“Follow the Drinking Gourd”

Description

A guide to slaves fleeing to freedom. Various landmarks are described, and the listeners are reminded, "For the old man is a-waiting for to carry you to freedom." Above all, they are reminded to "follow the drinking gourd."

Notes

The "Drinking Gourd" is, of course, the Big Dipper, pointing north to the Ohio River, New England, Canada, and freedom. - RBW

Recordings

• Pete Seeger, "Follow the Drinking Gourd" (on PeteSeeger46)

References

1. Lomax-ABFS, pp. 227-228, "Foller de Drinkin' Gou'd" (1 text, 1 tune)
2. Arnett, p. 62, "Follow the Drinkin' Gourd" (1 text, 1 tune)
3. Greenway-AFP, pp. 99-100, "The Drinking Gourd" (1 text, 1 tune)
4. DT, FOLGOURD
5. Roud #15532
6. BI, Arn062