“The Ferryland Sealer”
Description
"Oh, our schooner and our sloop in Ferryland they do lie, They are already rigged to be bound for the ice...." The singer describes the provisioning of the ship, the path she follows, the work of sealing. He rejoices as they return home
Notes
Although this song has been published in several sources, it appears likely that the only source is Leonard Hulan. It has some slight similarities to "A Noble Fleet of Sealers," but seems to be to a separate piece. - RBW
Peacock also has his version from Leonard Hulan. However, he claims a similar "variant" of "this fine old sealing song... was noted from George Decker in Rocky Harbour." Of course, Decker may have learned his version from Hulan who lives about 85 miles as the crow flies up the west coast from Decker. - BS
Cross references
- cf. "A Noble Fleet of Sealers"
References
- Fowke/MacMillan 16, "The Ferryland Sealer" (1 text, 1 tune)
- Peacock, pp. 120-121, "Ferryland Sealer" (1 text, 1 tune)
- Ryan/Small, pp. 22-23, "Ferryland Sealer" (1 text, 1 tune)
- DT, FERRSEAL
- Roud #4533
- BI, FowM016