Edgar Dowell 1924
Charlie Ipcar’s website says “From the singing of Ella Madison and Esther Bigeou, 1920’s”. Charley Noble on Mudcat says “By Edgar Dowell, Transcribed from Piron’s New Orleans Orchestra, vocals by Esther Bigeou, recorded December 14, 1923; From The Complete Works of Esther Bigeou, Lillyn Brown, Alberta Brown & the Remaining Titles of Ada Brown in Chronological Order (1921-1928)”
Youth Trad Song Committee 2014: YTS Registration Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Op4H0UqkYqk
Been all over this doggone world, Been as far as China; Worst place I ever did see Was Charleston, South Carolina. Chorus: I’m going home, won’t be long, Going home, as sure as you’re born I’m going home, won’t be long, Got them West Indies Blues Got my grip and trunk all packed,ÿ The ship, I’m going to take her;ÿ Say goodbye to Charleston Town,ÿ I’m going to Jamaica. Them Charleston folks eat alligator meat, Fried with rice and potatoes; Best eating I ever did have Was monkey hips and tomatoes. Now when I get to Kingston Town,ÿ Gonna hang around the water;ÿ Make my living, sure as you’re born, Diving after quarters. And when I get to Kingston Town, Going to get myself a carriage; Roll on down to Sally’s house And ask her hand in marriage. So goodbye, dear old Charleston Town, My packet sails tomorrow; Goodbye, all you dance hall girls, I leave you without sorrow.