The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #61356   Message #998698
Posted By: GUEST,Jerry
07-Aug-03 - 09:19 PM
Thread Name: African Runaway Slave Ballads
Subject: RE: African Runaway Slave Ballads
I learned a song from Dick Swain years ago that fits this category (sort of). Dick believed it was not truly a slave song but one created by abolitionists. Goes to the tune of "Oh Susannah".

Well I'm on my way to Canada that cold and dreary land,
For the sad effects of slavery I can no longer stand.
I've served my master many a day without a dimes reward
'Til now I'm forced to run away to seek a home abroad.

Chorus
Farewell, Master, don't think hard of me,
For I'm on my way to Canada where all the slaves are free.
Oh righteous Father, wilt thou not pity me,
And aid me on to Canada where all the slaves are free.

The hounds are baying on my track, old master runs behind
Resolved that he will bring me back before I cross the line.
But I've embarked for yonder shore where a man's a man by law
And the iron horse will bear me o'er to shake the Lion's paw.
   
   Chorus

Well I heard Queen Victoria say that if I would forsake
My native land of slavery and come across the lake,
Then she'd be waiting on the shore with arms extended wide
To give us all a peaceful home beyond the flowing tide.

   Chorus

I don't recall when or where Dick found this.

Jerry