The Handcart Song

British immigration song c. 1860-1880s. Describes the coming journey across the American plains.

Ye saints who dwell in Europe's shore
Prepare yourselves with many more
To leave your own dear native land
For sure God's judgements are at hand.

We must cross the raging main
Before the promised land we gain
Then with the faithful make a start
To cross the plains in your handcart.

For some will push and some will pull
As we go marching up the hill.
And merrily on the way we'll go
Until we reach the valley-o.

As on the roads the carts we pull
T'would very much surprise the world
To see the old and feeble dame
Thus lend a hand to pull the same.

Maidens fair will dance and sing.
Young men more happy than a king.
And children too will laugh and play.
Their strength increasing day by day.

And long before the valley's gained.
We will be met upon the plains.
With music sweet and friends so dear
And fresh supplies our hearts to cheer.

And then with music and with song
How cheerful we will march along.
And thank the day we made a start
To cross the plains in our handcart.

Chorus