Behind an Irish Ballad

The story of how Nancy Spain became an iconic figure in an Irish folk classic unfolds through a mix of journalism and personal history. Spain, an English journalist and broadcaster, is best known for her work with the Daily Express and her connections within literary circles. Her life, marked by relationships and encounters with notable figures, has inspired the ballad “Nancy Spain,” often performed by Christy Moore.

Born in 1917, Spain’s career was characterized by her sharp wit and engaging columns. Despite the folklore surrounding the song, which tells of a love story that transcends borders, historical accounts suggest that Spain never set foot in Ireland. The ballad’s narrative contrasts with her actual life, which included a secret son and a prominent relationship with the actress Marlene Dietrich.

Encounter with Evelyn Waugh

A notable moment in Spain’s life occurred in 1955 during her visit to the home of the esteemed author Evelyn Waugh at Piers Court in Gloucestershire. At that time, Waugh was grappling with a decline in his career and numerous personal challenges. Spain’s companion for the visit, Lord Noel-Buxton, was caught off guard by Waugh’s dismissive attitude.

In her account for the Daily Express, Spain described their approach to Waugh’s home and the surprise greeting they received: “No Admittance on Business.” Despite this, Spain and Buxton pressed on, only to be met with Waugh’s indignant shout from within the house, “Go away, go away! You read the notice, didn’t you?” The encounter, while brief, showcased Waugh’s tumultuous state and Spain’s tenacity.

Waugh later documented the incident in his diary, expressing frustration over the intrusion. His entries reveal a profound emotional response: “…a hullabaloo at the front door. Miss Spain and Lord Noel-Buxton were there trying to force an entry. I sent them away and remained tremulous with rage all the evening.” This incident not only irritated Waugh but also prompted him to leave Piers Court shortly thereafter.

The Legacy of Nancy Spain

The ballad “Nancy Spain,” penned by Barney Rushe, captures an unrequited love that resonates with many, yet the real-life connection between the song and Spain remains somewhat ambiguous. Rushe, a Dubliner, wrote the song during his lifetime, but the true inspiration behind the lyrics has never been definitively identified.

Spain’s life came to a tragic end in 1964 when she died in a light-aircraft crash while on her way to the English Grand National with her partner, Joan Werner Laurie. The news shocked the public and her acquaintances. Notably, playwright Noel Coward lamented her passing, stating, “It is cruel that all that gaiety, intelligence and vitality should be snuffed out when so many bores and horrors are left living.”

Despite her untimely death, Nancy Spain’s legacy endures, not just as a journalist but as a figure whose life intertwined with the narratives of others, including the haunting melodies of Irish folk music. Her unexpected prominence in this cultural context serves as a reminder of how stories can transcend boundaries, turning even the most unlikely individuals into enduring legends.