During the vibrant Carnival in Recife, a significant investigation has surfaced regarding the authorship of the 'Marcha Número 1 do Vassourinhas,' a popular frevo considered an anthem of Pernambuco. The research, led by anthropologist Helmut Paulus Kleinsorgen and genealogist Mirian Scisinio Lindgren, delves into archival and parish records that challenge the long-held chronology of the song's creation. This scrutiny reveals a complex narrative full of gaps, clerical errors, and potential distortions that have obscured the true origins of this cultural emblem.

The major finding of the research, which began in 2019, is the birth certificate of Joana Batista Ramos, historically recognized alongside Mathias Theodoro da Rocha as the co-author of the frevo. The document confirms that Joana was born on June 24, 1881, making her merely seven years old when the Vassourinhas group was formed in January 1889. This raises intriguing questions about her actual involvement and contribution to the frevo, prompting the researchers to explore further historical context and implications of her presumed authorship.

The researchers posit that Joana Batista Ramos may have been an inherited figure in the song's legacy, suggesting that her role might have been romanticized or obscured over time. As Carnival celebrations continue, this revelation not only enriches the local folklore surrounding the frevo but also invites a reevaluation of cultural narratives and legacies in Pernambuco. The outcome of this research adds a new layer to the appreciation of Carnival music and its intricate histories, emphasizing the importance of archival inquiry in preserving local culture and identity.