Huckleberry Hunting

This shanty appears to have been used for almost any task on board.  It’s origins are much debated, some ascribing it to the minstrel tradition, others to “Down East”.


Huckleberry Hunting

Oh, the boys and the girls went a-huckleberry hunting,
To me hay To me Way to me hey o way!
Oh, the boys and the girls went a-huckleberry hunting,
And sing Hilo, me Ranzo Ray!

Then a little girl ran off, and a little boy ran after,
The little girl fell down and he saw her little garter.

He said, "I'll be your beau if you'll have me for a feller,"
But the little girl said "No, for me sweetheart's Johnny Miller."

Then took her on his knee, an' he kissed her right and proper
She kissed him back agen, an' he didn't try to stop 'er

An' then he put his arm all about her waspy waist
She sez "Oh um, young man you are in great haste"

An' then he put his hand all upon her knee
She sez "Oh um, young man you're a little bit to free"

An' then he put his hand yet higher still.
She sez "Oh um, young man that is really quite a thrill!"

Oh, I'm shanteyman of this workin' party
So sing lads, pull lads, so strong and hearty