A wee bit about Dreg Songs

This morning, my friend Bob Walser, posted a photo to his Facebook feed with a picture of some artifacts from last summer, with the caption "Remembering Scotland last June, and the wonderful people who brought Dreg Songs back to life."

Of course I had to inquire what Dreg Songs were and I thought you might like to know too.

Until the late 1800s the Firth of Forth was well known for it's Oysters, Dreg Songs were the songs that were sung to Charm the Oysters into the nets. It was thought these songs were lost until the day when a collection of early recordings were handed in to the Library of Congress here in America.

The following video is a must see and will tell you much more than I could ever hope to. It can be found on the Caledonia Mercury site.

For more information you can visit Bob Walser's site and follow a few other links to learn more about these fabulous songs! Enjoy :)

Singin' encouraged, but knot required!

Ahoy! Welcome to the Sea Shanty Song Circle and Sing-Along blog. Check back here for monthly updates. This is where we'll post photos of our shanty sings and share maritime song lyrics. It's hear we'll post bits of history and trivia. We'll also feature various local and regional singers and musicians, and share related resources and links.

Everyone is invited to our inaugural Sea Shanty Song Circle and Sing-Along on January 5, 2012 - from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m at the Northwest Maritime Center Cafe located at 431 Water Street in Port Townsend, Washington. This is a FREE community, family-friendly event, which will be held the first Thursday of each month, with deli fare, hot and cold drinks, including non-alcoholic beverages and "Pirates Grog" for the kids.

Don't matter if yer shy 'bout singin'.

A curious soul is all yous be needin'!

To request a PDF of our flyer, to RSVP (much appreciated!)

or for more information, email us at:

singshanties[at]gmail.com.