Swill Milk

[Al Smitley]

Paul Draper:  I might be completely mixed up but weren't you telling me about this issue as we parted Antietam last summer?  If not, you're probably wondering what the heck I'm talking about.  If so, however, are you familiar with this song?

http://www.loc.gov/resource/amss.cw105980.0

[Paul Draper]

Hi Al - the issue I mentioned was the Anti-Rent movement which took place in upstate New York in the 1840's. The Anti-Renters were opposed to the semifeudalism of the patroon system. The rebellion came to a head in the 1840's. Two songs associated with the movement were "The End Of Bill Snyder" first performed in Albany County on July 4, 1844, sung to the tune of "Old Dan Tucker"; the other was "We Will Be Free", first performed on July 4, 1845 to the tune of "De Boatman's Dance". I have a bit part in a production that tells the story of the Anti-Rent Rebellion in New York. http://oldsongs.org/event/down-with-the-rent-os/

[Al Smitley]

Yes, you're right, Paul.  Sorry I didn't recall correctly.  I saw a program on CSPAN3 about the swill milk issue and I got mixed up.

[Al Smitley]

I wish I were in Albany on November 20th!

[Al Smitley]

Paul, I had a look at the website.  Those are some pretty big names involved.  They are well-known names from the late '70s and early '80s for me.  Probably continued to be big names but I've been out of touch, musically, from the late '80s - present.

[Paul Draper]

Right you are, Al. I'm very lucky to be associated with them, even if I'm a late addition to the cast and playing a bit part. (I start off the 2nd act with a banjo medley, ending with a reprise of Old Dan Tucker/Big Bill Snyder.)

[Wes Merchant]

Looks great Paul, take it on the road so we all can see it!

Paul Draper said:

Right you are, Al. I'm very lucky to be associated with them, even if I'm a late addition to the cast and playing a bit part. (I start off the 2nd act with a banjo medley, ending with a reprise of Old Dan Tucker/Big Bill Snyder.)