I've been listening to a lovely mp3 of this song, downloaded from here, although that specific version doesn't seem to be available anymore except as a stream (do a tune search for "Old Churchyard" and it should turn up).

The band lists it as being "An old Primative Baptist song done in traditional Sacred Harp style." It's not in the Denson Sacred Harp or Southern Harmony or Missouri Harmony; as far as I can tell, it's not a Sacred Harp song. Putting large chunks of the lyrics into google gives two sites with the text: here and here.

In both cases, it's attributed to William Sanford ca1773 - 1866. Trying to search for him yeilds zillions of geneological sites, but not much useful info. Who was he? Did he write anything else? Is the tune his or someone else's? Is there written music, either round or shaped, available for this anywhere?

Thanks for any help!

Chocolate Pi, awaiting a display of the wisdom of the Mudcat