Mingulay Boat Song
As performed by Jim Hancock
On Rolling Hills
Lyrics and music by Hugh S Roberton


Heel ya ho, boys, let her go, boys,
Heave her ho, boys, let her go, boys,
Heel ya ho, boys, let her go, boys,
Sailin' homeward to Mingulay.

What care we though white the Minch is,
What care we for wind or weather,
Let her go, boys, every inchi is,
Sailin' homeward to Mingulay.

Wives are waiting by the pier head,
Or looking seaward from the heather,
Pull her 'round, boys, then you'll anchor,
'Ere the sun sets on Mingulay.

Ships return now, heavy laden,
Mothers holdin' barins a-cryin',
They'll return though, when the sun sets,
They'll return to Mingulay.

Background by Daniel Womack: This tune was written in 1938 by Hugh S. Roberton, founder of The Glasgow Orpheus Choir. It was first recorded by The McPeake Family of Ulster who also gave us "Wild Mountain Thyme". Jim Hancock recorded this tune with Michael Marzella, Bob Bielefeld, Doug Kondziolka, Nelson James, Gary Mazzu, Burl Boblefeld and Eddie Jeff Cahill who together form The Burly Fredonian Men's Chorus.

If there is anything I've missed, any information you know to be incorrect, or if there is a song you've heard on the podcast that you would like to see included, please do not hesitate to contact me at lyrics@renaissancefestivalmusic.com.