The Bell-Ringing (traditional, Devon), Chaucer Fielder

A traditional folk song from the heart of Dartmoor, Devon. This song is quite well known in West Country folk circles, but not really far beyond! It was collected by one of Sabine Baring -Gould’s team from William Kerswell at Two Bridges, Dartmoor in January 1890. And was included in his “Songs of the West” collection, the first edition of which appeared later that year. (it was also collected from another singer, James Down, blacksmith, Broadwood widger.)
I accompany it here with a simple repetitive pattern on the tenor mandola, although it is most often sung unaccompanied. To my ear the ringing feel of this instrument’s strings has a bell-like quality which is in keeping with the song.
Recorded versions are scarce, but I would recommend those of Bill Murray & friends (on the LP “Down ‘pon Olde Dartymoor”) the late Tony Rose (“Young Hunting”) and the late Cyril Tawney (“A Mayflower Garland”).