Shoals of Herring - Robert Lawrence

http://www.robert-lawrence.com

Song written by Ewan MacColl.

Herring Fishing was a major industry until the end of the 1950s when it rapidly declined with reduction in fish stocks. Boats, many from the Scottish ports, would be based at Yarmouth for the autumn. Competition could be fierce, particularly to be able to land the catch ahead of rivals (and get better prices). The Scots would not go to sea on Sundays, whether for religious reasons or as a result of hangovers, was never quite clear. Boats were moored at the weekend, four or more abreast, near the centre of Yarmouth. Monday mornings would see a mass departure for the fishing grounds.

The fish were loaded on to the quayside at both Yarmouth and Gorleston, where hundreds of Scottish fisher girls would gut and prepare them in the open air. It was tough work and hard on the hands, but their singing and cheerfulness kept them going.

The dockside was served by a complex system of rail lines, set into the cobble stones, which connected with the main line at Vauxhall Station.

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Copyright Robert Lawrence 2010
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http://www.robert-lawrence.com
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Category:

Music

Tags:

• Shoals
• of
• Herring
• Celtic
• Shoals of Herring

[MusicManIreland]

You do great justice to the true spirit of this song. Simple and honest. One of the best versions I have ever heard. Ewan would be proud of you.

[bagpiper2010]

Very nicely done, a great version of this classic.

[MoiraMcDonald1]

I’ve heard a lot of versions of this song. This one has to be right at the top of the list with the best of them.

[celticprincess1000]

Wonderful.....I love this song. Beautifully sung.