Maelgyn,

I think I can at least start the ball rolling. Others can give more definitive information. The hymn is associated with the Sacred Harp singing that is prevalent in the South today in places like North Georgia (Rabun Gap). Sacred Harp probably has its roots in early New England. This song is found in Sacred Harp songbooks such as the Missouri Harmony.

The form for the song is much older. It is a variant of the folk ballads Robert Kidd (the pirate) and Sam Hall. Probably English in origin but variants might be found in Scotland and Ireland. Jean obviously knew it from the singing in her family. It is a haunting melody, a one-of-a-kind tune in my view.

Here's the lineup:

Oh my name was Robert Kidd as I sailed, as I sailed,
My name was Robert Kidd as I sailed.
My name was Robert Kidd, all God's laws I did forbid,
So wickedly I did, as I sailed, as I sailed,
So wickedly I did as I sailed.

Oh my name it is Sam Hall, it is Sam Hall
Oh my name it is Sam Hall, it is Sam Hall
Oh my name it is Sam Hall, you're a bunch of muckers all
And I hate you one and all God Damn your eyes.

What Wondrous Love is this, o my soul o my soul
What Wondrous Love is this, o my soul.
What Wondrous Love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To set aside his crown for my soul, for my soul.
To set aside his crown for my soul.

Frank Hamilton