Point of interest...Canada Post issued a set of postage stamps in 1993 to commemorate four folksongs. The Alberta Homesteader, The Raftsman, The Bear Dance, and I'se The B'y. There was a nifty little booklet with words and music which accompanied the plate block and first day cover. For the life of me I can't find mention of specific dates, but I think these might be contemporary with the 1860s, at least enough to be known.

I'se The B'y is likely from Newfoundland of course but would have travelled to Ontario. The Alberta Homesteader is closely related to the Irish Washerwoman and The Greer County Bachelor, at least according to Edith Fowke, which makes the tune much older than the 1870ish words. The Raftsman was already known in 1878 in Quebec. I have no history of The Bear Dance, but am curious.

Peace, Mooh.