Emigration Songs

Newfoundland and Ireland are both places with populations that have been shaped through successive waves of migration. Whether for political reasons or economic necessity, generations of Newfoundlanders and Irish have emigrated in search of new homes or new opportunities. The Irish presence in Newfoundland, in fact, was the result of a seasonal migration of workers from places like Waterford, Wexford, and southeast Kilkenny. When the fisheries became less viable in the later years of the 19^th century and early 20^th century, Newfoundlanders increasingly needed to find opportunities outside of outport homes for employment.

This playlist includes songs about emigration. Some of these songs reference leaving Ireland. Others refer to leaving Newfoundland. All speak to the emigrant experience.