I saw this thread for the first time today. Quickly reading through, I don't think anyone has mentioned that it was included in the 1962 'Sing Out' reprints. I've sung it, on and off, since then.

The words and chords are very close to Mark's original posting, with the order of verses slightly different. The credit & intro says:

Words and Music by Bernie Asbel
Copyright 1946, Bernie Asbel

In response to many requests, we re-print here one of the most-loved worker's songs ever published by People's Songs. "Song of my Hands", as recorded by Ernie Lieberman, is available on the Hootenanny Record label.

And, Joe - I'm sure if Robeson had recorded it I would have had a note somewhere, and I don't. It's definitely something he should have recorded, though.

Phil