Interesting concept.

Here's a fragment of one such song that my grandfather used to regale us with:


ROWING SONG
(late 19th century song by unknown author from the singing of William Zorach; tune unknown)

Chorus:

Dip, boys, dip the oars,
Bid farewell to the dusky shores;
Freedom ours shall be,
As we cross the deep blue sea.

The zephyrs woo the spray, me boys;
Their laughter fills the air;
We'll bid them wake our song, me boys,
And steal away our care. (CHO)

Charley Noble