Bright Fine Gold
Traditional
Because of the New Zealand gold rush in the 1860s, the Tuapecka River in Otago Province became the richest place in New Zealand. The results were the same as other hold rushes; mostly misery and poverty. I think that Phyl Lobl from Victoria, Australia, taught it to me when she came to Maine many years ago.
Gordon- small viol
Spend it in the winter or die in the cold
One apecka, Tuapecka, bright fine gold.
Bright fine gold, bright fine gold.
One apecka, Tuapecka, bright fine gold.
Some are sons of fortune, and my man came to see
But the riches in the river are not for such as he.
Two little children lying in bed
Both of them hungry, Lord, they can't raise up their heads.
I'm weary of Otago, weary of the snow
Let my man strike it rich and then we'll go.